Aside from this group who have 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.

An affected pharmacist, who requested anonymity, said that with just two days left on their contracts, their desperate appeals appear to have fallen on deaf ears.

“We all have huge commitments with many of us already married with children. It is tough finding jobs in the private sector. I hope the health ministry will help us out,” the pharmacist told FMT.

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

“I was told that there is a real need for pharmacists with the government currently expanding the health sector. However, they have not been given any appointment letters yet. Their contracts are expiring soon,” he said.

Citing a written parliamentary reply issued last month, Lingeswaran noted that 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,” he added.

Lingeswaran urged the ministry to develop a proper plan to retain these experienced pharmacists as the government healthcare sector is already burdened with a shortage of professionals in multiple other areas.

FMT has reached out to the health ministry for comment.