Segamat: The Defence Ministry (MINDEF) has allocated RM10 million this year for the implementation of its Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme, benefiting about 1,300 Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) personnel approaching retirement. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that this allocation is part of the ministry's efforts to safeguard the welfare and livelihood of military veterans.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the WBL programme allows personnel to have the experience and expertise acquired throughout their service in the MAF formally assessed and recognized in collaboration with higher education institutions. Through this programme, personnel can earn diplomas in areas such as culinary arts, hospitality, sports coaching, and management, without the need for formal examinations.

Most personnel join the military with only the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualification, and when they retire at the age of 41 or 42, they face challenges competing for employment opportunities with the same qualifications. The WBL programme ensures they leave service with at least a diploma, with the RM6,500 assessment cost for each individual fully covered by the government, stated Mohamed Khaled during a press conference after a working visit to the 4th Royal Artillery Regiment at Segamat Camp.

Furthermore, Mohamed Khaled mentioned that the ministry has revamped the transition training programme conducted by the Armed Forces Veterans Affairs Corporation (PERHEBAT) to better align with industry requirements. This revamp aims to ensure that personnel who complete the six-month transition training can be directly absorbed into suitable employment sectors, securing a dignified income without having to independently search for jobs.