Embracing lifelong learning culture | The Star

MALAYSIA must restructure economically to elevate its competitive edge and enhance its citizens’ quality of life, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

He said this would require fostering a culture of lifelong learning among the workforce.

“We must encourage them to perpetually ‘learn, unlearn and relearn’ new capabilities, skills, and knowledge to remain relevant.

“I am aware that many organisations have exhibited remarkable dedication, transforming their businesses and investing in their workforce by offering upskilling and reskilling opportunities, which have greatly amplified their capabilities.

“This transformational ability, turning crises into opportunities, has empowered these organisations to innovate, create new products and solutions, explore new markets and meet the evolving demands of the global market,” he said at the HRD Awards 2023 gala at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, hosted by Human Resources Development Corporation (HRD Corp).

Fadillah, who is also Plantation and Commodities Minister, said the collective ability to effectively upskill and reskill the nation’s workforce would have a positive impact on the country’s socio-economic growth over the long term.

Human Resources Minister V. Sivakumar said investing in skill and development programmes was needed to build a highly skilled, experienced and capable workforce.

Fadillah (second from right), Sivakumar (second from left) with Qatari philanthropist and entrepreneur Ghanim Al Muftah (centre) during the HRD awards. Looking on are Mustapha (left) and Shah.

“This is why agencies like HRD Corp are important as they have been instrumental in driving workforce skills development efforts for the last 30 years.

“The HRD Awards have transformed into a platform to recognise employers for their remarkable efforts in enhancing organisations through human resource development initiatives,” he added.

This year’s HRD Awards featured 44 winners across three categories, covering businesses, individuals, trainers and training providers.

Two new categories were introduced — the HR Icon Award and HRD Team of the Year Award.

Some of the biggest winners of the night included Maybank, PETRONAS, Pos Malaysia, Indah Water Konsortium (IWK), Revertex Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd.

Guests and winners at the HRD Awards 2023 in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star

The winners in each category were selected by 14 judges.

There was a 200% increase in applications, compared to previous editions.

Also present was Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud and HRD Corp chief executive Datuk Shahul Dawood.

The HRD Awards this year was held in conjunction with the two-day National Human Capital Conference and Exhibition (NHCCE) 2023.