In Kuala Lumpur, Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad announced that 8,316 trainees have successfully completed various Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) training programmes. The Deputy Human Resources Minister stated that these programmes were supported by funding amounting to RM68.44 million from 2021 to Feb 29 of this year.
He mentioned that the ministry has been providing loans to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students through the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK). Abdul Rahman explained that the students have been engaging in short-term skill enhancement training courses and professional certification programmes since 2021.
Abdul Rahman highlighted that these courses are recognised by the Skills Development Department in modular form (micro-credential programmes) and through the Recognition of Prior Learning. He responded to a question in Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday by stating, “The packaged courses focus on specific skills and provide added value through professional certification.”
One member asked if PTPK was prepared to offer skill training loan assistance to TVET trainees wishing to undergo short-term skill enhancement training and acquire a Professional Skill Certificate from local professional bodies or institutions abroad. Abdul Rahman indicated that some of the courses with professional certification offered by PTPK include the Cisco Certified Networking Associate course in the Information Technology field.
Other similar courses include training to become a Certified Welding Supervisor and a three-phase electrical installation and maintenance program with SKM professional certification. In response to another question, Abdul Rahman revealed that the ministry is working on amendments to the Skills Development Fund Act 2004.
He explained, “We aim to provide a broader definition through these changes, allowing for skill training and recognition under the National Skills Development Act 2006. The amendments will enable PTPK to fund programmes beyond SKM and receive recognition from the Skills Development Department.”
Abdul Rahman also mentioned that the certifications would be acknowledged under various Acts, such as the Energy Commission Act 2010 (Act 610), Civil Aviation Act 1969 (Act 3), and the Construction Industry Development Board Act 1994 (Act 520). He stated that with the introduction of new recognitions, there is an expectation of increased government allocation to enhance these programmes.
Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chairs the National TVET Council, emphasized the merging of TVET and SKM courses with certificate-level programmes. Abdul Rahman expressed, “We are introducing more programmes that combine SKM courses with diploma programmes and even up to the degree level, ensuring that these qualifications are recognized as valuable skills for our nation.”
