PETALING JAYA: Guidelines to handle workplace bullying involving healthcare workers are a commendable idea but actionable steps are also needed, says MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.
Commenting on Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad's announcement of the guidelines in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Oct 21), Dr Mah said those responsible for workplace bullying in any sector must be held accountable and face firm consequences.
Below is his statement in full:
While Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has announced plans to create guidelines for managing bullying among healthcare staff, we should be clear: guidelines alone aren’t enough.
Workplace bullying is a serious issue that continues to plague various sectors, not just healthcare.
While the guidelines are commendable, we need actionable steps. We need consequences.
Workplace bullying often comes from adults who know exactly what they are doing. This behaviour can’t be excused or overlooked. We must hold these individuals accountable, and it’s time for firm consequences, not just empty words to follow as guidance.
In such a situation, accountability matters. Adults should face real repercussions for their actions as bullying is a choice, and those who engage in it must be held responsible.
Allowing this behaviour to go unpunished only perpetuates a toxic workplace culture. There must be clear penalties such as official written warnings, suspension, or even termination.
The consequences should match the severity of the bullying, especially in healthcare settings, where micro-bullying tactics like overloading tasks, shifting working hours, and unfair task delegation can run rampant, leading to sleep deprivation and mental health issues.
Workplaces should adopt a zero-tolerance policy for bullying.
This sends a powerful message that such behaviour won’t be tolerated under any circumstances.
It establishes a culture of respect and safety, making it clear that bullying has no place in the workplace.
Preventive measures are also important. We need to educate staff on recognising bullying, and not assume that every individual understands what it entails.
The reasoning is simple; bullying can look different from one workplace to another, whether it is over-delegating tasks or making passive-aggressive comments.
Comprehensive training can help foster a respectful workplace culture, empowering employees to stand up against bullying.
Once bullying is identified, swift investigations should follow. Workplaces must have clear processes for investigating claims. Every complaint should be taken seriously, with timely and appropriate actions to address the situation.
During this process, supporting victims is crucial. It’s important to remember that victims, as adults, should not be shamed for the bullying they endure, nor should they be dismissed as having to put up with it.
As the Health Ministry works on these guidelines, let us remember that tackling workplace bullying requires strong, decisive action.
We need consequences that reflect the seriousness of the issue. It’s time to protect employees and create workplaces where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
DATUK DR MAH HANG SOON
MCA Deputy President
MCA Education Consultation Committee Chairman
