Baku:The Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) has urged the government to establish a clear timeline and transparent mechanism for transitioning contract pharmacy officers into permanent positions. This follows the government's commitment to pursue these appointments under a new quota.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MPS President Prof Amrahi Buang expressed support for Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad's clarification that permanent positions for pharmacy and dental officers would be addressed under this new quota, separate from the 9,000 permanent medical officer positions announced in Budget 2027.

The society considers this development encouraging for contract pharmacists who remain uncertain about their long-term career prospects despite their continued service in the public healthcare system. As of July 2026, 3,545 contract pharmacists were still in service with the Ministry of Health (MOH), with an additional 115 on the reserve list or awaiting permanent appointment.

MPS has requested further details on the number of permanent pharmacy positions to be proposed under the new quota, the timeline for approval and implementation, and the categories of contract pharmacists eligible for permanent appointment. The society also seeks clarification regarding the status of the pharmacists on the reserve list and the appointment mechanism, including whether it will be phased.

Prof Amrahi emphasized the need for sufficient certainty for affected pharmacists to make informed career decisions and called for the contract pharmacist issue to be part of a broader strategy for a sustainable pharmacy workforce. MPS is willing to collaborate with MOH and relevant agencies to develop the permanent appointment mechanism, urging that affected pharmacists be regularly updated on progress.