Zahid Calls For Digital Transformation, TVET Expansion, And Rural Economic Empowerment Under KEMAS

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 9 (Bernama) — A digital transformation plan, the enhancement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and the empowerment of rural economy and entrepreneurship are among the key proposals put forward to ensure the effectiveness of Community Development Department (KEMAS) initiatives.

Presenting these proposals, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasised that with a track record of over six decades, KEMAS must continue executing high-impact initiatives to lay a strong foundation for the nation's future.

“It is time for KEMAS to adopt a collective approach, bringing together expertise and diverse perspectives to address challenges, execute projects, and align efforts toward achieving greater objectives.

“One such initiative is the Early Childhood Education Digital Plan, involving 11,000 kindergartens and nearly 200,000 pupils. I also propose that KEMAS introduce a Digital Literacy Bootcamp in collaboration with digital companies, equipping participants with skills in coding, digital marketing, and cybersecurity,” he said during the MADANI Community Empowerment programme by KEMAS here today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, added that the scope of TVET must be expanded to enhance youth skills, and called for strengthening the rural economy through the Rural Economic Financing Scheme (SPED) and the Income Enhancement Programme (PPP).

“This can be further enhanced through guidance and collaboration with local companies to help residents start and expand their businesses. I also want to see strengthened governance within KEMAS to ensure greater efficiency and sustainability.

“In addition, we are in the process of implementing Special Needs Kindergartens, or Autism Kindergartens, which will initially operate in Melaka. I aim for this initiative to be expanded nationwide,” he said.

He explained that this initiative is part of KEMAS’s strategic efforts to broaden access to education for children with special needs, supporting the nation’s agenda to build a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Ahmad Zahid highlighted that over the past 64 years, KEMAS has successfully laid a solid foundation for the development of thriving rural communities.

“The international recognition of the Gold Award for Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand for the fifth time, and the Malaysia Book of Records achievement for the Largest Children Participation in J-Robic Event 2024, are testaments to this excellence.

“Despite these accomplishments, KEMAS will not rest on its laurels. The institution is now moving toward strategic transformation by adopting a cross-functional approach. This integrates expertise from the Early Childhood Education Division, Community Development Division, and Skills Education Division to implement more impactful programmes,” he added.

— BERNAMA