KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans have been urged to refrain from using social media to hurl abuses at healthcare staff.
State Community Development and People's Wellbeing Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya said people should instead use proper channels to lodge complaints if they were dissatisfied with the service provided.
He said he was shocked and saddened by the comments on a Facebook page following accusations of medical negligence involving a stillbirth case at Sabah Women and Children's Hospital here.
The case, which is being investigated by the Health Ministry, had outraged the public, who hurled insults and threats at healthcare workers.
The threats included burning down the hospital and its workers and kicking any pregnant nurse.
Speaking to the New Straits Times, Shahelmey advised people to adhere to the principles of the Rukun Negara, which include upholding politeness and morality.
"Please stop making such negative comments. Complaints or constructive criticisms are accepted, not curses and threats of abuse. These are terrible and can hurt healthcare workers and their families," he said.
He said those dissatisfied should lodge a report and let the authorities investigate the matter.
One Sabah medical professional expressed concern over the inaction on the threats and insults.
"These actions should not be regarded as jokes or mere comments from keyboard warriors.
"If there is no action, it can create a toxic culture that can lead to physical violence."
Meanwhile, state Women and Children's Hospital director Dr Marcus Netto said the situation was under control, and it continued to provide its services as usual.