Malaysia Reconsiders Scholarships for Medical, Dental, and Pharmacy Students

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Malaysia: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar has reportedly pledged that the Public Service Department will continue to provide scholarships for students pursuing studies in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. 

The decision comes as a response to the government’s previous policy to cease sponsoring these fields, formulated by the preceding administration. Acknowledging the significance of the medical services sector in Malaysia, Anwar disclosed that the policy is under review.

“We held a special meeting with the Public Service Department last week, and they explained that the existing policy is an old policy. I have requested a review of the (old) policy because the fields of medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry still exist,” stated Anwar. “This means that the Public Service Department will continue to sponsor scholarships.”

Impact on University Education

Minister of Health Dr Zaliha has also reported that the Ministry of Health and the Public Service Department will conduct a thorough examination of the previous decision to halt sponsorship for medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy courses. 

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on students’ university education. The authorities plan to re-evaluate a study initiated in 2019, which projected a substantial supply of healthcare personnel in Malaysia between 2026 and 2030.

“We are aware that discontinuing sponsorship for these courses will have an impact on students who intend to pursue studies in these fields, especially in the post-pandemic era. Therefore, we must review the decision and examine the completed study in order to make the best decision,” said Dr Zaliha.

As the review progresses, the authorities aim to make informed decisions that uphold the interests of students and the healthcare system in Malaysia.