Deputy PM Ahmad Zahid Hamidi calls for enhanced MARA-Japan Industrial Institute to train technopreneurs and skilled workers for future industries.
LANGKAWI: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has proposed strengthening the MARA-Japan Industrial Institute (MJII) as a strategic platform to enhance industrial collaboration.
He said stronger participation from Japanese companies would make MJII a primary talent pipeline, with partners involved in training and recruiting graduates.
“Malaysia is committed to strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a key pillar of national development,” he said.
He added that through MARA, the aim is to produce skilled workers and technopreneurs who can create businesses and generate jobs.
“Japan, with its strengths in precision engineering, automation and green innovation, is a natural partner in this journey,” he said in his speech at the 7th MARA-OISCA International Business Forum Gala Dinner.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said digital technologies and green industries are reshaping the economy.
He stated that in this new landscape, a nation’s real wealth lies in the skills and creativity of its people.
“The next chapter of Malaysia-Japan cooperation must move beyond traditional manufacturing,” he said.
He identified smart manufacturing, green technologies, digital innovation, AI, and sustainable rural industries as key future areas.
Ahmad Zahid also highlighted the existing MARA-OISCA collaboration as a fine example of diplomacy translating into human development.
Since its inception, over 1,000 Malaysian youths have undergone industrial training in Japan, with over 3,000 benefiting from skills programmes locally.
“What is even more remarkable is that about 70% of these trainees found employment in the private sector, many within Japanese multinational companies,” he said.
The forum, themed “Cultivating Trust, Nurturing Sustainability”, brought together leaders from government, industry, and academia to discuss strategic collaboration.
