TANJONG MALIM, 25 September 2026 (The Capital Post) – Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is increasingly being positioned as a key pathway for developing Malaysia’s future workforce as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, digital technologies and renewable energy reshape industry needs.
Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional Development Minister Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted the importance of TVET while officiating the 2026 Central Zone Polytechnic and Community College Convocation at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) on 24 September.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the National TVET Council Committee, said TVET graduates must strengthen their capabilities in AI, data and digital technologies while developing problem-solving, communication and ethical decision-making skills.
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He also called for stronger applied innovation between polytechnics, community colleges and industry, including providing students with opportunities to test promising projects in real-world settings before bringing them to market.
Greater emphasis should also be placed on entrepreneurship, enabling TVET graduates to build businesses, create employment and contribute to economic opportunities within their communities, he said.
The government has repeatedly sought to shift perceptions of TVET away from being regarded as a secondary educational pathway, with greater emphasis being placed on its role in developing skilled talent for emerging and technology-driven industries.
According to a post on the official Facebook page of Kementerian Kemajuan Desa dan Wilayah, the ministry views the TVET agenda as extending beyond producing graduates to developing skilled workers, innovators and entrepreneurs capable of meeting future industry needs – The Capital Post
