KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 – The Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) is reviewing its existing training schemes to ensure they better meet Malaysia’s workforce needs and changing industry demands.
The agency is inviting employers, training providers and industry associations to share their views on the proposed changes.
The review aims to improve the quality of levy-funded training programmes. It also seeks to give more workers access to opportunities to upgrade their existing skills and learn new ones.
HRD Corp Focuses on Better Training Quality
HRD Corp said the review will place greater emphasis on training programmes that deliver practical workplace skills.
It will also prioritise courses that lead to recognised professional qualifications and industry certifications.
These programmes are expected to help employees improve their knowledge and meet current industry requirements.
In addition, HRD Corp is exploring ways to expand training support through career advancement scholarships and employment-related training schemes.
These initiatives aim to help workers improve their skills, advance their careers and increase their earning potential.
More Than 500 Stakeholders Have Joined Discussions
HRD Corp chief executive Datuk Shamir Aziz said the review is part of the organisation’s efforts to strengthen its original role under the Human Resources Development Corporation Act 2001.
He said the agency wants to ensure that levy-funded training delivers meaningful results and benefits more employees.
Shamir also stressed the importance of industry feedback in shaping the revised training framework.
More than 500 stakeholders have participated in consultation sessions since August 2026.
The discussions involve employers, training providers and industry associations. They will continue until the end of this year.
Review Supports Malaysia’s 2030 Skilled Workforce Target
The proposed changes also support the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) 2026–2030.
Malaysia aims to increase its skilled workforce to 35% by 2030.
To achieve this target, HRD Corp wants to ensure that training opportunities are relevant, accessible and aligned with employers’ needs.
Employers, training providers and industry representatives can review the proposed changes and submit their feedback through the official HRD Corp consultation platform:
Official consultation portal: https://hrdcorp.gov.my/training-framework-review
Existing Training Grant Application Timelines Remain in 2027
Separately, HRD Corp confirmed that the existing advance application timelines for training grants will remain unchanged throughout 2027.
Employers must submit applications according to the following requirements:
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Public training: At least three days before the training begins.
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In-house training: At least 14 days before the training begins.
The arrangement will give employers more flexibility when planning staff development programmes while maintaining compliance and governance requirements.
HRD Corp will review these application timelines after its digital self-verification system is completed in 2028.
Source : BERAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
