Dental association urges permanent posts for contract dentists in upcoming budget
The Malaysian Dental Association called on the government to grant permanent positions to contract dental officers whose contracts have lapsed.
Dr Chong Zhen Feng, president of the Malaysian Dental Association, warned that contract dental officers whose terms have expired are exiting the public health sector. He urged the government, which will present the 2027 budget, to assess the situation and offer permanent appointments to these professionals. Chong emphasized that dentists are vital for delivering oral health services to schoolchildren, remote communities, and patients dependent on public clinics.
He also called for a sustainable workforce plan to avoid further loss of trained staff. The association stresses that investment in dental training should translate into long-term employment within the national healthcare system.
Why it matters
Retaining trained dentists in public clinics ensures continued oral health care for vulnerable populations.
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