The Malaysian government has introduced significant changes to increase student enrollment in nursing by relaxing entry requirements for the Diploma in Nursing program. Previously, students needed five SPM credits, but the requirement has now been reduced to three credits in Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics, and Science. This policy, which took effect in January, will remain in place until December next year.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that this adjustment is part of the government’s strategy to address the severe shortage of nurses in public and private hospitals. As of December 31, 2024, there were 9,585 vacant nursing positions in the Ministry of Health (MOH) and 3,493 in private hospitals.
Ensuring Quality Education & International Accreditation
Despite lowering the entry requirements, the quality of nursing education remains intact. Core subjects like Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics, and Science are still required, and the curriculum remains unchanged, ensuring that students retain critical thinking, analytical skills, and theoretical knowledge.
Furthermore, the international accreditation of Malaysia’s Diploma in Nursing program is unaffected, as the country continues to meet global academic and training standards.
Expanding Entry Opportunities for Aspiring Nurses
To further increase student intake, the government is now allowing students from various academic backgrounds to apply for the Diploma in Nursing, including those with:
- Sijil Pelajaran Vokasional Malaysia (SPVM)
- Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)
- Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM)
- “O” Level, “A” Level, and IGCSE
Additionally, the government has decided to double the intake of nursing trainees at MOH Training Institutes, raising enrollment from 1,000 to 2,000 students.
The number of Community Nurses eligible for promotion through the Promotion by Appointment (PSL) Program has also increased from 800 to 1,000 per year.
New Nursing Colleges & Recruitment of Graduates
With the lifting of the moratorium on nursing courses in August 2024, there has been a rise in the number of nursing institutions. So far, eight new colleges have applied for approval to offer the Diploma in Nursing, further increasing the supply of locally trained nurses.
The government is also actively recruiting nursing graduates from both public (IPTA) and private (IPTS) higher education institutions. These graduates will be hired through the Public Service Commission (SPA) to fill vacancies in government hospitals.
Conclusion
By relaxing entry requirements, expanding student intake, and recruiting more nursing graduates, the Malaysian government aims to address the growing shortage of nurses in the healthcare system. These initiatives will ensure a steady supply of qualified nurses to support both public and private hospitals, ultimately strengthening Malaysia’s healthcare workforce.
Credit – Astro Awani
