Malaysia’s healthcare system is facing a significant challenge. As of June 2024, the Ministry of Health reported over 6,000 nursing vacancies, signaling an urgent need to expand the workforce. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad has stressed that this shortage presents a critical risk to the continuity of healthcare services, with projections indicating a 60% shortfall of nurses by 2030 if immediate steps are not taken.
In response to this growing concern, the Nursing Board of Malaysia has revised the entry requirements for the Diploma in Nursing, effective from the 2025/2026 academic year. Aspiring nurses now only need 3 credits in SPM, including Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics (Elementary/Modern/Additional), and a Science subject (Science/Chemistry/Physics/Biology/Applied/Additional Science), along with passes in two additional subjects, including English. This change significantly lowers the barriers to entry and opens up opportunities for a larger pool of candidates to enter the nursing profession, helping to address the country’s pressing healthcare needs.
SEGi College Kuala Lumpur (SEGi KL) is actively addressing this shortage by offering strategic collaborations and innovative financial support programmes. One of the most significant initiatives is SEGi KL’s fully sponsored Diploma in Nursing programme, made possible through its partnership with Thomson Hospital Kota Damansara (THKD). This collaboration ensures that students can pursue their studies without financial burden, as it covers tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and medical benefits. Graduates of this programme are guaranteed employment with THKD, offering a seamless transition from education to a fulfilling healthcare career.
In addition to this, SEGi KL offers the PTPTN X’tra financing scheme, which allows students to pursue their studies with no upfront payment. This scheme offers a low-interest loan, with only a 1% interest per annum repayment plan after graduation, making education more accessible and affordable for students from all backgrounds.
SEGi KL has also formed an ongoing partnership with SingHealth, providing high-achieving students with financial incentives. This tiered incentive programme is designed to reward academic excellence. Students with a CGPA of 3.0 and above will receive an incentive of SGD 10,000, while those with a CGPA between 2.5 and 3.0 will be awarded SGD 5,000. Students who score below a CGPA of 2.5 will still have the opportunity to work in Singapore after graduating from SEGi KL.
The SingHealth Incentive is released in three stages. The first payment, 25%, is made together with the student’s first month’s salary. A second payment of 25% is made after the completion of the first year of service, and the final payment of 50% is made upon the completion of the second year of service. To qualify for this incentive, students are required to interview and sign an agreement.
The Nursing Programme at SEGi KL is renowned for its comprehensive approach to education. Students receive rigorous academic training and gain practical experience through simulation wards, skills labs, and real-world clinical exposure at partner hospitals and community health clinics. This well-rounded education ensures that graduates are equipped for a wide range of roles, including Registered Nurses, Nursing Supervisors, and Managers in hospitals, where their expertise will be highly valued.
“Nursing is more than a career—it’s a commitment to care for others at their most vulnerable moments,” said Mr. Tony Leong, Principal of SEGi College Kuala Lumpur. “Through our collaborations and financial support programmes, we’re not just addressing the nursing shortage; we’re empowering the next generation of nurses to step up and make a real difference in the healthcare industry.”
With the demand for nurses at an all-time high, now is the ideal time to pursue a career in nursing. SEGi KL’s Nursing Programme offers more than just education—it provides stability and purpose, with guaranteed job opportunities upon graduation, ensuring a meaningful and secure career for aspiring healthcare professionals.