PETALING JAYA: The Hartal Doktor Kontrak movement will stage a “symbolic mass resignation” next month if the government does not hire 22,288 contract doctors on a permanent basis.

       The movement’s spokesman Dr Muhammad Yassin said the planned protest would see affected contract doctors staging a protest march while carrying placards with the words “Mass Resignation”.

       He said the protest would last about 30 minutes to an hour.

       This would be followed by a mass resignation in the same month.

       “We will hold a press conference this week to give more details,” Dr Muhammad told Utusan Malaysia.

       According to the daily, the protest would be similar to the one organised on July 26.

       Dr Muhammad said the movement was disappointed with the government’s treatment of contract doctors.

       “If we remain in the Health Ministry on contract, it is difficult for us to move forward and get the same opportunities as permanent staff,” he added.

       He also said the planned protest was unlikely to disrupt the healthcare system at government hospitals as shown by the first rally.

       The second protest was mooted as the movement felt the government did not address the issues of contract doctors in Budget 2022.