Health Ministry to investigate sacked Muslim nurse's claims

The Health Ministry will carry out a thorough investigation on the claims made by a nurse at a private hospital who was allegedly sacked for refusing to wear short-sleeve uniform to work.

Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya said action would be taken if the hospital was found to have violated the regulations of the ministry's Private Medical Practice Division.

He said all hospitals under the ministry required Muslim nurses to cover their 'aurat' (modesty) while working, and the directive also applied to private hospitals.

"It is compulsory for Muslim nurses (to cover their 'aurat'). Private hospitals must follow the ministry.

"However, in this case, we do not know what the real problem is, the ministry's Private Medical Practice Division is investigating the matter," he told reporters after attending the Mass Circumcision ceremony organised by the UMNO Jelutong division involving 45 boys here, Sunday.

Last Friday, a nurse at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Naziah Sauni Samat, 24, claimed she was sacked after refusing to wear short-sleeve uniform to work.

However, the hospital was reported to have denied the allegation, saying that she was fired for being absent without leave.

Meanwhile, Dr Hilmi advised any doctor, nurse or hospital staff who experienced similar problems to report to the ministry, so that appropriate action could be taken.

"All reports and complaints received whether through social media, in writing, or email as well as through WhatsApp pertaining disciplinary problems or dissatisfaction, will be investigated," he said.