PETALING JAYA: VTAR Institute has been recognised as a leading force in technical and vocational education after receiving the coveted five-star rating from Malaysia’s Skills Development Department (JPK), marking a major milestone for the institution.
The TVET Five-Star Rating Award was presented at a ceremony organised by JPK under the Human Resources Ministry.
VTAR Institute CEO Tan Cheng Liang accepted the honour from Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, calling the moment a culmination of years of dedication by staff and students.
In a statement, VTAR said that during the 12th Malaysia Plan (2023–2025), 597 TVET institutions and 1,720 courses nationwide were assessed, with only 62 institutions and 155 courses achieving the highest five-star rating for educational excellence.
"VTAR Institute’s inclusion in this elite group is a testament to its unwavering commitment to high standards and continuous improvement," it said.
Tan highlighted that “the JPK Five-Star Rating is the highest level of official recognition in Malaysia’s skills training system”.
VTAR Institute’s Electronic and Electrical programs received five stars, while its Beauty program achieved a four-star rating.
“This honour is both encouragement and recognition for our continuous pursuit of excellence, motivating us to keep striving for even higher standards,” she said.
Tan added that VTAR Institute consistently adheres to national standards to ensure students receive professional, systematic, and industry-relevant skills training.
“Every aspect of our teaching is executed with high standards. The five-star rating fully reflects VTAR Institute’s educational strength and teaching quality in the technical and vocational education sector, as well as the long-term dedication and hard work of our entire team,” she said.
She added that the institute’s electrical programme remains one of its most popular, credited for its industry-aligned curriculum and ability to produce highly skilled technical professionals.
"Graduates earn two Malaysian Skills Certificates and two Wireman Licenses, significantly boosting their market value.
“More importantly, throughout their studies, students develop a disciplined work ethic and strong problem-solving abilities,” Tan said.
VTAR’s partnerships with institutions in China also give students hands-on experience in high-demand technical fields like elevator technology.
VTAR’s Electronic program opens further pathways, with graduates able to join the workforce directly or pursue a bachelor’s degree.
The programme includes free supplementary soft skills and practical training in areas such as smart home systems.
Students also have the opportunity for short-term, tuition-free study in China, gaining exposure to industrial robotics and earning high praise for their professionalism.
VTAR’s Beauty program achieved a four-star rating, and graduates enjoy strong employment prospects as demand grows in the beauty industry.
The curriculum is enhanced with modules in hairstyling, photography, and videography, developed in partnership with institutions in China.
“Technical and vocational education is not just about teaching a skill—it is about equipping students with the ability to transform their future. Every student’s growth and every effort in practical training is our greatest pride. With skills in hand, the future is in your grasp,” Tan said.
