KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 — The Dewan Rakyat was informed of the proposal to incorporate the establishment of the Council of Social Work Profession into the draft of the Social Work Profession Bill today.
It will be responsible for recognising, registering, and overseeing social work practices nationwide.
Women, Family, and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the council will function as a platform for deliberating proposals aimed at enhancing training and ongoing professional development initiatives, to extend beyond civil servants to encompass individuals engaged in social work within the private sector, including non-governmental organisations.
“This will facilitate collaboration in delivering professional services, sharing best practices, and supporting the profession through other professional bodies’ networks, including at the international level,” she said during the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat.
Nancy was responding to Rantau Panjang MP Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff’s query, who inquired about the ministry’s measures to safeguard the welfare of social workers nationwide and the progress of consultations regarding the Bill.
The minister added that the Social Work Profession Bill will also provide for establishing an investigation committee to enable detailed investigations into each complaint received.
This provision would not only provide protection to individuals, namely clients, but also to social workers, to ensure they are shielded from unreasonable accusations or slander while carrying out their duties.
Addressing the progress of consultations on the Bill, she said the insights gained from the ongoing engagement sessions, especially among government agencies, necessitate further specific studies, including policy determinations to ensure preparedness for enacting the Bill upon approval.
“Other enhancements explored for the draft Bill include incorporating general provisions that clarify the functions and roles of social workers as well as social work practices,” Nancy added.
She also extended warm wishes for World Social Work Day, particularly directed at the employees of the Social Welfare Department and all social workers across the nation.
“Your unwavering dedication in contributing to the welfare of Malaysian citizens is deeply valued,” Nancy said.
World Social Work Day is celebrated every third Tuesday of March annually.
— Bernama
