Registered Nurses form the backbone of Malaysia’s healthcare system. After completing a Diploma (3 years) or Bachelor’s Degree (4 years) in Nursing, candidates must pass the Lembaga Jururawat Malaysia (LJM) licensing exam and obtain an Annual Practising Certificate (APC) to work legally.
Scope of work:
After becoming a Registered Nurse, one may pursue Post-Basic Certification (6–12 months) in specialised fields such as:
Nurses with experience and additional academic qualifications often become educators in nursing colleges or hospitals. They guide the next generation of nurses through clinical and theoretical instruction.
Senior RNs who transition into leadership roles, overseeing nursing teams, managing departments, and maintaining care standards.
Enrolled Nurses complete a basic nursing qualification (e.g., NITEC) and work under the supervision of Registered Nurses. They provide essential bedside care, monitor patient conditions, and assist with daily routines.
Career progression:
Enrolled Nurse → Senior Enrolled Nurse → Registered Nurse
(via bridging courses)
To become an RN in Singapore, candidates must complete a recognised diploma or degree in nursing and register with the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB). RNs are responsible for holistic patient care, medication management, and clinical decision-making.
RNs may upskill with Advanced Diplomas or post-registration training in areas such as:
APNs are experienced nurses who hold a Master’s Degree and are certified by SNB. They can perform advanced diagnostics, prescribe medications (in select contexts), and lead specialised clinical teams.
With Singapore’s ageing population, community nurses are becoming increasingly vital. These nurses focus on home-based care, chronic disease management, and preventive health in community settings.
Similar to Malaysia, nurse educators in Singapore train student nurses and conduct continuous professional development sessions in hospitals or academic institutions.
Whether you’re aiming to start as an Enrolled Nurse in Singapore or specialise in ICU care in Malaysia, nursing offers diverse opportunities for growth, leadership, and lifelong learning. Both countries provide clear education pathways, licensing systems, and career support.
Before practising as a nurse, you must obtain official recognition from the respective nursing authority. Each country sets high standards for education, ethics, and patient care.
Understanding these procedures early ensures you're well-prepared, compliant, and eligible to begin work without delay.
In both Malaysia and Singapore, the registration process involves specific exams, paperwork, and annual renewal protocols.
Aspect |
Malaysia |
Singapore |
|---|---|---|
Licensing Body
|
Lembaga Jururawat Malaysia (LJM)
|
Singapore Nursing Board (SNB)
|
Exam Required
|
LJM Licensing Exam
|
Adaptation or CBT for foreign-trained nurses
|
APC Renewal
|
Annually with CPD hours
|
Annually with CPE hours
|
Registration Timeline
|
Post-exam
|
Post-qualification (local) / assessment (foreign)
|
Work Eligibility
|
Only with valid APC
|
Only with valid Practising Certificate
|
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