KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 6,744 individuals have been awarded the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) in Community Care and Services, while another 43,869 possess professional qualifications in childcare, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri (pic).
The Women, Family and Community Development Minister said these individuals have the skills and qualifications to offer formal care services.
However, Nancy said there is currently no official data collection system for formal or informal carers in Malaysia.
“One of the strategic pillars in the Strategic Framework and Action Plan for Care in Malaysia 2026-2030, which is being developed by the Ministry, will include data collection for this sector,” she said in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (Aug 7).
In the meantime, she said the Ministry uses available statistics from recipients of the Social Welfare Department’s monthly assistance as a reference point for informal carers.
“For those who qualify, the government provides monthly aid to ease the burden of individuals caring for bedridden and elderly family members through the Bedridden Chronic Patients Aid scheme.
“As of April 2025, the government has channelled RM59.6 million to 31,138 recipients,” she said.
Nancy also said preparations are under way to address the challenges of an ageing population such as the National Senior Citizens Action Plan 2026-2030 and the National Ageing Action Plan 2025–2045, which will serve as a long-term guide involving short-, medium-, and long-term strategies across ministries and agencies.
“A key focus for the ministry will be developing an efficient and sustainable long-term care (LTC) service ecosystem.
“After extensive consultations and studies, including development labs with stakeholders, the Strategic Framework and Action Plan for Care is now in its final stage,” she said.
