MMA urges government to revise doctor incentive schemes in East Malaysia

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged the government to reconsider its approach to doctor incentives in Sabah and Sarawak, citing persistent absenteeism among medical practitioners as a growing concern for healthcare delivery in the two states.

The association's appeal comes amid reports of repeated no-shows by doctors in the region, which have disrupted patient care and strained already stretched healthcare systems. The MMA contends that current incentive structures are insufficient to attract and retain qualified medical professionals in East Malaysia, where geographic isolation and limited amenities present ongoing recruitment challenges.

According to the MMA, reverting to previously implemented incentive models could help address the shortage of reliable medical staff in Sabah and Sarawak. The association emphasizes that competitive compensation packages are essential for ensuring adequate healthcare coverage, particularly in remote and underserved areas where doctor recruitment remains difficult.

The call for policy revision underscores broader challenges facing Malaysia's healthcare system in its eastern regions, where physician shortages have been a persistent issue. Health authorities have not yet publicly responded to the MMA's recommendations regarding the proposed incentive adjustments.