KUALA LUMPUR: The workforce's skills must be enhanced to boost Malaysia's competitiveness and reclaim its status as an Asian Tiger, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

He said focus should also be given to research and development (R&D).

"We are continuously improving the quality of our work. That is why we need skilled and knowledgable workers who are creative and innovative," he said.

He said this while speaking at the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Convocation Ceremony of Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK) here on Thursday (Aug 8).

At the ceremony, 380 IWK staff received certificates, including the SKM Level 3 Special Recognition Certificate, the National Dual Training System (SLDN), and the SKM Level 2 Award.

Meanwhile, IWK chairman Ahmad Johnie Zawawi, speaking at the same event, said the Malaysia Skills Certification programme introduced to IWK operational staff in 2019 proved IWK's commitment to optimising and producing more skilled staff.

"It is in line with the government's intention and target to transform the field of education and technical training into the new millennium in accordance with the challenges that require high skills and competence in order to improve the level of service efficiency of an organisation," he said. – Bernama

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/08/skills-of-malaysian-workforce-must-improve-to-regain-asian-tiger-status-says-fadillah