KUALA LUMPUR: After delays, the Social Work Profession Bill could be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat this year, says Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
“The government agreed in principle to the proposal of drafting the Bill in 2019,” the Women, Family and Community Development Minister said.
Following that, the ministry submitted the draft to the Attorney General's Chambers in June 2021.
“However, certain legal and policy issues had to be scrutinised before the next step could be taken,” she said during Oral Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (March 6).
“Our early target is that the Bill is brought to Parliament this year. We hope all issues raised among the agencies involved can be resolved,” she said.
She added that the formation of an independent body to regulate the social work profession was included in the draft.
The proposed entity will oversee the practice of social work and adherence to standards.
Dr Kelvin Yii (PH-Bandar Kuching) had asked about plans to table the Bill and set up the regulatory body.
On another matter, Nancy said the Social Welfare Department would appoint 309 contract employees of various schemes and grades for the Child Development Department this year.
