Malaysia boosts vocational education to support digital and energy sectors

Malaysia is intensifying efforts to modernise its technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system as part of a broader strategy to support economic transformation and develop a highly skilled workforce for emerging industries. The initiative places a strong emphasis on advanced technologies and sustainable development sectors expected to shape the global economy in the coming years.

Speaking at the 2026 National TVET Day celebration in Putrajaya, Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim announced that the federal government had approved around US$12.5 million, as reported by Vietnam News Agency (VNA), a partner of TV BRICS.

According to Anwar bin Ibrahim, the upgraded framework is designed to strengthen the country’s capacity in strategic areas, including artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency technology and the global energy transition. The reform programme also seeks to deepen cooperation between educational institutions and state bodies to ensure that training courses respond effectively to labour market needs.

Under the new initiative, selected TVET students will begin specialised studies in AI, cryptocurrency-related technologies and energy transition fields from next month. Participants will later undertake placements at research institutes and educational centres coordinated by the National Science Council, including the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI), expanding opportunities for practical and research-based learning.

National TVET Day, under the theme "Technical and Vocational Education and Training: The Career Path of Choice", is expected to attract approximately 500,000 visitors this year. More than 107 government agencies and educational institutions are participating in the event.