The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announced that there are changes to the amateur radio operator certification structure as follows:
i. Exam format;
i. Exam syllabus;
iii. Eligibility requirements to sit for the exam;
iv. Introduction to Class C;
v. The Morse Code test for upgrading to Class A was replaced by a computerized multiple-choice exam; and
i. Frequency usage and beam power limits for each class.
This change to the amateur radio operator certification structure is in line with the amendments to the Communications and Multimedia (Technical Standards) Regulations 2000 which will come into force on 1 January 2023 (ie for provisions related to amateur radio).
The change to this structure is to ensure that the certification of amateur radio operators held in Malaysia is in line with the practices practiced in other countries. This change also aims to encourage interest among students in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through amateur radio and lead to the increase of amateur radio operators who can help during disasters.
The public is advised to refer to the “Guidelines for Amateur Radio global practices, Service in Malaysia (3rd Edition)” to obtain information regarding this new structure. The MCMC has also published the “Handbook on Amateur Radio (1st Edition)” as additional reference material for members of the public who are interested in sitting for the amateur radio exam.
A question bank has been created by MCMC for the three amateur radio classes to give exposure to the public regarding examples of exam questions in addition to helping candidates to prepare in advance. These three documents can be found on MCMC’s official website: https://mcmc.gov.my/en/amateur-radio-operator certification
