Department acknowledges high level of preparedness needed for their work
More than 82,000 healthcare workers across Malaysia will get to keep their 42-hour work weeks after previous attempts to raise them to 45, according to reports.
Malaysia's Public Service Department (JPA) last week granted five critical service schemes an exemption from the 45-hour work week implemented under the public service remuneration system (SSPA).
These service schemes include nurses, community nurses, medical officers in the emergency department, assistant medical officers, and medical attendants, Free Malaysia Today reported.
Overall, they account for a total of 82,637 healthcare workers, according to the JPA statement.
The department said in its approval to retain working hours that it acknowledges the concerns of healthcare workers over 45-hour work weeks, health news website Code Blue reported.
It also recognised that the operational needs and critical duties performed by healthcare workers require an extraordinary level of physical, mental, and emotional preparedness.
Recognition of healthcare workers
Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said they welcome the government's decision to retain the 42-hour work week for healthcare workers.
"This is a clear recognition of the dedication and spirit of healthcare workers who tirelessly assist patients fighting for their lives every day and at all hours," Dzulkefly said as quoted by the FMT.
The Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS) also said the department's decision shows the government listens and understands the concerns raised by unions and healthcare workers.
"CUEPACS believes this move will help safeguard the physical, mental, and emotional health of healthcare personnel," said CUEPACS president Datuk Dr Adnan Mat as quoted by Bernama.
The exemption follows strong opposition to extending working hours from various health groups, including the Malayan Nurses Union.
Plans to extend the working hours for healthcare nurses emerged last year, with hospitals granted a three-month preparation period for the long working hours starting in December.
The implementation, however, was moved to May 31, before being delayed again to June 1, and then August 1.
