KUALA LUMPUR – The rollout of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) 2.0 programme marks a strategic move to equip Malaysians with skills in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cryptology, and energy transition, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
Speaking at the 2026 National TVET Day celebration in Putrajaya today, Anwar said the initiative aligns with technological advances while preventing the nation from being constrained by outdated mindsets and structures that could stifle economic growth.
“Traditionally, we have focused on conventional systems, but now we are exploring new fields, including Maahad Tahfiz. We are opening doors that were previously unreachable because we were still confined by old structures and thinking. Progress demands pathways through colleges, universities, and academic fields,” he said.
“Who spoke about AI 30 to 40 years ago? Perhaps one or two experts, but it was never a national narrative. Malaysia is now making it a national narrative and AI for the people, ensuring these facilities reach everyone,” Anwar added.
The Prime Minister, who is also the Finance Minister, highlighted the government’s approval to allocate up to RM50 million from the High-Impact Programme under the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK) to strengthen TVET 2.0.
“This fund allocation comes with conditions. Employers and industry players must collaborate closely with the government, particularly within the TVET Council, to ensure proper coordination. This will also enhance training programmes and exposure,” he said.
Under the 2026 Budget framework, the total allocation for PTPK is RM650 million.
Anwar further instructed all government training and research bodies to provide specialised programmes in emerging sectors for selected TVET students from July onwards. Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar has been tasked with coordinating these initiatives to strengthen student capabilities.
“At least 50 to 100 TVET students in each selected institution will receive early training in high-tech, emerging fields such as AI and crypto,” he said.
Anwar praised the extraordinary progress of Malaysia’s TVET system, crediting it to sound government policies and the commitment of Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chairs the National TVET Council.
“Our TVET performance has improved significantly. In Asean, TVET Malaysia is now regarded as a benchmark for how a nation can elevate technical training and is considered one of the leading systems in the region. This demonstrates that with clear policies, as I emphasised to Cabinet colleagues, success is achievable,” he said. – June 6, 2026