No long queues at Ipoh hospital, usual number of doctors working today

IPOH: Things are seemingly normal at the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) emergency department.

A check at the department found that the situation was "business as usual" and calm.

There were also no long queues.

About two to three medical staff members were seen wearing black-coloured attire near the department.

According to a source, there would be no demonstrations or walkouts at the hospital on Monday (April 3).

“We have not heard of any walkouts to be held today.

“As far as we know, those involved with the ‘Mogok Doktor Malaysia’ are different from the ‘Hartal Doktor Kontrak’.

"We are also not aware that anyone has taken emergency or medical leave, as the department seems to have the usual number of doctors working today," he told The Star.

On March 27, the group that called themselves Mogok Doktor Malaysia had in their Instagram account said a strike among contract doctors would be held nationwide from April 3 to 5.

It had apparently told contract doctors to go on medical or emergency leaves, while warning folk not to visit the public hospitals involved, including HRPB.

The strike is based on several demands, including for better salaries and working hours.

When met, a retiree, who only wished to be known as Sim, said she was not aware of any strikes.

“I have an appointment scheduled today at the hospital but so far I didn’t see any odd things happening.

“My children did tell me about how contract doctors are earning such low salaries and that is one of the reasons they want to go on strike," she said.

“Hopefully they will get paid equally as the other doctors. They are working hard and are responsible for someone’s life. They shouldn’t be underpaid,” she added.