No extension for pharmacists who have reached maximum tenure

 Health ministry says those affected can reapply when permanent positions are opened at the end of 2027.

It was earlier reported that the health ministry had put 352 contract pharmacists on a waiting list for permanent positions but many had quit because of the undue delay and uncertain future. (Envato Elements pic)

PETALING JAYA:

 The health ministry has clarified that there will be no contract extensions for pharmacists whose services are reportedly ending as they have reached the maximum contract tenure of five years.

The ministry said it has taken note of concerns raised in an FMT report titled “45 contract pharmacists in limbo as jobs end Saturday”, highlighted on Thursday, Bernama reported.

In a statement today, the ministry said the affected officers may reapply when permanent positions are opened at the end of 2027.

They will be placed under a new entry grade of UF10, previously known as UF43, in line with the implementation of the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA), which came into effect on Dec 1, 2024.

“This strategic realignment is an important step to strengthen the national health human resource system to be more equitable, transparent and competitive in the long term,” the statement said.

The ministry said any offer of permanent appointment is conditional.

“Appointment and placement letters will only be issued once candidates meet all stipulated criteria, including health clearance, statutory declarations as well as confirmed vacancies,” it said.

It noted that there are also cases where the officers involved are reserve candidates. As such, they must wait their turn for appointment based on current vacancies.

FMT had earlier reported that up to 45 experienced contract pharmacists would lose their government jobs by last Saturday after failing to receive appointment letters, despite being offered permanent positions last October.

Aside from this group, which had served as contract officers for at least five years, another 40 will lose their jobs in July if the health ministry does not offer them permanent posts.

Former senator Dr RA Lingeswaran, who raised the matter in the Dewan Negara in October, said these officers were among 352 contract pharmacists offered permanent posts and told to wait for their appointment letters, with no dates given.

The health ministry had put 352 contract pharmacists on a waiting list for permanent positions.

“Of these, only 143 pharmacists still remain in service while 209 have quit for various reasons. Some told me they quit because of the undue delay and uncertain future,” Lingeswaran added. - FMT