BATU KAWAN: The Education Ministry is implementing intervention programmes nationwide to encourage students to take up science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the interventions were carried out under the education reform agenda to ensure better improvements, especially in the context of STEM subjects.
"That is why programmes like today are very important, where we are roped in by the industry and other stakeholders.
"This is because increasing student participation in STEM activities also involves vocational college students and those in our technical secondary schools, who are studying subjects closely related to technical fields and engineering.
"Our children must be supported by trained counsellors to ensure that they receive full assistance when choosing STEM subjects," she said after moderating the Industry Network Forum Towards the Sustainability of the National Technical and Vocational Training (TVET) held at ViTrox campus here.
Fadhlina was asked about the low uptake of STEM subjects in Penang despite the state being known as the hub for the high-tech industry.
Earlier, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association board member Datin Anna Amalina Iman Baweh said she was informed by Fadhlina that Penang had only achieved 52 per cent of students taking up STEM.
"We are still far behind from achieving the 60-40 target for STEM students compared with the arts stream.
"Both STEM and TVET are essential for building a future-ready workforce, yet they often face misconceptions. STEM subjects may sometimes seem tough or less appealing, especially in a time when social media entices many youngsters to become influencers.
"This has led to a notable decline in students pursuing STEM fields and to a trend where graduates often opt for jobs outside their field of study.
"TVET, on the other hand, is still seen by some as a 'second choice'. The reality, however, is that TVET graduates are highly valued in high-tech industries, where practical skills and hands-on expertise are in high demand," she added.
At today's event, Fadhlina said Penang was the first state to hold such a forum, and the template would be extended nationwide.
"Today, we have conducted a very important programme that is significant to the direction and what we refer to as the nation's roadmap. We discussed specific resolutions, particularly with the industry.
"This is the first time a platform has been created to bring together industry expertise and speak directly to stakeholders in education, especially TVETeducation under the Education Ministry.
"Programmes like this gather industry leaders to explore their hopes, expectations, and what improvements are needed at the ministry, especially regarding TVET.
"We have taken full note of the insights and input from the panellists and those who participated during the Q&A session, which we will use to enhance TVET education in this country," she said.
Fadhlina said industries were evolving rapidly with technology and specific expertise.
She said there might be elements that were suitable to the ministry and others which were not.
"That is why we are implementing the expansion of synergistic partnerships to provide upskilling and reskilling experiences for our teachers.
"Many panellists touched on the need for our teachers to master the knowledge and skills relevant to the industry so they can effectively teach and prepare our students better," she said.