Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has called for stronger regional collaboration to invest in human capital and future-proof ASEAN's workforce, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Speaking at the opening of Global Skills Forum: ASEAN Year of Skills 2025 today, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that Malaysia's stance is that the future of the region cannot be determined in isolation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid highlighted the importance of cooperation by saying, 'As we navigate this new era, Malaysia's conviction is clear - we cannot shape the future alone. Skills transcend borders, knowledge knows no nationality and talent, when nurtured together, can lift an entire region.' He pointed out that with a population of nearly 700 million, mostly under the age of 35, ASEAN is positioned as one of the world's youngest and most dynamic regions. Ahmad Zahid stressed that if investments are made wisely, this young population could drive innovation and prosperity for decades. However, neglecting it could lead to a generation facing inequality and irrelevance.

Also in attendance at the forum were Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim, director-general of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Gilbert F. Houngbo, and vice president of International Organisation of Employers (IOE) Matthias Thorns. Ahmad Zahid further mentioned that during Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship, the country is leading efforts to develop new frameworks for cross-border recognition of skills and shared investment in human capital. This initiative is being pursued through the Ministry of Human Resources and Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp).