Accra:The government's decision to grant permanent positions to over 9,000 contract doctors in Budget 2027 has been welcomed as a solution to alleviate bottlenecks in the public healthcare system. Public health expert Datuk Dr. Zainal Ariffin Omar highlighted that while the increase in the Health Ministry's (MOH) allocation was not particularly large in comparison to medical inflation, the budget effectively targets core issues within government hospitals.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, The expert pointed out that the large-scale appointment of permanent contract doctors and the procurement of necessary equipment are crucial steps in addressing the healthcare system's most urgent constraints. Furthermore, the RM770 million allocated for modern equipment procurement underscores the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare service quality.

Additionally, a RM200 million allocation to outsource patients to other hospitals is seen as an effective short-term strategy to reduce congestion and cut down on treatment waiting times. The plan also includes the addition of 400 new ambulances, upgrades to haemodialysis facilities, and the provision of simulation equipment at 18 MOH training colleges, all anticipated to benefit patients and healthcare personnel training directly.

Dr. Zainal Ariffin also noted the increased basic allowances for 47,000 healthcare personnel and the air health services allowance as a significant acknowledgment of the frontline workers' welfare.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when presenting Budget 2027, announced an increase in the MOH's allocation to RM47.7 billion, up from RM46.5 billion in 2026. Other initiatives include a RM1.2 billion allocation for repairing dilapidated hospitals and clinics and the construction of nine new healthcare facilities across the country.