The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS) of Malaysia has reported significant achievements in its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, with a total of 24,800 graduates in the field of agriculture.
Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup, Deputy Minister of MAFS, highlighted the positive trend in the marketability of agricultural TVET graduates. In 2023, the marketability rate rose to 72.3%, marking an increase from 69.5% in 2022 and 66.3% in 2021.
Speaking on initiatives to empower TVET graduates, Arthur mentioned the Graduate Agricultural Youth Development Incubator and the provision of Young Agropreneur grants. These efforts aim to support graduates interested in establishing businesses in the agro-food sector.
Arthur responded to Tampin MP Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa’s query on the marketability and entrepreneurial opportunities for agricultural TVET graduates. He emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering independence and success among these graduates.
Furthermore, Malaysia has achieved self-sufficiency rates (SSR) of over 100% for fruits such as durian and pineapple, focusing now on expanding exports of these commodities. Additionally, the nation has successfully developed its own variety of onions, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing food security.
Arthur said that they will continue to enhance the performance and accreditation of their centres under MAFS to attract more youth into agriculture. Additionally, he underscored the importance of aligning courses with modern technology and innovation to boost youth participation and elevate food production.
Arthur addressed Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman’s concerns about high-priced food imports, outlining strategies to reduce dependency on such imports through local production.
