Perak Youth Encouraged to Seize Job Opportunities in the TVET Sector
Perak Youth Encouraged to Seize Job Opportunities in the TVET Sector
Perak youth are urged to seize thousands of job opportunities created by the state's rapid industrial development before they are taken by outsiders or foreign workers.
Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, said the state's massive investment in industrial zone development is part of an effort to establish Perak as the National TVET Corridor. This agenda is a key pillar under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan to drive sustainable economic growth and long-term prosperity.
However, he emphasized that the available positions require a skilled workforce, particularly those with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) qualifications.
"I want the people of Perak to understand the government's intention. If our own children do not support this aspiration, we will be forced to offer these job opportunities to outsiders. And if that is still not enough, we cannot avoid hiring foreign workers," he said in an interview with New Straits Times during a visit to Balai Berita for the Malaysia Hari Ini program.
Saarani said the state government has intensified awareness campaigns at the district level through collaboration with various agencies, specifically targeting secondary school students, especially in Forms Four and Five, to promote career prospects through TVET.
He emphasized the importance of eliminating the stigma that TVET is a second-class option, given that the sector now offers competitive salaries and high demand in the job market.
"It is time we discard the notion that TVET is a second-class certificate. With TVET qualifications, real jobs are waiting," he asserted.
Based on internal data, approximately 94 percent of TVET graduates successfully secure employment.
As part of the outreach initiative, successful TVET alumni such as chefs, welders, and animation experts are invited to schools to share their experiences, thereby inspiring students about the true potential of vocational careers.
Saarani also stressed that all TVET institutions in Perak must ensure their academic programs are aligned with the specific needs of local industries.
"For that reason, we are working with industry players and training providers to ensure the courses offered are relevant to the job market. We do not want these opportunities to be lost to outsiders just because the local population lacks the necessary skills," he explained.
"Our goal is to create a prosperous Perak with successful citizens. That prosperity begins with jobs—when the people have income, they can spend, and this in turn drives the state's economy."
Previously, the state government outlined its intention to make Perak the National TVET Corridor, with several mega-projects such as the Automotive High-Tech Valley in Tanjung Malim, the Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park, and the Silver Valley Technology Park serving as key platforms to absorb skilled graduates.
The state government has also launched the TVET Roadshow Program 2025 to correct misconceptions about vocational education and promote it as a primary pathway toward careers in technology, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship.
- New Straits Times
