Govt service of new dentists cut to 1 year due to rising number of graduates

Beginning next month, the compulsory government service for dentistry graduates will be reduced from two years to one year, said Health Minister Daturk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam.

This is in response to the growing number of dentistry graduates which has increased by 40 per cent and the limited number of positions available. With the shortened training period, more fresh graduates are expected to serve under the ministry (government clinic, hospital or government agency).

There were 5,888 active dental practitioners in Malaysia with dentist to population ratio of one to 5,150. Last year, 896 new dentists registered, of which 296 will join the private sector.

After one year, graduates can either join the private sector or continue their training elsewhere or do postgraduate studies.

Despite the shortened training period, Dr Subramaniam ensures that fresh graduates will continue to receive training and exposure that will equip them with knowledge and skills to become competent dentists.