PASIR GUDANG: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must be recognised as a critical driver for Johor’s sustainable development and not merely an alternative education pathway, says Aznan Tamin.
“In today’s fast-changing world, with advances in automation and increasing complexity in global economic demands, TVET is no longer an option but is a necessity.
It is not just training, but an empowerment process that develops tech-savvy and independent individuals who can compete globally,” he added.
Aznan, also the Tanjung Surat assemblyman, said this in his speech during the TVET Idea Festival 2025 held at Politeknik Ibrahim Sultan (PIS) here on Thursday (May 8).
He also said that TVET graduates were now establishing businesses, from repair workshops and cafes to creative studios, and are even serving as educators and trainers for future generations.
He said the state was in a rapid growth phase, particularly with establishing the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), where developing a skilled local workforce is essential to sustaining this progress.
Aznan added that the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC), a collaborative initiative between the federal and state governments, was launched in November 2024 to address this need.
“The council aims to create 20,000 new job opportunities annually, offering premium starting salaries of RM4,000 for degree holders and RM3,000 for diploma graduates.
“The council is a comprehensive collaboration involving 11 government departments, 21 agencies, seven higher education institutions, 125 TVET centres, and government-linked companies,” he said.
He also urges all stakeholders, such as educators, administrators, industry players, parents, and students themselves, to support the council’s vision.
