Notice for grads from unrecognized universities

Reported in the Star today:

Medical graduates from overseas universities not recognised by the Government now have the option of transferring their credits to recognised local establishments to pursue their goal of becoming doctors.
This option is being given on a one-off basis instead of them sitting for a competency examination.
Health Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said yesterday that this was useful for those who had failed the examination for a maximum of three times.
He said the easing of the rule was until Dec 31 this year for graduates who completed their studies by Dec 31 last year.
“The Cabinet has agreed that graduates from unrecognised institutions, especially those who have exhausted all chances of sitting for the exam, be given the chance to continue their studies via credit transfer to recognised institutions,” he told reporters yesterday.

The Health Minister goes on to say:

Under the new arrangement they would have to undergo one year of pre-clinical studies and two years’ clinical studies, adding that this period depended on courses they had taken previously.
Liow added that the students could transfer their credits to institutions like the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology.
Once they are accepted for the credit transfer, the students will be absorbed into the recognised institutions, sit for examinations as usual and become housemen at hospitals.

The NST report on the matter states:

Medical students who want to take up the offer should apply to the Malaysian Medical Council on or before Dec 31 with proof of acceptance to a local university.
The applicant must obtain written approval from the MMC before pursuing the course. The MMC has the right to reject incomplete applications.

This would be good news indeed for those who have graduated from unrecognized universities, but have failed to pass the MQE. Undergoing at least 3 years of extra study should help to ensure the standards and competency of the graduates to practise in this country.

Taken from medicine.com.my