Hundreds of doctor vacancies in Perak: Five measures to address public healthcare workforce shortage

PERAK Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman Datuk A. Sivanesan recently revealed that, according to the Health Facts 2025 publication by the Health Ministry, Perak is currently facing a shortage of doctors, with a ratio of one doctor for every 466 people. As of end February 2026, there are 106 unfilled permanent doctor positions across ministry hospitals in the state.

This figure highlights a serious manpower shortage within Perak’s healthcare system and the growing strain on public healthcare services. It indicates that doctors are carrying heavier workloads, which may eventually affect service quality, increase patient waiting times, and impact overall public health outcomes.