On June 13, 2024, the ASEAN Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Nursing Services (AMSN) held a pivotal Board Meeting to strengthen regional collaboration in the field of nursing. Representatives from ASEAN member states gathered to focus on enhancing nurse mobility and raising professional nursing standards across the region.
A key agenda item was the development of the ASEAN Nursing Common Competency Standards (ANCSS) 2024. This new standard aims to harmonize nursing competencies across ASEAN, ensuring that nurses practicing across borders meet consistent quality and professional requirements. The development process involved comprehensive literature reviews, stakeholder consultations, and benchmarking against international standards.
Additionally, the AMSN emphasized the critical role of the ASEAN Joint Coordinating Committee on Nursing (AJCCN) in supporting the effective implementation of the Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). Discussions also included the creation of an ASEAN Nursing Education Accreditation Framework to improve the quality of nursing education, alongside strategies to build the capacity of national regulators.
The importance of developing a regional information system for nurse registration and licensing was another major highlight. This system is expected to streamline credential verification processes and facilitate more effective nurse mobility within ASEAN countries.
During the meeting, Indonesia actively contributed by sharing its experience in developing micro-credentialing systems for healthcare professionals, an innovation recognized for its potential to accelerate cross-border competency recognition. The Indonesian delegation also advocated for incorporating leadership and innovation competencies into nursing education to better prepare ASEAN nurses for evolving global healthcare demands.
Towards the end of the meeting, Board members agreed on a work plan leading up to 2025, including the endorsement of the ANCSS, the launch of a pilot project for the regional registration information system, and the organization of training programs for nursing education accreditation evaluators across ASEAN.
The AMSN Board Meeting marks a significant step forward in realizing a more integrated, competitive nursing workforce within ASEAN, reinforcing the region’s commitment to enhancing healthcare quality and workforce development.
Source: 14th AMDS - 2024; AMSN-Board-Meeting-13-June-2024 Notula