Public anxiety has intensified following projections of up to RM3 billion in possible reductions, adding that fiscal tightening must not come at the expense of healthcare service quality.
PETALING JAYA: Pressure is mounting on Putrajaya to be more transparent over its budget restructuring plans, with the government’s Backbenchers Club (BBC) calling for a clear and comprehensive mitigation strategy amid rising concern over potential cuts to the healthcare sector.
BBC chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said public anxiety has intensified following projections of up to RM3 billion in possible reductions, adding that fiscal tightening must not come at the expense of healthcare service quality.
While acknowledging the need for fiscal consolidation in a challenging economic environment, she emphasised that transparency and clarity are essential to sustaining public confidence.
“A clear, conclusive and comprehensive mitigation plan must be presented to ensure that any adjustments do not affect the quality of public healthcare services.”
She said the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system depends on accelerating reforms outlined in the Health White Paper, including a decisive shift away from a treatment centric model towards a more holistic, preventive and wellness-based approach.
“In line with this, the introduction of a basic Medical and Health Insurance and Takaful Plan should be expedited as an alternative financing mechanism to reduce reliance on federal funding, while ensuring a more inclusive, sustainable and affordable healthcare system.
“Additionally, in optimising the use of existing financial resources, the government should temporarily defer plans to build new hospitals and instead focus on upgrading existing facilities, including ensuring adequate availability of medical equipment and supplies.”
She further emphasised that upgrading dilapidated health clinics must remain a national priority, with primary care facilities enhanced to at least Type 4 health clinic capacity, which handles about 150 to 300 patients daily to improve service delivery and ease congestion at public hospitals.
Zaliha also underscored the importance of continuing the Madani Medical Scheme, describing it as an effective buffer in reducing reliance on public hospitals for minor treatments.
“In pursuing fiscal consolidation efforts, the welfare and sustainability of healthcare frontliners must remain a top priority. Budget restructuring must be implemented carefully to avoid long-term impacts on the capacity of the public healthcare system.”
She added that as a strategic partner to the government, BBC would continue to play a constructive check-and-balance role to ensure fiscal policies remain anchored in public welfare, compassion and the sustainability of essential services.