Malaysia Tackles Healthcare Worker Migration
Cross-Ministry Collaboration Needed to Retain Talent
To address the outflow of healthcare professionals, Malaysia requires a comprehensive governmental strategy, according to **Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad**, the Minister of Health, emphasizing a collaborative effort beyond his ministry.
Inter-Agency Cooperation
**Dr. Dzulkefly** stated that a long-term solution necessitates cooperation across multiple government bodies. An independent study by the Strategic Engagement Group (SEG) highlighted the need for an inter-ministerial Human Resource for Health (HRH) Governance Board to ensure sustainable workforce planning.
According to **Dr. Dzulkefly**, “This is not a challenge the MOH can resolve alone. We need the involvement of the Public Service Department, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Higher Education, and the Ministry of Human Resources.”
Notably, Malaysia faces a critical shortage of specialist doctors, with a ratio of 0.28 specialists per 1,000 population, significantly lower than the OECD average of 1.5 (CodeBlue 2023).
Government Initiatives
The Ministry of Health, according to **Dr. Dzulkefly**, is dedicated to reinforcing the healthcare system. Efforts include financial reforms, the integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence, and innovations designed to improve service delivery.
ASEAN Leadership Role
As Asean Chair in 2025, Malaysia intends to prioritize healthcare workforce mobility and enhance regional cooperation via stronger engagement with neighboring nations.
**Dr. Dzulkefly**’s statements come amidst reports of hospitals in Singapore attracting Malaysian public healthcare professionals, specifically doctors, with higher salaries.
Despite lacking legal avenues to prevent overseas recruitment, the ministry is proactively working to encourage healthcare workers to remain in the public sector, said **Dr. Dzulkefly**.
Key initiatives involve accelerating permanent appointments for contract doctors and improving workplace conditions to foster a safer, more equitable, and supportive environment.