World · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia's Health Ministry faces acute shortage of 1,176 drivers
Malaysia's health sector is grappling with a critical manpower deficit as the Ministry of Health reports a shortfall of 1,176 drivers, including those needed for ambulance services. The shortage is expected to persist until April next year following recruitment delays by the Public Service Commission.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Ministry of Health has flagged a significant staffing crisis centring on driver positions across its operations, with a reported deficit of 1,176 positions remaining unfilled. The shortage encompasses general transport drivers as well as those critical to emergency medical services, potentially impacting the delivery of healthcare across the country.
The manpower gap stems from delays in recruitment activities by the Public Service Commission (SPA) during 2024. These postponements have created a cascading effect on hiring timelines, with no immediate resolution expected in the near term.
According to ministry advisories, the shortfall is anticipated to continue affecting operations through April 2025. This extended timeline raises concerns about service delivery and operational efficiency across health facilities nationwide, particularly for emergency transport services that depend on adequate driver coverage.
The recruitment setback underscores broader challenges facing Malaysia's public health sector in maintaining adequate staffing levels. Ambulance services and routine medical transport operations rely heavily on dedicated driver personnel, making the current deficit a matter of operational concern for health authorities.