Building Caregivers for Tomorrow CarersPlus Asia Academy Shapes Sabah’s Next Generation of Care Professionals

 

In a rapidly changing society where longevity is becoming an increasingly important part of the national conversation, the future of caregiving demands more than technical expertise. It calls for compassion, resilience, confidence and the ability to connect meaningfully with people during some of life’s most vulnerable moments.

In Penampang, CarersPlus Asia Academy is taking a forward-looking approach to this responsibility, cultivating a new generation of professional caregivers through a comprehensive one-year training programme. Founded by Mdm. Maria Kinson, the academy is bringing together professional skills and personal development to prepare trainees for a career that is as much about humanity as it is about care.

Some games strengthen bonds & connection

The academy recently welcomed 15 trainees to a team-building retreat at Noungan Farm in Kg Kolopis, Penampang, creating an environment where learning extended beyond the classroom. Through interactive activities designed to test communication, patience and teamwork, the trainees had the opportunity to discover the importance of working together while building confidence in one another.

The retreat also embraced the character of Sabah itself. Outdoor activities included climbing coconut trees, harvesting fruits, fishing and a barbecue, while trainees mingled with Maria’s family and friends. Beneath the relaxed atmosphere was a valuable lesson: professional caregiving is built upon trust, communication and the ability to work harmoniously with others.

Interactive games during the team building at Noungan Farm, Kolopis

From Rural Communities to Professional Careers

One of CarersPlus Asia Academy’s most meaningful ambitions is its commitment to reaching young people from rural communities across Sabah.

The academy regularly travels into villages to introduce the programme and explain the opportunities available within the caregiving profession. For young people who may never have previously considered caregiving as a career, these outreach efforts offer a pathway towards professional development and employment.

Trainees were enjoying themselves while building self confidence, part of social development

It is an approach that gives the academy a distinctly community-focused character. Rather than simply bringing students into an institution, CarersPlus Asia is taking the message of professional caregiving directly to the communities where future caregivers can be found.

A Celebration of Community

The gathering was also graced by Moyog State Assemblyman Datuk Donald Mojuntin, who attended as a guest and friend of Maria and her husband, Greg. His presence added significance to an occasion centered on community, education and the development of Sabah’s future workforce.

Adding another personal touch to the day was Greg’s birthday, bringing an atmosphere of celebration and warmth to the gathering.

For CarersPlus Asia, these moments reflect an important philosophy: professional development does not happen in isolation. Strong caregivers are shaped through relationships, shared experiences and an understanding of community.

Raising the Standard of Caregiving

CarersPlus Asia Academy’s ambitions extend beyond training. The academy has secured intellectual property recognition for its caregiver training methodology, giving the programmed official recognition in Malaysia and abroad.

Part of activities, plucking fruits

It is also accredited by the Department of Skills Development (SLDN) to deliver SKM Level 2 and Level 3 caregiver qualifications, positioning the academy as an emerging benchmark within Malaysia’s caregiving sector.

These achievements come at a pivotal moment for the country.

Malaysia is expected to become an aged nation by 2030, while projections indicate that approximately 1.2 million trained caregivers may be required by 2040. Current training capacity represents only a fraction of that anticipated demand.

The Human Future of Care

Against this backdrop, CarersPlus Asia Academy is addressing a need that goes far beyond numbers.

Its vision is to develop caregivers who possess the technical abilities required for professional care while also understanding the emotional dimensions of supporting seniors and their families. Resilience, empathy, communication and human connection are being placed alongside practical caregiving skills as essential elements of professional preparation.

Family & friends of Maria at the event

For FAVSTYLE Magazine, the story of CarersPlus Asia Academy represents a different expression of modern luxury: the luxury of dignity, compassion and quality care.

As Sabah moves towards an increasingly ageing population, the caregivers of tomorrow will play an extraordinary role in shaping the quality of life of tomorrow’s families. Through education, accreditation and community engagement, CarersPlus Asia Academy is helping ensure that this future is supported by people who are not only trained to care, but prepared to care with purpose.

CarersPlus Asia Academy
Building caregivers for tomorrow. Strengthening communities through care today.