TVET NOT A "DEAD END" TO CAREER DEVELOPMENT

SHAH ALAM, Dec 26 (Bernama) --  Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes should not be considered a 'dead end' for individuals who wish to develop their careers to a higher level. Rather they open opportunities for those seeking to improve their living standards.

The skills acquired in the technical field are not just about repairing car engines but also play an important role in producing a skilled workforce that indirectly drives the country's economy.

Bermaz Auto Berhad (B Auto) Group Head of After-sales Datuk Shamsuddin Amran said that through TVET, the government is now on the right track to empowering TVET to align with the industry's demands and needs.

bootstrap slideshow

He said it was implemented through the National Dual Training System (NDTS), an initiative under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA).

The TVET Pilihan Kerjaya Utama Group chairman said that with the implementation of NDTS 14 years ago, the company no longer needed to rely on foreign skilled workers.

Through the NDTS programme, BermazAuto Training School has been able to produce a skilled workforce in three fields, namely Mechatronic, Body and Paint, and Mechanics.

bootstrap slideshow

 “We have produced more than 1,000 technicians and 90 per cent of the (B Auto) workforce is from the NDST programme. With the skills acquired, they not only work as technicians, but some have the opportunity to work as engineers, assistant managers and even managers.

"I see the syllabus or curriculum in NDTS is excellent and it is also confirmed by our principals such as Mazda Corporation Japan and Xpeng.

“I am also pleased to continue this NDTS programme with the support of KESUMA," he told Bernama when met recently.

Shamsuddin said the success of the NDTS programme refutes the perception that TVET is only for the 3D (dirty, dangerous and difficult) job sector.

“On the contrary, if a person is committed, he/she has the opportunity to reach the highest level in the management of a company,” he said.

Shamsuddin said being one of those who ventured into TVET by specialising in automotive immediately after finishing fifth form in 1984, he is among the top management of the company.

As such, he hopes to see more youths venture into TVET, in line with the government's efforts to make it a major national agenda, having allocated RM7.5 billion for TVET in the 2025 Budget.

“I see this as a sign of the government's concern in (empowering) TVET," he added.

Meanwhile,  Shamsuddin acknowledged the challenges in sustaining the programme, particularly as some TVET institutions opt not to implement the NDTS due to high costs. These expenses include the need to provide qualified teaching staff and technical training resources that align with advancements in specific fields.

“The current automotive landscape has evolved significantly, with teaching no longer centred on traditional engine systems. Instead, the focus has shifted to driverless vehicle engines and electric vehicles (EVs)," he explained.

He acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the industry in acquiring the necessary equipment due to its high cost, a challenge also shared by TVET centres in Malaysia.

However, Shamsuddin said that despite these hurdles, Malaysia boasts one of the best TVET structural systems in the region.

Graduates from these programmes are highly employable, with opportunities abroad, including in countries like Japan and Saudi Arabia, he said, adding that the NDTS  programme is an industry-driven training approach conducted through partnerships between companies and training institutions.

Through the system, training takes place in two learning environments: 70 to 80 per cent of the training occurs in the real workplace (company), focusing on practical skills, while 20 to 30 per cent takes place at the training centre, providing theoretical learning.

Meanwhile, R. Asswin, 19, a Mechatronics apprentice at BermazAuto Training School, shared that TVET offers a fun and engaging learning experience because it combines both hands-on practice and theory.

Asswin, who chose to do Mechatronics because of his interest in automation, plans to continue expanding his knowledge by pursuing higher education before entering the workforce.

For Nuraleeya Natasha Hamirul Mizam, 19, an apprentice in the Body and Paint programme, trainees are exposed to real industry methods, including proper techniques for car body repairs and painting.

Elsworth Lo Zhen-U, 20, who has been a trainee at BermazAuto Training School for three years, said the knowledge gained during his training allowed him to become an instructor at the centre.

"I began my studies in 2021, and throughout my time here, there was a strong emphasis on work discipline. All tasks must be completed in an orderly and meticulous manner."

"The three years of study have shifted my perspective on TVET because it provides valuable skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in the workplace,” he said.

-- BERNAMA