BANGKOK, Thailand, 25 August 2026 (The Capital Post) – Malaysia and the Philippines have agreed to explore stronger cooperation in labour affairs, particularly in skills development, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and workforce development.
The discussions took place during a bilateral meeting between Deputy Secretary-General (Policy and International) of the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), YBrs. Dr. Haji Mohd Shaharin bin Umar, and a Philippine delegation led by Undersecretary Carmela I. Torres of the Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 22nd Senior Labour Officials Meeting (SLOM) in Bangkok.
Both sides exchanged views and explored opportunities for more strategic cooperation to ensure their respective workforces remain relevant, competitive and prepared for technological changes and the evolving global employment landscape.
Malaysia also expressed its support for the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Green Jobs Forum (AGJF) 2026 in October.
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The forum builds on the AGJF hosted by Malaysia during its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, with a focus on green jobs and preparing the workforce for economic changes and future employment needs.
Malaysia is prepared to share its experience and best practices from the previous AGJF to support the successful organisation of the 2026 forum by the Philippines.
The meeting also reflected Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation in labour affairs through the sharing of expertise, experience and best practices for mutual benefit.
Malaysia remains committed to advancing regional cooperation towards a progressive, inclusive and sustainable employment ecosystem for the well-being of workers and shared prosperity across ASEAN.
According to a post on the official Facebook page of the Ministry of Human Resources, the bilateral engagement reflects Malaysia’s continued efforts to strengthen labour cooperation with ASEAN partners. – The Capital Post
