Parallel pathway: Framework of solution sent to AGC - Zambry

The government has given its assurance that the parallel pathway issue will be resolved promptly and that a proposed solution framework has been submitted to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for evaluation.

Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir stated that discussions with the Health Ministry were held recently to find a solution regarding legal aspects, in addition to issues related to the recognition of medical programmes offered in universities.

“The government is examining comprehensive solutions that also involve legal aspects such as the need for any amendments to the Medical Act 1971.

“Additionally, there are matters related to the recognition of medical programmes offered at universities,” he said after attending the investED training programme graduation ceremony organised by the Securities Commission in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

The issue gained attention when the Malaysian Medical Association requested Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) to allow the entry of non-bumiputera medical officers who wished to undergo specialised training in cardiothoracic fields, just like how the institution accepts international students.

This came after the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) rejected the applications of four cardiothoracic surgeons to be listed in the National Specialist Register as their Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in Cardiothoracic Surgery (FRCS Ed) qualification was not recognised.

Commenting further, Zambry said the issue should not only focus on admitting these four doctors to UiTM but also on why the MMC does not recognise their academic qualifications.

“It is unfair if we accuse UiTM of being too rigid and not providing space, showing no compassion to urgent cases. This involves the MMC.

“Even if they (doctors) are allowed to pass if UiTM temporarily provides space, ultimately will the MMC accept them? This is the real question,” he said.

He also urged the public to have confidence in the ongoing solution efforts and emphasised that the issue should not be exploited for political gains by any party trying to exaggerate the matter.

- Bernama