Contract MOs to go on strike as plea falls on deaf ears

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24: Thousands of contract doctors are set to go on a nationwide strike on Monday.

Over 5,000 government contract doctors are expected to join the protest, which is to demand for permanent employment and other benefits.

A junior doctor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “As the government promised a better solution in near future, it has been five years since the implementation of contract system.

“The pleas and appeals of the contract doctors has been falling on deaf ears all these years.

“Espescially now during the pandemic, more contracts doctors have been placed under Covid-19 duties and vaccination centres,” the junior doctor said.

The contract doctor, who is currently attached to a major hospital, added that many of his friends who have been working as contract doctors for years, have resigned with 24 hours notice.

“All they want is appropriate renumeration, employment security and career development opportunities.

“Being a doctor in Malaysian government hospitals is incomparable to other jobs due to the tremendous risks and hazards faced daily.

“Hence, the contract doctors have planned for a one-day strike to get fair and equal opportunities as their seniors,” the doctor told The Hindu Press.

In 2016, the Malaysian government decided to implement contract system for healthcare workers to cope with the influx of medical graduates.

Those being appointed under contract system, are not eligible for pension scheme and other associated benefits. Hence, the government could save alot from this.

Nevertheless, that’s not the only disadvantage.

They are not entitled for salary increment and will not be able to proceed for higher studies or enrol into master programs.