Johor bahru: A total of 13,425 employers in Johor registered under the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) ecosystem as of last year, directly benefiting 479,905 workers in the state through training programmes. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan highlighted this significant participation at a recent event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the robust engagement also led to levy collections amounting to RM208.21 million, with RM183.96 million being channelled back to employers to facilitate employee training programmes. Furthermore, HRD Corp disbursed RM191.5 million in financial assistance, which reached 232,072 individuals in Johor, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of the local workforce.

Minister Ramanan emphasized that the true success lies not in the financial expenditure but in the long-term benefits received by the people of Johor. He stated that the ministry, through its agencies, is dedicated to assisting gig workers in improving their skills and enhancing their career opportunities.

This announcement was made during the Johor edition of HRD Corp's 'Pocket Talk' roadshow, themed 'From Policy to the People', held at Starhill Golf and Country Club in Kempas. Ramanan underscored the importance of strengthening local talent to support the state's growing strategic investments, especially to meet the demand for highly skilled workers under the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

The 'Pocket Talk' roadshow serves as an outreach initiative by the Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) and HRD Corp, aiming to provide information on government training funds and upskilling opportunities directly to grassroots communities.