PONTIAN: The government is planning a major overhaul of the country’s polytechnic system to ensure it remains relevant to future industry needs, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir (pic).
The Higher Education Minister said the government will be drafting an Act that could improve the quality of polytechnics, including introducing more in-demand courses that meet the country’s needs.
“We need polytechnics of a higher standard that can produce skilled workers in relevant areas and fields.
“As such, the government is reviewing the existing Act, and we expect to present a proposal for the new Act by the end of this year or early next year.
“We are looking at the entire polytechnic ecosystem, including the courses offered, to ensure they meet current and future demands, for example in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), electrical and electronics (E&E), and semiconductors,” he said.
He said this at a press conference after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony for the Pontian Community College on Thursday (May 14).
Also present was Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan.
Zambry added that the move proves criticisms claiming that polytechnics only offer irrelevant courses are untrue.
“I am aware of certain criticisms claiming that courses offered at polytechnics and universities are ‘kursus lelong’ (leftover courses) that are not relevant.
“That is completely untrue. The function of universities and polytechnics is to always emphasise current needs.
“Specifically for polytechnics, we focus on what is required now and what will be required in the next five to 10 years,” he said, adding that there are 36 polytechnics nationwide.
On the groundbreaking event, Zambry said construction of the new community college is expected to begin by next year.
"The building will stand on eight acres (3.2ha) of land that belonged to the Education Ministry.
"The land ownership had been transferred (to the Higher Education Ministry) and we expect construction work to begin next year," he said.
He added that the project, estimated at RM70mil, is expected to be completed by 2028 or 2029.
"We estimate it will take about two and a half years, but ultimately it depends on the progress made by the contractor carrying out the construction," he added.
