As Malaysia’s economy returns to “normalcy,” the healthcare sector prepares to implement pandemic-related lessons. Unavoidably, healthcare professionals such as nurses throughout the country are once again confronted with challenges of rising living costs and prospects for advancement, prompting a number of Malaysian nurses to seek opportunities abroad, such as in Singapore and Malaysia.1
Saudi Arabia and Singapore are among the top destinations for Malaysian nurses, according to Malayan Nurses Union president Nor Hayati Abdul Rashid. Better remuneration and possibilities to further their education motivate nurses to pursue these careers, she added.
However, this situation may put additional strain on the nursing sector, which has generated fewer nursing graduates as a result of tougher criteria; and budget cuts in hospitals, which have reduced sponsorship and training opportunities for nurses.2
Similarly, Sarawak has announced a need for more nurses for acute and specialized treatment, as well as placement in rural clinics. According to State Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim KuiHian, the nursing services ratio is currently 3.16 per 1,000 persons, based on Sarawak’s 2020 population of 2,907,500 people.3
Despite the various challenges plaguing nursing professions in the country, the sector continues to serve patients from all walks of life.
Malaysia honors its nurses for their commitment to their profession on this day, International Nurses Day.
In a social media post, Malaysian nurses were thanked by Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa. She was cited as adding that the government respects and supports nurses for their dedication and effort in caring for Malaysians’ health. 4
Nurses, according to Dr Zaliha, are vital assets to the country’s health system since their roles and responsibilities are critical in ensuring that patients receive excellent and professional care. She added that nurses are also the protectors of patients’ well-being in hospitals, health centres, and clinics around the country.
Malaysian nurses are without a doubt among the finest in the world and deserve all the support and recognition they can receive.
Happy International Nurses Day!
Sources:
1. https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/12/12/malaysian-nurses-look-abroad-for-better-wages
2. https://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/01/201014/will-malaysia-face-shortage-nurses-2020
3. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2023/03/10/deputy-premier-sarawak-in-need-of-more-nurses/58961
4. https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2188283