3-5-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia’s Health Minister, Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, has issued a stark warning, projecting a potential shortage of nurses in the nursing field of nearly 60 per cent by the year 2030. To address this pressing issue, he advocates for a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to bridge the shortfall of nursing staff required to meet the country’s healthcare demands.
Speaking at a press conference during the launch of a 624-bed hospital by KL International Hospital at the KL Wellness City Gallery on Thursday (Apr 2), Dr Dzulkefly emphasised the critical need for collective action to bolster the nursing workforce.
“I fully support the initiative from the private sector so that together we can not only develop health facilities but human resources as well. We can build hospitals using bricks and mortar, but what is important is the staff, not only doctors and specialists but equally important are nurses. We are experiencing an acute shortage of nurses,” he remarked.
During the event, Dr Dzulkefly witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement for nursing scholarships between KL Wellness City and six colleges and universities. The agreement, valued at RM25 million (US$5.28 million), aims to provide financial support for nursing education in Malaysia.
The collaborating institutions include MAIWP International University College (UCMI), International Medical College (IMC), International Medical University (IMU), Adventist College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Lincoln University College (LUC), and the Oriental Nilam College.
