THE Malaysian Health Coalition takes no official position on the doctors’ walkout that is planned for 11am today.

However, we support its objectives: comprehensive long-term solutions for Malaysia’s human resources for health; fair employment terms for all health professionals; and enough doctors, dentists, pharmacists and nurses for Malaysia, including their respective specialists. This will enhance the rakyat’s health in the long term.

We support all constitutional, legal and human rights of our health professionals.

The decision to walk out is a personal one, and must be balanced with duties of patient care, the needs of colleagues and relevant laws.

We trust our health professionals to make choices that balance their rights and duties.

In all events and at all times, we call on all health professionals to unite to ensure that patient care is never jeopardised.

We urge the government to treat all doctors with fairness and compassion. No doctors should be arrested for a non-violent walkout.

We remain steadfast in our shared objectives to protect the rakyat’s health, support our health system and build our nation together. – July 26, 2021.

* Malaysian Health Coalition is an apolitical group of Malaysian health professional societies, health professionals and citizens.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.