KUALA LUMPUR: The United Kingdom (UK) is committed to furthering its partnership with Malaysia to bolster the country's aspirations of elevating technical and vocational education and training (TVET) as a pivotal driver of economic growth.
British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Ailsa Terry emphasised the UK's dedication to enhancing accessibility to skills and education. Their aim is to ensure the global workforce is well-prepared for the future, while also promoting social inclusivity and gender equality.
Following the recent conclusion of the Skills for Prosperity Programme in Malaysia (SfP-Malaysia), which was managed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and financially supported by the UK government, the UK is actively seeking the next phase of collaboration with the Malaysian government in the realm of TVET.
Terry underlined the critical role of robust TVET in Malaysia's pursuit of its ambitions, as highlighted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The UK is eager to provide significant support in this regard, as she expressed during a press conference held after the SfP-Malaysia closing event.
In her role as the new British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Terry expressed her commitment to ensuring that all UK university campuses and schools in Malaysia actively contribute to the Malaysian government's efforts in achieving its TVET objectives. She noted that the UK is unique in having five universities in Malaysia, a testament to the strong educational ties between the two nations.
Regarding the SfP programme, it has been implemented globally in nine countries since 2019 with the primary aim of anticipating the future requirements of education and skills. Additionally, it seeks to promote equitable access to learning and economic empowerment for girls and women.
More than 12,000 Malaysians including students, workers, small- and medium-sized entrepreneurs, government officials, TVET institution staff and representatives from industry, academia and the private sector, have benefited from this programme.
Meanwhile, Panudda Boonpala, the ILO Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, highlighted the programme's impact on enhancing the quality of TVET, with a particular focus on integrating generic skills related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) into the TVET system. The programme has also played a crucial role in developing the digital talent development roadmap and National Skills Registry, both essential for facilitating Malaysia's digital transformation in TVET and addressing future skills needs.
Boonpala affirmed the commitment to ongoing engagement, leveraging technical expertise at the global and regional levels, and sharing experiences between Malaysia and other countries.