1. What is an Optometrist? 

An Optometrist is a professionally trained vision specialist who can assess and correct vision problems including myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. They can also detect early signs of eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and refer patients to ophthalmologists when necessary.

Unlike opticians who work in optical shops, optometrists possess more professional medical knowledge and are part of the healthcare field.

2. Are You Suitable to Become an Optometrist? 

Want to know if you're suitable for this profession? Here are some references:

3. Academic & Registration Path to Become an Optometrist

In Malaysia, to become a legally registered optometrist, you must complete a bachelor's degree program recognized by the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC).

Step 1: Complete SPM or Equivalent Qualification

It's recommended to have good SPM subject grades, especially:

• Mathematics and Additional Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• English

Step 2: Choose Suitable Foundation or Diploma Programs

Two common choices:

Foundation programs are more common in private universities as a pathway to bachelor's degrees.

Step 3: Study Recognized Optometry Bachelor's Degree

You must complete a bachelor's degree program accredited by the Malaysian Optical Council (MOC), typically 4 years duration.

Course content includes: Ophthalmology, Optometric Instruments, Optical Theory, Ocular Pharmacology, Pathology, Clinical Practice, etc.

Universities offering optometry programs in Malaysia:

• International University of Technology Malaysia (IUKL)
• Management and Science University (MSU)
• SEGi University
• National University of Malaysia (UKM) - Public university pathway
• International Medical University (IMU) - Private medical university

4. Becoming a Registered Optometrist 

All legally practicing optometrists in Malaysia must register with:

Malaysian Optical Council (MOC)

Registration requirements include:

• Complete MOC-recognized undergraduate degree
• Submit registration application
• Pass relevant background and qualification checks
• Obtain registration license to become a legal optometrist

Licenses need annual renewal, and in some cases require Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.

5. Career Development & Salary Prospects

Common workplaces include:

• Chain optical shops (Focus Point, Optical 88, etc.)
• Medical centers / Eye clinics
• Government hospitals (Klinik Kesihatan)
• Self-owned optical and vision centers
• Optometric equipment or ophthalmic pharmaceutical sales companies
• Universities and research institutions (lecturers or researchers)

Career Development Directions:

• Eye health consultant
• Children's vision therapist
• Low vision assistance specialist
• Optometry business manager / Self-employed

Salary Reference:

As Malaysian society's awareness of eye health increases year by year, and optometry demand grows with the aging population, the optometry profession is expected to continue growing in the next 10 years.

6. Professional Certifications & Advancement

Besides MOC registration, the following international certifications can enhance your career competitiveness:

• FAAO (Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry)
• FCOptom (Fellow of the College of Optometrists, UK)
• ACBO (Australian College of Behavioural Optometrists)
• Specialized Certifications in contact lens fitting, low vision, pediatric optometry

These certifications will help you enter multinational companies and even have opportunities to work in Singapore, Australia, or the UK.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What's the difference between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist?

Optometrists are first-line vision examination and correction specialists, but cannot prescribe medication or perform surgery. They refer serious eye diseases to ophthalmologists.

2. Can optometrists open optical shops?

Yes, but they need to obtain MOC registration and comply with commercial practice location regulations.

3. Do optometrists need continuing education?

Some license renewals require submission of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records.

4. Do I need a master's degree?

Not necessarily. If you want to pursue academic, research, or specialized directions (such as low vision), you can consider a master's degree.