Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Association of Social Workers (MASW) has hailed the tabling of the Social Work Profession Bill 2026 in Parliament today as a landmark move towards the formal recognition of the social work profession and the enhancement of Malaysia's social protection system.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MASW expressed its gratitude to Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and her ministry for their steadfast commitment to advancing the legislation. The bill represents a significant milestone for thousands of social workers across the country, whose professional skills and contributions to the welfare of individuals, families, and communities will now receive formal legal acknowledgment.
MASW President Dr. Teoh Ai Hua emphasized that the bill confirms the necessity for a competent, ethical, and professionally recognized social work workforce to uphold the protection, well-being, and dignity of Malaysians. "The tabling of the Social Work Profession Bill is a landmark step for Malaysia. It affirms that the protection, wellbeing and dignity of our people must be upheld by a competent, ethical and professionally recognised social work workforce. MASW stands ready to support its implementation for the benefit of the nation," he stated.
Additionally, the bill aligns Malaysia with internationally recognized standards in social work practice and education, including the Ha Noi Declaration on Strengthening Social Work towards a Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN Community (2020) and the Global Standards for Social Work Education and Training (2020) developed by the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) and the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW).
MASW Vice-President Dr. Mohd Iqbal Haqim Mohd Nor indicated that the tabling of the bill has turned years of advocacy into tangible hope for the profession. "We look forward to a future where social work is a fully regulated and celebrated profession, ensuring the highest standard of care for every Malaysian in need," he expressed.
Meanwhile, MASW Honorary Secretary Amy Bala appealed to Members of Parliament to support the bill and engage in constructive discussions to further strengthen its provisions before its passage. She also urged all stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation through adequate resources and transparency.
The development of the proposed legislation began in 2010, with collaboration among MASW leaders, social work educators, and practitioners from both government and non-government sectors. These efforts were coordinated alongside the Technical Committee and Special Project Team to create a bill that reflects the needs of both the profession and the Malaysian public.