Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) is set to bolster the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem to ensure the nation develops a highly skilled workforce capable of confronting global economic challenges driven by artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and industrial digitalization.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, Minister of Human Resources, emphasized that TVET has evolved into a strategic agenda for the country, beyond being just a skills training system. He stated that TVET serves as a foundation for economic resilience, industrial strength, and the future competitiveness of the nation. The ministry's TVET initiative aims to enhance talent development through industry-based training, with active involvement from the Industry Lead Body (ILB) and Future Skills Talent Council (FSTC).
Ramanan highlighted the employability rate of graduates from ministry-affiliated training institutes, noting a 95.5 percent success rate in finding employment within six months of completing their training, with 85.1 percent securing jobs in their trained fields. The employer satisfaction rate reached 97.2 percent, indicating a strong alignment between training programs and industry needs.
For the July 2026 UP_TVET Perdana intake, over 20,000 places are being offered across 315 TVET institutions nationwide, providing broader opportunities for youth to acquire quality skills training. The Department of Manpower (JTM) plays a crucial role in strengthening the TVET ecosystem with a network of 33 ADTEC campuses, including the Japan Malaysia Technical Institute and the Proton Institute.
Ramanan also noted the expansion of TVET training to cover 11 main clusters, such as manufacturing, electronics, ICT, welding, automation, transportation, and electricity, along with emerging fields like semiconductors, robotics, cybersecurity, aerospace, renewable energy, and hydrogen technology. Strategic collaborations with industrial giants like Proton, Petronas, and Huawei Technologies have further enriched training quality through technology transfer and career opportunities for graduates.
The establishment of the KESUMA Semiconductor Academy (ASK) at JMTI, Penang, marks a significant step in advancing training in semiconductors and future technologies. Additionally, the Department of Skills Development (JPK) is committed to enhancing the TVET system through the Malaysian Skills Certification System (SPKM) and other initiatives to broaden access to training, reskilling, and upskilling.
Ramanan emphasized the inclusive approach of MADANI Inclusive TVET (Ti), ensuring skills training is accessible to all, including marginalized groups. The PwD-friendly Nibong Tebal Campus exemplifies the government's dedication to inclusive TVET education. Efforts to reform the National Skills Development Act 2006 (Act 652) are also underway to improve governance, expand flexible learning pathways, and bolster industry involvement in talent development.