KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has expressed its support for the recent salary increase for civil servants, which includes a long-awaited pay raise for public healthcare professionals.
Its president Dr. Azizan Abdul Aziz said this adjustment is a significant step towards acknowledging the vital contributions of doctors and healthcare workers in the public system.
"While this pay increase is a positive development, there is still much more to be done to improve our healthcare system," she said in a statement.
She added there was a need for a Health Services Commission, independent from the Public Service Department, to effectively oversee the employment and welfare of healthcare professionals.
"This commission should have the authority to manage placements, salary scales, and working conditions for healthcare workers, ensuring that their pay and benefits remain competitive with the market.
"Independent reviews would help maintain a fair and equitable system, attracting and retaining top talent in healthcare," she said.
She said implementing these reforms will further strengthen the nation's healthcare system and enhance the quality of care for its citizens.