Kuala lumpur: The Dewan Rakyat has approved the National Skills Development (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Skills Development Fund (Amendment) Bill 2025. Human Resource Minister Steven Sim highlighted that the amendments to the National Skills Development Act 2006 aim to provide incentives to quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) providers and protect student welfare.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Sim noted that issues arise when students invest in vocational courses offered by substandard training providers, which can result in wasted time and financial debt without employment outcomes. During the second reading, Sim pointed out that the existing act lacks a mechanism to suspend or revoke accreditation for training centres that fail to meet standards or violate requirements. This has prompted the Human Resource Ministry (KESUMA) to propose amendments to strengthen the regulatory framework.

Sim stated that the ministry plans to implement a performance-based system where top-performing training centres are recognized, while underperforming centres receive guidance and monitoring to uphold training quality standards. The bill proposes extending the accreditation period for skills training providers from three to six years and introduces transparent procedures for suspension and revocation of accreditation. It also aims to streamline skills certification to help develop a highly skilled workforce in Malaysia.

The Skills Development Fund Bill seeks to amend the Skills Development Fund Act 2004 by expanding the financing scope of the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK). It aims to include more training programs recognized by the Department of Skills Development and to enhance governance with transparent approval and management processes for financial assistance.

The Dewan Rakyat will reconvene tomorrow.