KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians should not dismiss the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET), says MCA Youth Chief Chong Sin Woon (pix).
“There is a prevalent belief, especially amongst Chinese, that vocational training is only for poor (academic) achievers,” he said.
Chong noted that 60% of the workforce in an advanced country such as Germany pursued TVET instead of traditional academic education.
“Contrary to popular belief, research shows that students who receive vocational and skill-based training are more employable. They also earn higher wages,” he said.
Chong pointed out that once the Asean Economic Community’s vision of an integrated regional economy is successfully implemented, local white-collar workers will face stiff competition from the influx of professionals from neighbouring countries.
“Moreover, we rely so much on foreign labour to the point where we no longer have experts in skill-based jobs such as bricklaying. That is why we need to increase the number of Malaysians who are equipped with technical and vocational skills,” he said.
Speaking at a press conference at Wisma MCA, Chong revealed that MCA Youth would be organising a TVET fair on May 9 and 10 at Viva Home expo halls 1 and 2 to help promote vocational education among young Malaysians.
“Apart from local colleges, the fair will also feature schools from Australia, Canada, Korea, Taiwan and China. MCA Youth will also have a counter to help guide students in applying for loans and scholarships available,” he said.
Chong stressed that Malaysia requires more technical experts to boost the nation’s development.
With regard to the fair, MCA Youth National Vocational Training Bureau’s Chairman Lau Chin Kok encouraged vocational training schools to register for a booth as there will be 150 available for rent.
“We welcome schools providing training from hairstyling to pedicures. The first 50 applicants will get a promotional rate of RM1,000 per booth,” he said.
Those wishing to apply may contact Jacky Ng at 03-9266 3388 or 016-221 0987.
