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.
The Higher Education Minister said the government is drafting a policy to improve the quality of polytechnics, including the introduction of more in-demand courses aligned with national 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 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 artificial intelligence, electrical and electronics, and semiconductors,” he said after attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Pontian Community College at Kompleks Penghulu Mukim Benut yesterday.
Also present were Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan and Benut assemblyman Datuk Hasni Mohammad.
Zambry added that the move refutes criticisms that polytechnics only offer irrelevant courses.
“I am aware of claims that courses offered at polytechnics and universities are ‘kursus lelong’ (leftover courses) that are not relevant.
“That is completely untrue. The role of universities and polytechnics is to consistently align with current needs.
“Specifically for polytechnics, we focus on what is required now and what will be needed in the next five to 10 years,” he said, adding that there are 36 polytechnics nationwide.
On the project, Zambry said construction of the new community college on a 3.2ha site that previously belonged to the Education Ministry is expected to begin next year.
He added that the RM70mil project 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 of the contractor carrying out the construction,” he added.
