Update on Move to Allow Donning of Tudung for Healthcare Workers

NOTICE PAPER NO. 890
NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER
FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 10 JANUARY 2022

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Dr Wan Rizal
MP for Jalan Besar GRC

Question No. 2285

To ask the Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the implementation of tudung wearing at work among healthcare workers; and (b) how has the response been from the healthcare workers after the implementation.

Written Answer

Since 1 November 2021, female Muslim public healthcare staff, if they wish to do so, can wear the tudung as an add-on to their uniforms. After two months, and as of end of December 2021, about 20% of female Muslim uniformed staff have begun wearing the tudung. Some staff have chosen not to do so, while some others may be considering. We respect the decision of each individual.

Hospitals have put in place clinical guidelines and communicated them to staff, to ensure the adherence of infection control requirements for the safety of patients and staff. Staff who choose to wear the tudung have also undergone re-fitting for N95 masks. Thus far, feedback from both Muslim and non-Muslim staff has been generally positive, with Muslim staff expressing appreciation for this change, and patients respecting the wishes of the nurses. Some staff have also received compliments from patients on their neat and professional attire with their tudung.