GUIDELINES for managing workplace bullying for healthcare workers, while commendable, are not enough.
According to MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, workplace bullying often comes from adults who know exactly what they are doing, and as this behaviour cannot be excused or overlooked, the perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions.
“Workplace bullying is a serious issue that continues to plague various sectors, not just healthcare. While the guidelines are commendable, we need actionable steps. We need consequences,” he stressed.
“We must hold these individuals accountable, and it’s time for firm consequences, not just empty words to follow as guidance.
“In such a situation, accountability matters. Adults should face real repercussions for their actions as bullying is a choice, and those who engage in it must be held responsible.”
Mah said this in response to the announcement earlier today (Oct 22) that the Health Ministry is set to issue guidelines for managing workplace bullying for its staff through the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH).
Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the guidelines are aimed at raising awareness among healthcare workers regarding workplace bullying.
On this matter, Mah stressed that allowing this behaviour to go unpunished only perpetuates a toxic workplace culture, and to prevent this from running rampant, there needs to be clear penalties such as official written warnings, suspension or even termination.
“Consequences should match the severity of the actions, especially in healthcare settings, where micro-bullying tactics like overloading tasks, shifting working hours, and unfair task delegations can run rampant, leading to sleep deprivation and mental health issues,” he stated.
“Workplaces should adopt a zero-tolerance policy for bullying. This sends a powerful message that such behaviour won’t be tolerated under any circumstances.
It establishes a culture of respect and safety, making it clear that bullying has no place in the workplace.”
Mah said preventive measures are also important, and staff needs to be educated to recognise bullying and not assume that every individual understands what it entails.
“The reasoning is simple; bullying can look different from one workplace to another, whether it is over-delegating tasks or making passive-aggressive comments,” he elaborated.
“Comprehensive training can help foster a respectful workplace culture, empowering employees to stand up against bullying.
“Once bullying is identified, swift investigations should follow. Workplaces must have clear processes for investigating claims. Every complaint should be taken seriously, with timely and appropriate actions to address the situation.
“During this process, supporting victims is crucial. It’s important to remember that victims, as adults, should not be shamed for the bullying they endure, nor should they be dismissed as having to put up with it.” – Oct 22, 2024
