This came after a group warned of a three-day strike involving contract doctors, said to start tomorrow.
In an infographic released yesterday, the ministry listed out the types of participation in gatherings that were considered offences under a public services department (JPA) circular issued in 2011.
This includes “active involvement” in such assemblies outside of working hours, and using office hours as well as leaving the office to observe and join such gatherings.
The ministry also said it was an offence to use office equipment, such as printing and photocopying machines, to distribute flyers about illegal assemblies.
“Should there be adequate evidence that proves officers’ involvement in such activities, disciplinary action will be taken against them in accordance with the Public Officers (Conduct and Discipline) Regulations 1993,” said the health ministry.
A group known as Mogok Doktor Malaysia (Malaysian Doctors on Strike) has said more than 8,000 contract doctors will go on strike from April 3 to 5 by taking medical or emergency leave as a protest against the “unfair system and low wages” in the public healthcare sector. There was no mention of any gathering.
The group also warned that 3,000 contract doctors would be resigning from the health ministry on April 1.
The health ministry’s infographic was slammed by netizens, who accused the ministry of stifling medical officers’ freedom of expression.
Facebook user Anas Abd Jalil said the government was afraid the contract doctors were organising the strike despite Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim being known for holding demonstrations in the past when he was in the opposition.
Another user, Lee Lee, pointed out that the Federal Constitution guarantees all citizens the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Meanwhile, Facebook user Muhammad Akmalhakim questioned why the ministry was unwilling to allow medical officers to express themselves.
“Give them an hour for them to express themselves.
“The senior officers can cover for them in their absence. After they have finished their demonstration, they can resume their duties,” said the user.