PUTRAJAYA: The new pension scheme would not lead to an increase in the attrition rate for medical officers in government hospitals, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister highlighted a drop in the attrition rate compared to previous years, attributing it to the comfort level with the current arrangement.
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"From 2023 to this year, we have made over 6,300 permanent offers," he said after his 2024 mandate speech at the ministry here on Friday (Jan 26).
Regarding the government's plans to abolish pension payments for new hires in the civil service, Dr Dzulkefly said dissenting voices can express their concerns in Parliament.
"If this matter is raised in the Dewan Rakyat, the minister responsible will address the concerns.
"Government backbenchers and Opposition members can raise the issue," he added.
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He also emphasised that the new scheme should not be viewed negatively, as individuals contributing to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) may receive significant gains.
"It's essential not to view it negatively or as a disadvantage; putting it into perspective, there is a choice," he added.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi previously announced the government's intention to introduce a new civil service hiring policy, incorporating the new pension scheme.
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He emphasised contributions to retirement schemes like EPF and the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) for new civil service hires.
Public Service Department director-general Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Dahlan Abdul Aziz added that relevant laws were being amended to facilitate the new civil service recruitment method.
Once implemented, it is expected to alleviate the country's fiscal burden, he said.
