Kuala Lumpur: Malaysian youths have been urged to participate in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the field of agriculture offered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS). These programs provide free education in modern agriculture, addressing current industry demands.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MAFS Capacity and Training Development Division director Hizatul Haliza Hashim highlighted that TVET in agriculture would open up broad career opportunities for the nation's youth, establishing them as a crucial component in maintaining Malaysia's food security. Sixteen accredited centers under MAFS currently offer these free TVET in agriculture programs. These include institutions like Kolej Pertanian Malaysia in Kedah, Institut Latihan Mekanisasi dan Automasi Peladang (ILMAP) in Kelantan, and Institut Veterinar Malaysia in Johor.
"The tuition fees at these 16 agricultural training institutes are fully sponsored. We also provide a monthly allowance of RM200 for students pursuing skills certificate-level programs. In addition, food, beverages, accommodation, and necessary equipment are fully covered by the government," Hizatul noted. She encouraged youth nationwide to take advantage of this opportunity, emphasizing their role in ensuring the country's food security.
Hizatul added that the TVET in agriculture is available to Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders aged 18 to 25, offering training in various skill areas such as crop cultivation, ruminant farming, rice production, and freshwater aquaculture. MAFS continuously reviews and updates the curriculum to align with the evolving needs and demands of the agriculture industry, engaging with industry players for feedback on workforce requirements. The curriculum is revised every five years, or sooner if necessary, to keep pace with technological advancements.
Furthermore, the ministry collaborates with university experts to enhance the quality and relevance of the programs. Last Thursday, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu noted an increase in the employability rate of agricultural TVET graduates from MAFS institutes and training centers. The rate rose to 78.1 percent in 2023, up from 72.3 percent in 2022, with expectations to exceed the target of more than 80 percent.
At the MAFS' 13th Agricultural Convocation, 448 graduates received certificates and diplomas, including the Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM), Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM), Agricultural Certificate, Malaysian Veterinary Health Certificate, and Fisheries Certificate.