S’wak backs MOE move to recruit graduates without teaching degrees as teachers

Sagah speaking to reporters after the Ibu Pertiwi flag-raising ceremony at Dataran Ibu Pertiwi here on Feb 15, 2026.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Feb 15: Graduates without formal teaching qualifications can now apply to become teachers following a move by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) to widen recruitment, with Sarawak backing the initiative to address the nationwide teacher shortage, subject to screening by the Education Service Commission (SPP).

According to Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD) Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, SPP will review applications from non-education graduates, in addition to those from teacher training institutes.

“Many graduates from private universities complete relevant courses but may not hold a formal Diploma in Education.

“The Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) will assess the State’s actual teacher needs according to vacancies created by retirements, resignations, and transfers,” he said when met by reporters after the Ibu Pertiwi flag-raising ceremony at Dataran Ibu Pertiwi here today.

The Ministry recently announced that 20,000 new DG9 Education Service Officers will be recruited nationwide on a Contract of Service basis to meet immediate staffing needs, as part of early preparations for the Malaysia Education Plan 2026–2035 and the voluntary enrolment of six-year-old children into Year One starting next year.

The vacancy will be announced on Feb 23, with applications open from Mar 2 to 20, and interview screenings conducted from Apr 27 to May 14 in collaboration with the Education Service Commission. To ensure professional standards are maintained, successful candidates will undergo training at Institutes of Teacher Education under the Ministry according to their respective specialisations. — DayakDaily