COMMENT | Dear elected Members of Parliament and the Malaysian government.

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused widespread devastation across our country, wreaking havoc on the economy and our way of life. We have had nearly 700,000 Covid-19 cases and more than 4000 deaths since this disease crossed our borders in January 2020. Our RM5 billion National Immunisation Programme has finally taken off after many bumps on the road and we hope that it will play a significant role in suppressing the pandemic’s devastating blows to all aspects of our daily life.

Our healthcare workers have been at the forefront in the war against Covid-19, working tirelessly round the clock to ensure that our fellow countrymen receive the best available care possible. Having to work non-stop without any breaks or holidays in between since 18 months ago, many of us are already suffering from burnout. Yet, we have remained steadfast at our posts to discharge our duties and serve our nation.

We, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) and the Section Concerning House Officers, Medical Officers, and Specialists (Schomos), are now calling upon you, the Members of Parliament and the government of Malaysia, to do the same and perform your duties.

Our healthcare system has been ailing for several years now and is on the verge of collapse. While our ...