Kuala lumpur: The Social Work Profession Bill 2026, passed by the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, formally recognises social work as a regulated profession in Malaysia, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the country's social welfare system.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the legislation reflects the MADANI Government's commitment to enhancing professionalism, ethics, and accountability in the delivery of social services.
"The passing of this Bill is the result of the ministry's sustained commitment, together with stakeholders over the past decade, to develop a comprehensive legal framework that empowers the social work profession in Malaysia," she stated. Engagement sessions were held with various stakeholders to ensure the Bill meets the nation's current and future needs.
Nancy highlighted that dedicated legislation had become increasingly urgent due to Malaysia's evolving social landscape, driven by demographic changes, an ageing population, urbanisation, rising living costs, and emerging social challenges. The new law will establish a clear legal framework through the formation of the Malaysian Social Work Profession Council.
This council will oversee the issuance of practising certificates to qualified social work practitioners, set professional competency standards, regulate ethics and conduct, and promote the profession. "It will also enable the public to verify the credentials of registered social work practitioners before engaging their services, thereby strengthening public confidence in the nation's social service delivery system," she added.
The Bill not only enhances public protection but also elevates social work into a recognised profession with clearly defined competency standards. It is expected to strengthen human capital development, create more employment opportunities, and encourage greater participation among graduates.
Nancy expressed appreciation to the 23 Members of Parliament who participated in the second reading debate, acknowledging their bipartisan commitment to strengthening the profession for the benefit of the people. The ministry will consider all recommendations to further improve the implementation of the Act.
The Dewan Rakyat passed the Social Work Profession Bill 2026 by a majority vote following a debate involving Members of Parliament from both government and opposition blocs. The legislation establishes the Malaysian Social Work Profession Council as the regulatory body for the profession.