Mission to China Continues: TVET as the Driving Force of the Nation's Future

On 22 June 2025, another significant milestone was achieved in Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) through international collaboration. A group of 15 students from Politeknik Sultan Ahmad Shah (POLISAS), Kuantan, Pahang, accompanied by one escort officer, departed for Wuhan Technical College of Communication, China to undergo industry training in the field of Logistics Technology. The training will span two weeks, from 22 June to 5 July 2025.

This programme is part of the Malaysia-China Youth TVET Training (MCYTT) – MITRA, a strategic initiative that not only provides technical exposure but also instills global thinking, professional discipline, and international work culture among young Malaysians.

An Initiative Inspired by the Deputy Prime Minister

At the heart of this initiative lies the vision of YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, who championed the establishment of the Malaysia-China Institute (MCI). The institute serves as an official platform to foster strategic partnerships between Malaysia and China in the development of talent and skills through TVET.

MCI was not created as a symbolic gesture, but as a competitive and dynamic vehicle to identify, nurture, and elevate young Malaysian talents to the global stage.

The Role of MCI, BELIA MAHIR and TANG Education Group

Under the leadership of YB Manndzri Hj Nasib as Chairman of the MCI Advisory Board, every initiative by MCI is meticulously coordinated to ensure it supports the broader national agenda. The implementation of this programme involves two key strategic partners:

BELIA MAHIR – a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on youth development, especially those who are disconnected from mainstream education and employment.

TANG Education Group (China) – responsible for providing access to renowned training institutions, facilities, and industrial training modules in China.

Together, these three entities form a comprehensive ecosystem – one that not only delivers technical training but also builds leadership, discipline, and personal resilience among participants.

Training Field: Logistics Technology

The selection of Logistics Technology as the training focus is highly relevant given current industry needs and the nation’s aspiration to become a regional logistics hub. Participants will be exposed to:

• Modern warehouse management systems

• Automation in supply chain operations

• Smart software and logistics monitoring systems

• International best practices in logistics operations

Training in Wuhan – one of China’s major logistics centres – is expected to provide POLISAS students with invaluable insights and hands-on experience in real industrial settings.

The Nation’s Hopes Rest on These Young Individuals

These participants are not just representing their polytechnic; they are carrying the nation’s hope for a future workforce that is skilled, competitive, and globally attuned.

They also serve as ‘youth ambassadors of Malaysia’, showcasing the discipline, determination, and professionalism that define the spirit of our nation’s youth.

Programme Impact: Nation-Building Through Skills

The expected outcomes of this programme include:

• Increased graduate employability through enhanced technical capabilities

• Internationalisation of Malaysian TVET through exposure abroad

• Strengthening Malaysia–China relations through human capital development

• Transfer of industrial technology and practices to the local TVET ecosystem

This directly supports Malaysia’s long-term goal of becoming a high-income nation driven by innovation and productivity.

MITRA’s Role: Enabling Social Mobility for Youth

The success of this programme would not be possible without the support of the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA), the main funding agency. MITRA plays a crucial role in ensuring that opportunities like this are accessible to students from low-income (B40) families, particularly from the Indian community.

This initiative reflects a commitment to equal opportunity in personal and skills development, helping youth expand their horizons and break the cycle of poverty through education and training.

Conclusion: Advancing Through Skills

The training that POLISAS students are undergoing in Wuhan is not a short-term exposure—it marks the beginning of a larger transformation, both in their personal journey and in the landscape of Malaysia’s TVET education.

With strong backing from YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the strategic direction of YB Manndzri Hj Nasib, the implementation excellence of BELIA MAHIR, and the international collaboration with TANG Education Group, Malaysia is taking confident steps toward a brighter and more competitive future.

TVET is not a last resort – it is the smart path to real success.

“They are not merely trainees; they are the nation’s hope. Equipped with skills, discipline, and values, they will return as future leaders in strategic industries.”