SHAH ALAM: The government plans to expand the Tourism Sector Aspirations of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Generation programme to provide more opportunities for local graduates to venture into the industry. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan emphasized that this initiative, in collaboration with higher education institutions, also aims to address the shortage of skilled workers essential for leading the country’s tourism sector, particularly in five key sub-sectors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Deputy Minister identified these five sub-sectors as tour guides; hotels; spas, wellness and massage premises; golf; and theme parks. “We prioritise exposing students to the unique aspects and opportunities in the tourism sector under these five sub-sectors. To ensure students secure employment, we facilitate matchmaking so they know where they can land,” he explained.

Khairul Firdaus highlighted the challenges faced by industry players in sou
rcing skilled workers, noting that this initiative serves as a short- to medium-term measure to meet these industry demands. He shared these insights after launching the Tourism Sector TVET Generation Aspirations in collaboration with the Management and Science University (MSU) Talent Sync Expo 2024.

In his address, Khairul Firdaus also encouraged youths to continuously learn new skills, develop their talents in fields they are passionate about, and embrace the belief that vocational skills are crucial for success in today’s competitive job market.