MALAYSIA: Hartal Doktor Kontrak (the Contract Doctors’ Group), an NGO in Malaysia has issued a strong call for immediate action in response to the tragic death of Dr Tay Tien Yaa, a young specialist who took her own life amid allegations of workplace bullying at Lahad Datu Hospital in Sabah, Malaysia.

The NGO extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr Tay’s family, friends, and colleagues, and underscores the profound impact her passing has had on the medical community.

Despite recent findings by the Ministry of Health (MOH) task force on workplace bullying, Hartal Doktor Kontrak argues that the response has been inadequate.

The NGO demands more decisive action to tackle the pervasive issue of bullying within Malaysia’s healthcare system.

This includes implementing a transparent and independent reporting system for all healthcare workers and enforcing anti-bullying policies with strict accountability measures.

Additionally, Hartal Doktor Kontrak emphasizes the need for enhanced mental health support services for healthcare professionals, particularly those in high-stress or remote positions.

Dr Tay’s death highlights critical issues such as chronic understaffing and excessive workloads, which contribute to severe stress and mental health concerns.

The NGO insists that the time for change is now and urges the Ministry of Health (KKM) to expedite reforms to safeguard healthcare workers and prevent further tragedies related to workplace bullying.

On 14 September, a netizen named YS Tay, who claims to be Dr Tay’s brother, posted on Facebook alleging that Dr Tay experienced workplace bullying.

YS Tay revealed that Dr Tay, 30, had an impressive academic record, earning a Master’s Degree in Chemical Pathology in 2023. She was appointed head of the Chemical Pathology Unit at Lahad Datu Hospital in February 2024.

Despite her best efforts to improve healthcare services at the hospital, including upgrading diagnostic equipment and securing resources for her unit, Dr Tay allegedly faced immense pressure.

In August 2024, just six months into her tenure, she was found dead in her rental unit. Her family was informed of her death on 29 August.

YS Tay accused Dr Tay’s department head of workplace bullying, alleging that the superior manipulated her, assigned tasks outside her job scope, and subjected her to overwhelming workloads.

The pressure included managing personnel, handling budgets, and attending endless meetings.

He lamented that the medical field in Malaysia is rife with exploitation and questioned whether authorities had become indifferent to such tragedies.

Earlier, Lahad Datu police confirmed that no foul play was suspected in Dr Tay’s death but acknowledged the family’s allegations of bullying.

On Monday, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad addressed the incident, reaffirming his commitment to eradicating bullying in the medical field.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized that all staff deserve a safe and fair working environment and pledged a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Dr Tay’s death.

Salam Hari Malaysia!
* Death of Dr. Tay Tien Yaa must b further investigated..
* I have had a ZERO TOLERANCE towards bullying since 2018 & shall remain steadfast on this policy. (few cases in hand)
* All KKM staff deserve a SAFE & JUST working environment.https://t.co/96FtWpgo9L

— Dzulkefly Ahmad (@DrDzul) September 16, 2024

Community Voices Alarm Over Healthcare System’s Toxic Culture and Lack of Support

In response to Dr Tay’s passing, the Malaysian community has expressed deep concern and frustration about the mental health support for medical professionals.

Many have highlighted that the challenging culture within the healthcare system, combined with a shortage of doctors and inadequate facilities, significantly contributes to the toxic work environment in KKM.

Comments suggest that administrators and doctors who mistreat their colleagues are often perceived as “effective” in managing staff shortages.

This dynamic exacerbates the problem, leaving many healthcare workers, particularly government doctors, fearful of speaking out about bullying due to potential repercussions.

Kenn Yeap, a state assemblyman in Perak, shared insight from a doctor described widespread bullying and exploitation by senior staff in hospitals, highlighting that the hierarchy of bullying is prevalent even in healthcare settings, where it should be least expected.

Yeap’s friend’s message, expressing despair and a lack of support, underscores the severe pressure and exploitation faced by medical professionals.

Yeap questions whether the government is effectively managing these issues and whether the pressures faced by doctors, often perceived as glamorous, are being adequately addressed.

He calls for a critical examination of the government’s handling of the situation and the overall support system for healthcare workers.

For those struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health challenges, help is available. In Malaysia, support services include the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392) and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929).

In Singapore, you can contact the Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) at 1-767 or text 9151 1767 for support.