Bukit Mertajam:Institut Kemahiran Tinggi PERDA (PERDA-TECH) is expanding its fashion studies to the diploma level in a move to enhance technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and produce more skilled workers for Malaysia's fashion industry.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the introduction of the Creative Fashion Technology Diploma programme is an extension of the institute's previous offerings, which were only at the certificate level. Datuk Mohd Asri Baharum, the General Manager of the Penang Regional Development Authority (PERDA), emphasized the program's focus on students' technical skill mastery and creativity.
The program had its first intake in July with 13 students, aiming for a target of 15. Another intake is planned for the following July, again targeting 15 new students. The new diploma is among six diploma programmes and 12 certificate-level programmes at PERDA-TECH, all accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognized by the Department of Skills Development (JPK).
The three-year diploma includes six months of industrial training at fashion boutiques and related establishments, supported by instructors from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and polytechnics. The curriculum was developed with input from industry panels and higher education institutions to align with fashion industry needs.
The Youth Fashionista Runway 2026 (YFR'26) competition, which served as a practical assignment for the program's first batch of students, attracted 50 participants from 14 higher education institutions. Mohd Asri highlighted the competition as a vital opportunity for students to gain event management experience.
Project Director Nur Qaseh Mohd Wira, a third-semester student, shared her positive experiences in the program, learning new skills in fashion despite having no prior background. The competition, themed "The Art of Fashion Without Limits," featured exclusive collections by PERDA-TECH students and awarded cash prizes to winners.
The success of the YFR'26 competition showcases the capability of TVET students in organizing significant events and provides real-life experience beneficial for their future careers. Mohd Asri expressed hopes for a larger-scale competition next year with more participants and attractive prizes to foster young fashion designers' talents.
Source BERNAMA News Agency