How to Become a Nurse in Malaysia: Complete Study, Registration & Career Guide
Nurses are indispensable members of the healthcare system. Whether in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, or community centers, nurses play vital roles in care, support, education, and emergency response. The demand for nurses in Malaysia continues to grow, especially post-pandemic, as society needs more professional nursing talent.
If you love helping others and are interested in medicine and health, nursing is a rewarding career path. This guide covers study pathways, registration, job scope, salary, and future prospects for becoming a nurse in Malaysia.
1. Types of Nurses in Malaysia
| Type | English Title | Academic Requirement | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | Registered Nurse (RN) | Diploma/Bachelor in Nursing | LJM registration required |
| Community Nurse | Community Nurse | Diploma (PNC certified) | |
| Assistant Nurse | Assistant Nurse | Certificate in Nursing Assistant | |
| Nurse Practitioner | Nurse Practitioner | Master's in Nursing or above | (restricted) |
To work as a nurse in hospitals, you must be a Registered Nurse (RN) and register with the Malaysian Nursing Board (Lembaga Jururawat Malaysia, LJM).
2. Study Pathway to Become a Nurse
Step 1: Complete SPM
- At least 3 Credits including: Bahasa Malaysia, Science/Biology, Mathematics/Additional Math
- Minimum age 17
- Good health, no infectious diseases
Step 2: Choose Nursing Program Type
- Diploma in Nursing (3 years, most common, leads to RN registration)
- Bachelor of Nursing (4 years, for those aiming for management roles)
- Certificate in Nursing Assistant (1.5-2 years, for assistant nurse roles only)
3. Recommended Universities & Colleges
| Institution | Program | Type |
|---|---|---|
| International Medical College (IMC) | Diploma in Nursing | Diploma |
| KPJ Healthcare University College | Bachelor of Nursing | Bachelor |
| Mahsa University | Diploma / Bachelor in Nursing | Diploma/Bachelor |
| Universiti Malaya (UM) | Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) | Public Bachelor |
| Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | Bachelor of Nursing | Public Bachelor |
| Ramsay Sime Darby College | Diploma in Nursing | Diploma |
| Nilai University | Diploma in Nursing | Diploma |
4. Registration & Licensing Process (LJM)
- Complete Diploma or Bachelor in Nursing
- Pass the National Nursing Licensing Exam (LJM Exam)
- Submit LJM registration application
- Obtain RN license and registration number
- Renew license annually (with CPD points)
5. Job Scope & Responsibilities
- Carry out doctor's orders: injections, medication, wound care
- Monitor and record patient conditions
- Assist doctors in examinations and treatments
- Care for daily needs of inpatients
- Provide psychological support
- Educate patients and families on care methods
- Emergency care
- Shift work, including nights, weekends, and public holidays
6. Workplaces & Employment Sectors
| Workplace | Description |
|---|---|
| Government & Private Hospitals | Main employers, many positions |
| Clinics & Specialist Centers | Includes O&G, dental, pediatric, etc. |
| Nursing Homes & Care Centers | Growing demand |
| Schools or Universities | Health counseling and emergency care |
| Healthcare & Insurance Companies | Health advisor or educator |
| NGOs & International Medical Organizations | Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, etc. |
7. Salary Range & Career Prospects
| Position | Monthly Salary (RM) |
|---|---|
| Junior Nurse (Diploma) | RM 2,000 RM 3,200 |
| Registered Nurse (1-3 years) | RM 3,200 RM 4,500 |
| Senior Nurse / Ward Supervisor | RM 5,000 RM 7,000 |
| Nurse Educator / Overseas Nurse | RM 6,000 RM 10,000+ |
8. Promotion & Career Development
- Clinical: Staff Nurse → Senior Nurse → Nurse Supervisor → Nurse Manager → Matron
- Teaching & Research: Nurse educator, trainer, researcher
- Specialist Nursing: Pediatric, ICU, mental health, OT nurse, etc.
- International: Obtain international license (e.g. NCLEX) to work abroad
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use PTPTN loan for nursing courses?
Yes, most accredited nursing programs are eligible for PTPTN, EPF, or scholarships.
Q2: Can I study nursing if my grades are not good?
Diploma programs have moderate SPM requirements (at least 3 Credits). You may retake SPM subjects if needed.
Q3: Is nursing too tiring?
Nursing is physically and mentally demanding, but also highly rewarding. If you have passion and a sense of mission, it is a worthwhile career.
Q4: Can men become nurses?
Absolutely! More and more male nurses are joining the profession in Malaysia, especially in surgery, ICU, etc.
US 5883 
BR 2457 
VN 1997 
AU 1254 
TH 1230 
JP 1142 
SG 848 
MY 553 
