Kuala lumpur: Industry-focused Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is seen as crucial for developing a skilled, relevant and competitive local workforce for Malaysia's automotive sector. MAG Auto Garage Services Sdn Bhd managing director Dr. Azlina Ahmad highlighted the rapidly changing ecosystem of the automotive industry, particularly the after-sales sector, due to the rise of digital technology, electronic systems, and modern vehicle software. She emphasized the need for technicians who can repair vehicles manually and analyze diagnostic data and understand increasingly complex electronic systems.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Azlina stated that the industry can no longer rely solely on traditional skills in the coming years. She underscored the importance of TVET focusing on hands-on training, analytical thinking, and lifelong learning. TVET programmes that run alongside the industry can produce technicians who are ready to work, not just pass exams, which is vital for keeping the local workforce relevant as vehicle technology evolves.
Additionally, Dr. Azlina mentioned that the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) supports an industry focus on developing high-value technicians and adopting modern technology. She noted the plan as a golden opportunity to transform the automotive after-sales sector into a professional, competitive, and high-impact industry. Workplace-based TVET, she added, also helps reduce the industry's reliance on foreign labour, fostering loyalty and long-term stability among the local workforce.
Meanwhile, Bermaz Auto Bhd's after-sales training manager, Md Parizal Jamian, pointed out that while some TVET graduates have a solid foundation, they still need improvement in industry exposure and professional communication skills. He stressed the necessity for stronger industry-TVET collaboration to keep training aligned with advanced technologies like electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Md Parizal remarked that NIMP 2030 is expected to drive growth in the manufacturing sector, aiming to create 3.3 million high-skilled jobs and a significant rise in median wages. The plan targets 21 key sub-sectors, including EVs, to foster innovation and shift the industry from low-skilled work to a high-value, globally competitive sector. He highlighted the importance of active industry involvement in curriculum development and hands-on training to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world job requirements.
Md Parizal concluded by asserting that TVET should not be viewed merely as an alternative route but needs to be strengthened as the main pathway to produce a highly skilled workforce capable of driving the transformation of Malaysia's automotive industry.