Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its workforce and establish world-class Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions took a significant step forward with a strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) and Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
This partnership aims to integrate advanced technologies and infrastructure into the nation’s TVET ecosystem, aligning with Malaysia’s digital ambitions and future workforce needs.
The partnership was formalised on Tuesday (17 December) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchange between Michael Zhuang, vice president of Enterprise Business Group Huawei Malaysia, and Ts Kamaruzaman bin Hj. Md. Ali, deputy director general of the Manpower Department (JTM) under KESUMA. The ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of Human Resources; Datuk Rospiagos bin Taha, director general of the Manpower Department; and Simon Sun, CEO of Huawei Malaysia.
The collaboration will see the establishment of the first TVET Huawei Learning Centre at Institut Latihan Perindustrian (ILP) Kuala Lumpur, offering certified courses in telecommunications technologies.
Huawei instructors will lead the training initially, with JTM trainers undergoing certification to jointly deliver the modules. The first batch of 2,000 trainees, including TVET students, industry engineers, and educators, will receive hands-on training on Huawei equipment, earning globally recognised certifications that enhance their employability.
“The Government recognises the need to strengthen Malaysia’s skills training sector by establishing world-class, high-tech TVET institutions and equipping Malaysians with 21st-century skills in AI, digitalisation, and the green economy,” said YB Steven Sim. “Through this collaboration with Huawei Malaysia, KESUMA is putting words into action, leveraging Huawei’s expertise to elevate TVET institutions nationwide.”
Expanding TVET Horizons
Plans are underway to establish additional TVET Huawei Learning Centres at other JTM institutions, incorporating modules on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud computing. These centres will feature upgraded infrastructure, including high-speed 5G and Wi-Fi 7-enabled smart classrooms, data centres, and hybrid teaching capabilities.
Huawei Malaysia’s CEO, Mr Simon Sun, emphasised the importance of talent development, stating, “Huawei has created an ecosystem for upskilling, reskilling, and cross-skilling that can be adapted across different local markets. This partnership with JTM empowers the next generation of Malaysian talents with credentials valued by employers worldwide.”
The partnership extends beyond training, as Huawei will enhance network infrastructure at JTM campuses, starting with ILP Pasir Gudang and its Senai campus in Johor. These upgrades will pave the way for smart education platforms and AI-powered call centre capabilities, equipping Malaysia’s workforce for the demands of a digital economy.
The collaboration aligns with the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy 2030, which aims to modernise skills training and produce a globally competitive workforce. It also builds on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent discussions with Huawei’s leadership in Beijing, focusing on advancing Malaysia’s digital ambitions.
By integrating cutting-edge technologies and fostering public-private partnerships, the KESUMA-Huawei initiative underscores Malaysia’s commitment to preparing its workforce for a digitally driven future. With globally recognised certifications and advanced training, Malaysian talents are poised to thrive in high-value ICT roles, contributing to the nation’s economic resilience and competitiveness. 
