Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described the initiative as a “game changer” for the nation’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.
PUTRAJAYA: More than 3,200 job opportunities in Malaysia’s transportation sector will be made available to retiring and veteran Armed Forces personnel under a new strategic collaboration between the Transport Ministry (MOT) and the Defence Ministry (Mindef).
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described the initiative as a “game changer” for the nation’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.
He said 3,208 vacancies have been identified across key transportation subsectors, including ports, logistics, rail, public transport, land transportation and supply chain operations, creating a direct pathway for military personnel transitioning into civilian employment.
Speaking at the strategic cooperation ceremony between MOT and MINDEF to empower TVET for retiring and veteran Armed Forces personnel, Zahid said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring former servicemen and servicewomen continue contributing to national development after completing their military careers.
“When an Armed Forces member retires, the nation does not lose a warrior. Instead, the country gains an individual with extensive experience, strong discipline, resilience and valuable skills developed throughout their years of service.
“They have served the country. They have sacrificed for the country. They have defended the nation’s peace and sovereignty. It is therefore our responsibility to ensure they continue to be given opportunities to contribute after completing their service,” he said.
Zahid said the programme stemmed from a proposal presented by the Perbadanan Hal Ehwal Bekas Angkatan Tentera during a National TVET Council meeting three months ago.
“Three months ago, when I chaired the National TVET Council meeting, PERHEBAT presented a proposal and we made a decision. Today, we are seeing that decision come to fruition,” he said.
He added that the collaboration demonstrates the effectiveness of the government’s whole-of-government approach, bringing together ministries, agencies and industry players to address workforce needs while creating employment opportunities for veterans.
“TVET is no longer a second choice. Today, it is one of the main drivers of national development, economic growth and future workforce development,” he said.
Zahid pointed out that rapid advances in automation and artificial intelligence have increased the need for highly skilled and adaptable workers capable of meeting evolving industry demands.
To address skills mismatches, he said the government is promoting a “Place and Train” model, under which training programmes are tailored to actual industry requirements and linked directly to employment opportunities.
He said military retirees represent a valuable talent pool for industries requiring discipline, integrity and operational expertise.
“The logistics sector, aerospace maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), maritime industries and various service sectors require individuals with high levels of discipline.
“I am confident that military personnel can contribute significantly to these industries,” he said.
Several memoranda of understanding were also signed between PERHEBAT and transportation-related agencies, companies and industry associations to expand training, upskilling and employment opportunities for veterans and future retirees.
Meanwhile, the Road Transport Department Malaysia will facilitate the conversion of military driving licences into civilian licences for eligible retirees, helping ease their entry into the workforce.
Malaysia currently allocates RM7.9 billion to TVET programmes across 1,365 institutions under 12 ministries, with participation increasing from 121,000 to 497,000 learners over the past two years.
Zahid said the government aims to further strengthen TVET 2.0 to produce a highly skilled workforce aligned with industry demands.
“We want veterans to remain part of Malaysia’s success story long after their service ends,” he said.
