PETALING JAYA: Technical and vocational education and training is not merely an educational pathway but a powerful driver of economic progress and social cohesion across Asean, says the CEO of a government agency.
Human Resource Development Corporation’s Syed Alwi Mohamed Sultan said TVET played a critical role in shaping the future of the region and uniting Asean.
“TVET matters. It reduces youth unemployment, promotes entrepreneurship and SME growth, and is a tool for social inclusion,” he said at the recently concluded Asean TVET Conference.
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan, the government aims to re-strategise TVET programmes with an emphasis on high-growth, high-value industries and advanced technology.
Once implemented, it would create 1.2 million jobs by 2030.
“Let us all carry forward the shared mission for Asean – to empower people through skills and to strengthen the region through TVET,” Syed Alwi said.
Held from Aug 13 to Aug 14, the Asean TVET conference featured 25 experts and attracted nearly 1,500 delegates from Asean member states, including policymakers, industry leaders, education providers, workers’ organisations and international development partners.
It was officiated by deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also the chairman of the National TVET Council.
Separately, Skills Development Fund Corporation chief executive Fathullah Mustafa said the conference was aimed at enhancing TVET to spur inclusive digital and green transitions across the bloc.
And to ensure greater inclusivity, TVET systems must improve their quality and relevance, including ensuring equitable access to future-ready digital and green skills, he said.
“What we wanted to achieve from this conference goes beyond discussions, but actionable outcomes.”
He said these outcomes were a set of guiding principles for Asean member states to help them build future-ready TVET systems that integrate digital and green dimensions.
Source: https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2025/08/18/tvet-more-than-just-educational-pathway-says-hrd-corp-boss