KUALA LUMPUR - The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) will launch a new national initiative known as Progressive Acceleration for Capability and Employability (PACE) with an allocation of RM100 million to strengthen human capital development and improve workforce employability.
Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, said the initiative, led by the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp), is part of the government’s efforts to ensure Malaysians have skills that match current and future industry needs while improving the country’s global competitiveness.
He said PACE was designed with a strong focus on talent development, skills training, workforce transformation and creating more inclusive economic opportunities for people from different backgrounds.
“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 in a statement on May 17.
Ramanan said the initiative is being implemented with the full support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in line with the Malaysia MADANI agenda to strengthen human development and improve living standards through quality employment.
He said PACE would introduce 10 strategic programmes covering Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), youth talent development, digital economy transformation, support for local businesses, regional development and employability for gig workers and inclusive communities.
Ramanan said the initiative focuses on targeted investments to ensure every programme delivers measurable benefits to both the people and the national economy.
He said the programme is also aimed at building a more productive, innovative and future-ready workforce that can adapt to changes in the job market.
Ramanan added that human capital development remains a key pillar in ensuring Malaysia continues progressing 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 added.
Ramanan said KESUMA is confident that PACE will help transform the national workforce and further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for talent and skills development.
