The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has condemned police investigations targeting healthcare workers who have supported its campaign for the plight of contract doctors in government service.
MMA president Dr Subramaniam Muniandy said they have received complaints from doctors involved in the Code Black and Black Monday campaigns that they are being investigated by the police, and are afraid and traumatised by the investigations.
“Although the MMA is aware that the (police) are allowed to conduct investigations, we strongly condemn the nature of this exercise targeting doctors who have supported our campaign championing the rights of healthcare workers in the country.
“The involved doctors carried out their duties diligently while displaying solidarity for healthcare workers.
“Medical officers like any other Malaysian have the right to stand up, even at the very least by the show of colour,” he said in a statement today.
He described the investigations as “unnecessary” and said they can be seen as a form of harassment to the campaign.
Previously, the MMA urged members of the public to support the plight of contract doctors through its Code Black campaign from July 1 to July 12, by changing their profile pictures on social media to black or monochrome.
The campaign takes its name from a hospital emergency code denoting a threat to its personnel. In this case, it refers to the poor job security and prospects for career advancement faced by contract doctors.
On July 12, supporters can also show solidarity through the Black Monday campaign by wearing black-coloured attire to work, and sharing photos of the act on social media platforms.
The two MMA campaigns come ahead of a strike that is organised by another group of doctors which is to take place on July 26. This involves contract doctors walking away from their jobs for a day while their colleagues cover for them to maintain patient care.
In response to the increasing pressure, Putrajaya has offered a one-off reappointment for contract doctors. The reappointment is on a contract basis. The government is also expected to make further decisions on the matter at a cabinet meeting tomorrow.
MMA, meanwhile, reiterated that it has nothing to do with the planned strike.
It said it is seeking legal advice in response to the police investigations and will inform members of the outcome.
“In light of this matter, MMA aims to collaborate with the relevant parties to organise a virtual event to disseminate information regarding their rights and the legal perspectives of the issues faced by government doctors,” it added.
It urged members who are being investigated to contact the MMA through their state section concerning house officers, medical officers, and specialist (Schomos) representatives. - Mkini
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