KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 24 — The Cabinet today decided to shelve the staggered working hours (WBB) pilot project to make way for a more in-depth study.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the decision to cancel the staggered working hours system was made after careful consideration of all factors.
“To facilitate this, the Health Ministry (MOH) has formed a special committee, which will be chaired by former health director-general Tan Sri Abu Bakar Suleiman,” he said in a statement.
Dr Dzulkefly said the committee’s terms of reference are related to enhancing the delivery of healthcare services to the public and the scheduling of work hours.
“MOH will continue its efforts to create a safe and equitable working environment for all, especially healthcare workers,” he said.
Previously, the Hartal Doktor Kontrak group called for the immediate withdrawal of the WBB system, claiming it was developed without input from key stakeholders.
The Malaysian Medical Association also expressed concerns about the WBB system, which it believed would exacerbate the existing staff shortage, burden doctors with excessive duties, and impact the quality of patient care.
— Bernama