KUALA LUMPUR: A new RM100mil initiative called the Progressive Acceleration for Capability and Employability (Pace) will be launched to strengthen human capital development and the employability of the country’s workforce, says Datuk Seri R. Ramanan (pic).
The Human Resources Minister said the initiative, to be implemented by the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp), is among the government’s strategic efforts to ensure the workforce obtains skills relevant to current and future industry needs while strengthening the country’s competitiveness at the global level.
He said that Pace has been comprehensively designed with a focus on talent development, skills training, workforce transformation and the creation of more inclusive economic opportunities for people from various segments of society.
“Pace is not just an ordinary training programme but rather a major government invest- ment to build a future workforce that is more resilient, highly skilled and capable of meeting the demands of a new economy increasingly driven by technology and innovation,” he said when announcing the initiative yesterday.
The initiative, Ramanan added, is in line with the Malaysia Madani aspiration to empower human development and improve the people’s standard of living through quality employment.
Pace will comprise 10 strategic programmes, covering technical and vocational education and training (TVET), youth talent development, digital economy transformation, strengthening local enterprises, regional development, and improving the employability of gig workers and inclusive communities.
Ramanan said the approach taken under the initiative emphasises targeted investments to ensure that each initiative delivers a clear and measurable impact on the people and the country’s economy.
He said the programme is also designed to produce a workforce that is more productive, innovative and ready to face the changing landscape of future employment.
He added that human capital development is a fundamental pillar in ensuring Malaysia continues to progress as a competitive and sustainable high-income nation.
“The Madani government is committed to ensuring that no group is left behind in the country’s development.
“Through Pace, we aim to create more opportunities for people to enhance their skills, strengthen their income and build a better future for themselves and their families,” he said.
Ramanan added that his ministry is confident that the initiative will serve as a catalyst for transforming the national workforce, further strengthening the nation’s position as a key regional hub for talent and skills.
