Kuala Lumpur:The RM8 billion allocation for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) under Budget 2027 has been described as a significant move towards enhancing skills development and providing social benefits.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Associate Professor Dr. Yasir Mohd Mustafah of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) stated that this allocation targets not only skills development but also includes direct social benefits for tahfiz students and former Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) personnel. This initiative aims to bolster the TVET industry and stimulate economic growth in Malaysia.

Dr. Yasir highlighted that the focus on these groups could expand workforce employability and improve social mobility, provided that they fully utilize the opportunities available after their training or courses. Tahfiz students will have the opportunity to venture into TVET fields, while MAF personnel, some of whom have transitioned to jobs like taxi driving after early retirement, can further develop their skills.

The allocation will fund short courses for tahfiz students at Community Colleges, offering pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and higher education. MAF personnel who have completed their service will receive skills training through partnerships with institutions such as the Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology and the Malaysian Maritime Academy.

Dr. Yasir also emphasized the importance of monitoring the allocation's impact, suggesting that the government should establish key performance indicators (KPIs) based on outcomes like job placements rather than just the number of training sessions.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the RM8 billion cross-ministerial allocation when tabling Budget 2027 in Parliament, which includes RM3 billion for the Human Resource Development Corporation. This funding is intended to create three million skills training opportunities, including ongoing professional development for professionals.