Over 106,000 apply for TVET programmes via UP_TVET platform, says DPM Zahid
Ahmad Zahid fields questions from the reporters during the press conference at BCCK. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad
KUCHING (May 16): More than 106,000 applications have been received for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes via the centralized UP_TVET platform since its launch a month and a half ago, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Patinggi Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Ahmad Zahid said the overwhelming response is a strong indicator of rising interest among students in technical education pathways.
'Up until the end of last month, we recorded around 94,153 applicants through the UP_TVET portal. Additionally, there were 12,173 more who applied for flexi TVET programmes, bringing the total to over 106,000 applicants in just a month and a half,' he told a press conference at the National Teachers' Day 2025 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today.
He attributed this encouraging trend to the Education Ministry's efforts in reforming the education ecosystem to place greater emphasis on TVET and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) streams.
He also noted that many applicants came from vocational colleges under the ministry.
'This is a significant achievement and shows that our awareness campaigns are not only reaching parents but also resonating strongly with students themselves,' he said, citing third-party validation showing that TVET graduates are earning salaries above the minimum wage and are highly sought-after in the job market.
Ahmad Zahid stressed that the government's push to expand technical education aligns with rising foreign and domestic direct investments in the country, especially in high-tech sectors that require a skilled workforce.
'Our nation's increasing FDI under the Madani government, along with growing domestic investments, has amplified the need for technically trained workers. TVET is key to meeting this demand,' he added.
He thanked the Education Ministry for its commitment to evolving the national education framework and commended Minister Fadhlina Sidek, her deputies, and all educators for their roles in driving this transformation.
He also voiced support for ongoing education reforms, including efforts to increase STEM participation and the introduction of initiatives such as the appointment of teacher assistants (MyPG) to reduce non-teaching duties.
'I strongly support the Education Ministry's efforts and will advocate for additional allocations to ensure our teachers are empowered and recognised,' he concluded. ahmad zahid hamidi application TVET
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