Foreign Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) practitioners must meet specific criteria and follow a structured process to practice in Malaysia. Governed by the T&CM Act 2016 (Act 775), practitioners must obtain a Temporary Practising Certificate (TPC) issued by the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Council. This guide outlines the key steps, requirements, and conditions for successful registration.
Objectives of the T&CM Registration Guidelines
- Define the criteria for obtaining a Temporary Practising Certificate (TPC).
- Explain the step-by-step application process for foreign practitioners.
- Provide clarity on terms, conditions, and legal obligations.
Step 1: Understand the Registration Process
A. Eligibility Requirements
Foreign practitioners must meet the following criteria:
- Maintain active registration with a statutory regulatory body in their country of origin.
- Hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the approved practice areas:
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
- Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, Naturopathy & Yoga)
- Homeopathy
- Chiropractic
- Osteopathy
- Possess at least five years of professional experience in the relevant field.
- Be at least 27 years old.
B. Recognized Organizations
Applications must be made by an approved organization in Malaysia, such as:
- Government bodies (e.g., hospitals).
- Private companies registered in Malaysia with licensed premises for T&CM services.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
All documents must be certified true copies. If not in English or Malay, they must be translated by certified professionals. Required documents include:
- Passport copy (biometric page).
- Academic qualifications and transcripts.
- Registration and practicing certificates from the practitioner’s home country.
- Recent Letter of Good Standing from the relevant regulatory authority.
- Employment contract with a Malaysian organization.
- Medical report (dated within three months of application).
Step 3: Application for a Feedback Letter
Submission Process:
- The organization submits the application via the Xpats Gateway Portal (esd.imi.gov.my).
- Provide proof of advertisement efforts to prioritize hiring local practitioners (exceptions include government hires or practitioners married to Malaysians).
Outcome:
- Approved applications will receive a Feedback Letter, essential for the TPC application.
- Rejected applications must be revised and resubmitted.
Step 4: Application for a Temporary Practising Certificate (TPC)
Payment:
- RM 200.00 per application (via cash, bank draft, or money order).
Submission:
- The organization representative submits all documents to:
Traditional and Complementary Medicine Council Ground Floor, Blok D, Jalan Cenderasari 50590 Kuala Lumpur
Processing:
- The TPC is issued 14 days after approval of the Employment Pass.
Step 5: Compliance and Renewal
Practitioners must:
- Display their TPC at the registered premise.
- Adhere to the Code of Professional Conduct and Malaysian laws.
- Apply for TPC renewal one month before expiry.
Failure to comply may result in:
- Revocation of the TPC.
- Legal action, including warnings or blacklisting.
Summary
Malaysia’s T&CM guidelines ensure quality and professionalism in alternative medicine practices. By following this structured process, foreign practitioners can successfully register and contribute to Malaysia’s healthcare system.
Source: Registration Guideline for Foreign Traditional and Complementary (T&CM) Practitioners [https://hq.moh.gov.my/tcm/en/index.php/guidelines-foreignpractitioners]
📢 For More Information
Visit the official T&CM website: www.moh.gov.my/tcm. Contact the council for specific queries at +603-2279 8100 (Ext: 487/488).
