MOHE in a statement Sunday said the registry would automatically register those who graduated with a PhD locally and as for overseas PhD graduates, verification would be sought from the respective universities.

“The setting up of the registry is to facilitate and complement existing laws in addition to the legal safeguards provided under the Penal Code, which allows for criminal action to be taken against the production and usage of fraudulent academic titles,” said the statement.

According to the MOHE, the registry falls under the University and University Colleges Act 1971 (Act 30), the Private Educational Institutions Act (Act 555) and existing guidelines on the use of academic titles.

“The ministry believes that this move will ensure credible use of academic titles, enable the public to verify information, and deter the bogus issuance of academic certificates,” according to the statement.

The MOHE said they are serious in taking action against the production and usage of fraudulent academic titles by individuals and organisations.

It added that the most common fraudulently used and produced academic title in Malaysia is “Dr.”, as in a PhD graduate.