MOH Views Seriously Cyber Attacks On Dr Jessie

CHUKAI, Sept 8 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Health (MOH) is taking a serious view of the cyber attacks on forensic pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, who was a witness in the inquest proceedings into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said cyber attacks on a medical expert like Dr Jessie who was carrying out her professional duties were inappropriate as they could tarnish the dignity of the country's medical profession.

"We can argue about anything. That's fine. But to the point of cyber bullying, in my opinion, is very inappropriate," he told reporters after the INTAN Ministers Conversation session at the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN) Eastern Region here today.

Meanwhile, Dr Dzulkefly said all parties should respect the ongoing judicial process and recognise the integrity and credibility of the medical profession which serves based on facts and scientific principles.

He said this was important in creating a harmonious atmosphere in this country and the community should not do anything that would affect the morale of health workers.

"We are aware that they (health workers) are burdened with heavy work and duties. I hope everyone will be able to respect this judicial process," he said.

Previously, the police confirmed opening an investigation following a report from Dr Jessie who was a witness in the inquest proceedings into the death of Zara Qairina Mahathir, after receiving threats on social media.

Sabah Police Commissioner, Datuk Jauteh Dikun said the investigation was being conducted in accordance with Section 507 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588).

Earlier, the INTAN Ministers Conversation session themed "Health Financing Reform: Diverging to Meet the Challenges" was attended by nearly 900 civil servants from Terengganu, Pahang and Kelantan.

Apart from providing insight into the new direction of national health financing in line with the government's commitment to strengthening a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient public health system, today's session also provided an opportunity for participants to ask Dr Dzulkefly various questions on emerging issues.

-- BERNAMA