Kuala Lumpur:The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) is bolstering its efforts to ensure that graduates from universities, polytechnics, and community colleges secure jobs that match their academic qualifications, aiming to tackle the issue of underemployment.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir stated that this initiative is being executed through strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Human Resources, aligning with the Malaysia Higher Education Plan 2026-2035.

These continuous efforts are crucial to match the thousands of graduates produced yearly with job fields appropriate to their qualifications and the current market needs. Dr Zambry emphasized the importance of a close collaboration among these main ministries to facilitate this alignment.

Speaking at a press conference during the 2026 Academia Day and Month Celebration at Universiti Malaya, Dr Zambry addressed issues beyond employment. He noted that discussions about graduate salaries have taken place in the Cabinet meeting, receiving particular attention from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with adjustments to be announced later.

Dr Zambry also mentioned KPT's ongoing efforts to ease academic community affairs, remove obstacles to research, and enhance knowledge transfer. The ministry aims to ensure that research and innovation outcomes are effectively applied within the community to aid national development.

Looking ahead to the national budget, Dr Zambry expressed hopes for increased allocations, specifically for development and management expenditures, highlighting the need for improvements in student welfare, facilities, and maintenance at educational institutions.