KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — The government has pledged complete 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 examine allegations of workplace bullying that are suspected to have contributed to Dr Tay’s apparent suicide.
“In summary, when the findings are presented to us, we will not keep them a secret. We will take a firm stance to publicise the results based on principles of accountability, responsibility, and transparency.
“It is vital that we approach this matter in this way, so all parties can take full notice,” he said.
He was replying to Lee Chuan How (PH-Ipoh Timur), who had asked whether the report would 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, Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Looi Lai Meng.
Dzulkefly also confirmed that his ministry is investigating another death case involving a doctor at a hospital in Seberang Jaya, Penang, in June — also believed to be related to bullying and excessive workload.
“I am closely monitoring 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 are looking 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 may follow up with an inquiry by an independent committee,” he said.
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