Kuala lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has encouraged Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) leavers to pursue Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in agriculture, which can open up high-income career opportunities for them. He emphasized that agriculture should be considered a primary career option to develop a skilled workforce for the nation's agri-commodity sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the potential for agriculture TVET graduates to earn incomes exceeding the minimum wage if they acquire industry-relevant skills. He stated that the aim is to encourage not only university-bound students but also SPM leavers to consider agriculture TVET as a viable pathway, with the promise of competitive salaries.
'TVET is not a second or third choice. God willing, TVET will become the main choice for the younger generation in our country,' he said during the launch of the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities Agrocommodity Squad. The event was attended by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad and Malaysian Palm Oil Board chairman Datuk Mohamad Helmy Othman Basha.
Commenting on the Agrocommodity Squad, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister, described its establishment as a novel approach to enhancing advocacy for the sector, especially at the grassroots level. The squad aims to elevate the dignity of individuals involved in agriculture and commodities by changing perceptions and demonstrating the sector's modern, dignified, and high-value nature.
Ahmad Zahid emphasized the importance of reinforcing grassroots networks that connect government policies with the real challenges faced by smallholders, entrepreneurs, and rural communities. He noted the vast potential for further development within the nation's commodities sector, which includes rubber, cocoa, pepper, kenaf, and timber.
Recognizing this need, Ahmad Zahid announced that the Agrocommodity Squad would be gradually deployed across all parliamentary constituencies, encouraging active participation from youths, including students at higher learning institutions (IPTs). The squad serves as a volunteer and talent development platform, linking youths, smallholders, TVET institutions, IPTs, and industry players to empower the agri-commodity sector.
The squad's primary roles include acting as agents of digital transformation by introducing new technologies, serving as sustainability ambassadors to demonstrate Malaysia's commitment to sustainable practices, and assisting smallholders in producing high-value downstream products.