KUALA LUMPUR – Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education (ITE) has welcomed a proposal to establish a technical cooperation programme, including student exchanges, with the Advanced Technology Training Centre under the Manpower Department (ADTEC JTM), an institution under the Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma).
Human Resources Minister Datuk Sri Ramanan Ramakrishnan said the proposal was raised during his working visit to ITE Singapore as part of Kesuma’s efforts to expand its international strategic partnerships in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
He said ITE Singapore’s positive response has opened the way for both sides to further explore the proposed areas of cooperation, including student exchange opportunities, knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices in technical and skills training.
“My aspiration is to see ADTEC JTM students gain broader exposure through programmes such as this. I therefore raised the proposal during my visit, and ITE Singapore responded positively.
“This is not merely about exchanging students. It is about how we can leverage this cooperation to strengthen our TVET institutions, broaden international exposure and ensure that the training we provide remains aligned with technological advancements and the evolving needs of industry,” he said.
Ramanan said the proposed cooperation could also provide students with opportunities to experience different approaches to technical training, build networks, and exchange knowledge and experiences with their counterparts from a neighbouring country.
He said TVET development cannot progress in isolation and requires close collaboration with industry as well as education and skills training institutions at the regional and international levels.
During the visit, Ramanan also held discussions with an ITE Singapore delegation led by its Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr Goh Mong Song.
Also present were Director of the School of Business and Services, ITE College, Tan Wee Kiang; Assistant Director of the International Office, Corporate Affairs and Development Division, Jenn Tan; and Senior Executive of the International Office, Corporate Affairs and Development Division, Carol Lim.
Ramanan said rapid technological advancements, automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and the emergence of new jobs require TVET institutions to continuously adapt their training content and learning approaches to meet the actual needs of the labour market.
“We want ADTEC JTM to continue moving forward. TVET must not only prepare skilled workers to meet the needs of industry today, but must also develop a skilled workforce that is ready to meet the demands of the industries of tomorrow.
“Strategic partnerships such as this are therefore important as they enable us to share expertise, learn from best practices and bring that knowledge and experience home to further strengthen Malaysia’s TVET ecosystem,” he said.
Ramanan said Kesuma would undertake the necessary follow-up with the relevant parties to further detail the mechanism, scope and implementation of the proposed programme before it can be realised. – August 9, 2026