Sabah faces critical doctor shortage as only a third of expected physicians report for duty

The Sabah Malaysian Medical Association warns that the shortage of physicians in the state has reached a breaking point, with only 47 of the 138 doctors expected to fill hospital posts actually reporting for work. This 34% fulfillment rate leaves hospitals scrambling to cover shifts, forcing the few remaining doctors to take calls every other day. The association says the situation cannot be solved by overworking the existing staff, as it risks a cycle of exhaustion, further resignations and reduced service capacity.

Patients may face longer waiting periods and delayed treatments as a result. The Sabah MMA supports the call from MMA president Dr Siv an an Letchumanan for urgent measures, including better incentives and improved working and living conditions, to attract and keep doctors in Sabah and Sarawak.