Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced that the Rakan KKM initiative is not a form of privatization, but rather a new model to retain medical experts in the public service, provide appropriate remuneration, and strengthen the country's health system. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that the initiative was developed to address the critical challenge of retaining specialists, medical officers, and nurses from migrating to the private sector or abroad.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Dzulkefly explained that Rakan KKM is a new platform designed to give health workers, including specialists, medical officers, and nurses, the opportunity to showcase their clinical capabilities with appropriate remuneration. This model allows them to fulfill their services and commitments to public patients while services under Rakan KKM are conducted by appointment using specific slots for elective procedures, ensuring no reduction in public treatment hours. Dr Dzulkefly made these remarks during an oral question and answer session at Dewan Negara in response to Senator Datuk Koh Nai Kwong's inquiry about the initiative's scope, hospitals involved, and fund auditing mechanisms.
Dzulkefly stated that the programme is implemented by Rakan KKM Sdn Bhd (RKSB), an entity owned by the Minister of Finance Incorporated (MOF Inc), while the MOH carries out regulation. The first phase, with an initial allocation of RM25 million, commenced at Cyberjaya Hospital, focusing on Orthopaedic and Internal Medicine services. The licensing process under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586) and the finalisation of the Facility Operation and Lease Agreement are currently underway. Cyberjaya Hospital is in the process of licensing 20 beds on Level 9, four day care beds, one operating room, and two specialist clinics. The date of commencement will be set after obtaining necessary licences and finalising agreements.
Dzulkefly also mentioned that the Ministry of Health will establish a Rakan KKM Trust Account under the Financial Procedures Act 1957 to manage all receipts, donations, and contributions. The funds will be used to upgrade facilities and improve public health services. Internal audits, trust account procedures, and monitoring by the National Audit Department will ensure transparency and accountability in financial management. The annual income estimate will be detailed after RKSB finalises the charge structure, payment rates, and recruitment of doctors and support staff.