Why was the former Sabah hospital director removed from his post?

Question

Accepted Answer

Former Sabah Hospital Director Contests Removal Amidst Allegations

The former director of Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-Kanak Sabah (HWKKS), Dr. Yogendra Panchalingam, is contesting his removal from his position, alleging an improper and unlawful process orchestrated by senior state healthcare officials, including his successor. Dr. Panchalingam denies all allegations of sexual harassment that he claims were used as a pretext for his dismissal. His transfer, which resulted in the loss of executive responsibilities and a related allowance, effectively led to his successor assuming the directorship.
Allegations of Sexual Harassment

Dr. Panchalingam faced allegations of sexual harassment, including a complaint lodged by his successor, Dr. Christine Lu Shin Yeen, with the Tribunal for Anti-Sexual Harassment (TAGS). Dr. Lu's complaint detailed an alleged incident from the previous October where Dr. Panchalingam purportedly touched her forearm and wrist, blew a "flying kiss," and made a suggestive remark. Another complaint was also reportedly made by the hospital’s corporate communications unit head, Elleyvianna Murang, which Dr. Panchalingam claims was instigated by Dr. Lu.
Disputed Procedural Fairness

Dr. Panchalingam asserts that his removal was conducted through an improper process. He contends that he was never issued a show-cause letter, afforded a disciplinary hearing, or provided with the internal investigation report that the Sabah Health Department cited. His transfer occurred on July 24, prior to the TAGS tribunal concluding its findings or establishing any wrongdoing on his part. This transfer subsequently led to him being reassigned as a Grade UD14 medical officer, stripping him of his executive duties and a RM250 monthly hospital administrator allowance.
Legal Challenges and Damages Sought

In response to his removal, Dr. Panchalingam has filed a civil suit at the High Court of Sabah and Sarawak naming Sabah Health Department deputy director Datuk Dr Abd Kahar Abd Asis and Dr. Lu as defendants. He alleges they conspired to orchestrate his removal, causing significant damage to his career, reputation, and financial standing. Dr. Panchalingam is seeking general, aggravated, and exemplary damages for this alleged conspiracy, as well as special damages for the loss of his allowance and compensation for derailed career progression. He is also pursuing a separate judicial review against the Ministry of Health challenging the lawfulness of his removal.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why was the former Sabah hospital director removed from his post?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

15

0

0

Share with friends