By Assoc. Prof Dr. Salvinder Singh Karam Singh, Faculty Of Engineering And Built Environment, Department Of Mechanical And Manufacturing Engineering
SPM results are out, and the real question begins: what kind of future will you build, and where do you fit in Malaysia鈥檚 journey?
Today, the country is not guessing its direction. Plans like the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 are clear. Malaysia wants to move from a low-cost producer to a high-value, technology-driven nation. This means more work in semiconductors, green energy, automation, and digital systems. But there is a problem. The talent pipeline is not ready.
Malaysia is already facing a shortage of STEM experts even as high-tech investments grow . At the same time, the country aims for up to 70 percent of jobs to be STEM-related in the future . This shows a clear gap between what industries need and what students are choosing.
TVET is no longer a second choice. It is now central to national growth. With over 95 percent of graduates getting jobs and rising demand in areas like robotics, EVs, and semiconductor work, TVET directly feeds industry needs . Malaysia is investing heavily because industries do not just need engineers. They need skilled technicians who can run, fix, and improve systems.
Social Studies still matter, but the country faces a mismatch. Too many graduates are chasing similar office roles, while technical and specialised roles remain unfilled. This imbalance slows growth and increases reliance on foreign workers.
Then comes the bigger issue: brain drain. When skilled Malaysians leave for better pay and growth, the country loses the very talent it needs to move forward. This is not just an economic issue. It is a signal that talent decisions must be smarter, not just popular.
So here is the point to ponder. Are you choosing a field because it feels safe, or because it solves a real need? Are you preparing to compete globally, or just to fit locally?
Your choice after SPM should address interest and relevance in building your future now. The real question is whether you will be part of building it, or watching it happen?