KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has voiced concern that the revised Regional Incentive Allowance (BIW) under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA) could worsen medical workforce shortages in Sabah and Sarawak.
MMA president Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo said the Ministry of Health (MoH) is already struggling with officers failing to report for duty in the two states.
“The revised BIW has reduced allowances for newly appointed medical officers in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan by more than 60 per cent — from RM960 to RM360 monthly in some cases,” he said in a statement Friday.
He stressed the cut is not just about numbers but reflects how the contributions of doctors in these regions are valued.
“The reality is that these states face consistent structural challenges: higher cost of living, logistical limitations, stretched manpower and fewer training or advancement opportunities. These are challenges not limited to remote areas — they are embedded in the broader ecosystem of care across Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan,” he added.
Dr Thirunavukarasu said BIW was never intended as a bonus but as modest support acknowledging the unique difficulties of serving in these territories.
He warned that reducing BIW sends a discouraging signal to young doctors — that their sacrifices are less valued depending on when they were appointed.
Doctors in these states, he noted, often leave behind family support systems, endure long hours and work in settings where demand outweighs resources.
“Their service is vital to Malaysia’s healthcare equity, and it deserves to be acknowledged fairly,” he stressed.
MMA has raised the issue with the Prime Minister and relevant ministries, estimating the cost of restoring BIW at RM4.2 million annually. This was based on about 700 new medical officers posted each year, with a monthly shortfall of RM500 per officer under the revised structure.
Dr Thirunavukarasu said the amount is modest compared with billions lost annually through leakages, inefficiencies or mismanagement in other sectors.
He emphasised the matter does not lie with the MoH, which remains committed to equitable service delivery.
“This policy change comes under the jurisdiction of the Public Service Department (JPA) and Ministry of Finance (MoF), and we urge these agencies to give urgent and empathetic consideration to this matter,” he said.
MMA is calling for BIW to be reinstated at its original structure for all eligible officers, regardless of appointment date.
“For those who dedicate their lives to caring for others, fair compensation is not a luxury but a basic sign of respect,” Dr Thirunavukarasu said.
“When we take care of our healthcare workers, especially those who serve in challenging environments, we uphold not just their morale — we uphold our national dignity,” he added. – December 21, 2025