Nurses are key to global health

Photo: THOMAS YONG/The Star

EVERY May 12, the world celebrates its largest group of healthcare professionals: nurses. This year’s International Nurses Day (IND) theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring For Nurses Strengthens Economies”, is a reminder that a healthier, more resilient world depends on a supported and empowered nursing workforce.

In Malaysia, nurses make up more than 60% of the total health workforce. Their role is critical in everything from urban hospitals to remote Klinik Kesihatan or Klinik Desa. However, many face long hours, limited resources, and burnout, especially in underserved regions. While the Health Ministry has initiated programmes to strengthen nursing education and upskill the workforce, more structural reforms are necessary to address retention and support.