KUALA LUMPUR: High-value industries and digitalisation should be emphasised in the country's human resource development efforts, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Malaysia must ensure that its workforce is prepared for the challenges of an evolving world, he said at the Human Resource Development (HRD) Awards 2024 here on Thursday (Nov 7) night.
He also stressed the importance of lifelong learning and continuous workforce development in an era of swift technological transformation.
“As we approach 2025, we find ourselves at the intersection of technological innovation and economic restructuring.
“Lifelong learning is no longer a choice, but a necessity. We must cultivate a mindset within our workforce that embodies the principles of ‘learn, unlearn, and relearn’,” he added.
Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation are transforming traditional jobs, making it essential for workers to stay ahead of these trends, he noted.
“Upskilling and reskilling must remain at the forefront of our efforts.
“I am heartened by the numerous organisations that have risen to this challenge, investing in employee development and, in return, strengthening Malaysia’s economic resilience and global standing,” said Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister.
The HRD Awards celebrate organisations that push the boundaries of talent development, driving Malaysia’s leadership in Asean.
This year, the HRD Awards recorded the highest number of submissions at 493, a significant rise from the 369 submissions last year.
Thirty-six awards were presented to organisations, training providers and trainers in four categories: the Human Resources Minister Award; the Human Resource Development Corporation Award; the Excellence Awards; and the Special Recognition Awards in Learning and Development.
The awards were decided by a panel of 14 judges; eight senior HRD Corp leaders and six external industry experts from the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), SME Corporation Malaysia (SME Corp), Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), The National Tech Association of Malaysia (Pikom), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC).
The evaluation process consisted of three stages: a preliminary review by the HRD Corp evaluation team, internal and external panellist reviews, and on-site evaluations at the finalists' premises.
HRD Corp chairman Datuk Abu Huraira Abu Yazid and chief executive officer Datuk Wira Shahul Dawood also attended the ceremony.
