THE Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged some 200 doctors who have refused their posting in Sarawak to accept the offer and report to work there first.

MMA president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai said the doctors can appeal later if they have a valid reason. 

“We wish to remind these doctors that as civil servants, there are rules and regulations in their appointment that they have a duty and responsibility to adhere to. 

“An appeal can be sent but first accept the post and report for duty,” he said in a statement today. 

It was earlier reported that more than 200 doctors have failed to report for work or rejected contract positions to serve in Sarawak. 

Deputy health minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni said these doctors were among the 800 who were offered contract positions by the health ministry.

Lukanisman also said it was common knowledge that Sarawak did not have enough medical officers and health facilities.

Muruga said 200 doctors or 25% is a high rejection rate. 

He however viewed the 600 doctors (75%) accepting their posts as encouraging news.

Muruga also said that Sarawak was in need of more doctors.

He urged the health ministry to also take into consideration appeals made by doctors with valid reasons for not accepting the post. –  July 20, 2023.