Contract pharmacists without reserve status can now apply for permanent positions, says the Ministry of Health (MOH). This announcement comes as a relief to many, especially after the Malaysian Pharmacists Society (MPS) and the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) raised concerns about the fate of over 700 contract pharmacists who lost their reserve status in October. The MOH's statement reassures that eligible contract pharmacists, including those affected, will have the opportunity to submit fresh applications for permanent pharmacist appointments when new intakes are announced. However, it's important to note that the number of permanent pharmacist positions available is limited, and the ministry remains committed to a transparent, merit-based workforce planning process aligned with service needs and approved staffing capacity. Senator Dr. RA Lingeshwaran has called for the reactivation of the 'reserve' status for the 730 pharmacy officers, urging the MOH to clarify the status of their contracts pending permanent appointments. While the MOH's statement today did not provide such guarantees, it opens up a new avenue for contract pharmacists to pursue permanent roles.
