'Get facts right' - health minister denies slow action in doc's death probe

Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad has denied allegations that his ministry was slow to investigate the death of pathology specialist Dr Tay Tien Yaa at the Lahad Datu Hospital on Aug 29.

Dzulkefly dismissed Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong’s concerns over the alleged delayed response as both incorrect and misleading.

"We conducted an immediate internal investigation and formed an independent panel. Please, get the facts right, as I do not want any misinformation.

"Once all findings are confirmed, we will promptly decide on compensation. Please refrain from speculating until we know the results of the independent panel's investigation," he was quoted as saying by The Star.

Dzulkefly pointed out that the investigation led by the Sabah State Health Department began immediately with an independent panel unaffiliated with the ministry.

Last week, the minister also announced that a special task force will be in effect from Oct 10 to not only analyse the input from investigations into Tay's death, but also the overall work culture at the Lahad Datu Hospital.

The task force comprises independent experts in fields including medicine, psychiatry, pathology, mental health, and bullying behaviour, with no members from the Health Ministry.

Bullying, suicide claims

Tay, a former head of the hospital's Chemical Pathology Unit, was found dead in her rental unit amid allegations of workplace bullying.

On Oct 1, her brother, Tay Yong Shen, 31, disclosed that the family found evidence in her WhatsApp messages about her workload and treatment.

Following Tay's death on Aug 29, her family alleged she committed suicide after being pressured and oppressed.

Lahad Datu police chief Dzulbaharin Ismail said they were aware of the suicide allegations but ruled out foul play.

If you are feeling depressed or suicidal, or know someone who is, please call the following hotlines:

Talian Kasih
Hotline: 15999

The Befrienders
Hotline: 03-76272929

Agape Counselling Centre Malaysia
Hotline: 03-77855955 or 03-77810800

Life Line Association Malaysia
Hotline: 03-42657995

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