July-August. 2025 | The HEALTH
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Implications and Quality Assurance
THE government’ s decision to lower entry requirements seeks to broaden access to nursing education, thereby addressing the critical shortage of nurses in Malaysia.
To further understand the perspectives of educational institutions involved in nursing education, TheHealth reached out to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia( UKM), KPJ Healthcare University( KPJU), and AIMST University. However, AIMST did not respond.
KPJU School of Nursing Dean Assoc. Prof Dr Nurul Fariza Mohd Mustafa articulated the significance of this initiative, stating: " This initiative is timely, particularly given the increasing demand for qualified nurses both in Malaysia and globally." This perspective highlights an urgent need for a larger workforce to meet healthcare demands.
UKM Faculty of Medicine Dean Prof. Dr Marina Mat Baki echoed this sentiment, noting that UKM ' s approach aims to maintain rigorous quality control measures despite the relaxed entry standards.
" The Department of Nursing at UKM maintains the existing entry requirements for the Bachelor of Nursing programme," she clarified, underscoring the distinction between diploma and degree-level education.
CURRICULUM QUALITY
Both institutions are committed to main- taining high educational standards amidst these changes.
UKM employs a multifaceted approach to quality
Dr Nurul Fariza Mohd Mustafa assurance, which includes regular departmental meetings where curriculum and student performance are scrutinised.
" Programme sub-committees and regular meetings discuss the curriculum and students ' performance," noted Dr Marina, emphasising the importance of continuous review.
Furthermore, UKM utilises external advisors and assessors to ensure that the curriculum aligns with current technological advancements and fair assessment practices.
" There are also internal audits and external audits, which ensure the implementation of the programme is according to stipulated standards," she explained, highlighting the rigorous oversight mechanisms in place.
KPJU has likewise committed to delivering high-quality education despite the relaxed entry requirements.
Dr Nurul Fariza stated: " To maintain academic and professional standards, we are introducing bridging modules and academic support for students who need extra help."
This proactive approach is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge necessary for success in nursing.
ASSESMENT OF COMPETENCIES
To ensure that graduates from the 2025 and 2026 intake years possess the necessary competencies, both universities have developed comprehensive assessment strategies.
UKM employs continuous assessments that encompass both theoretical and practical components, including case studies, case presentations, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations( OSCEs).
Dr Marina explained: " These assessment methods cover the patient ' s management and assess competencies in critical thinking and patient care skills."
KPJU similarly focuses on robust assessment frameworks.
Dr Nurul Fariza noted that the institution will strengthen its assessment strategy across both academic and clinical domains to ensure that all graduates demonstrate the critical thinking, compassion, and competence required in today’ s healthcare environment.
Dr Marina Mat Baki
QUALITY MATTERS: With relaxed entry requirements, institutions are employing a range of strategies to uphold the integrity of nursing programmes( Pic Source: Malaysian Nurses Association Facebook)
“ We are confident that through these assessments, our graduates, regardless of their entry path, will demonstrate the critical thinking, compassion, and competence required in today’ s healthcare environment,” she affirmed.
ONGOING ENGAGEMENT
The Head of Department Nursing at UKM frequently collaborates with the Ministry of Health( MoH) to discuss accreditation standards and the future of nursing education.
Dr Marina remarked: " The department also contributes to giving ideas, ensuring that all nursing programs in Malaysia are accredited." This active participation in policy discussions ensures that UKM remains at the forefront of nursing education.
Similarly, KPJU is actively engaged in shaping nursing education through its partnership with the MoH.
Dr Nurul Fariza, emphasising their role in aligning academic standards with healthcare industry needs, stated: " KPJU plays a proactive role in national level reform, codeveloping a workforce equipped to meet Malaysia’ s evolving nursing needs."
This collaboration reflects a commitment to ensuring that nursing education remains relevant and responsive to the changing healthcare landscape.
FUTURE OF NUSING EDUCATION
While the entry requirement changes aim to broaden access to nursing education, both institutions remain steadfast in their commitment to uphold the quality and integrity of nursing education.
Through robust support systems, comprehensive assessments, and ongoing dialogue with healthcare authorities, they seek to ensure that future nurses are not only competent but also compassionate caregivers ready to meet the challenges of an evolving healthcare landscape. existing healthcare workers as a critical factor in retaining staff.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The nursing shortage in Malaysia is a multifaceted issue that demands immediate and comprehensive action. A holistic approach that encompasses educational reforms, competitive salaries, and enhanced working conditions is crucial for attracting and retaining nursing professionals.
The health of the Malaysian population hinges on the ability to provide adequate nursing care, and without concerted efforts to resolve the current crisis, the challenges ahead will only deepen.
Collaboration between the public and private sectors, alongside innovative educational strategies, will be crucial in building a resilient healthcare workforce capable of meeting the needs of all Malaysians.
Aisyahton, summarising the MNA ' s stance, stated: " A sustainable nursing workforce is not optional; it is foundational."
The time for action is now, and the stakes could not be higher.- The HEALTH