Speaking to FMT on condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions, they expressed shock that the health ministry would let go of experienced personnel even as the government moves to expand healthcare facilities nationwide.
One pharmacist, previously attached to a hospital in Selangor, said shortages remain acute in government facilities, particularly in East Malaysia.
“It is widely known that there are many vacancies in Sabah and Sarawak, and at times, pharmacists even need to be deployed from other hospitals and health centres just to maintain smooth services.
“Meanwhile, capable local pharmacists are left on the waiting list and are unable to continue serving simply because their contracts have ended. This clearly shows a mismatch between workforce needs and policy decisions,” the 29-year-old told FMT.
She said the hospital she works at operates 24 hours a day with multiple shifts, but the pharmacy is often short-staffed during the night.
With the increasing number of patients seeking treatment at these hospitals, there is a growing need for experienced and committed pharmacists.
Another pharmacist, who served at a government health clinic in a northern state, said the criteria for awarding permanent posts were not transparent, with junior colleagues being offered permanent positions ahead of them.
“What concerns me is that despite actively serving under contract and performing well, others who had resigned almost five years ago and had previously rejected permanent appointments were selected ahead of us,” the mother of one said, adding that the selection process did not follow procedure.
She also said they were not given a clear explanation of the selection criteria when they sought clarification from the Public Services Commission.
“It’s a terrible feeling to lose our jobs after being offered (permanent positions),” she said, adding that the health ministry claimed the offer made was conditional.
Another pharmacist said the government’s decision not to renew their contracts could backfire, noting the long waiting times at pharmacies, especially during peak hours.
“It’s the patients who suffer because of manpower shortages in the public health sector.
“I think there is a serious need for the Public Services Commission and the health ministry to start talking to each other to truly understand what is happening on the ground.”
She said that if the government is concerned about long-term commitment, then the selection process should be more transparent and truly merit-based from the outset.
Former senator Dr RA Lingeshwaran, who has repeatedly raised their plight in the Dewan Negara, said Malaysia’s current pharmacist-to-population ratio stands at 1:1,538 — better than the World Health Organization’s standard of 1:2,000.
He said vacancies for permanent pharmacist placements in the ministry will only open at the end of the year, which could lead to a glut in the profession.
“This development is an eye-opener for parents and students when they plan for their future. Those with pharmacy degrees or diplomas should venture into businesses related to the sector to stay relevant.”
Lingeshwaran suggested that the government could potentially be “playing with fire” by deciding against contract renewal.
“Right now, only 51% of pharmacists are in government service, while the majority of Malaysians rely on public health facilities for their needs,” he said when contacted.
On Monday, the health ministry said there will be no contract extensions for the pharmacists as they have reached the maximum contract tenure of five years.
It also said those affected may reapply when permanent positions open up at the end of 2027.