A Peer Reference Letter is a crucial document in the Malaysian professional landscape, commonly requested during job applications, academic admissions, or professional certification processes. Unlike managerial references, this document provides a unique horizontal perspective on an individual's professional capabilities and interpersonal skills. The letter should comply with Malaysian legal requirements, particularly the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 and defamation laws, while providing honest, specific, and constructive information about the subject's professional qualities. Peer Reference Letters are particularly valuable as they offer insights into day-to-day collaboration, team dynamics, and peer-level interactions that might not be visible to supervisors. The document typically includes specific examples of projects, behavioral observations, and professional achievements witnessed firsthand by the reference provider.

1. Letter Header: Include date, recipient's name and address if known, and reference number if applicable

2. Salutation: Formal greeting - 'To Whom It May Concern' if recipient unknown, or specific name if known

3. Introduction: Writer's introduction, relationship to the subject, and duration/context of relationship

4. Subject Information: Basic information about the person being recommended (full name, role/position during association)

5. Professional Capabilities: Description of subject's key skills, competencies, and professional achievements

6. Character Assessment: Overview of subject's personal qualities, work ethic, and interpersonal skills

7. Closing Statement: Strong recommendation statement and willingness to be contacted for further information

8. Sign-off: Formal closing, signature, writer's full name, title, and contact information