KUALA LUMPUR: The government is mulling to convert the financing of the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK) into grants, instead of loans as it is currently, says Datuk Seri R. Ramanan (pic).The Human Resources Minister said the proposal will be brought to the Cabinet meeting for deliberation.
“We will seek the consideration of the Prime Minister and Cabinet members to convert the RM100mil PTPK loan into a grant.
“At present, there are PTPK borrowers who are following the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme and they have to give up their jobs.“When they are not working, their income is affected. If at the same time they need to pay fees through loans, it burdens them,” he told reporters after opening the National TVET Instructors and Accredited Centre Managers Conference yesterday, Bernama reported.Earlier in his speech, Ramanan said the conference was not just an ordinary gathering but a manifestation of the national policy commitment.
“It is a clear signal TVET is now a key pillar in the Malaysia Madani human capital development strategy.
“TVET is a game changer in ensuring there is no skills mismatch, driving the country towards becoming a regional innovation hub and subsequently, attracting high-value investments.“Our target is clear, which is to achieve a Gross National Income per capita of around RM77,200 per year,” he said.
At the conference, Ramanan also launched the Internationalisation Action Plan for the Skills Development Department for 2026 to 2030.
The plan is driven by six strategic pillars that focus on global recognition, upgrading the Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training to a world-class institution, promoting international innovation and excellence in TVET programmes.
It is also supported by governance based on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).“The critical focus of this plan is to ensure the mapping of the National Occupational Skills Standards with international standards, making the Malaysian Skills Certificate recognised by foreign professional bodies with global excellence status,” he added.
