By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 – The Selangor Human Resource Development Centre (SHRDC) is stepping up efforts to equip jobseekers with specialised skills required by complex industries, with a particular focus on the semiconductor sector, as it adapts to the changing demands of Malaysia’s economy.
SHRDC general manager Masliza Othman said while the centre has long been known for its emphasis on technical and vocational education and training, it is now shifting its focus towards upskilling talent for high-demand industries like the semiconductor field.
“It has always been our mission to help close the skill gap in critical industries. For the next year or so, we are putting an emphasis for tech jobseekers to acquire the appropriate skills apart from other industries,” Masliza told Selangor Journal at the Malaysia Semiconductor Recruitment Day, held today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
The recruitment event, organised by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation, drew over 2,000 students from 20 universities across Malaysia, providing them with job opportunities at 25 leading semiconductor companies.
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Semiconductor chips are seen on a printed circuit board in this illustration picture taken on February 17, 2023. — Picture by REUTERS[/caption]
Masliza said while graduates often have a solid educational foundation, many lack the specialised expertise needed to thrive in industries like semiconductors and technology.
“These industries require very specific skills that are not typically taught at university or college,” she said, adding that many of SHRDC’s courses, often less than six months in duration, are crucial for those entering technical roles.
Since its inception in 1992, SHRDC has trained over 85,000 people, playing a pivotal role in preparing workers for industries driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The centre collaborates closely with companies, allowing industry players to define the exact skills required.
This approach, Masliza explained, ensures SHRDC’s programmes align with market needs, equipping workers with relevant tools and knowledge, such as specialised software and technical expertise.
“By working backwards and understanding the needs of industries, we can guarantee that our training directly addresses the skills gap, creating a clear demand for the supply of talent,” she said.
In addition to its focus on semiconductors, SHRDC offers Institute for Printed Circuits certification programmes tailored for integrated circuit (IC) designers, covering areas such as printed circuit board design, IC packaging, and testing instrumentation.
The centre also provides Smart Factory competency training, giving participants hands-on experience in Industry 4.0 technologies.
