As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the recruitment landscape, trust and authenticity have become increasingly important for both employers and jobseekers. The rise of AI-generated applications and digital hiring platforms has created new challenges in assessing candidate credibility, making verified qualifications and credentials more valuable than ever. Employers are seeking reliable ways to evaluate applicants, while candidates are looking for opportunities to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive job market.
To address these challenges, Jobstreet by SEEK is expanding SEEK Pass, its trusted digital credential passport designed to help jobseekers securely verify and share professional credentials with employers. SEEK Pass currently supports verification of identity, work rights, employment history, educational qualifications and professional licences. The latest enhancement allows users to verify and display English language proficiency credentials from IELTS and Pearson Test of English (PTE), providing employers with an additional layer of confidence during the hiring process.
The new feature is available across eight Asia Pacific markets through partnerships with IELTS and Pearson. English proficiency remains a highly sought-after skill in Malaysia, particularly in industries that require strong communication abilities, customer engagement and international collaboration. By displaying verified IELTS and PTE results on their profiles, candidates can showcase their language capabilities through a trusted source while helping employers make more informed hiring decisions.
Recent research conducted by SEEK highlights the growing significance of verified credentials in today’s employment environment. Nearly eight in ten candidates believe that having a verified profile makes them appear more trustworthy to employers. Additionally, 67 percent of respondents feel that the increasing use of AI has made it more difficult to demonstrate authenticity throughout the job application process. The findings also reveal that 75 percent of candidates value the reassurance that comes with maintaining a verified profile, while 77 percent consider protection against identity fraud to be an important factor when searching for employment opportunities.
According to Nicholas Lam, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia, Malaysia’s labour market remains highly competitive as professionals continue to invest in certifications and language qualifications to improve their career prospects. At the same time, employers are managing larger volumes of applications and require stronger indicators to identify suitable candidates efficiently. He noted that verified credentials are becoming increasingly important in bridging this gap, while helping employers make hiring decisions with greater confidence and transparency.
SEEK Pass General Manager Xavier Russo believes verified credentials deliver tangible benefits for both employers and candidates. He explained that English proficiency is among the most in-demand skills across Asia Pacific markets, often influencing hiring decisions. By collaborating with IELTS and Pearson, SEEK Pass aims to provide millions of jobseekers with a trusted way to showcase their language qualifications while helping employers identify qualified talent more effectively.
Since its introduction in Asia in late 2024, SEEK Pass has experienced growing adoption across Jobstreet and Jobsdb platforms. More than five million individuals throughout Asia Pacific have already verified their credentials using the platform. Data from Australia and New Zealand indicates that verified applicants are 20 percent more likely to be shortlisted by employers, highlighting the practical value of credential verification in improving employment outcomes.
The advantages of verification extend beyond trust and credibility. SEEK research found that 74 percent of candidates believe verified credentials increase their chances of receiving responses from employers, while seven in ten believe verification can accelerate the hiring process. Additionally, 69 percent feel that verified credentials help them stand out in a crowded and competitive job market.
Representatives from both IELTS and Pearson welcomed the initiative, emphasising the importance of enabling candidates to showcase their language achievements through a trusted platform. They noted that verified English proficiency can support fairer hiring decisions while creating clearer pathways for jobseekers to demonstrate their skills and improve their employability across the region.
Looking ahead, SEEK Pass plans to broaden its network of English proficiency partners by incorporating additional providers. As AI and digital hiring technologies continue to evolve, trusted verification is expected to play an increasingly important role in helping jobseekers establish credibility and enabling employers to make faster, more informed recruitment decisions. Through SEEK Pass, Jobstreet by SEEK continues to strengthen trust, transparency and confidence across the hiring ecosystem.
