Kuala lumpur: The offer of permanent positions to contract doctors and nurses who graduated from the Ministry of Health (MOH) Training Institute is a significant step in retaining experienced workers. Public Health Physician, Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar, stated that it also proves the government's commitment to guaranteeing the career and welfare of this group.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this effort will not only increase the number of permanent positions and reduce the staffing crisis but will also directly benefit the doctors and nurses involved, thereby strengthening the country's health service system. Dr Zainal was commenting on the Budget 2026 announcement on the offer of permanent positions to 4,500 contract doctors next year, as well as permanent nursing positions to 935 graduates of the MOH Training Institute.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when tabling the Budget 2026, highlighted that from 2023 to this year, the MADANI government has approved 1,500 additional positions to absorb contract doctors into permanent roles, totaling 12,900 contracts absorbed into permanent positions, including annual recruitment. Dr Zainal Ariffin, an MOH retiree and public health activist, emphasized that such proposals should also be extended to other categories, such as laboratory, pharmacy, and allied health staff, to ensure continuous improvement in the quality and efficiency of MOH services nationwide.
Johor Doctors Association advisor, Dr Ng Kim Fong, remarked that the announcement was good news for all health workers who had long awaited career stability. With permanent positions, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists will have a more secure future, allowing them to plan for further studies and build long-term careers in the public sector, thereby reducing the rate of 'brain drain' to the private sector or abroad. Dr Ng also expressed hope that other health professions, including pharmacists, assistant medical officers, and laboratory technologists, would be given the same opportunity to be absorbed into permanent positions to create a stronger and better public health system.
Dr Ng, a consultant cardiologist and electrophysiologist at a private hospital, also supports the government's move to increase excise duty rates on cigarettes and alcohol. As a cardiologist, he advises patients to quit smoking, citing it as the main cause of heart disease, while noting that excessive alcohol consumption can affect liver and heart function. This move, he said, will not only help reduce unhealthy habits but also increase funds for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases in the country.
Government Specialist Clinic paediatrician Dr Nur Saliyani Musa noted that the offer of permanent positions for doctors and nurses indicates that the government values the contributions of young doctors and aims to resolve the long-standing issue of job instability. Employees with job security are typically more enthusiastic about their roles, which is beneficial for ensuring better quality treatment. It also provides motivation due to a more secure future regarding stability, benefits, and promotion opportunities.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president, Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo, acknowledged the government's continued commitment to healthcare, with the highest-ever allocation of RM46.5 billion. This reflects recognition of the need to strengthen the system in line with the Health White Paper, with key announcements in infrastructure, workforce, and public-private partnerships. The creation of 4,500 permanent positions for contract doctors is another positive move that must be matched with proper long-term planning for other critical healthcare roles, he said in a statement.