Kota Kinabalu: The Regional Incentive Allowance (BIW) must be maintained as a crucial incentive to sustain healthcare services and retain doctors in Sabah, said Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam and the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA).
He said the allowance plays an important role in supporting healthcare workers posted to Sabah and Sarawak, particularly as the Federal Government implements improvements under the new Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA).
“While the State Government welcomes the increase in federal staff remuneration, any reduction in the BIW will negatively affect Sabah’s healthcare workforce by worsening healthcare inequity and weakening workforce sustainability,” he said during the MMA Sabah Annual Dinner and Installation Night 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre here recently.
He added that the State Government remains committed to protecting doctors’ welfare and will continue working closely with the Federal Government to address long-standing challenges in the healthcare sector.
Joachim also noted that many doctors serving in Sabah come from Peninsular Malaysia, leaving their families behind to serve rural and remote communities, with some eventually choosing to settle permanently in the state.
“On behalf of the people of Sabah, I thank all doctors for their service and dedication, especially those serving in rural areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, MMA President Datuk Dr Thirunavukarasu Rajoo said BIW is not a privilege or handout, but a recognition of the real challenges faced by healthcare workers serving far from their homes, including the strain of distance, dislocation, and difficult working conditions.
“Reducing BIW, particularly for newly posted officers, sends the wrong message,” he said.
He said MMA estimates that about RM4 million a year would be required to reinstate BIW to fair and equitable levels, which he described as small compared to the billions lost through inefficiencies and wastage highlighted in the Auditor-General’s reports.
Dr Thirunavukarasu urged the State Government to lead a coordinated effort with the Public Service Department (JPA) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to ensure the allowance is restored.
“BIW must be reinstated not merely as a figure, but as a statement that those who serve Sabah are valued,” he said.
He also proposed that the Sabah Government consider introducing an additional state-level allowance as an incentive for doctors posted to rural and remote areas.
Such an incentive, he said, would help improve recruitment and retention while strengthening healthcare services in underserved communities.
Dr Thirunavukarasu also praised the Sabah branch of MMA for its active and impactful leadership, saying it had demonstrated what a professional medical association should represent.
He added that Sabah MMA had also placed strong emphasis on the welfare of doctors, particularly young medical officers who are just beginning their careers.
“By recognising them, Sabah MMA is sending a clear message that they are seen, appreciated, and supported,” he said.
Also present was MMA Sabah Chairman Dr Brandon Patrick Senagang.
