MIRI: Malaysia’s healthcare system is grappling with a severe manpower shortage as it expands rapidly.
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said that with new hospitals like Papar (Sabah) and Nanga Mendamit (Sarawak) set to open, the urgent need for essential equipment and staff is paramount.
Many existing facilities, including hospitals in Peninsular Malaysia like Dungun, Terengganu, remain under-equipped.
“I receive numerous emails and WhatsApp messages from staff reporting exhaustion and stress,” he said during the 60th-anniversary celebration of the Sarawak Medical Service Union (SMSU) on Saturday night.
He added that it’s crucial to not only look at staffing numbers but also boost the morale of health workers who are feeling overworked.
Also present were Cuepacs president Datuk Dr Adnan Mat, Miri Hospital director Dr Jack Wong, and SMSU President Bolhanuddin Sabli.
