TUMPAT: The Chemistry Department's analysis of fabric samples from nurse uniforms, which are alleged to be of poor quality, is nearly complete, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
"We're still waiting for the findings.
"It's almost done; God willing, we'll be able to share the results soon.
"We can't take action, including against the supplier, until we have the findings.
"Only then will we be able to make a firm decision regarding our stance and approach," he said during a press conference after visiting the temporary relief centre for flood victims at Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) in Tumpat.
He was commenting on the progress of the Health Ministry's investigation into complaints by nurses regarding the poor quality of fabric supplied by a company for their uniforms, worth over RM98.3 million.
In its statement, the ministry confirmed that the fabric samples had been sent to the Chemistry Department for analysis.
If the uniform fabric supplied did not meet specifications, the company could face action in accordance with the current contract, the ministry said.
On Oct 23, media reported that the Malayan Nurses Union acknowledged receiving feedback about the fabric supplied for nurse uniforms, describing it as somewhat stiff and uncomfortable to wear while working.
Its president, Saaidah Athman, raised the matter but did not elaborate further, including allegations that the fabric supplied for the nurse uniforms resembled burial shrouds.
Bagan member of parliament Lim Guan Eng in urged the Health Ministry to provide clarity on the subpar fabric supplied for nurses' and medical assistants' uniforms.