PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Dental Association (MDA) has called on the government to provide timely clarity on the future of contract dental officers in Cohort 2021, as their contracts near expiry without confirmation on permanent appointments or extensions.
In a statement on Saturday (April 4), MDA president Dr Chong Zhen Feng said affected officers had submitted formal representations as early as November 2025.
He said the lack of updates has created uncertainty at a crucial stage of their professional careers. "The absence of a definitive update has understandably caused concern among these officers," he added.
Dr Chong noted that the contracts for Cohort 2021 are set to end on April 6, July 11, and in September.
He acknowledged that employment decisions in the public sector involve multiple agencies, but stressed that timely clarity is essential for maintaining confidence in the public healthcare workforce.
He highlighted Malaysia's ongoing challenges in retaining healthcare professionals, particularly in an increasingly competitive regional environment.
"Providing clear and structured career pathways is important to ensure that trained professionals remain committed to serving within the public system," he said.
The MDA noted that contract dental officers have played a key role in clinical care and public health initiatives, particularly during national challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Their continued service is vital for sustaining oral healthcare delivery for the rakyat," the association said.
As possible solutions, the MDA recommended that eligible Cohort 2021 officers be offered permanent positions or be granted interim contract extensions while longer-term decisions are finalised.
"The MDA remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to support solutions that are sustainable and equitable," Dr Chong said.
