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Miti: Semiconductor workers see 20pct pay jump after upskilling programmes

Miti: Semiconductor workers see 20pct pay jump after upskilling programmes

KUALA LUMPUR: Workers who took part in upskilling programmes for the semiconductor industry have enjoyed pay rises of up to 20 per cent, with more than half now earning over RM3,000 a month, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) said.
These initiatives, led by bodies like Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST) and TalentCorp, are part of the ministry's efforts to equip local talent for high-value sectors and have trained over 13,000 skilled workers so far.
"This collaboration not only meets industry needs but also benefits participants. It shows that strategic talent development yields tangible results in income improvement and workforce competitiveness," Miti said in a statement issued in conjunction with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
It said the training efforts are tied to Malaysia's broader ambition to become a regional semiconductor hub. Among the initiatives in place are IC MyChipStart, the Selangor IC Design Park, Silicon Island in Penang and the Sama Jaya High-Tech Park in Sarawak.
Beyond talent development, Miti also revealed that RM22.9 billion worth of Green Investments had been approved as of March 2025 under the Green Investment Strategy (GIS), covering 1,492 projects nationwide.
These projects are expected to create 9,199 jobs, contributing to Malaysia's long-term sustainable development goals under the 13MP.
The GIS focuses on seven key areas, including renewable energy and the circular economy, aimed at boosting green competitiveness and achieving national carbon reduction targets.
Of the RM611 billion allocated under 13MP, RM227 billion has been set aside for the economic sector. Miti is tasked with implementing several key policies, including the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, the National Semiconductor Strategy, the National Investment Aspirations and the national i-ESG framework.
To ensure accountability and timely implementation, Miti said it will enhance monitoring through the Policy Implementation Plan Monitoring System, supported by mechanisms such as the Miti Report Card and the Delivery Management Unit under NIMP 2030.
"Miti is fully committed to driving the strategic policies of 13MP to position Malaysia as a global potential driver," said minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
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