Malaysia’s Ministry of Health proposes shorter training duration for graduate medical officers

A proposal is in the works to reduce the training period from the existing two years to one year. 

In a media statement on 24 February, it was announced that the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM) is considering reducing the training period for Graduate Medical Officers (PPS or HO) from two years to one year. This proposal aligns with the Medical Act 1971 [Act 50], which mandates a minimum of one-year training period and was the standard before being extended in 2008.

Why the change?

The two-year training period was initially introduced in 2008 due to a surge in medical graduates, coupled with a shortage of senior doctors and physicians to supervise them. However, with improvements in training facilities, a growing number of specialist hospitals, and an increase in medical experts, KKM believes a one-year programme can now be just as effective, subject to improvements in the quality of training.

A key focus of this proposal is addressing concerns raised by HOs, such as excessive workload and the need for better recognition. The new approach is expected to increase clinical exposure and motivation. 

What would the new training look like?

If implemented, the first year of training would focus on three core departments:

• Medicine
• Surgery
• Obstetrics and gynaecology

In the second year, HOs would act as junior medical officers (MOs), rotating through:

• Paediatrics
• Orthopaedics
• Emergency medicine

Additionally, training in anaesthesia, psychiatry, and family medicine will be integrated into the training schedule for a more efficient training process.

Despite the reduced training duration, KKM stresses that competency development will not be compromised. Supervisors at training centres will closely monitor and evaluate performance, with the option to extend training if necessary.

This proposal, the Ministry clarified, is not being floated because of the lack of medical officers, but with a view to increase productivity

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