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Malaysia launches training initiative for ASEAN citizens

The flagship National Training Week (NTW) aims to reach at least 5 million participants from across ASEAN, with an estimated value of over 600 million USD.

Indonesian Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim (Photo: Straits Times)
Indonesian Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim (Photo: Straits Times)

Hanoi (VNA) – Malaysia, in a landmark move under its ASEAN Chairmanship, will open its flagship National Training Week (NTW) to all ASEAN citizens for the first time, offering over 65,000 free training opportunities across the country and online from June 14 to 21.

The announcement was made by Indonesian Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim Chee Keong, during the ASEAN Human Capital Development Investment Symposium (AHCDIS) in Kuala Lumpur on May 27.

NTW 2025 is the anchor initiative under Malaysia's leadership of the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS), a year-long commitment to regional workforce development.

This year's NTW is set to be the largest and most inclusive skills programme in ASEAN, featuring free access to courses in AI, digital transformation, green technologies, leadership, and soft skills. It is supported by global and regional players such as Microsoft, Udemy, Awantec, Alibaba Cloud, and leading Malaysian providers.

Steven Sim emphasised the importance of regional cooperation in skills development and reaffirmed Malaysia’s readiness to invest in ASEAN’s shared future.

He stated that this is the first time Malaysia has extended access to high-quality training opportunities beyond its borders, marking the country’s investment in human resources development within the region. Malaysia’s ambition, he noted, is to position ASEAN as the most skilled region through deeper and more meaningful cooperation.

NTW 2025 aims to reach at least 5 million participants from across the region, with an estimated value of over 600 million USD. The initiative reflects Malaysia’s belief that skills development is not only a national priority but also a regional imperative.

The AYOS initiative has received strong support from regional leaders. ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn commended Malaysia for launching NTW and AYOS 2025, noting that AHCDIS once again underscores the bloc’s common commitment to investing in people.

AHCDIS attracted over 300 delegates from ASEAN member nations. The outcomes of the symposium serve as a foundation for cooperation and knowledge sharing, helping to shape future policies and investments in human resources development, promote sustainable economic growth and social progress in the region./.

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