Malaysia's unemployment rate drops to 2.9% on TVET focus, says Deputy PM Zahid Hamidi

Malaysia's unemployment rate has seen a significant decline, dropping to 2.9% last year from 3.2% in 2024. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted this positive development, attributing it to the government's ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing skills through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

"Previously, there was unemployment, but now there are job opportunities, many in technical fields where training is provided by TVET institutions," Ahmad Zahid stated at the Johor-level Skills Department (Kemas) Skills Day opening ceremony. He emphasized that these efforts are successfully producing skilled technical experts.

The Deputy Prime Minister also noted the remarkable success of TVET graduates under the Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), reporting a 99.5% employability rate. He further mentioned that Kemas contributes significantly by training individuals in various skills like sewing, hairdressing, cooking, and computer literacy. Graduates are encouraged to pursue entrepreneurship to boost the local economy.

Ahmad Zahid attributed these successes to the sincere and diligent planning by the ministry, relevant departments, and agencies for the rakyat's welfare. He instructed Kemas to prepare a briefing paper on the department's achievements for presentation to the Cabinet.