Petaling Jaya (Dec 24) - Medical degree holders in Malaysia are allowed to use the title “doctor” as a reflection of their academic qualification, even if they are not registered as practising medical professionals with the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).
The MMC issued this clarification following public queries surrounding the use of the “Dr” title by newly appointed Youth and Sports Minister Dr Taufiq Johari, after it was noted that his name does not appear in the council’s registration database.
In a statement, the MMC explained that graduates of recognised medical degree programmes may use the title based on their educational credentials. However, this does not grant them the authority to practise medicine in Malaysia. The council stressed that only those who meet the requirements under the Medical Act 1971 and its accompanying regulations are permitted to provide medical services.
The MMC further stated that registration as a medical practitioner is conditional upon passing prescribed medical examinations and completing housemanship at hospitals recognised in Malaysia. As a general rule, anyone intending to practise medicine locally must be registered with the council and possess a valid annual practising certificate.
The issue came to light shortly after Taufiq’s appointment in last week’s Cabinet reshuffle. Based on his biodata published on PKR’s website during the 2022 general election, he holds a medical degree from the Faculty of Medicine at Bandung Islamic University in Indonesia.
His listed work experience includes serving as a general doctor in the emergency department of Hospital Dr Slamet Garut in Indonesia in 2020, an internship at Hospital Al-Ihsan, and later working as a general practitioner at Klinik Dr Hadi in 2022. Taufiq, who is the Member of Parliament for Sungai Petani, is also the son of Dewan Rakyat Speaker Johari Abdul.
For Sabahans, particularly medical graduates from local or overseas institutions, the clarification is significant as it reinforces the distinction between academic titles and legal authority to practise medicine. It underscores the importance of MMC registration for those in Sabah who intend to serve in the state’s healthcare system, especially given the ongoing need for qualified medical practitioners in rural and interior areas.