GIATMARA PRODUCES SKILLED GRADUATES READY FOR INDUSTRY

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Today’s job market requires a workforce that is not only knowledgeable but also equipped with high-level skills and able to adapt to rapid industrial changes.

GiatMARA chief executive officer Ahmad Hamdi Ibrahim said that in line with the institution’s slogan, ‘Kemahiran Menjamin Kehidupan’, the government’s move to position Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a preferred choice is appropriate and consistent with current labour market needs.

“So the government’s aspiration is very much aligned with the purpose behind the establishment of GiatMARA, which was set up based on a specific model — one GiatMARA for each parliamentary constituency — because while there are many youths in each constituency, not all are able to pursue academic pathways.

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“The skill sets required today are different from those in the 1990s. As the economy and industry advance, skills must also evolve and be continuously improved,” he told Bernama recently.

Ahmad Hamdi said TVET is not merely an alternative route but a gateway to a wide range of opportunities to develop a highly skilled workforce while supporting industry demand.

Ahmad Hamdi said that since GiatMARA was founded in Jan 1986, a total of 232 branches have been established nationwide, offering more than 100 full-time programmes and more than 500 short courses.

“To date, through full-time programmes alone, we have trained 430,236 individuals nationwide in various fields. GiatMARA has also trained 78,171 individuals through short courses across different fields, age groups and communities,” he said.

He said one of GiatMARA’s advantages is that after completing six months of training, trainees may choose to continue their programme at the institution itself or articulate their studies into internal programmes at Institut Kemahiran MARA, Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA or other MARA institutions.

“They can also choose to become entrepreneurs with guidance from GiatMARA or enter the workforce directly in the field they have mastered through their chosen GiatMARA course,” he said.

He said career opportunities for GiatMARA trainees are extensive through collaborations with more than 50 industry players, including Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas), Kawasaki Motors Ltd, and Labuan Shipyard and Engineering Sdn Bhd.

Ahmad Hamdi expressed his appreciation to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also chairman of the National TVET Council Committee, for his commitment and concern towards the development of skilled manpower in the country.

He said the elevation of TVET as a preferred option is capable of addressing issues faced by youths in rural areas.

“The challenges faced by these youths do not stem from a lack of natural ability, but more from financial constraints, family problems and other social factors that limit their opportunities,” he said.

He said the government’s efforts to strengthen TVET represent the right approach and a strategic step in ensuring that young people have access to relevant skills and better employment opportunities.

“The government is very focused on human capital development, especially in the TVET sector. When the National TVET Policy was formulated, it indirectly helped boost TVET programmes. Collaboration between industries, agencies and institutions also contributes to strengthening the national economy,” he said.

Citing the example of Bagan Datuk GiatMARA, which has been upgraded to the Malaysia-China Institute (MCI), he said the institution is responsible for training the local TVET workforce, with opportunities to undergo international-standard training programmes in China.

“Collaboration with China allows youths to enhance and switch their skills and supports the government’s aspiration to strengthen the national economy through the development of skill sets and a capable workforce,” he said.

He also urged youths not to view weaker academic performance as a barrier to success, emphasising that achievement depends on individual effort and determination.

“Skills can be learned and developed, and success depends on how determined a person is to achieve it. When I meet young people, I often use the G.I.A.T acronym.

“G for gigih (perseverance), I for istiqamah (steadfastness), A for amanah (trustworthiness) and T for takwa and tawakal (piety and reliance on God). God willing, nothing is impossible. We can succeed and excel in life, help our families, communities and the nation, and contribute to the country’s economic growth,” he said.

-- BERNAMA