Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Health is examining the implementation of a 30 percent quota for specialist training under the Federal Training Award for medical officers serving in Sabah and Sarawak.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized this initiative as part of his commitment to recognizing the sacrifices of medical officers in these regions. Currently, 1,650 slots are available under the award, with approximately 500 designated for Sabah and Sarawak.

During the Ministers' Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, Dzulkefly responded to a query about the high rate of medical officers not reporting for duty in these states. Out of the offered positions, 337 officers reported in Sarawak and 336 in Sabah, resulting in a 63 percent reporting rate, a slight improvement from a previous 42 percent.

Dzulkefly noted that factors such as distance from family, a preference for urban facilities, and perceived limited career prospects contribute to the reluctance of officers to accept positions in rural areas. Medical officers also face challenges such as health issues, logistical difficulties, financial constraints, and high relocation costs.

To address these concerns and encourage duty reporting, the Ministry has improved the eHousemen placement system and introduced a 100 percent transfer allowance covering various costs. Additionally, upon transferring back to their home regions, officers can receive a disturbance allowance.

Dzulkefly also mentioned that the future of contract positions would be addressed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Ending contract service arrangements has been a key goal since his return to the Ministry.