IN a move to demonstrate how seriously the Health Ministry (MOH) takes bullying, its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has promised to crackdown on bullying in the medical professional.
The issue came to the fore after the death of a Lahad Datu specialist over alleged bullying.
A family member alleged on Facebook that the specialist was bullied in the Lahad Datu Hospital after she was transferred there in February this year.
Dr Dzulkefly was forceful in stating that all Health Ministry staff deserve a safe and just working environment.
In making his point on X, he said, “I have had a zero tolerance towards bullying since 2018 and shall remain steadfast on this policy.”
On Sunday (Sept 15), Lahad Datu OCPD Asst Comm Dzulbaharin Ismail stated police did not suspect foul play in the doctor’s death but said the police would leave it to the health authorities to investigate the bullying claims.
Several commentators on X agreed with the minister but called on the ministry to ensure the investigation into bullying is made public.
“Investigate is one thing, but serious drastic actions need to be taken, including action against hospital directors, clinical directors. They can’t be absolved by just being ignorant,” said a netizen.
Meanwhile, another urged the minister to quickly come up with answers in regard to the case.
Dr Dzulkefly made his stance on bullying clear by stating on his social posting: “Lest you’ve forgotten what action I took in my first term, please Google. I understand this toxic work culture still persists, so PERPETRATORS JUST STOP IT!”
Dr Dzulkefly was referring to a serious case of bullying and harassment involving a senior head of department (HOD) at a major specialist hospital.
He pointed out during his first tenure as a minister how he had realised how difficult it was to bring the culprit to book.
“Firstly, we undertook a preliminary finding, and with prima facie evidence established, we then formed a full inquiry committee of abled and experienced senior MOH staff. After a thorough investigation, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong can terminate his service,” he recalled.
He went on to state arguably, there is a culture of fear that permeates the entire system. Part of this is arguably due to the MOH’s top brass, which have repeatedly reprimanded officers for speaking out and raising concerns. – Sept 16, 2024
Main image: Utusan Malaysia
