A Closing and Award Ceremony was held recently to mark the successful conclusion of the Upskilling Grant for Aerospace and Medical Devices Industries, led by Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST) in collaboration with Malaysia Aerospace Industry Association (MAIA) and the Association of Malaysian Medical Industries (AMMI). The event marked the completion of a transformative initiative that has strengthened Malaysia’s high-value industries by equipping individuals with critical industry skills, supporting businesses with a more competitive workforce, and enhancing education institutions with stronger technical capabilities.

Hosted by CREST in collaboration with MAIA and AMMI, the event brought together key industry leaders, partners and stakeholders to celebrate the programme’s impact. Attendees included YBhg. Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary General (Industry), Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI); Mr. Naguib Mohd Nor, President of the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Association (MAIA); and Mr Samuel Pooranakaran, Vice Chairman, Association of Malaysian Medical Industries (AMMI), alongside key representatives from participating companies and education institutions.

The Upskilling Grant for Aerospace and Medical Devices Industries, spearheaded jointly by CREST, MAIA, and AMMI, has successfully addressed critical talent shortages in two of Malaysia’s fastest-growing sectors. Over the past year, the programme has equipped participants with industry-relevant skills, strengthened workforce capabilities, and reinforced Malaysia’s position as a hub for high-value talent.

YBhg. Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary General (Industry), MITI, highlighted the importance of talent development, stating, “This initiative exemplifies how public-private collaboration can bridge the talent gap and ensure Malaysia’s workforce is prepared for the future. By equipping individuals with industry-relevant skills and fostering strong academia-industry partnerships, we are not just addressing immediate workforce needs but laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience. The success of this programme must serve as a catalyst for sustained investment in talent development, ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of high-value industries.”

Commenting on the programme’s impact, Mr. Jaffri Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer of CREST, stated, “This initiative has been about more than just training—it has been about shaping a workforce that is ready to drive Malaysia’s aerospace and medical devices industries forward. Over the past year, we have seen how targeted upskilling has helped individuals secure employment and equipped businesses with the right talent to stay competitive. The transformation we have witnessed is a testament to the effectiveness of industry-driven talent development​.”

He added, “This achievement would not have been possible without the strong collaboration between MAIA and AMMI. Their industry expertise, networks, and commitment have enabled us to design training that directly addresses workforce demands. By continuing to strengthen these partnerships, we can build a more resilient and future-ready workforce that meets the demands of these fast-evolving industries.”

For many, this initiative has been a gateway to industry exposure and career-readiness. One such success story is Jemyma Anak Barnabas Bidin, a student from Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, who gained valuable insights into the aerospace sector through the Finishing School Programme, shared, “Before this programme, I had limited exposure to real-world industry expectations. The training gave me hands-on experience and a clearer understanding of what the aerospace sector demands. I learned how to apply technical knowledge beyond textbooks, interact with professionals, and ask the right questions. Now, I feel more prepared to transition into the workforce and take on opportunities in this field. This experience has given me the confidence to pursue my career in aerospace.”

Similarly, Ang Yi Herng, a student from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, reflected on how the programme deepened his understanding of industry expectations and the skills required to thrive in the workforce, "This experience opened my eyes to the standards and demands of the industry. Gaining exposure to real-world applications and professional environments helped me develop a more practical mindset and a stronger problem-solving approach. Beyond technical skills, I learned how to navigate industry challenges and adapt to evolving requirements. I now feel more prepared to step into the workforce and contribute meaningfully in my field."

Key Achievements of the Upskilling Grant:

1. 1,041 industry professionals from 60 companies trained under the Medical Devices initiative.
2. 788 workforce members from 33 companies upskilled in the Aerospace sector.
3. 7 education institutions awarded grants to enhance curriculum and technical capabilities.
4. 1,130 students from 27 education institutions trained through the Finishing School initiative.

Across all initiatives, the Upskilling Grant successfully trained 2,959 Malaysians, including 1,829 workforce professionals and 1,130 students. The program strengthened industry-academic collaboration, improved technical competencies, and provided participants with the skills needed to thrive in the aerospace and medical devices industries.

As this programme comes to a close, CREST, MAIA, and AMMI remain dedicated to shaping Malaysia’s future workforce. By driving innovation, strengthening industry-academic collaboration, and expanding talent development initiatives, CREST and its collaborators will continue to equip Malaysians with the skills needed to thrive in high-value industries, ensuring the country’s long-term global competitiveness.

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