Dr Tay’s story: Workplace bullying in healthcare under scrutiny
While physical and cyberbullying have long been recognised for their severe emotional and psychological impacts, workplace bullying has emerged as a serious concern.
SHAH ALAM - The devastating effects of bullying have gained increasing attention in recent years, with both traditional and workplace bullying leading to tragic consequences.
While physical and cyberbullying have long been recognised for their severe emotional and psychological impacts, workplace bullying has emerged as a serious concern.
High-profile cases have demonstrated how harassment in both schools and workplaces can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
One such case is that of Esha, an influencer who died by suicide on July 5 after filing a police report about social media threats and defamation, highlighting the destructive consequences of cyberbullying.
Similarly, the tragic case of Dr Tay Tien Yaa, a young pathology specialist at Lahad Datu Hospital in Sabah, has brought workplace bullying into the spotlight.
Dr Tay, a UD52 medical professional who began her service at Lahad Datu Hospital in February, was found dead at her rented home on Aug 29.
It is alleged that she took her own life after enduring relentless workplace bullying and immense work-related stress.
Facebook Post
In a viral Facebook post, YS Tay, the younger brother of Dr Tay, shared emotional details about his sister’s death.
Dr Tay, 30, who earned a Master’s Degree in Chemical Pathology in 2023 from Volgograd State Medical University, Russia, was appointed head of the Chemical Pathology Unit at Lahad Datu Hospital in February 2024.
YS Tay revealed that his sister relocated to Lahad Datu with the promise of being transferred back to Peninsular Malaysia after two years to reunite with her husband, whom she married in September 2023.
Despite her efforts to improve the hospital’s services, Dr Tay faced intense pressure at work.
Her brother blamed the head of the hospital's department for bullying, claiming that Dr Tay was manipulated and assigned responsibilities far beyond her job scope, including managing instrument inspections, attending meetings, preparing reports, handling human resources, and planning the department's budget.
According to him, the alleged excessive workload caused unbearable stress.
“Enough is enough!
“Tien Yaa had always been an academic high achiever. In both primary and secondary school, your grades were excellent, and you were constantly the pride and joy of our parents.
"Driven by the desire to save lives, you donned the white coat to serve the people. In just a second, all your achievements had gone,” read the post on Monday.
MMA’s Response and Call for Action
Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira expressed deep sorrow over Dr Tay's death, urging the Health Ministry (MOH) and the State Health Department to expedite their investigation.
Dr Kalwinder stressed the importance of addressing mental health and well-being in public healthcare and urged the public to avoid speculation.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Dr Tay during this difficult time.
“We urge the public to avoid speculation and allow the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.
“MMA values a prompt and transparent response to this matter and remains steadfast in its commitment to improving mental health, welfare, and ensuring a safe working environment for healthcare professionals,” he said in a statement on Monday.
He reiterated the association’s dedication to creating a safe and supportive work environment following reports of alleged workplace bullying highlighted in a Facebook post by Dr Tay’s younger brother.
Police Investigation
Lahad Datu district police chief Assistant Commissioner Dzulbaharin Ismail confirmed that Dr Tay's death has been classified as sudden death, with no foul play suspected.
While the police acknowledge the family’s claims of bullying, the investigation will be led by the MOH.
The police are awaiting a report from the chemistry department before forwarding the case to the coroner.
Health Minister’s Statement
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad reiterated the MOH's zero-tolerance policy toward workplace bullying, stating that it has been in place since 2018.
In his post on X, he pointed out that bullying has never been part of the MOH culture and remains a core policy of the ministry.
“The death of Dr Tay Tien Yaa must be further investigated. I have had a ZERO TOLERANCE towards bullying since 2018 and shall remain steadfast on this policy. (few cases in hand)
“All MOH staff deserve a SAFE and JUST working environment,” he said on Aug 16.
Those suffering from problems can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929), visit www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a complete list of numbers and operating hours, or email [email protected].
