KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 — The Human Resources Ministry (MOHR) will launch the Progressive Acceleration for Capability and Employability (PACE), with a total allocation of RM100 million, to strengthen human capital development and enhance the employability of Malaysia's workforce.
Its minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan said the national initiative, implemented through the Human Resource Development Corporation, is among the government’s strategic efforts to ensure that people possess skills relevant to current and future industry needs, while strengthening the country’s global competitiveness.
It is comprehensively designed with a focus on talent development, skills training, workforce transformation, and creating more inclusive economic opportunities for people across various segments of society.
“PACE is not just an ordinary training programme, but rather a major government investment to build a future workforce that is more resilient, highly skilled, and capable of meeting the demands of a new economy increasingly driven by technology and innovation,” he said during the initiative's official announcement.
Implemented with the full support of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, PACE aligns with the Malaysia MADANI aspiration to empower human development and improve the people’s standard of living through quality employment.
It will introduce 10 strategic programmes spanning Technical and Vocational Education and Training, youth talent development, digital economy transformation, strengthening local enterprises, regional development, and improving the employability of gig workers and inclusive communities.
Ramanan added that the approach taken under PACE emphasises targeted investments to ensure that each initiative delivers a clear and measurable impact on the people and the country’s economy.
Simultaneously, it is also designed to produce a workforce that is more productive, innovative, and ready to face the changing landscape of future employment.
The minister noted that human capital development is a fundamental pillar in ensuring Malaysia continues to progress as a competitive and sustainable high-income nation.
“The MADANI government is committed to ensuring that no group is left behind in the country’s development. Through PACE, we aim to create more opportunities for people to enhance their skills, strengthen their income, and build a better future for themselves and their families,” he said.
The MOHR is confident that implementing PACE will serve as a catalyst for transforming the national workforce, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a key regional hub for talent and skills.
