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Training modules will cover incident prevention, understanding of CCP laws and regulations, tourism sector-specific hazard management, risk control and post-training assessment.
Malaysia’s Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) is strengthening occupational safety standards in the tourism sector with the launch of a new strategic initiative that will provide free safety training to 10,000 tourism workers ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
The initiative, known as the Safety Induction for Tourism Industry (SITI) programme, was announced by Ramanan Ramakrishnan, Minister of Human Resources, during a working visit to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) on Monday (12 January 2026).
In a Facebook post, the minister said the visit included a comprehensive briefing and discussions with NIOSH’s management on ensuring occupational safety and health initiatives effectively reach both employees and employers.
Designed to improve safety preparedness across the tourism ecosystem, the SITI programme is organised by KESUMA through NIOSH, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC). The programme is part of broader efforts to enhance industry readiness while strengthening the confidence of both domestic and international tourists. Registration for the SITI programme will open on 25 January 2026 via the official NIOSH portal.
With an allocation of RM2.65mn, the programme will offer free training to 10,000 participants from the tourism sector. Eligible participants include tour guides, tourism entrepreneurs, employees and contractors, as well as staff and operators of accommodation providers.
The minister said the course will be conducted in phases, with each session running for one day or seven hours, either online or through face-to-face delivery. Training modules will cover incident prevention, understanding of CCP laws and regulations, tourism sector-specific hazard management, risk control and post-training assessment.
With the tourism sector facing unique safety risks, spanning transportation, accommodation, food preparation, facilities management, and tourism-related activities, the SITI Programme aims to address these challenges by equipping participants with practical knowledge to prevent incidents, manage risks systematically, and maintain high safety standards across the sector.
Participants who complete the course will receive a Digital Security Passport (e-Card) valid for two years, which includes 24-hour insurance coverage both locally and abroad. This initiative also supports compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health (Amendment) Act 2022.
Beyond the tourism-focused programme, Minister Ramanan confirmed that NIOSH will continue to offer the OSHC MADANI programme and the WINA programme free of charge throughout 2026. These programmes aim to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (PMKS) improve compliance and raise occupational safety and health standards, on a first-come, first-served basis.
READ MORE: Malaysia's Cabinet reshuffle: Ramanan Ramakrishnan appointed as Minister of Human Resources
Lead image / Ramanan Ramakrishnan Official Media Facebook
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