Kuala lumpur: The Social Work Profession Bill 2026, which seeks to regulate social work practitioners, trainees and services, was tabled for first reading in the Dewan Rakyat today. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, when tabling the bill, said its second reading would also take place during the current sitting.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the bill's blue copy published on Parliament's portal outlines the establishment of the Malaysian Social Work Profession Council. This council would be tasked with approving practice certification applications, developing professional competency standards, regulating ethics and conduct of practitioners and trainees, and raising awareness of the profession.

The council is proposed to be led by the ministry's secretary-general, with the Social Welfare Department director-general serving as deputy chairman. It will also include social work practitioners from across the nation, alongside representatives from both public and private sectors who possess relevant experience and expertise.

Furthermore, the bill proposes creating a Register of Social Work Practitioners and Social Work Trainees. It details the requirements for citizens applying for practice certification, temporary certification for non-citizens, and interim certification for trainees gaining experience in social work services.

Provisions on disciplinary proceedings, appeals, and removal from or reinstatement to the register are also included in the bill. Additionally, it addresses offences such as practising social work or falsely representing oneself as a certified practitioner without valid certification.