Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has called on ASEAN countries to bolster the recognition of workforce skills and qualifications to ensure that the region's talent aligns with industry needs and competes effectively on a global scale. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan emphasized this initiative during his address at the 14th ASEAN Plus Three Labour Ministers' Meeting in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia outlined three primary focus areas to achieve this goal. These include strengthening joint certification and harmonizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) qualifications, expanding technology transfer and upskilling of educators, and developing world-class training programs in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, next-generation vehicles, and robotics.

Minister Ramanan highlighted the importance of ensuring that skilled workers trained and qualified in ASEAN countries possess industry-trusted skills that are recognized across borders. He stressed that this recognition would provide wider opportunities for these workers to build careers and compete on the global stage.

The meeting, which included participation from ASEAN countries as well as China, Japan, and South Korea, underscored the significance of collaboration with these nations. Ramanan noted that sharing expertise, technology, and best practices with China, Japan, and South Korea is crucial to accelerating efforts in workforce development.

"This collaboration is not just about certificate recognition, but about the future and value of our workforce," Ramanan stated, indicating the broader implications of the initiative beyond mere certification.

Malaysia is committed to playing an active role in collaboration with ASEAN member states, China, Japan, and South Korea to ensure the region's workforce possesses the relevant skills, credible qualifications, and the capability to compete globally. Ramanan expressed a vision for ASEAN talent to not only meet future job market demands but also to be recognized as among the best-skilled workers worldwide.