KUALA LUMPUR: Allegations that teachers make up the largest group of civil servants falsifying medical certificates (MCs) are irresponsible and create a negative perception of the teaching profession, says the Education Minister.
Fadhlina Sidek (pic) said the issue should not arise, highlighting that there were over 400,000 teachers nationwide who fulfil their responsibilities with dedication and integrity.
She was responding to a claim by the Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) on Monday that teachers make up the largest group of civil servants involved in taking MCs under false pretences.
The umbrella body for civil service unions also reportedly claimed that 1-2% of 10,000 civil servants submit such MCs and abuse their emergency leave.
“Public service governance is always a priority to ensure the highest standard of service delivery. The Education Ministry also has clear regulations for addressing disciplinary issues among civil servants,” said Fadhlina in a statement yesterday.
“Monitoring is carried out continuously at all levels, and any civil servants involved in misconduct will face appropriate action,” she said, adding that the ministry viewed recent media reports on the matter seriously.
The minister also said the government values the essential role teachers play in nation-building, and in recognition of their contributions Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a civil service salary adjustment in August.
Fadhlina said her ministry has also undertaken various efforts to protect teachers’ well-being, including implementing seven measures to reduce their workload.
“We are committed to continue elevating the teaching profession.
“Teachers’ professionalism in educating the nation’s children must be highly respected by all levels of society,” she added.
The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) has since called on Cuepacs to provide data to back its claim.
NUTP also said Cuepacs’ claim undermines the professionalism and work ethics of medical officers, who only issue MCs after determining whether patients are indeed unwell and unfit to carry out their duties for a certain period of time.
