Kuala lumpur: Financing under the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK) has now been expanded to cover international courses as well as programs run by industry regulators, said Human Resources Minister Steven Sim. He stated that this strategic shift aims to ensure Malaysia's workforce acquires skills that meet global standards and fulfill the real needs of the rapidly growing industrial and technical sectors.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sim emphasized that this expansion indicates the government's commitment to providing TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) financing beyond traditional courses, by opening access to high-impact critical fields shaped by technological development and industry demand. The funding and financing for skills development through PTPK have been broadened to include not only existing courses by conventional training providers but also other courses offered by regulators such as the Energy Commission.
Sim highlighted the importance of this expansion as many sectors require regulator-issued certificates before skilled workers are allowed to operate, enhancing TVET graduates' employability. The recognition of regulator courses and international certifications means that government financing schemes are now more responsive to industry needs, including the demand for skilled workers capable of adapting to new technological changes.
The expansion allows more youths, workers, and new training providers to benefit from upskilling opportunities without financial constraints or overly rigid training boundaries. In addition, to strengthen professionalism and career pathways for skilled workers, the government will introduce the Malaysia Expert Certificate to provide formal recognition for national skills specialists. This certification will include three new levels - skilled expert, senior skilled expert, and skills consultant - to ensure highly skilled individuals receive official recognition from the government and industry, securing better job opportunities.
Sim reiterated that these reforms align with the government's mandate to modernize TVET, ensuring Malaysia builds a competent, competitive workforce ready for the global market. He emphasized the comprehensive reform of the national TVET ecosystem, aiming to provide every Malaysian with wider, more flexible, and relevant training pathways suited to contemporary needs.