In a press statement released today, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for the opportunity to continue his service in the Ministry of Higher Education following a 12-month tenure in the Ministry of Human Resources.
The statement highlighted the government’s commitment to national unity and economic prosperity through a dynamic cabinet reshuffle.
Despite the increase in the cabinet’s size, YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud emphasised that it remains optimal and relatively small compared to previous administrations.
Acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the Ministry of Human Resources team during his tenure, YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud expressed appreciation for their commitment to advancing the agenda of Malaysia Madani.
As he takes on his new role in the Ministry of Higher Education under the leadership of Minister YB Senator Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Bin Abdul Kadir, YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud outlined key areas of focus within his new portfolio:
- Reducing youth unemployment currently at 10.1%.
- Addressing underemployment issues to minimize job mismatches.
- Strengthening collaboration between academia and industry to achieve national objectives.
- Ensuring a sufficient talent pool aligned with investor demand.
- Facilitating effective communication between students and government agencies.
- Ensuring equitable allowances for students during practical training.
- Promoting awareness of mental health and enhancing emotional and spiritual resilience among students.
- Guiding students from impoverished and rural backgrounds to complete their education.
- Empowering Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) across 12 ministries through integrated collaboration.
- Continuing the Jejak TVET Madani initiative to showcase the talents of TVET graduates and commercializing the marketable innovations from higher education institutions.
YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud expressed his commitment to fulfilling these objectives and contributing to the development of a skilled and competitive workforce for the nation’s future.
The Deputy Minister concluded by reiterating his gratitude for the opportunity to serve and his dedication to the shared vision of a prosperous and united Malaysia.
