In a statement, Khoo said the gesture would not only offer financial relief to Dr Tay Tien Yaa’s family, but also serve as a tangible acknowledgement of her invaluable contributions.

Tay, a pathologist at Lahad Datu Hospital, Sabah, died on Aug 29. Her sister claimed that bullying may have been one of the factors that led to her death.

Khoo, who is also a member of the Dewan Rakyat’s special select committee on human rights, election and institutional reform, also urged the health ministry to offer mental health support to Tay’s family and colleagues affected by her death.

On Wednesday, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said an independent special task force had been formed to investigate Tay’s death.

In his statement, Khoo expressed disappointment with the health ministry’s slow response to Tay’s death and the delay in forming the task force.

He also called for the ministry to publicise the investigation’s findings once the task force completes its probe – which he said must be conducted swiftly.

Khoo, who is Melaka DAP chairman, said the outcome of the probe must lead to immediate actions to safeguard the mental health and well-being of healthcare professionals nationwide, with a focus on addressing issues of overwork and access to mental healthcare.

He said the ministry should publicise the availability of its mental health resources and collaborate with all stakeholders, including the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), to develop a comprehensive strategy for promoting the well-being of healthcare workers.