Involve Private Sector In Higher Education Plan Says Bosses Group

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MEF president Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the private sector is the biggest employer of graduates from higher education institutions as it offers nearly 90% of employment opportunities in Malaysia.
PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has urged the government to incorporate input from the private sector in developing the Higher Education Plan 2025-2035.

MEF president Syed Hussain Syed Husman said doing so would effectively address graduate employability issues as the private sector offers nearly 90% of employment opportunities in Malaysia.
He also noted the importance of bridging the gap between academic knowledge and the skills required in the job market.
“The work culture in the private sector is distinct from the learning ecosystem in higher education institutions,” said Syed Hussain.
He added that incorporating soft skills and other values which the private sector prioritises will better prepare graduates for the workforce and enhance their effectiveness in the corporate world.
Collaboration with the private sector is also necessary to ensure a smooth transition for graduates from academia to employment without requiring significant additional training costs or time, he said.
On Monday, higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir said his ministry would not rely on foreign consultants to develop the Higher Education Plan 2025-2035.
Instead, Zambry said local experts had been brought together in a special committee to draft the plan, which is tailored to current needs and involves collaboration with various stakeholders.
Education expert Hasnah Toran from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia proposed that the plan provide opportunities for university students to gain global exposure, such as through international exchanges.
Apart from focusing on producing graduates who can become entrepreneurs rather than just employees, Hasnah said the plan should also ensure that individuals with disabilities have equitable access to higher education. - FMT

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