The move is part of a civil service initiative to make civil servants role models of “good health” for the society, the director-general of public services, Shafiq Abdullah, said in a recent circular.

The annual check-up is not compulsory but all public servants above 40 are encouraged to do so, he said. They do not need to use their annual leave for this purpose.

Last week, health minister Khairy Jamaluddin said the ministry proposed that workers be allowed an additional day’s leave to undergo an annual health screening. “I’ve requested this under the 2023 budget,” he said.

However, heads of departments could order a staff member to undergo a check-up if it is needed “in the interests of the service”.

“In addition, we encourage all government employees to declare any noncommunicable disease (NCD) they may have, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems and high cholesterol, among others.”

Those without any NCD are encouraged to do self-tests to determine their sugar and cholesterol levels and declare the results. In addition, they must furnish their weight and height to calculate their body mass index.

Shafiq said the move was part of the national health screening initiative launched this year, and the public services department was promoting a culture of healthy lifestyle so that civil servants can become role models.

The annual check-ups will be conducted free of charge at government hospitals and clinics. However, those who choose to be screened at private health centres will not be eligible to submit any claims.