KUALA LUMPUR: A specialist doctor stationed in Lahad Datu Hospital, Sabah, was found dead in her house on Aug 29.
A man, who claims to be her family member, said his sister had reported for duty in February this year, and became the head of a unit at the hospital.
In a Facebook post, he said the hospital had contacted his family to inform them that his sister had died, believed to be due to suicide, at her rented home.
"Her friends described her as someone very dedicated, very humble, and enthusiastic in providing a service to the community.
"However the one person who who oppressed her was a tyrannical head of the department.
"She faced pressure in starting her own unit while managing a workload that exceeded her limits.
"Additionally, she had to deal with instrument inspections, attend meetings, prepare reports, and handle human resources and financial planning for the department," he claimed.
The family member also claimed that some young doctors and friends of the same age had taken to social media to express their grief, but were ignored by the higher-ups.
The story triggered an outpouring of sympathy among netizens, who called on the Health Ministry to take action.
On X, user @azharbmahmud expressed condolences to the doctor's family.
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family during this difficult time. The impact of workplace bullying can be profound and tragic."
Another user @vendingmachiato said: "Condolences to the family, but I will wait to hear another side. A one-sided story may lead to more harm.
"Otherwise, bully is unacceptable in any phase of life. The Health Ministry should thoroughly investigate this case," they wrote.
Earlier, an English daily reported that the police did not suspect any foul play in the death of the doctor.
Quoting Lahad Datu police chief Assistant Commissioner Dzulbaharin Ismail, the report said the incident was classifed as sudden death.
"We are still waiting for a report from the Chemistry Department, after which we will forward the case to the coroner for the next course of action," he was reported as saying.
If you are feeling depressed or stressed, know that help is available. All you have to do is reach out. The Befrienders is an example of a place you can call if you have suicidal thoughts or feeling overwhelmed. They provide emotional support 24/7. For more info, visit www.befrienders.org.my or contact 03-76272929.
You can also contact Talian Kasih at 15999 (24/7), BuddyBear Helpline at 1800-18-2327 (BEAR) (daily 12pm to 12am), Mental Illness Awareness & Support Association (MIASA) at 1-800-820 066 (24/7), and the Health Ministry - Mercy Malaysia Psychosocial Support Helpline at 03-2935 9935.