Ministry of Health Malaysia outlines strategies to tackle nursing shortage

The Malaysian Ministry of Health (KKM) has acknowledged a critical shortage of nursing staff, reporting 10,557 vacancies out of 73,281 Grade U5 nursing positions as of June 30. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the shortage, which leaves approximately 85.6% of positions filled, is driven by retirements, migration of skilled workers abroad, and competition from the private sector.

To address this, the Ministry has outlined three primary strategies:

1. Increasing nursing production: Trainee intake will rise to 3,000 annually starting in 2025, with a goal of producing 13,345 graduates from the Institute of Health Training Malaysia (ILKKM) by 2030. Additionally, up to 2,000 trainees per year will be outsourced to public and private higher education institutions. Four ILKKM branches in Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu, Muar, and Pulau Pinang are expected to reopen by October 2027.

2. Expanding career pathways: The Ministry will launch 15 On-The-Job Training programs in September to allow staff to gain expertise without leaving their posts. A transition diploma will also be offered to community nurses to upgrade their qualifications.

3. Direct recruitment and autonomy: The Ministry aims to streamline the absorption of ILKKM graduates into permanent positions and seek greater autonomy in managing staff placement to ensure immediate deployment.