KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 19): The employability rate of graduates from technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes has now reached an average of 94.5%, highlighting the growing demand for skilled workers, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Zahid, who is also the rural and regional development minister, added that graduates from TVET institutions under Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) recorded an even higher employability rate of 98.7%.

He noted that the number of students enrolling in TVET programmes increased last year to over 423,000, compared with 407,000 in 2023.

The implementation of various TVET enhancement measures by the National TVET Council (MTVETN) has shifted the attitude and sentiments of parents and students, leading to greater trust in TVET.

"The government is committed to modernising TVET, particularly through digitalisation, by upgrading digital infrastructure, incorporating artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things in learning technology, and expanding professional training for educators," he said.

He said this when winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address on behalf of the Rural and Regional Development Ministry in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday.

Zahid, who also chairs the MTVETN, said that under the National TVET Policy 2030, the government is strengthening institutions and industry-based curricula, enhancing educators' skills, increasing industry involvement in training, and modernising teaching tools to ensure TVET graduates remain competitive in the job market.

In line with these efforts, the Code of Practice for TVET Programme Accreditation (COPTPA) has been introduced to ensure that TVET courses meet industry standards and requirements.

On a separate matter, Zahid said that since October 2023, the Federal Land Development Authority (Felda) had raised the minimum income rate for settlers from RM120 per acre to RM150 per acre to help offset the rising cost of living.

He added that the amount represents net income after deducting operating costs, debts and contributions.

Additionally, he said the government is working on a housing programme for Felda’s new generation by securing special allocations to enable more settlers’ descendants to own homes.

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