This demonstrates the industry’s strong confidence in the institutes’ trainees, human resources minister Steven Sim said, according to a Bernama report.

“Some of those graduating secured jobs even before completing their training,” he said.

He said this was a testament to the competence and skills of the institutes’ graduates and indicated that the programmes offered are highly relevant and meet the demands of the industry.

Three of these industrial training institutes achieved almost 100% employability rates – Bukit Katil, Pasir Gudang and Mersing.

“You are the backbone of our country’s economic future. Investments are pouring in and skilled workers like you are in high demand,” Sim told graduates at the institute’s 27th  convocation ceremony in Bangi today.

“You will drive technology and high-value investments in Malaysia.”

He attributed the high employability to strategic collaborations with the industry.

A total of 147 agreements have been signed with industry partners, training institutions and government agencies.

Sim encouraged the graduates to become ambassadors for technical and vocational education and training and to inspire more young people to enter this field.

“The next generation needs to embrace TVET as it is crucial for Malaysia’s economic future,” he said.

At the ceremony, 6,954 trainees were awarded advanced diplomas, diplomas and certificates in various TVET fields, including electronics, welding, manufacturing, printing, transport, production, electrical maintenance and engineering services.

To date, the institute has produced 232,096 full-time workers.