MALAYSIA: New plan seeks to enhance skills

Malaysia's government is showing it means business by proposing comprehensive changes to higher education under the 10th Malaysia Plan, or 10MP, write Karen Chapman, Tan Shiow Chin and Richard Lim for The Star. Changes include holding vice-chancellors accountable for their institution's performance and putting more emphasis on technical and vocational training.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak when tabling the 10MP, said technical education and vocational training were the preferred choices for students expecting good career prospects in developed countries.

"In Malaysia however, it appears to be the last choice due to perceived limited career opportunities. This has to be changed as technical and vocational training provides a viable alternative for individuals to realise their full potential," he said. The plan to boost technical education and vocational training will complement the recent transformation plans for polytechnics and community colleges.
Full report on The Star site

Richard Lim puts the spotlight on research and development in another article in The Star.
Full report on The Star site