Malaysia introduces 30% specialist training quota for Sabah and Sarawak doctors

Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dzulkefly Ahmad, has announced a 30 per cent quota for specialist training (Hadiah Latihan Persekutuan) specifically for medical officers serving in Sabah and Sarawak. This initiative aims to recognize the sacrifices of doctors in East Malaysia and address career development concerns that contribute to staffing shortages.

Data presented in the Dewan Rakyat reveals that only 63 per cent of medical officers offered permanent positions in Sabah and Sarawak reported for duty, with 382 individuals failing to report. While this is a slight improvement from previous years, the Ministry identified several reasons for the high no-show rate, including family separation, reluctance to serve in rural areas, logistical challenges, and limited perceived opportunities for career advancement.

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) and local representatives have called for further measures, such as improved remuneration and increased weightage for local graduates to ensure long-term stability in the region’s healthcare system.