Putrajaya, September 4, 2025 — The government is considering introducing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes tailored for persons with disabilities (PwD) under the upcoming 2026 Budget, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced on Thursday.
The proposal, raised during the Rural and Regional Development Ministry’s Budget 2026 dialogue session, is expected to be brought first to the National TVET Council before being forwarded to the Finance Ministry for inclusion in the budget speech scheduled for October 10.
“One unique suggestion is that TVET courses be designed specifically for persons with disabilities. This will be raised with the council and the ministry for consideration,” Zahid said after the dialogue.
Inclusive Skills Development
Zahid, who also serves as Minister of Rural and Regional Development, stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities for disabled and special needs communities, with courses designed to match both their interests and market demand.
The initiative reflects the government’s push to broaden TVET access to underserved groups, ensuring that skills training contributes to social mobility and employment opportunities for all Malaysians.
Expanding Maritime TVET on the East Coast
Beyond inclusivity, Zahid said participants from the East Coast had also requested the introduction of maritime-specific TVET courses to reflect the region’s economic strengths.
While Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) already hosts a marine faculty in Lumut, Zahid suggested a dedicated maritime TVET centre in the East Coast should be explored. The courses, he added, could prepare youths not only for traditional fishing roles but also for deep-sea ventures and entrepreneurial opportunities within the maritime sector.
Engaging Religious Education Streams
Proposals were also made to extend TVET pathways to pondok school students, similar to the opportunities already offered to tahfiz students. Zahid said this would require collaboration with state-level religious schools to ensure alignment with educational objectives and community needs.
Nationwide Engagement Ahead of Budget 2026
According to Zahid, the ministry has conducted 16 dialogue sessions nationwide, engaging 1,030 participants as part of the broader budget consultation process.
“These discussions allow us to capture grassroots voices and shape policies that address the realities of communities across the country,” Zahid said.
