RAMANAN ANNOUNCES VETRI MADANI PROGRAMME WITH BIGGER ALLOCATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- The Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) has announced the Vetri MADANI programme with increased funding to expand career opportunities for the Indian community, particularly those in the B40 group.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said this year’s Vetri MADANI programme will be implemented in collaboration with Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp) and Perbadanan Pembangunan Sumber Manusia Berhad (HRDCorp).

“The new allocation is still under discussion, but currently, the funding under TalentCorp and the ministry for implementing the Malaysian Indian Skills Initiative (MISi) 2.0 stands at RM4 million.

“I assure you it will be doubled, but the exact level will be studied according to needs. We do not want to waste funds; every sen must be properly used,” he said after officiating at the MISi 2.0 graduation ceremony here today.

Ramanan said registration will be opened to gauge public response before the final allocation is announced, and that more skills training can be provided to meet current industry demands.

MISi 2.0 has achieved success, with 300 out of 400 participants securing employment with salaries ranging from RM3,000 to RM7,500 per month, depending on their respective fields.

“I hope Vetri MADANI can help graduates obtain higher salary offers, especially in engineering and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors,” he said.

Commenting on the review of minimum wage implementation, he said such reviews are always conducted to provide better pay for workers, with the minimum rate now increased from RM1,300 to RM1,700.

On a separate matter, Ramanan advised the public not to exaggerate issues related to the construction of places of worship, including temples.

“Our country has laws and regulations. If we all follow the rules, no problems will arise. We provide channels for discussion to resolve any issues that come up.

“Through the Dharma MADANI programme, the government allocated RM20 million to more than 1,000 temples, while RM3.5 million was allocated to houses of worship last year through the Prime Minister’s special allocation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA