BANGI, Feb 24 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Health (MOH) is reviewing a proposal to merge public health enforcement functions and align the roles of environmental health officers (PKP) and assistant environmental health officers (PPKP), said Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Speaking at the dinner function of public health enforcement officers tonight, Dzulkefly said it was proposed by the Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs).
“I would like to assure that this matter (proposal) is being thoroughly reviewed…to ensure that our enforcement system is more effective, sustainable, and aligned with current needs,” he said.
Also present were deputy director-general of health (Public Health) Datuk Dr Norhayati Rusli and Cuepacs president Datuk Dr Adnan Mat.
Dzulkefly also said that he would look into the proposal to officially include the World Environmental Health Day in the MOH annual calendar to ensure that the crucial role of public health enforcement officers in safeguarding community well-being gets the recognition it deserves.
“I was informed that World Environmental Health Day, observed annually on Sept 26, was recognised by the MOH in 2016 but has not been made an official event in the ministry’s calendar.
Speaking to reporters, Adnan said the proposal to merge public health enforcement functions and align the PKP and PPKP roles would recognise their expertise and provide better career progression for enforcement officers in the ministry.
“This will also strengthen the public health sector and enhance the effectiveness of health enforcement service delivery to the people,” he added.
-- BERNAMA
