Sim Outlines The Three Paradoxes Of Our Labour Market

---

 
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is grappling with three major paradoxes in its labour market, presenting significant challenges that require attention, says Human Resources Minister Steven Sim (pic).
He said the first paradox is Malaysia’s low median wage, which remains out of alignment with its low unemployment rate.
The second paradox revolves around a mismatch between graduates’ qualifications and industry demand.
While industries report a dire need for skilled workers such as engineers and technicians – up to 60,000 additional workers – the country faces a high underemployment rate of 36.8%.
Many highly qualified individuals struggle to secure jobs that match their skills, Sim said after visiting the Federation of Trade Unions of Independent Statutory Bodies with Segregated Remuneration yesterday, Bernama reported.
He described the third paradox as the insufficient number of job opportunities to absorb the growing number of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) graduates.
To address these challenges, Sim emphasised the government’s commitment to improving workforce skills and bridging the gap between education and industry needs through the Madani Economy Framework.
Meanwhile, the government has also initiated efforts to mainstream TVET and skills training to prepare Malaysians for the challenges of a 21st-century economy, reports N. TRISHA.
“Beyond industry-specific training, we want to provide a generalised education platform for Malaysians to learn about AI (artificial intelligence), which can enhance their personal and professional lives, even when they are not doing technical jobs,” Sim said in an interview.
Recognising the growing impact of technological shifts, Sim noted that TalentCorp, an agency under the ministry, conducted a report on the effects of AI, digitalisation and the green economy on the Malaysian labour market.
“The report highlights that while 600,000 jobs may be affected by these changes, they won’t be lost. Instead, roles will evolve, and new opportunities will emerge,” he assured.
To support this transition, the ministry developed a portal, MyMahir.my, which allows workers to assess their roles and skills while providing links to training resources.
The platform even includes features for children under 15 to explore future career opportunities.
This year, Sim said the ministry plans to roll out extensive skills training across key sectors, including aerospace, electrical and electronics, ICT, medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
“Our study has identified 60 emerging roles, such as AI engineers, sustainability specialists and bioprocess engineers, which are pivotal to advancing Malaysia’s green and digital economy,” he said. - Star
For more information and self-assessment resources, visit mymahir.my.

---