Health Minister says report on Sabah doctor’s death linked to alleged bullying will be public, investigation into Seberang Jaya Hospital death confirms

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — The government has promised full transparency regarding the findings of an independent special task force investigating the death of Dr. Tay Tien Yaa, a pathology specialist at Lahad Datu Hospital, on August 29.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad told Parliament today that the task force, established on October 10, has been given a three-month mandate to investigate allegations of workplace bullying that is believed to have contributed to Dr. Tay.

“In summary, when the findings are presented to us, we will not keep them secret. We will take a strong stand to announce the results, based on the principles of accountability, accountability and transparency.

“It is essential that we approach this issue in this way so that all parties can be fully informed,” he said.

He was responding to Lee Chuan How (PH-Ipoh Timur), who had asked for the report to be made public.

The task force will be chaired by former Director-General of Public Service Tan Sri Borhan Dolah and includes former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Prof. Datuk Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir, and senior pathologist and consultant at the University of Malaya Medical Centre, Emeritus Prof Datuk Dr Looi Lai Meng.

Dzulkefly also confirmed that his ministry is investigating another death involving a doctor at a hospital in Seberang Jaya, Penang in June, which is also believed to be linked to bullying and excessive workload.

“I closely monitor all findings, accurate facts and information. Whatever data and details we have, I will not take them lightly, jump to conclusions or make accusations, especially as we look at the issue of manpower shortage at Seberang Jaya Hospital.

“…I am sure we will also conduct a preliminary investigation into this new case and possibly have an investigation conducted by an independent commission,” he said.

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