Lawmakers push comprehensive protection scheme for high-risk healthcare workers in budget debate

During the policy-stage debate on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2027, several MPs advocated for a new protection scheme covering health workers on high-risk assignments after a Flying Doctor Service helicopter crash in Long Lellang, Ulu Baram, Sarawak, killed a pilot and four Ministry of Health staff. Datuk Willie Mongin proposed automatic, all-mission coverage that would not reduce existing pension, EPF, PERKESO or other entitlements, and urged contract awards to consider safety and aircraft condition rather than price alone.

Abdul Latiff Abdul Rahman called for the scheme to extend to all hazardous travel, including road and water routes, and suggested takaful for doctors, nurses and drivers. Oscar Ling Chai Yew urged the Ministry of Health and Malaysian Medical Council to recognise more overseas medical degrees to ease staffing shortages. Shahelmy Yahya asked the ministry to investigate why 91 of 138 medical officers posted to Sabah have not reported for duty, recommending better facilities, internet, roads and appropriate incentives. Mas Ermieyati Samsudin highlighted the need for shared student mental-health data between ministries and the reinstatement of community clinics to reduce overcrowding at public health centres.