KUALA LUMPUR – The Health Ministry has denied recent news reports on the transfers of pathologists from Hospital Sultan Aminah, Johor Bahru (HSAJB), following a urine-tampering controversy.
In a statement yesterday, the ministry said the reports by an English daily dated January 10 and 11 are not true.
“The ministry, via a statement dated January 11, has already clarified that there were no transfers of pathologists as per the news report.
“The responsibility for urine sample testing falls within the purview of medical laboratory technologists and does not involve pathologists.
“The individual implicated in the falsification of urine test results is currently under investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC),” the statement read.
The ministry, therefore, called on the English daily to only publish information that is factually correct so that it does not cause concern among the public regarding public health services.
“The ministry also urged everyone not to make any speculations regarding the case.
“The hospital always cooperates with the MACC throughout the investigation process,” it added.
The health facilities under the ministry, including HSAJB, are dedicated to delivering the highest level of service and upholding integrity for all members of society, it said.
Based on the news reports, 10 pathologists were transferred out in a sweeping shakeup, in the wake of the urine-tampering issue in the state.
Johor health and unity committee chairman Ling Tian Soon was reported as saying that in addition to the reshuffling of pathologists, the state has also reinforced all standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to the handling of urine samples.
This includes implementing digitalisation measures to prevent any future tampering. – January 14, 2024