A study to develop competency standards for social work in Malaysia will be completed by 2027, aiming to strengthen the profession nationwide.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development is conducting a comprehensive study to develop competency standards for social work practice in Malaysia.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri announced the study is being carried out through the Social Institute of Malaysia and is expected to be completed by 2027.
She said this initiative aims to strengthen the social work field and uplift the profession across the country.
“We want the field of social work in Malaysia to be recognised as a profession that is based on knowledge, data, and evidence, without losing the values of empathy and humanity,” she stated during the ISM Inspire 2025 Programme opening ceremony.
The programme, themed ‘Knowledge, Inspiration, Social’, brought together participants to discuss current social issues in Malaysia.
Norhaslinda Mohd Sibi, director of the Social Institute of Malaysia, also attended the event alongside the minister.
Nancy emphasised the importance of equipping every social worker with solid, highly ethical and effective competencies to assist communities in need.
She highlighted the programme’s alignment with the 13th Malaysia Plan’s focus on inclusive social well-being and the National Social Policy 2030.
These policies coordinate 44 main national social policies that require concrete implementation, according to the minister.
“These policies must be translated into concrete action,” Nancy told attendees at the event.
She called on youth, social workers, non-governmental organisations and academia to partner with the government in realising these social initiatives.
The collaboration aims to ensure social policies genuinely touch people’s lives and address community needs effectively. – Bernama
