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Daily Express
28-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Career clusters: Your secret weapon
Published on: Monday, July 28, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jul 28, 2025 By: K Krishnan Text Size: 'I WANT to be a doctor… Or Maybe Not?' Raise your hand if you've ever heard something like: 'I MUST be an engineer, or my life is over!' 'If I don't become a lawyer, I've failed.' 'My parents said I should be an accountant, so… that's that.' Sound familiar? Many Malaysian students – and even adults – get fixated on one career path, convinced it's the only option. But what if I told you there's a smarter, more flexible way to explore careers without feeling trapped? Career Clusters – your new best friend in career planning! What Are Career Clusters? Career clusters are groups of related careers that share similar skills, interests, and industries. Instead of obsessing over one job (e.g., 'I must be a pilot!'), you explore an entire world of related careers (e.g., aviation, logistics, aerospace engineering, air traffic control). Think of it like a buffet – why limit yourself to just fried rice when there are noodles, satay, and desserts that might suit your taste better? Malaysia's education system often pushes students to pick a single path early (science vs. arts vs. technical), but career clusters help you see multiple doors instead of just one. How to Use Career Clusters Like a Pro Step 1: Find Your 'Big Category' (Cluster) There are 16 main career clusters (e.g., Health Science, Business, IT, and Arts). Start by asking: What subjects do I enjoy? (Biology? Coding? Drawing?) What tasks make me lose track of time? (Helping people? Solving problems? Designing? Example: If you love biology and want to be a doctor – great! But the Health Science cluster also includes: Nurses Pharmacists Medical researchers Nutritionists Physiotherapists Even medical illustrators (for those who love art + science!) See? One interest, MANY careers. Step 2: Mix & Match Your Skills Some careers blend multiple clusters. That's where the magic happens! Example: Love both tech and business? Go for digital marketing, fintech, and e-commerce. Enjoy art and engineering? Go for architecture, game design, and industrial design. Passionate about law AND helping people? Go for Human Rights Advocacy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Immigration Consultant. Step 3: Stay Flexible (Because Life Happens!) You might start in one career but later discover a better fit within the same cluster. Real-life Example: A friend studied engineering but realised she loved project management more. Now, she works in construction management – still in the same cluster but a different role! Why This Beats the 'One Career Obsession' Mindset 1. More Options, Less Stress l If you don't get into medical school, you're not doomed. You could thrive as a physiotherapist, lab tech, or public health officer instead! 2. 'Future-Proof' Your Career Jobs evolve! AI, automation, and new industries emerge. A cluster mindset helps you adapt without starting from scratch. 3. Follow Your Heart (Without Starving!) Love art but scared of being a starving artist? The arts cluster includes graphic design, UX/UI, animation, and art therapy – jobs that pay well! Fun Challenge: The '5-Career Game' Pick one career you're fixated on (e.g., 'I want to be a teacher!'). Now, find FIVE related careers in its cluster. Example (Education & Training Cluster): School Counsellor Corporate Trainer Education Policy Analyst Curriculum Developer Museum Educator See? Teaching isn't the only way to educate! Final Advice: Explore, Don't Panic! You're not locked into one destiny. Career clusters give you freedom to explore while staying in a field you enjoy. So, next time someone says, 'What's your dream job?' Smile and say: 'I have a dream cluster – and I'm exploring my options!' Your future self will thank you. Now, go conquer those career possibilities! What do you think? Share your thoughts in this column. Drop us a message! Share your thoughts with us at: [email protected]


Daily Express
23-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Career clusters: Finding your path when plans change
Published on: Monday, June 23, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 23, 2025 By: K Krishnan Text Size: FOR MANY students in Sabah, receiving your tertiary education offer can be exciting but also confusing. You might have gotten the course you wanted, or perhaps you were offered something different. If you're feeling unsure about your future, don't worry! Many successful professionals didn't follow a straight path. Instead, they explored career clusters – groups of related jobs that share similar skills and interests. This article will help you discover how to align your passion with different career options, even if your original plan didn't work out. Let's explore how you can build a fulfilling career by focusing on skills and interests rather than just a single job title. What are career clusters? Career clusters are groups of jobs that are related in skills, knowledge, and industries. Instead of thinking, 'I must be a doctor,' you could explore the health science cluster, which includes nursing, physiotherapy, medical lab technology, and even health administration. If you love business but didn't get into finance, you could explore the Business & Marketing cluster, which includes entrepreneurship, sales, human resources, and digital marketing. Advertisement The key idea is: Your passion can lead to many careers – not just one. How to choose a career cluster 1. Identify your interests Ask yourself: Do I enjoy working with people, data, or things? Am I creative, analytical, or hands-on? What school subjects do I enjoy most? 2. Match interests to clusters Here are some common career clusters with Sabah-specific opportunities: A. Health Sciences Passion: Helping people, science, medicine. Possible Careers: Nursing (hospitals, private clinics), Pharmacy (retail, hospitals), Medical lab technologist (diagnostic labs), Physiotherapy (sports clinics, rehabilitation centres), Health administration (hospital management) Example: If you wanted to be a doctor but didn't get into medicine, consider nursing or medical imaging – you'll still save lives! B. Business & Marketing Passions: Leadership, money, selling ideas. Possible Careers: Entrepreneurship (start a small business), Digital marketing (social media, e-commerce), Human resources (recruitment, training), Accounting & finance (banks, firms) Example: If you dreamed of being a CEO but got into a diploma in marketing, you're still on track – many CEOs start in sales! C. Information Technology (IT) Passion: Problem-solving, computers, innovation. Possible Careers: Software development (app creation, remote jobs), Cybersecurity (banks, government), Data analysis (businesses need data experts!), IT support (every company needs tech help) Example: If you love gaming, consider game design or IT support – both need tech skills! D. Engineering & Technical Skills Passion: Building, fixing, designing. Possible Careers: Civil engineering (construction in Sabah's growing cities), Electrical engineering (power plants, renewable energy), Automotive technology (car repair, machinery), Aircraft maintenance (Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia) Example: If you love cars but didn't get into mechanical engineering, automotive technology is a hands-on alternative. E. Arts & Communication Passion: Creativity, writing, performing. Possible Careers: Journalism (newspapers, online media), Graphic design (advertising, freelancing), Teaching (English, art, music), Tourism & hospitality (Sabah's hotels & resorts need guides!) Example: If you love writing but didn't study literature, journalism or content writing are great options. F. Agriculture & Environment (Great for Sabah!) Passion: Nature, animals, sustainability. Possible Careers: Agribusiness (palm oil, aquaculture), Forestry & conservation (national parks, NGOs), Marine biology (coral reefs, ecotourism), Environmental science (green energy, waste management) Example: If you love animals, veterinary studies or wildlife conservation could be your path. What if you're offered a different course? Sometimes, you might get a course you didn't expect. Don't panic! Many skills are transferable. Example 1: You wanted law but got business administration. Opportunity: Business law, corporate compliance, or HR roles need legal knowledge. Example 2: You wanted engineering but got IT. Opportunity: IT is used in engineering (robotics, smart systems). Example 3: You wanted medicine but got nutrition. Opportunity: Become a dietician or work in health education. The key is to adapt and find connections. Next steps for students Research – Look up job demand in Sabah (e.g., tourism, oil & gas, IT). Talk to Professionals – Ask people in different jobs what they do. Upskill – Take online courses (Coursera, Google Certificates). Internships – Gain experience while studying. Final thought: Your career is a journey Not getting your 'dream course' doesn't mean your dream career is over. Many successful Sabahans started in one field and moved to another. Career clusters help you see options you never knew existed. So, explore, stay curious, and remember – your passion can lead to many great careers! Note: Would you like help choosing a career cluster? Drop us a message! Share your thoughts with us at: [email protected]


Daily Express
16-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
The fastest vanishing careers
Published on: Monday, June 16, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 16, 2025 By: K Krishnan Text Size: LAST WEEK we looked at the fastest growing careers. This week let us look at the fast vanishing careers. Some careers that were once considered stable and lucrative are disappearing at an alarming artificial intelligence (AI), and shifting economic demands are making certain jobs obsolete. Advertisement For students, youths, and even parents guiding their children's career choices, understanding these trends is crucial to avoid investing time and money in a dying profession. This article explores the fastest-vanishing careers in Malaysia and globally, why they are declining, and what future-proof alternatives exist. Jobs Being Replaced by Technology # Cashiers and Retail Sales Assistants With the rise of self-checkout kiosks, e-commerce and cashless payments (like GrabPay, Touch 'n Go eWallet and Boost), the need for human cashiers is shrinking. Supermarkets like AEON and Tesco are increasingly adopting automated systems, reducing the demand for traditional cashiers. Alternative Careers: Digital payment specialists, e-commerce managers, or customer experience designers. # Data Entry Clerks AI and software can now input, sort, and manage data faster and more accurately than humans. Many companies in Malaysia are using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and robotic process automation (RPA) to handle paperwork. Alternative Careers: Data analysts, cybersecurity experts, or AI trainers. # Telemarketers Robocalls and AI chatbots (like those used by banks and telcos) are replacing human telemarketers. Customers also prefer digital communication (WhatsApp, email) over unsolicited sales calls. Alternative Careers: Digital marketing specialists, social media managers, or customer relationship managers. Jobs Disrupted by Digital Transformation # Print Journalists and Newspaper Deliverers As news shifts online, print media is declining. Many Malaysian newspapers have reduced circulation or moved to digital-only formats. Similarly, newspaper delivery jobs are vanishing as readers get news from platforms like Malay Mail Online, The Star Online and social media. Alternative Careers: Content creators, digital journalists, or multimedia reporters. # Travel Agents With websites like Expedia, Agoda, and AirAsia's direct booking options, fewer people rely on travel agents. Even traditional tour operators are struggling as DIY travel planning becomes easier. Alternative Careers: Travel bloggers, digital nomad consultants, or experience curators for niche tourism (e.g., eco-tourism). # Bank Tellers Online banking (Maybank2u, CIMB Clicks) and ATMs have reduced the need for human tellers. Banks are now focusing more on digital financial services. Alternative Careers: Fintech specialists, financial advisors, or blockchain developers. Manual and Routine Jobs at Risk # Factory Assembly Line Workers Automation and robotics (like those in Penang's electronics factories) are replacing repetitive manual jobs. Even car manufacturers like Proton and Perodua use robotic arms for precision tasks. Alternative Careers: Robotics technicians, industrial engineers, or automation specialists. # Drivers (Taxi, Lorry, Delivery) While still in demand now, autonomous vehicles and drones threaten driving jobs. Companies like Tesla and Google are testing self-driving cars, while drone deliveries (like those experimented with by Pos Malaysia) could replace couriers. Alternative Careers: Logistics analysts, drone operators, or EV (electric vehicle) technicians. # Postal Workers With emails, e-bills, and digital signatures, traditional mail is declining. Pos Malaysia has shifted focus to parcel deliveries (thanks to Shopee and Lazada), but automation may further reduce human roles. Alternative Careers: Supply chain managers, last-mile delivery coordinators. Traditional Skilled Jobs Under Threat # Librarians With Google, e-books, and digital archives, physical libraries are less critical. Schools and universities are investing in digital resources instead. Alternative Careers: Digital archivists, information curators, or research analysts. # Typists and Secretaries Voice-to-text software (like Google Docs' voice typing) and virtual assistants (Siri, Alexa) are reducing the need for human typists. Many executive tasks are now automated. Alternative Careers: Executive assistants with tech skills, virtual office managers. # Traditional Printers and Typesetters Digital publishing and 3D printing are making old-school printing presses irrelevant. Even small businesses now use Canva and online printing services. Alternative Careers: Graphic designers, 3D printing technicians. What Should Students and Youths Do 1. Upskill in Technology Jobs in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and programming (Python, Java) are booming. Free courses on Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning can help. 2. Focus on Creative and Critical Thinking Roles Jobs requiring human empathy (psychologists, teachers) or creativity (designers, writers) are harder to automate. 3. Consider Green and Sustainable Careers Renewable energy (solar, EV), environmental science, and sustainable business are growing fields in Malaysia. 4. Be Adaptable The job market will keep evolving. Lifelong learning is key. Advice for Parents Encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education but also soft skills. Support your child's interest in emerging fields like AI, digital marketing, or green energy. Avoid pushing them into 'safe' careers that may not exist in 10 years. Conclusion The job market is transforming rapidly, and some careers won't survive the next decade. By staying informed and adaptable, Malaysian students and youths can future-proof their careers. Instead of fearing automation, they should leverage technology to build sustainable, high-demand careers. For parents, the best support is guidance – not insistence on outdated career paths. The future belongs to those who prepare for it today. Note: What vanishing careers worry you the most? Share your thoughts with us at: [email protected]


Daily Express
26-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
A roadmap for students after SPM: Long-term and short-term career goals
Published on: Monday, May 26, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 26, 2025 By: K Krishnan Text Size: CONGRATULATIONS! You've just received your SPM results, and now it's time to plan for the future. Whether you're excited, nervous, or unsure about what comes next, setting short-term and long-term career goals can help you stay focused and of your career like a journey. Short-term goals are like the small steps you take every day – such as choosing a course or gaining a new skill. Long-term goals are the big dreams – like becoming a doctor, engineer, or entrepreneur. In this article, we'll explore how to set both types of goals, with real-life examples to inspire you. Let's get started! Why Setting Career Goals is Important Without a plan, it's easy to feel lost. Imagine driving without a GPS – you might end up going in circles! Goals help you: Stay motivated Make better decisions Measure your progress Achieve success faster Advertisement Now, let's break down short-term and long-term goals with examples. Short-Term Career Goals (1-3 Years) These are the immediate steps you take after SPM. They help build your skills and experience. Choose the Right Course or Diploma Your SPM results determine your next step. Do you want to: Continue Form 6 (STPM)? Good if you prefer a slower pace before university. Join a diploma programme? Faster than a degree, and you can work sooner. lEnrol in a Skill Certificate (e.g., TVET)? Great for hands-on jobs like electricians or chefs. Example: Amin scored well in science but prefers hands-on work. Instead of Form 6, he chooses a diploma in electrical engineering. After 2 years, he can work as a technician while studying part-time for a degree. Gain Work Experience (Part-Time Jobs or Internships) Even small jobs teach responsibility and teamwork. Work at a café (improves communication). Intern at a company (learns office skills) Freelance (e.g., graphic design, tutoring) Example: Lisa wants to be a journalist. While waiting for university, she writes articles for a local blog. This builds her portfolio and helps her get into mass communication. Improve Key Skills Employers look for soft skills like: Communication (public speaking, writing) Leadership (join clubs, volunteer) Tech skills (basic coding, Microsoft Office) Example: Rahman joins a debate club to improve his confidence. Later, this helps him ace university interviews. Long-Term Career Goals (5-10 Years or More) These are your big dreams. They take time, but short-term goals help you get there. Get a Professional Degree Some careers need higher education: Doctor (MBBS) – 5-6 years of study + training Engineer (Degree + Professional Certification) Lawyer (LLB + CLP) Example: Siti dreams of becoming a paediatrician. After SPM, she takes A-Levels and then enters medical school. Her short-term goal? Passing each semester. Her long-term goal? Opening her own clinic. Start a Business Not everyone wants a 9-to-5 job. Entrepreneurship is a great long-term goal. Learn business skills (marketing, finance) Start small (sell online, offer services). Expand over time. Example: Jason loves baking. After SPM, he takes a culinary course. By 25, he opens a small bakery. By 30, he has two branches. Work Abroad or in a Top Company Some careers require international experience. Study overseas (scholarships or loans) Work for multinational companies (improve language skills). Example: Maria wants to work in Singapore as an IT specialist. After diploma, she gets a degree, then applies for jobs there. Her short-term goal? Learning coding. Her long-term goal? Earning a high salary abroad. How to Stay on Track with Your Goals 1. Write Them Down People who write goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. 2. Break Big Goals into Smaller Steps Want to be an engineer? Step 1: Pass SPM with good science grades. Step 2: Enrol in a Foundation/Diploma Step 3: Complete degree Step 4: Get licensed Find a Mentor Talk to someone in your dream job. They can guide you. Be Flexible Plans change – and that's okay! If one path doesn't work, try another. Final Advice: Start Now! Don't wait for the 'perfect time'. The best time to plan your career is today. If you're unsure, try internships or short courses. If you're ambitious, set big goals but take small steps. If you fail, learn and try again. Remember: even the most successful people started where you are now. Your SPM results are just the beginning – not the end. So, what's your first short-term goal? And where do you see yourself in 10 years? Start planning, take action, and chase your dreams! Career Tips: Would you like help choosing a course or career path? Write to [email protected]. Your future is in your hands – make it amazing!


Daily Express
19-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Roadmap to success
Published on: Monday, May 19, 2025 Published on: Mon, May 19, 2025 By: K Krishnan Text Size: Whether you choose university, vocational training, or work, what matters most is taking action today. The world is full of opportunities – go out there and grab yours! CONGRATULATIONS! If you've just received your SPM results, you're standing at a crucial crossroads in life. The choices you make now – whether to pursue further studies, enter vocational training, or join the workforce – will shape your future. Advertisement But how do you ensure you're making the right decisions? The answer lies in developing a long-term career plan. A career plan isn't just about choosing a job; it's about designing a fulfilling, sustainable future. It helps you set goals, identify opportunities, and stay motivated even when challenges arise. Whether you dream of becoming an engineer, entrepreneur, teacher, or chef, a solid plan will keep you on track. Why a Long-Term Career Plan Matters Advertisement Imagine setting off on a road trip without a map or GPS. You might eventually reach your destination, but you'll waste time, take wrong turns, and face unnecessary stress. A career plan works like a roadmap – it gives you direction, helps you avoid detours, and keeps you focused on your goals. Many successful people – from business leaders to artists – attribute their achievements to careful planning. For example: Tony Fernandes, the founder of AirAsia, didn't just stumble into aviation. He studied finance, worked in the music industry, and then strategically entered the airline business with a clear vision. Dr Jemilah Mahmood, a renowned Malaysian medical expert, planned her career in medicine and humanitarian work, leading her to global recognition with the United Nations. These individuals took control of their careers by planning, adapting, and persevering. Step 1: Discover Your Interests and Strengths Before choosing a career path, ask yourself: What subjects do I enjoy most? (Science, arts, business, etc.) What am I naturally good at? (Problem-solving, creativity, communication, technical skills) What kind of work environment suits me? (Office, outdoors, remote, hands-on) If you love science and problem-solving, careers in engineering, medicine, or IT might suit you. If you're creative, fields like design, media, or writing could be a better fit. Example: Aina, an SPM leaver, loved biology and helping people. She researched careers in healthcare and decided to pursue nursing – a field with strong job prospects and personal fulfilment. Step 2: Explore Career Options Once you know your interests, research different careers. Some ways to explore: Talk to professionals: Reach out to people in fields you're curious about. Internships & part-time jobs: Gain hands-on experience. Education pathways: Compare diplomas, degrees, and vocational courses. Example: After SPM, Hafiz was unsure about his path. He attended a career fair, spoke to a software engineer, and realised his passion for coding. He enrolled in a computer science diploma program. Step 3: Set Short-Term and Long-Term Goals A career plan works best when broken into smaller, achievable steps: Short-term goals (1-3 years): Complete a diploma/degree. Gain internship experience. Develop key skills (e.g., public speaking, programming). Long-term goals (5-10 years): Secure a managerial role. Start a business. Specialise in a high-demand field (e.g., AI, renewable energy). Example: Maria wanted to be a teacher. Her short-term goal was to get a degree in education. Her long-term goal? Opening a learning centre for underprivileged kids. Step 4: Choose the Right Education & Training Your SPM results open multiple doors: Public/Private Universities– Degrees in various fields. Polytechnics & Community Colleges– Practical diplomas. Vocational Training (e.g., ILP, KKTM, TVET) – Hands-on skills in trades like mechanics, hospitality, or electrical work. Professional Certifications – Short courses in digital marketing, coding, or accounting. Career tips: Some careers require specific qualifications (e.g., medicine, law), while others value experience and skills (e.g., entrepreneurship, creative arts). Step 5: Gain Experience & Build Skills Employers don't just look at grades – they want skills and experience. Ways to build them: Internships or apprenticeships – Test-drive a career before committing. Freelancing/Part-time Jobs – Develop work ethic and industry knowledge. Online Courses – Learn coding, graphic design, or languages for free/cheap (Coursera, Udemy). Clubs & Competitions – Leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving experience. Example: Amir did freelance graphic design while studying. By graduation, he had a portfolio that landed him a job at an advertising firm. Step 6: Stay Flexible & Adapt The job market evolves fast. New industries emerge (e.g., AI, green energy), while others fade. Stay updated by: Following industry trends (news, podcasts, webinars). Upskilling – Learning new technologies or skills. Networking – Connecting with professionals in your field. Example: When the pandemic hit, many shifted to digital careers. Those with IT or digital marketing skills adapted quickly. Step 7: Overcome Challenges & Stay Motivated Not every step will be easy. You might face: Financial barriers– Scholarships, part-time work, and government aid (e.g., PTPTN) can help. Self-doubt – Surround yourself with supportive mentors and friends. Career changes – It's okay to switch paths if your interests evolve. Success Story: Zul worked in retail after SPM but later pursued a culinary arts diploma. Today, he owns a thriving café in Kota Kinabalu. Final Thoughts: Your Future Starts Now Your SPM results are just the beginning. With a clear career plan, you can turn your dreams into reality. Remember: Know yourself – Follow your passions and strengths. Research careers – Explore options before deciding. Set goals – Break them into achievable steps. Get the right education & skills – Invest in your growth. Gain experience – Real-world learning matters. Stay adaptable – The future belongs to those who keep learning. Whether you choose university, vocational training, or work, what matters most is taking action today. The world is full of opportunities – go out there and grab yours! What's your career dream? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].