Malaysia’s rate of skills-related underemployment decreased to 35.7% in the first quarter of 2025, down from 37.3% recorded in 2022. Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said the improvement reflects coordinated efforts across government agencies and ministries to reduce skills mismatches in the labour market.

Multiple Agencies Supporting Workforce Upskilling

According to Abdul Rahman, the Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) has been working through agencies such as TalentCorp, the Manpower Department (JTM), and the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) to build a workforce aligned with current industry demands.

He was responding to Mohd Misbahul Munir Masduki, Parit Buntar MP, who asked about measures to address labour market imbalances, particularly the high rate of underemployment linked to mismatched skills.

Abdul Rahman reported that 84,231 individuals participated in JTM training programmes throughout 2024. As of 30 June 2025, 48,833 individuals had completed training for the year to date.

Skills Standards Reviewed to Match Industry Needs

To ensure training remains relevant to employer expectations, the Skills Development Department (JPK) has reviewed and updated the National Occupational Skills Standards (NOSS). These revisions aim to ensure that certification frameworks continue to reflect current labour market requirements.

As of June 2025, there were 2,012 active NOSS standards available nationwide. These standards are supported by a network of 1,619 accredited training centres across Malaysia.

TalentCorp Explores Future Skills Through AI and Green Economy Research

TalentCorp has conducted an impact study focused on the influence of artificial intelligence, digitalisation, and the green economy on Malaysia’s labour force. Insights from this study contributed to the creation of the MyMAHIR.my digital portal.

To align training with employer priorities, the government also launched the MyMAHIR Future Skills Talent Council (FSTC). The council is led by industry representatives and plays a role in identifying priority skills areas and recommending training providers.

By June 2025, a total of 66 training programmes involving 2,336 participants were in progress under the FSTC’s coordination.

Over 3.5 Million Registered for National Training Week 2025

Abdul Rahman also highlighted the upcoming National Training Week (NTW) 2025, which is spearheaded by HRD Corp. The event will offer more than 72,000 training sessions across high-demand fields, including artificial intelligence, coding, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

Approximately 3.5 million participants from Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region have registered for NTW 2025. The sessions are delivered through physical, online, and hybrid formats to support nationwide access.

Abdul Rahman said the government continues to prioritise skills development as part of its long-term strategy to reduce underemployment and support Malaysia’s transition to a high-income digital economy.

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• TAGS:
• Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad
• Decline
• Kesuma
• Ministry of Human Resources
• Skills
• TalentCorp
• Underemployment