PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Health has confirmed that a new recruitment round for permanent pharmacist positions will be held next year, offering renewed hope for contract officers awaiting permanent placement.
In its statement, MOH explained that the latest recruitment exercise concluded with only 600 positions filled, reflecting the limited number of vacancies approved under the current establishment.
The ministry said no additional posts were available beyond the approved staffing capacity, preventing the absorption of remaining contract pharmacists.
It also clarified that the reserve status for candidates expired in October 2025, as stipulated under public service appointment regulations.
MOH emphasised that all eligible candidates, regardless of previous reserve status, must apply again when the new intake is announced.
The announcement follows concerns raised by lawmakers and media reports regarding hundreds of pharmacists who were left in employment uncertainty after anticipated permanent placements did not materialise.