TVET dapat RM8 bilion, Belia Mahir mahu dana PTPK RM1 bilion

Belia Mahir has called for the Malaysian government to double funding for the Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK) to RM1 billion for the 2027 budget, as reported by Bernama. The president, Mohammad Rizan Hassan, emphasized that greater financial support is needed to ensure that the youth, especially those from low-income families, can afford skill training without financial constraints.

He stated that RM8 billion should be allocated for technical and vocational education and training (TVET), which should be accompanied by sufficient financial support for trainees to cover wages, accommodation, transportation, and living expenses during their training. In his statement, Rizan explained that while developing institutions, equipment, and training programs are crucial, the youth also need assistance to cover their salaries, housing, transportation, and living costs throughout their training.

During the presentation of the 2027 budget in the Dewan Rakyat today, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a budget of RM8 billion for TVET. Additionally, RM500 million will be provided through PTPK to finance trainees undertaking skill training programs. Rizan, also a member of the National TVET Council, stressed that funding for PTPK should prioritize areas with real job demands and recognized qualification pathways, including the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM), Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM), and Advanced Malaysian Skills Diploma (DLKM).

He also urged the government to specify the scope of funding, including living allowances, and to ensure that access is clearly based on the quality and outcome of training. Furthermore, he proposed incentives for employers who help employees repay their PTPK loans without reducing their wages.