Task force members to investigate death of houseman in Penang to be named on May 13, says Khairy
PUTRAJAYA: Members of a task force to investigate the alleged bullying culture and the death of a houseman in Penang will be named on Friday (May 13), says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin (pic).
He said the list of members would be announced along with terms of reference for the task force.
“I will not be chairing the task force. It will be an independent task force. Details will be announced on Friday,” he said after attending the International Nurses Day celebration on Thursday (May 12).
On April 17, a 25-year-old houseman attached to the Penang Hospital died, following a fall from his rented unit of an apartment at Jalan Datuk Keramat.
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The houseman had only been posted to the hospital on April 4.
Following the incident, Khairy said a task force would be set up to investigate the case.
Khairy also confirmed to have received names of five alleged “bully doctors” attached to the Penang Hospital.
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“Yes, I have received and seen the names of the alleged doctors and specialists.
“The next course of action is for an investigation to be carried out by the ministry’s integrity unit and come up with a report on the outcome of their probe,” he said.
Penang health committee chairman Dr Norlela Ariffin on Wednesday (May 11) had submitted the names of the alleged “bully doctors” to the Health Ministry.
Asked if those named would be temporarily transferred while the investigation is ongoing, Khairy said this would not be easy.
“The names sent to me involved specialists and it is not easy to make this kind of transfer.
“They will carry out their duties as normal while investigations are ongoing,” he added.
On another matter, Khairy said the circular posted on the ministry’s website was a normal directive to remind civil servants that only those authorised to make public statements could do so.
“It is not just about this (bullying) case but covers all issues.
“What is important is that we take all allegations seriously and that investigations will be transparent and fair to all parties,” he added.