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New Straits Times
4 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
No foreign workers without local TVET training, says Johari
KUALA KANGSAR: Companies in the plantation sector seeking to hire foreign workers will now be required to first provide local youths with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani today announced the new prerequisite for all companies involved in the sector's upstream and downstream processes in a move aimed at strengthening local talent development and reducing dependency on foreign labour. "This isn't just about picking fruits. For example, the palm oil industry includes milling, refineries and chemicals, areas where trained TVET graduates can find jobs," he said. "Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) school leavers with good results can enrol in higher-learning institutions, matriculation programmes and so on, but there are also those who cannot pursue further studies. "So, I took the initiative to ensure that these students are not left behind. That's why we have plantation TVET," he told reporters after attending a dialogue with the ministry here today. Johari said the plantation industry involved a wide range of economic activities, and as such, he called on industry players in palm oil, rubber, timber and furniture to assist school leavers who had no other prospects. "We want to enrol them in plantation TVET programmes. After eight or nine months of Level 2 TVET training, they can be placed directly into jobs," he said. However, he added that many industries were still reluctant to hire these youths after training, preferring to employ ready-made workers rather than invest in upskilling. "So I want to emphasise this, any plantation company that wants to apply for foreign workers must first show that they've taken steps to train and employ local SPM graduates who lacked other options. "If they haven't, I will not approve their applications for foreign workers. Even if the government approves foreign labour for the plantation sector, I will not allow it if they have made no contribution to local youths," he said. He added that the ultimate goal was to train these youths so that one day, when the foreign workers leave, they could become supervisors in palm oil, rubber and other related industries. "If the industry cooperates, then I'll consider approving foreign worker applications. Otherwise, there's no need for foreign workers because it shows they're not serious," he said. Johari also praised Sime Darby Bhd and FGV Holdings Bhd for showing strong commitment by providing accommodation and attractive salaries to train local youths. "Even if they don't attend university, they can earn up to RM2,500. Later, if they advance to Level 3 TVET after another eight months, they could earn between RM3,000 and RM3,500. "At the very least, we must help them develop a career. Otherwise, we're abandoning these students. It's sad that they have nowhere to go. "That's why I want to make this a requirement. Right now, we're using around 260,000 foreign workers in plantations, mostly doing 3D (dirty, dangerous and difficult) jobs," he said. He wanted local youths to eventually become part of the industry, moving up to earn between RM3,500 and RM5,500 as supervisors, and possibly becoming managers in the future. "This industry is very important. It's the third-largest export sector globally. The commodity sector exports RM186 billion worth of goods. "So we want this sector to take responsibility for helping SPM school leavers who are unsure of their future. We're starting with 250 TVET trainees. "When we approve foreign worker applications, there must already be local TVET trainees in your system. Foreign workers will eventually leave, but Malaysians stay in their community. That's our plan," he said. He also noted that Malaysia had many large plantations across various states and the ministry would gradually enforce this new requirement. "Right now, only Sime Darby and FGV are truly committed. That's why, if they face any issues regarding foreign workers, we will help them," he said.
Sinar Daily
6 hours ago
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Fresh approach needed to reignite interest in medicine
KUALA LUMPUR - There was a time when becoming a doctor was seen as one of the most prestigious career paths, sparking public debate when local universities could no longer cope with the surge in applications for medical studies. Many parents were once willing to spend significant sums to send their children abroad for medical studies after failing to secure places in local universities. Addressing challenges like workload, work-life balance and fostering a supportive environment are crucial to attract and retain the next generation of dedicated medical professionals. - Bernama file photo However, times have changed, and the field is now increasingly being overlooked. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad recently urged straight-A Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) students to consider pursuing medicine at the university level. He also expressed concern over the declining interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields among students, warning that it could have long-term implications for the country's medical sector. LOSING APPEAL The declining interest in pursuing medicine among younger generations is acknowledged by Associate Professor Dr Norsham Juliana Nordin, a physiology lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM). She noted that today's youth are more informed and career-conscious, having grown up in a vastly different environment from that of previous generations. "They are more critical when evaluating career choices, often prioritising work-life balance. While medicine was once regarded as the pinnacle of academic achievement, it is now seen as a long, demanding, and rigid path-especially when compared to emerging fields like technology, entrepreneurship, data science, or artificial intelligence,' she told Bernama in a recent interview. In addition, social media narratives highlighting the hardships, long working hours, and perceived lack of fair compensation have further discouraged many high-achieving students from pursuing a career in medicine. "This trend also reflects society's growing tendency to prioritise income over impact. Today, students who aspire to become doctors are often discouraged by the perceived academic burden and the significant personal sacrifices involved,' she said. She noted that ongoing issues within the national healthcare system-such as unstable contract positions, excessive workloads, and toxic work cultures including bullying or high-pressure environments with minimal support-have become red flags for young people weighing a future in medicine. At the same time, social media glamorises other careers as being more flexible, expressive, and less stressful, she added. Dr Norsham Juliana also pointed out the declining appeal of medicine is partly due to how the profession is treated as "guilty until proven innocent' when it comes to patient care. Quoting the famous Spider-Man phrase, "With great power comes great responsibility,' she said every medical decision carries inherent risk. "Every action taken to save a patient, no matter how small, invites scrutiny and accountability. But I believe existing doctors remain resilient,' she said, noting this as another reason why youth shy away from the field. RESTORING TRUE PURPOSE To reignite interest in the profession, Dr Norsham Juliana suggested regularly reminding both practitioners and medical students of the profession's true value: the nobility of saving lives. She believes that to bring back the golden age of medicine, a more holistic approach is needed-starting with restoring joy to the learning process. "I believe the younger generation is not afraid of sacrifice-they just want that sacrifice to be valued and supported by a fair system. Now is the time for all stakeholders, especially experts and influential medical figures, to step forward and lead the change. "Let's restore the core strength of this profession-the healing spirit. Today, we must first 'heal the young healers' by restoring their mental health, motivation, and work environment. Change isn't impossible... it begins with awareness, courage, and collaboration,' she said. She believes medical curricula today can be both fun and innovative without compromising the integrity of the field. "Creative learning methods like simulations, virtual reality, gamification, and story or visual-based teaching not only strengthen comprehension but also foster positive emotions-vital for sustaining student interest,' she said. She added that studies show positive emotional experiences improve memory, problem-solving, and empathy-all essential qualities of a great doctor. RESHAPING THE APPROACH Citing an initiative developed through collaboration among several public university medical faculties, Dr Norsham Juliana highlighted the upcoming Physiology Drama & Art Challenge 2025, which is scheduled to take place in October. This programme gives medical and health science students the opportunity to showcase their creativity through comic design, digital posters, videos, or theatre performances. "Using the theme of bodily functions, students can express their creativity while integrating science-showing how the two can coexist. We aim to nurture doctors who excel not only in theory but are also artistic, open-minded, and empathetic,' she said. The programme, involving USIM, Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, will take place on Oct 11 at USIM's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. "Being a good doctor is not measured by exam scores alone, but by the sincere execution of responsibilities, nurtured through creativity,' she added. She also stressed the importance of nurturing interest in medicine from secondary school, giving students early exposure to the profession. "If they see that being a doctor isn't just a burden, but a meaningful life path, they'll choose it willingly. "However, this effort requires collective readiness to shape a more appealing and competitive career path in medicine so we can present a more convincing narrative to students,' she said. OTHER FIELDS SEEN AS EASIER Meanwhile, President of the Malaysian Society of Neurosciences Dr Ahmad Shahir Mawardi believes that the declining interest in medicine among youth is largely due to the rise of alternative career paths that appear easier and more "glamorous' than becoming a doctor. He noted that fields such as technology, engineering, the gig economy, and even social media influencing offer attractive earnings without the intense challenges faced by medical students-on top of the financial burden of repaying loans from the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN). "Medical students must complete five to seven years of challenging studies with high costs. "On top of that, the gruelling housemanship or medical graduate training require high physical and mental endurance. In addition, trainee doctors who have completed their training must compete for permanent medical officer positions,' said Dr Ahmad Shahir, who has served the medical field for the past 21 years. He emphasised that unless contract positions, workloads, and other related issues are thoroughly resolved, the medical profession will continue to lose appeal among younger generations. He also warned that if unresolved issues persist, the national healthcare system may lose more specialists and experienced medical personnel. "Many doctors are leaving the public sector due to better incentives and job security elsewhere. For instance, working in Singapore offers more attractive incentives, better work hours, and lighter workloads,' he said, while noting that workplace bullying in hospitals is likely an isolated issue. To cultivate interest in medicine from a young age, Dr Ahmad Shahir said it must be nurtured with the right intentions and a genuine passion for the field. He proposed introducing early education initiatives that expose students to the medical profession through hospital visits and short-term attachments, which could inspire them to consider a career in medicine. Dr Ahmad Shahir also emphasised the importance of passing the torch to future generations, particularly in light of Malaysia's ageing population and rising life expectancy-currently 73.4 years for men and 78.0 for women. "As more Malaysians become senior citizens, the incidence of disease and demand for healthcare, including medical expertise, will rise. If this isn't addressed early, we may face a serious shortage in healthcare services. "My hope is that the authorities recognise healthcare as the backbone of a nation. Medical issues like staffing and excessive workloads, which have been widely reported in the media, must be brought to Parliament and addressed through both short- and long-term strategies-for the future of our beloved Malaysia,' he said. - BERNAMA
Borneo Post
14 hours ago
- General
- Borneo Post
Community-led BSL programme helps SMK Dalat students pass SPM
Fatimah (back row, second left) takes a group photo with students who achieved excellent results in the 2024 SPM. Also seen are Mathew (left) and Magdaline (right). DALAT (June 22): The 'Bimbing Sampai Lulus' (BSL) programme at SMK Dalat has successfully helped all participating students obtain their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) qualifications. Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah said the programme — which began in 2021 at Kampung Medong — initially served to assist students who failed to obtain their SPM certificate, with a focus on Bahasa Melayu and History. 'The core objective of BSL is not just to boost passing rates; it is a reflection of a united community effort in educating our children. As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. 'Education is no longer the sole responsibility of teachers — it is a shared commitment involving parents, community leaders, government agencies and the wider community,' said the Dalat assemblywoman during the 'Program Intervensi Bimbingan Khas Sekolah' (PIBKS) Appreciation Ceremony organised by the Dalat District Education Office (PPD) at Dewan Jerunai, SMK Dalat here yesterday. Fatimah said following the success of the pilot phase, the programme was expanded to other villages and continued to deliver positive results, with SMK Dalat again recording success in 2022. In 2023, the programme was introduced at SMK Oya and achieved outstanding outcomes, with all participating students obtaining their SPM certificates. 'In 2024, the BSL programme was further enhanced — in addition to Bahasa Melayu and History, Mathematics was added due to the need to address persistent underperformance in this subject. Early results show encouraging improvements.' She also commended SK Saint John for its implementation of PIBKS, which is a pilot remedial initiative carried out through collaboration between PPD Dalat, the school and the Kampung Medong community. She said as of January this year, four out of 12 students under the Bahasa Melayu remedial module successfully exited the programme, while 10 out of 20 students in the Mathematics module had shown similar progress. 'Remarkably, the teaching modules are guided by SPM school leavers and local community members under the supervision of special remedial teachers. This is a true example of effective grassroots collaboration,' she said. Fatimah added that with the active involvement of the district office, KMKK, parents, and local communities, Dalat is well-positioned to become a pioneer district in community-based education. 'This is no small achievement – it is living proof that when a community unites for education, extraordinary things can happen,' she said, expressing confidence that with continued commitment, creativity, and collaboration, Dalat could one day be known not only for its renowned 'balau' and sago products, but also as a hub for producing knowledgeable and well-educated human capital. Among those present were Dalat District Officer Mathew Hubert, PPD Dalat officer Magdaline Jon, and SMK Dalat principal Samsul Bohari. Bimbing Sampai Lulus BSL fatimah abdullah lead SMK Dalat SPM
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Over 500 graduates among Q1 drug offenders, says AADK
BUTTERWORTH: A total of 559 individuals, or 0.5 per cent, of those arrested for drug abuse in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, held bachelor's, master's or doctoral (PhD) degrees, while 2,323 others, or 2.1 per cent, were diploma holders, according to data from the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK). Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said that these individuals were involved in abusing various substances, including synthetic drugs and traditional drugs, such as marijuana and heroin. Most of them were young adults, aged between 19 and 40. The data also showed that 503 drug addicts held the Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM), 41,743 were Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders, while 30,016 had attained secondary-level education, such as the Lower Secondary Assessment (PMR) or its equivalent. 'A total of 9,736 addicts had only primary school education, while 21,057 had no formal education. Youths aged 15 to 40 continued to make up the largest group of drug users nationwide, with 65,264 individuals, or 60.2 per cent, recorded between January and March 2025. 'These individuals are supposed to be the nation's future, but they are caught in the grip of drug addiction. This is very alarming, especially as we are also seeing involvement among schoolchildren. For the same period, 23 students aged 14 were found to be involved in drug abuse. He said this after attending the joint engagement session between AADK and the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (Pemadam), here, today. Also present was Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who is also the state Pemadam chairman. He said that AADK is now focusing on the prevention of drug addiction activities, because it not only damages the country's future generations, but also requires high expenses to treat it, and the agency spends RM51 per day for each PUSPEN trainee. Meanwhile, in another development, Shamsul Anuar, who is also the national PEMADAM president, said that AADK is conducting an internal investigation into the incident in which six male trainees from the PUSPEN in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, escaped from the centre early Tuesday morning. He said that AADK headquarters, together with its Negeri Sembilan branch, has launched an internal investigation to examine all aspects of the incident, including identifying its cause. 'I was informed that six trainees at PUSPEN Jempol escaped, and so far, five have been successfully recaptured, while one remains at large and efforts are ongoing to track him down,' he said. 'Once the investigation is complete, appropriate corrective actions will be taken, based on the findings,' he said.
Barnama
a day ago
- Barnama
AADK: 559 Drug Offenders In Q1 2025 Hold Degrees, Including PHDs
BUTTERWORTH, June 21 (Bernama) -- A total of 559 individuals, or 0.5 per cent, of those arrested for drug abuse in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, held bachelor's, master's or doctoral (PhD) degrees, while 2,323 others, or 2.1 per cent, were diploma holders, according to data from the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK). Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said that these individuals were involved in abusing various substances, including synthetic drugs and traditional drugs, such as marijuana and heroin. Most of them were young adults, aged between 19 and 40. The data also showed that 503 drug addicts held the Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM), 41,743 were Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders, while 30,016 had attained secondary-level education, such as the Lower Secondary Assessment (PMR) or its equivalent. 'A total of 9,736 addicts had only primary school education, while 21,057 had no formal education. Youths aged 15 to 40 continued to make up the largest group of drug users nationwide, with 65,264 individuals, or 60.2 per cent, recorded between January and March 2025. 'These individuals are supposed to be the nation's future, but they are caught in the grip of drug addiction. This is very alarming, especially as we are also seeing involvement among schoolchildren. For the same period, 23 students aged 14 were found to be involved in drug abuse. He said this after attending the joint engagement session between AADK and the Malaysian Drug Prevention Association (Pemadam), here, today. Also present was Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who is also the state Pemadam chairman. He said that AADK is now focusing on the prevention of drug addiction activities, because it not only damages the country's future generations, but also requires high expenses to treat it, and the agency spends RM51 per day for each PUSPEN trainee. Meanwhile, in another development, Shamsul Anuar, who is also the national PEMADAM president, said that AADK is conducting an internal investigation into the incident in which six male trainees from the PUSPEN in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, escaped from the centre early Tuesday morning. He said that AADK headquarters, together with its Negeri Sembilan branch, has launched an internal investigation to examine all aspects of the incident, including identifying its cause.
