KUALA LUMPUR (May 12): Malaysia-China Institute, which focuses on technical and vocational training, may require more than RM500 million in investments for equipment and training-related support.

China would supply training equipment, including electric vehicles already delivered for educational purposes, and more is expected to arrive in the near future for the programme also known as TVET, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The future landscape for TVET students is no longer centred on conventional education ecosystems but is increasingly focused on the so-called high-TVET that covers areas such as electric vehicles, batteries and equipment used in next-generation vehicles, he said.

Zahid was speaking to reporters after officiating at the Malaysia-China Forum on EV, Battery and New Energy Talent Development and Innovation 2026 on Tuesday.

The institute is operating out of existing GIATMARA facilities in Bagan Datuk, Perak, while a new campus is being developed on a 60-acre site. Once completed, the institute is expected to accommodate up to 2,000 students.

Establishment of the institute was first discussed during Zahid’s meeting with China's ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing in February this year.

China has been offering placements for Malaysian TVET students in new technology-related programmes since 2023 with 5,125 placements already taken up last year, and “we are now awaiting new intakes this year”, Zahid said.

The collaboration would not only involve technology development and knowledge sharing but also provide Malaysian students with greater opportunities for industrial exposure in China, he noted.

Zahid, who is also the rural and regional development minister, said stronger coordination involving the Education Ministry, Higher Education Ministry, National TVET Council and 12 related ministries would further deepen collaboration with China.