Malaysia is en route to becoming a high-income nation, and leading its journey is Greater KL.
Malaysia's talent pool is known for its future-ready edge as it moves up to 26th position out of 88 countries in the Global Talent Competitiveness Index 2020 (GTCI 2020) — two spots higher than its 28th ranking in 2019.
InvestKL, an investment promotion agency under the International Trade and Industry Ministry focused on attracting multinationals and fast-growing companies into Greater KL, has introduced Fit4Work, a programme that aims to increase the quality and competitiveness of Malaysian graduates, with potential job placements with multinational companies, government-linked companies, and large corporations within the services industry.
Launched on April 6 last year, the programme aims to nurture a quality, innovative and knowledgeable workforce to drive the country's economic growth to a higher level while creating highly skilled employment opportunities.
Participants will undergo a curated three-month programme that prepares them for the regional services industry, equipped with essential skill sets which include leadership skills, global knowledge, and exposure to new industries, such as IR4.0, digitalisation, and automation.
InvestKL chief executive officer Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli said: "Fit4Work was designed to support the nation's agenda towards building a pool of globally competitive Malaysian talent. We have active collaboration with industry players and work very closely with public and private local universities.
"It is also positive to note that as of last year, 76 per cent of the Fit4Work graduates have been employed by top corporations.
"It is hoped that with the existence of these various talent pools, global companies will be able to leverage these talents and capabilities to expand their services in Greater KL, thus making the city a regional centre for business growth and development in Asia."
Participants praised the programme as the training sessions provided them with much-needed skills to set themselves apart in the job market.
Universiti Putra Malaysia graduate Fatin Ahza Rosli, 26, was among the first batch of participants. She said the unique programme taught her many essential skills.
"The training provided was very relevant for young graduates. This is the platform where we can make ourselves better skilled. I hope that this programme will be continued in the future so that more young talents out there can grab this opportunity."
Woo Jiun Hiao, 24, from University Tunku Abdul Rahman said Fit4Work had an excellent programme structure that encouraged active participation and discussions. "The trainers are all professionals with years of industry experience under their belt."
Another participant, Navintran Vadivelu, 23, from Nottingham University said the programme strengthened his confidence in communicating and taught him how to convey ideas eloquently to an audience. "These skills are necessary for my career pathway that involves governance and governmental policy".