By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The State Government is monitoring reports that medical officers have failed to report for duty in Sabah.
Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki said that while the appointment and placement of medical officers is under federal jurisdiction, the State Government has consistently raised concerns about the shortage of doctors and the need to improve recruitment and retention.
“I have raised the Regional Incentive Payment (BIW) and other proposals with the Health Minister in our discussions and at relevant committee meetings,” she said in a statement yesterday.
“These matters are being followed up, and we will continue to engage the Federal Government on how they can be progressed.”
Julita said she agreed with the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sabah’s call to restore the previous percentage-based BIW, strengthen incentives for doctors serving in Sabah and Sarawak, and improve relocation assistance.
She said the State Government would await the full outcome of the latest postings before assessing the extent of the problem.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with the Federal Government to address Sabah’s healthcare manpower needs,” she said.
‘I have raised the Regional Incentive Payment (BIW) and other proposals with the Health Minister in our discussions and at relevant committee meetings’ – Julita
