Stop hunting for jobs, start creating them, minister tells TVET grads as 97pc find work

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 12 — The Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) offers opportunities for graduates with disabilities, including those with autism, to enter the workforce after finishing their studies at Youth and Sports Skills Training Institutes (ILKBS). Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, KBS Minister, highlighted that the ministry keeps track of ILKBS graduates and alumni every year, with the majority securing jobs in the industry, private, and public sectors.

"Our goal is to have at least one per cent of persons with disabilities in the public service," he declared. At Menara KBS, the ministry provides employment opportunities for them, such as running a cafe and offering services. It had 4,155 graduates in 2026, 130 of whom had disabilities or autism. ILKBS focuses 20 per cent of its curriculum on character development and identity, while the remaining 80 per cent covers skills and community involvement.

KBS plans to expand TVET partnerships, particularly in automotive and electrical sectors with high demand, and anticipates more MoUs to be signed. Dr Taufiq urged graduates not to limit themselves to domestic job opportunities but to explore the Asean region, which has a population of 700 million. Muhammad Haffiz Rahim, the Overall Best Graduate Award recipient, said the recognition was a cherished moment and motivated him to further develop his skills and give back to his family.