Malaysian Medical Association calls for independent hospital harassment probes

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has called for independent investigations and strengthened reporting mechanisms following sexual harassment complaints at government hospitals. The association is advocating for investigation panels to include members from outside the Ministry of Health to ensure transparency, particularly in cases involving senior officers.

Recent allegations involve a consultant anaesthesiologist at Hospital Sultanah Aminah Johor Bahru (HSAJB) and a former director at Likas Hospital in Kota Kinabalu. At HSAJB, reports emerged of a potential attempt to pressure a complainant into withdrawing their report. HSAJB director Dr Mohamad Nizam Subahir stated that the hospital will not tolerate any attempts to conceal or obstruct the reporting of such allegations.

MMA president Dr R. Thirunavukarasu emphasized the need for clear timelines to prevent investigations from dragging on for months. He also stressed a zero-tolerance policy toward retaliation, noting that any attempts to pressure witnesses or complainants to alter their statements must also be investigated to protect junior doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers.