KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has lauded the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma) for the successful implementation of National Training Week (NTW), describing the initiative as a key platform in advancing lifelong learning and workforce development.
In a statement, MEF said NTW has become an important national initiative that promotes skills enhancement, talent development and greater workforce preparedness amid rapid technological changes.
The federation said the programme reflects the government’s commitment to building a highly skilled, adaptable and future-ready workforce capable of meeting the demands of an increasingly competitive and technology-driven economy.
Through NTW, Malaysians are provided with free access to learning and upskilling opportunities, with key focus areas including artificial intelligence (AI), science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), technical and vocational education and training (TVET), digitalisation, sustainability and innovation.
MEF said continuous learning and skills upgrading are no longer optional but have become essential strategies for businesses seeking to improve productivity, innovation, resilience and long-term competitiveness.
As Malaysia moves towards becoming a high-income, knowledge-based economy, the federation stressed that employers must be supported in their efforts to invest consistently in human capital development.
MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the organisation fully supports NTW as a strategic initiative to cultivate a culture of continuous learning among Malaysians.
“MEF fully supports National Training Week as a strategic national initiative that encourages a culture of continuous learning and skills development among Malaysians. MEF congratulates the YB Datuk Seri R. Ramanan Minister of Human Resources for successfully mobilising stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to make training more accessible and relevant to the needs of industry.”
He added that rapid advancements in digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation and emerging technologies are reshaping the world of work at an unprecedented pace.
“The rapid advancement of digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation and emerging technologies is transforming the world of work at an unprecedented pace. National Training Week provides an excellent platform for employees and employers alike to embrace lifelong learning and prepare for the jobs and industries of the future.”
Syed Hussain said the success of NTW highlights the importance of close cooperation between the government, employers, industry associations, training providers, educational institutions and workers.
“Human capital remains Malaysia’s most valuable asset. The development of a skilled, productive and agile workforce requires a whole-of-nation approach. MEF is encouraged by the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen the national skills ecosystem and foster greater industry participation in workforce development initiatives.”
MEF also acknowledged the role played by Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan in promoting skills development, workforce empowerment and stronger engagement between industry stakeholders through NTW.
“MEF appreciates the dedication and commitment shown by YB Datuk Seri R. Ramanan in promoting the importance of lifelong learning and ensuring that training opportunities reach Malaysians from all walks of life. YB Datuk Seri’s efforts have contributed significantly towards raising awareness of the critical role of skills development in enhancing employability, productivity and national competitiveness.”
The federation said initiatives such as NTW would be crucial in supporting Malaysia’s ambition to become a leading regional hub for talent and innovation.
MEF urged employers across all sectors to continue prioritising employee training and development, while making full use of the programmes and opportunities offered through NTW and other human capital development initiatives.
The organisation added that it looks forward to continued collaboration with Kesuma and other stakeholders to strengthen Malaysia’s workforce capabilities and ensure the country remains competitive in an increasingly dynamic global economy. – July 28, 2026