By Assoc Prof Dr Wan Sallha Yusoff and Ahmad Nizam Che Kasim

The debate about Malaysians avoiding 3D jobs, which refers to dangerous, dirty and difficult work, has been going on for years.

Many people still believe that the main reason is low wages. However, the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has pointed out that the deeper issue is social stigma. These jobs are often looked down upon, and many Malaysians consider them to be low-status work.

In reality, sectors such as construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and cleaning services are now heavily filled by foreign workers. The Department of Statistics Malaysia reported that by 2024, nearly 1.8 million registered foreign workers were working in these areas.

This dependency exposes our economy to serious risks, especially when unexpected events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, disrupt labour supply.

A rethink needed

Malaysia must urgently rethink its approach to the labour market. One important solution is to modernise these industries. We need to introduce automation, improve safety standards, and use smart tools to reduce the physical strain of such work.

Countries like Japan and South Korea have successfully transformed their farming and construction sectors by using technology, making these fields more attractive to their younger generation.

Beyond modernisation, we must reform how we educate and train our people. This is where Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) becomes critical. TVET can equip Malaysians with essential skills such as machinery operation, welding, smart farming techniques, and industrial maintenance.

If we align TVET programmes with the actual needs of industries, young Malaysians will be better prepared to take on these roles. It is also important to change how society views these jobs.

Recognising TVET graduates as skilled professionals

TVET graduates should be recognised as skilled professionals who are valuable to the economy. Clear career paths, work-based learning, fair pay, and opportunities for growth will help these sectors become more appealing.

In addition, offering proper incentives, such as competitive salaries, insurance coverage, and lifelong learning opportunities, can motivate locals to join and remain in these industries.

Public awareness campaigns can also play a part in changing outdated mindsets and showing that these jobs are meaningful and respected.

If Malaysia truly wants to reduce its reliance on foreign labour, we must take action now. By modernising industries and strengthening TVET education, we can build a skilled Malaysian workforce that is proud to drive the nation’s economic progress.

-- BERNAMA

Assoc Prof Dr Wan Sallha Yusoff and Ahmad Nizam Che Kasim are lecturers with the Faculty of Business and Communication, Universiti Malaysia Perlis.