Recognition of Prior Achievement (APA) or formerly known as the Accreditation of Prior Achievement is a method to give recognition to any individual who can demonstrate skills outlined in the National Occupational Skills Standards (NOSS) based on prior experience and achievements.
The Malaysian Skills Certification Programme was first introduced on 13 September 1996 to acknowledge the contribution of skilled workers in the country. It emphasises the concept of life-long learning and this process can help individuals to evaluate and develop the learning they have acquired through formal and informal means.

All industrial workers from the manufacturing and services sectors who have obtained the required working experience in the related field and have fulfilled other set conditions are eligible. Industrial workers who qualify will be awarded a Certificate up to the highest level according to their respective fields as specified in the National Occupational Skills Standards (NOSS).

Open to anyone who has the skills and knowledge regardless of when, how and where they were obtained, either through work experience, life experience or training (formal or informal).

Benefits to individuals
Opportunity to gain further recognition and satisfaction and motivation for self-development;
Award of Certificate within a short period of time (no need to attend classes / training / sit for tests)
Able to contribute to career development.

Benefits to employers
Raise productivity and performance of the company
Saving of costs for employee training and certification
Improve company image

Benefits to the country
Increase the number of qualified skilled workers
Generate growthinthe industrial sectorin the country with an increase in skilled workers
Improve the country's image in the eyes of the world in terms of goods and services produced
Attract foreign investors to invest in the country