Sarawak’s Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that doctors from the Peninsular working in private centers in Sarawak could apply for a five-year work permit from the state government.
Opening more opportunities to Peninsular doctors
The issuance of a long-term work permit is to attract more skilled professionals. It is unlike the usual one-to-two years contract doctors in Malaysia usually get. It is an initiative by the state government of Sarawak to open more opportunities for doctors. Especially from the Peninsular to work in Sarawak.
Abang Jo explained, “The work permit is for five years, and you don’t have to apply yearly. It covers all sectors of our economic activities from industrial to services, which includes the medical sector.”
The five-year permit is convenient for any professional working in Sarawak
In his speech during a dinner with the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM), he stated, “(We allow this) so that the professionals can work and stay in Sarawak for years. (We can do this because) Immigration is under the state government.”
Meantime, Abang Johari said the state government would sort out decisions to only allow 14 days visa to medical tourists coming to Sarawak.
Abang Johari added, “We allow people to come to Sarawak, and normally we will give a three-month visa. I don’t know why only 14 days (for medical tourists). I will rectify it, especially for people seeking medical treatment.”