Technical Professions Central To National Development - Nanta

JOHOR BAHRU, Dec 10 (Bernama) -- Technical professions must continue to be prioritised as a strategic national agenda to ensure Malaysia remains competitive in the digital and emerging technology era, said Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

He said engineers, architects, technologists, construction experts and other related fields form the foundation of national progress through physical development, modern technology, engines of growth and economic competitiveness.

Nanta said in a digital world driven by automation, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI), technical professions should no longer be viewed merely as salaried careers, but as key drivers shaping Malaysia’s future direction.

“Young people should look at technical fields as platforms for innovation capable of catalysing solutions to human and global challenges.

“In line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Malaysia must move beyond traditional approaches by adopting IoT, AI, VR and big data to enhance efficiency, analytics and the effectiveness of learning and management systems,” he said at the National Technical Profession Day (HPTN) 2025 celebration at Persada Johor International Convention Centre here today.

Nanta said ongoing innovations, including robotics, the Industrialised Building System and Building Information Modelling, continue to transform the national construction sector through improved safety, precision and productivity, driving smarter and more sustainable development.

However, he stressed that technology must remain rooted in wisdom and compassion for the people.

“What is the purpose of technology if it does not improve people’s lives? What is the value of innovation if it does not humanise development?” he said.

Meanwhile, Nanta said that Johor’s selection as host of HPTN 2025 reflects recognition of the state’s growing role as an economic, industrial and technical hub.

“For 2025, Johor receives RM11.43 billion in federal government allocation, including RM10.24 billion for pre-construction and construction projects, and RM1.19 billion for road, building and slope maintenance.

“With this allocation, we are not just building and maintaining, but shaping Johor’s future for the well-being of the people and the continuous growth of the state and nation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA