25,000 to Benefit from Bakat MADANI Initiative – PM

SEREMBAN: The government aims to provide 25,000 individuals with opportunities for skills development, quality employment and better social mobility through the Bakat MADANI initiative launched today.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the initiative is a national effort that brings together Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLIC), Government-Linked Companies (GLC) and PETRONAS in strengthening the nation’s talent development.

“The Bakat MADANI initiative focuses on three main areas: strengthening employability and job placements within the GLIC, GLC and PETRONAS ecosystem, as well as expanding job placement opportunities across the country’s strategic sectors.

“It includes strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions through close collaboration with the industry to produce a workforce that meets the needs of the future economy.

“The exposure opportunities in this programme reach 25,000 people. So children, do not forget, express your appreciation to the corporate bodies that are willing to help manage this well.

“If they do not manage it well, then this programme cannot be carried out because the funding is financed by them, not by me. This is what is called Bakat MADANI,” he said in a speech at the Bakat MADANI Launching Ceremony here today.

Also present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Finance Minister II Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.

Anwar explained that based on the principles of ihsan (compassionate) capital, Bakat MADANI also expands access to training, upskilling and job opportunities to vulnerable groups, including B40 households, asnaf, individuals in need of a second chance, as well as former Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel who are going through career transition phases.

“Focus is given to high-value sectors with great potential such as semiconductors, renewable energy, the digital economy and advanced manufacturing.

“To encourage wider industry participation in providing training and quality job opportunities, the government will introduce a special tax deduction for companies that implement training programmes under the Bakat MADANI Initiative.

“This new incentive is an improvement to the existing employability incentives, with coverage expanded to TVET graduates and an increase in the minimum allowance rate to ensure trainees receive fairer and more competitive rewards,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of political stability and social justice in ensuring the country is driven well and the people enjoy comfort.

He said when the government invests in people development, it also strengthens the nation’s economic foundation.

“Elevating the standard of living of the people and enhancing economic growth potential is a mutually reinforcing cycle.

“Social justice can be achieved when facilities and equal access are given to all segments of society. This is the government’s main focus,” he said.

Berita Harian