25-11-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia’s healthcare system faces mounting pressure as nurses increasingly choose lucrative overseas positions offering up to quadruple their domestic starting salaries, leaving the nation’s hospitals critically understaffed and struggling to maintain adequate patient care.
The country’s nurse-to-patient ratio has fallen significantly below World Health Organization standards, with just one nurse per 283 people, compared to the recommended one per 225. This shortfall has created a perfect storm in Malaysia’s healthcare sector, where overcrowded facilities and growing disparities between public and private healthcare are becoming increasingly apparent.
The situation is exemplified by nurses like Susan Wong, who now works aboard an international cruise ship. Speaking from Mexico’s Pacific coast, Wong described her transition from Malaysia’s frontline healthcare to a career that offers both adventure and substantially better compensation. “I’m living my dream life, travelling the world and getting paid for it,” she said, noting that two other Malaysian nurses have made similar career moves aboard her vessel.
The Malaysian Nurses Association reports that despite having over 117,000 registered nurses, the system is severely strained. Those remaining in domestic service often face overwhelming workloads, caring for up to six patients simultaneously in understaffed wards while managing increasing patient expectations.
Saaidah Athman, President of the Malaysian Nurses Union, highlighted the toll on healthcare workers: “Their welfare is being neglected, with many forced into double shifts due to staffing shortages, significantly impacting their mental health.”
