SKM (MALAYSIA)
Sijil Kemahiran MalAysia

To develop and evaluate an individual’s technical skills and professional competency, the Department of Skills Development (Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran, JPK) sets national standards for vocational training programmes , teaching quality, and skill levels.

JPK also provides tiered examinations and corresponding certifications across various industries.

A national diploma is an officially recognised qualification issued by the national education authority. It represents an individual’s educational level, skill competency, and professional credibility, and carries strong social and industry recognition.

In the employment market, a national diploma is often considered a basic requirement by employers, helping individuals improve their career competitiveness and employability.

Beyond employment, holding a national diploma also supports further studies, overseas education opportunities, and eligibility for professional examinations, opening up broader pathways for personal and career development. In modern society, it plays a significant and practical role.

1. What is the Malaysian Skills Certification (SKM)?

The Malaysian Skills Certification (SKM) is a national-level qualification issued by the Department of Skills Development (Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran, JPK).

Obtaining this certification means that a skilled professional’s knowledge, technical ability, and work experience meet the National Occupational Skills Standards (NOSS) and are officially recognised by the Malaysian government and the nation.

SKM is applicable across a wide range of skills-based industries, not limited to beauty-related fields.
These include (but are not limited to):
Makeup artistry, nail technology, semi-permanent makeup, beauty therapy, aromatherapy, hairdressing, photography, automotive repair, floral design, baking, culinary arts, and other technical professions.

2. Why should I apply for the Malaysian Skills Certification (SKM)?

Under Malaysia’s Economic Transformation Program, the Department of Skills Development has established national occupational standards (NOSS) for 29 technical and skills-based industries.

Employers and practitioners working in these industries are expected to comply with these standards. Obtaining SKM certification helps demonstrate professional eligibility to operate, work, or advance within the industry.

At present, Malaysia does not yet have a fully enforced Technical and Vocational Certification Act. However, the government is in the process of drafting relevant legislation.

For this reason, skilled professionals are strongly encouraged to prepare early, enhance their credentials, and secure official certification — so they are not caught off guard if new regulations are suddenly implemented in the future.

3. Is the Malaysian certificate only available in Bahasa Malaysia?

No.We have obtained the latest updated version of the SKM certification.
Candidates will now receive two language versions of the certificate:

One in Bahasa Malaysia
One in English

The certification has also been fully digitised and is now issued in PDF format only. No physical (paper) certificates are provided.

About ITEC International Diploma

The ITEC International Diploma is a globally recognised professional qualification covering multiple industries, including beauty, fitness, massage therapy, and other skills-based fields.

By obtaining ITEC certification, individuals gain internationally recognised professional skills and knowledge, significantly enhancing their employability, career mobility, and long-term career prospects.

In addition, ITEC certification helps to:

Strengthen personal professional credibility and reputation
Expand business opportunities and client networks
Gain high levels of trust and recognition worldwide

Overall, the ITEC International Diploma provides a broader and more authoritative career development platform for professionals across various technical industries.

1. What is ITEC?

ITEC is one of the world’s leading and most authoritative international professional qualification bodies for makeup artists and beauty-related industries.
Founded in 1947, ITEC is headquartered in the United Kingdom and currently issues certifications in over 35 countries and more than 655 regions worldwide, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China, among others.

ITEC has over 500 registered and approved training centres globally.
Therefore, all courses at MOMO Academy are structured according to both national and international standards, and the examination format strictly follows ITEC’s official assessment framework.

2. What Type of Qualification Is the ITEC Diploma?

ITEC operates internationally, with offices and representatives across Europe (including London), Ireland, the United States, South Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region.

ITEC provides high-quality, professionally regulated qualifications that enhance employability, professional competence, and practical skills.
Its qualification portfolio covers a wide range of industries, including:

Beauty & Spa
Makeup Artistry
Complementary & Holistic Therapies
Sports & Fitness
Hairdressing
Customer Service & Professional Practice

These qualifications are designed to meet global industry standards and are widely recognised by employers worldwide.

3. Is the ITEC Examination Difficult?

The ITEC examination is challenging but structured and achievable with proper training.

Students are required to understand core theoretical knowledge such as:

Lighting and colour theory
Makeup correction techniques
Makeup for different occasions
Special effects makeup
Makeup history and evolution
Makeup design & portfolio development
Hygiene, sanitation, and professional ethics

According to ITEC examination requirements, candidates must complete a range of practical works, including:

Fashion makeup
Media makeup
Period (era) makeup
Ethnic makeup
Stage makeup
Face & body painting
Special effects makeup

These components form the main focus of pre-exam training.

ITEC provides a clear and comprehensive assessment syllabus, allowing academies to teach systematically and ensure students fully understand the scope and expectations of the examination — equipping them with the necessary knowledge and technical skills.