KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians must embrace lifelong learning as it can unlock their potential.
Speaking during a talk titled "Lifelong Learning: Embrace Your Potential", HRD Corp chief executive Datuk Shahul Dawood said everyone should be encouraged to continually "learn, unlearn and relearn" new capabilities, skills and knowledge.
"The only way for us to progress well as a nation is through embracing lifelong learning. As the world evolves, individuals must be willing to acquire new capabilities, skills and knowledge.
"The ability to acquire new skills and knowledge has become essential for personal development and economic growth.
"Embracing lifelong learning allows people to adapt to changing circumstances, improve their expertise, and remain competitive in their fields," he said before 500 participants on Sunday.
The talk was one of many programmes held in conjunction with the 2024 National Training Week (NTW).
NTW 2024, organised by HRD Corp under the Human Resources Ministry, was held nationwide for a week from June 24 to 30, with its closing event officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Bukit Jalil Stadium on June 30.
NTW 2024 had exceeded all its initial targets, featuring more than 65,000 courses, 736 high-impact events and activities, and attracted more than 375,000 enrolments.
Focus areas included life skills, future skills, creativity, innovation, financial literacy and sustainable development.
During the talk, Shahul shared how lifelong learning has shaped him today.
"About 30 years ago, when I was called up on stage, I was nervous. My hands sweated and I feared speaking.
"But what made me stronger is that every time I made mistakes, I learned from them. Every concentrated effort helped me improve. So, do not let fear hold you back.
"We all have our flaws and strengths. The key to success lies in overcoming weaknesses and leveraging strengths."
When met after the talk, Shahul reiterated HRD Corp's commitment to promoting lifelong learning.
"Lifelong learning isn't confined to traditional education. It is about embracing a mindset of perpetual learning, unlearning outdated practices and relearning new skills.
"We're fostering mass awareness to underscore the relevance of acquiring new skills.
"Lifelong learning is a continuous journey, and our engagement with stakeholders ensures sustained momentum in this transformative agenda.
"By fostering a culture of continuous learning and investing in education and skills development, Malaysia can unlock its human capital potential and sustain economic growth in an increasingly interconnected global economy."
He said NTW served as a platform for training providers to showcase their courses.
"These training providers were encouraged to offer courses that meet current and future workforce needs, aiming to enhance the nation's workforce development more efficiently."