Close Cooperation In TVET, Halal Industry Strengthens Malaysia-Philippine Ties - DPM Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- Close cooperation in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and the halal industry will strengthen the strategic ties between Malaysia and the Philippines, while bringing significant benefits to both countries, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said that during his meeting with the Philippine’s Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) today, both sides are optimistic about exploring the potential of TVET and the halal industry in the republic.

“They also agreed that TVET education is crucial to ensuring that the younger generation, as well as the existing workforce, are equipped with skills relevant to the current job market needs.

“In addition to nurturing new talent, TVET can also aid in the reskilling and upskilling of the workforce, thus becoming a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.

“The meeting opens opportunities for Malaysia and the Philippines to share best practices, enhance curriculum standards, and mutually recognise academic qualifications. Through the exchange of expertise and joint training programmes, we can improve people’s skills and seize new opportunities in the global market,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Ahmad Zahid said the meeting also discussed the halal industry, focusing on Malaysia’s strength in halal certification under the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).

He also expressed confidence that through collaboration with TESDA, Malaysia could help develop a stronger global halal ecosystem in the Philippines.

“I am also pleased to learn that Malaysia’s halal exports to the Philippines has increased by 7.4 per cent in 2023. The Philippines is now Malaysia’s eighth-largest halal export destination globally and the fourth-largest in ASEAN.

“This demonstrates strong trade relations and high demand for halal products in the region,” he said.

Ahmad Zahid is currently in the Philippines for a three-day official visit and to lead the Malaysian delegation to the 10th Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR).

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia remains committed to strengthening cooperation with the Philippines to drive regional economic growth through the financial and banking sectors.

He said Malaysia has marked a significant achievement with the launch of CIMB Kababayan in the Philippines, a new initiative by CIMB Bank Philippines that is in line with the shared vision for ASEAN prosperity.

Ahmad Zahid said this also highlights Malaysia’s key role in developing the digital banking sector and supporting the Philippines' efforts to enhance financial inclusion, symbolising the commitment of both nations to the well-being of their people.

“This initiative is specially designed to meet the financial needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) and their families by offering easier, safer and more innovative access to financial services.

“CIMB Kababayan allows OFWs to open savings accounts using international numbers, giving them more options in managing their finances. This initiative also reflects the strong economic ties between Malaysia and the Philippines,” he said.

CIMB Bank Philippines, as the country’s first digital bank, is transforming banking services, and its recognition as the Number 1 Bank in the Philippines by Forbes in 2023, along with 117 international awards, is testimony to its commitment to innovation.

Accompanying Ahmad Zahid on the final day of his three-day official visit to the republic were Malaysia's Ambassador to the Philippines, Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers, Hans Leo Cacdac and CIMB Bank PH’s chief executive officer, Vijay Manoharan.

-- BERNAMA