PORT DICKSON, Sept 15 — The Defence Ministry is encouraging Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) members and recruits to participate in the work-based learning (WBL) programme to obtain higher education qualifications and pursue careers in other fields upon retirement.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the WBL programme, a collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Mara and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, is a ministry initiative to ensure MAF personnel earn diplomas or bachelor’s degrees, as practised in Germany and the United States.
“Many MAF personnel retire at 41, which is an age at which their contributions to the country’s development are still valuable. Entering the job market without any qualifications would be a great loss.
“This is why we have introduced this programme. When they retire, they can continue to play a role in the nation’s development,” he told reporters after the Graduation Parade for the 200/2024 Series of Army Recruits at the Army Basic Training Centre parade ground today.
Also present were Chief of Defence Forces Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, and army chief Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan.
Khaled emphasised that this initiative reflects the government’s concern for all MAF personnel, urging young recruits to make the most of this opportunity by diversifying their skills.
He said MAF members can choose from six diplomas — culinary arts, hotel management, Islamic education, office management and technology, science and recreation, and geomatics.
Regarding today’s event, Khaled noted that 1,144 young recruits completed their training, which began on March 8.
He added that the largest group of recruits came from Sarawak, with 230 personnel, followed by Sabah with 196.
— Bernama
