Strategic amendments to Act 652 and Act 640 boost Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem, enhance inclusivity and attract international investment.
KUALA LUMPUR: Amendments to the National Skills Development Act 2006 (Act 652) and Skills Development Fund Act 2004 (Act 640) represent a strategic step toward strengthening Malaysia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training ecosystem.
National TVET Council member and Malaysia-China Institute chairman Manndzri Nasib described the amendments as comprehensive structural reform rather than mere technical changes.
“It reflects the government’s commitment to building a skills system that is more open, responsive and industry-driven, which is essential for Malaysia to compete in a technology and talent-based economy,” he said in a statement.
The amendments were tabled for first reading by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim in the Dewan Rakyat.
Manndzri expressed appreciation to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Minister Sim for their courage in bringing the amendments to Parliament.
Proposals include recognising training programmes outside the National Occupational Skills Standard and expanding financing under the Skills Development Fund.
The introduction of the Malaysian Modular Skills Certificate will make TVET more inclusive and aligned with global trends emphasising flexible skills and lifelong learning.
Manndzri said the amendments open avenues for international collaboration in training, instructor exchanges and technological investment with partner countries like China.
“Foreign investors will have greater confidence to invest in Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem when they see the government prioritising clear policies, transparent governance and a solid recognition structure,” he said.
National Association of Skilled Workers president Mohammad Rizan Hassan separately described the amendments as a historic step long awaited by TVET stakeholders.
“These amendments are a historic step much anticipated by key players in the TVET ecosystem, particularly skills training institutions, instructors and young people who consider skills as a career pathway,” he said.
BELIA MAHIR views the amendments as a clear signal of government seriousness in strengthening skilled workforce development with an inclusive approach to current industry needs.
Mohammad Rizan said amendments to Act 640 will expand financing access to various training programmes recognised by the Department of Skills Development.
This acceleration of the “TVET for All” agenda will help drive Malaysia’s TVET transformation toward a high-skilled economy by 2030.
“With the spirit of ‘Help youth, help the nation’, BELIA MAHIR is confident that the amendments to these two important Acts will become a key driver of Malaysia’s TVET transformation towards a high-skilled economy by 2030,” he said. – Bernama
