Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Dental body calls for contract dentists inclusion in government absorption plan
The Malaysian Dental Association has urged federal authorities to include contract dentists in the government's doctor absorption scheme outlined in Budget 2027, warning against leaving the group behind.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Dental Association (MDA) has called on the federal government and the Ministry of Health to ensure contract dentists are not excluded from absorption initiatives planned under the 2027 budget framework.
The appeal comes as the government prepares to implement measures aimed at regularising healthcare workers across the public sector. The MDA has stressed that contract dentists have been integral to Malaysia's dental healthcare delivery system and warrant similar consideration to other medical professionals during the transition period.
The association has emphasised that contract dental staff face employment uncertainty and lack the job security and benefits afforded to permanent government employees. Officials have indicated that failing to address their status could create operational challenges within public dental services and potentially lead to workforce attrition.
The MDA's advocacy reflects broader concerns within Malaysia's healthcare sector regarding the treatment of contract workers. The association has urged policymakers to develop comprehensive absorption criteria that recognise the contributions of all healthcare professionals, regardless of their current employment classification.