PETALING JAYA: Mechanisms must be put in place to recognise the experience of existing social workers who do not have the required academic qualifications, say stakeholders.
Malaysian Association of Social Workers president Dr Teoh Ai Hua said the Social Work Profession Bill 2026, which was passed by the Dewan Rakyat on July 14, was an important step towards recognising social work as a profession and establishing clear standards and accountability.
The establishment of a Malaysian Social Work Profession Council and a minimum requirement of a degree or equivalent qualification for social workers are among the features of the law.
“Clause 19(b)(i) states that the minimum qualification is a degree in social work or a degree related to social work.
“This is also consistent with Clause 19(b)(ii), which allows the registration of social workers who are already registered in another country recognised by the council.
“In many countries where social work is regulated, the entry qualification generally begins with a degree in social work.
“At the same time, Malaysia offers Diploma in Social Work programmes and recognises Malaysian National Occupational Skills Standards Levels 4 and 5 for social work management,” he said.
He added that many experienced practitioners have been serving in the field without a formal social work qualification.
“Clause 19(b)(iii) is therefore important because it provides room for other qualifications to be considered by the council and recognised through competency standards,” he said.
Teoh suggested that the council adopt an inclusive approach that does not penalise or exclude social workers who do not possess the required qualifications.
He said the council should instead set a transition period and introduce a bridging training programme for practitioners already working in the field.
“Those who complete the programme could then be considered for registration under Clause 19(b)(iii).
“Their practical experience should also be recognised, as it can contribute valuable local or indigenous knowledge to social work practice in Malaysia,” he said.
Yayasan Chow Kit founder Datuk Dr Hartini Zainudin said the passing of the Bill was a milestone, considering that it had taken almost two decades to materialise.
While describing it as a step in the right direction, she expressed concern over the educational qualification requirements.
“It mainly regulates private practitioners and NGOs, while government social workers are largely untouched.
“Many Social Welfare Department social workers do not hold formal social work qualifications, so that’s not professionalisation but a two-tier system.”
Hartini also noted that social work degree programmes were limited locally and costly compared with the salaries earned.
“This is raising the bar without expanding the pipeline for scholarships, university places and paid practicums.”
She suggested a transition pathway that recognises prior experience and offers bridging courses within a fair timeframe.
