In a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at ensuring a dignified retirement for Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans, Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp) has partnered with the Ex-Servicemen Affairs Corporation (PERHEBAT) to introduce the ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ initiative. The launch event, held in Penang, witnessed the convergence of over 650 guests, including PERHEBAT ATM trainees, veterans, and industry leaders.
This unprecedented initiative represents the first-time collaboration between the Ministry of Human Resources, through its agency TalentCorp, and PERHEBAT under the Ministry of Defence.
The ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ initiative focuses on industry-driven skilling and employment within the private sector, with a pilot program set to commence in collaboration with Micron Memory Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., a leading player in Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Minister of Human Resources, YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, emphasiSed that the ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ initiative aligns with the principles of decent work within the framework of the MADANI economy. He highlighted its harmony with the three fundamental pillars of the ministry: strengthening worker welfare, improving skills, and enhancing workforce productivity.
“Our ATM veterans possess valuable expertise with specific, immediately applicable skills required in sectors such as E&E and aeronautics,” remarked Minister Steven Sim. “Their structured lifestyles in the military have instilled in them a high degree of discipline, professionalism, and commitment – qualities highly sought after by employers.”
The Deputy Minister of Defence, YB Adly bin Zahari, underscored the importance of cross-ministerial initiatives, stating, “Veteran MyWIRA can make a meaningful impact on the lives of retired servicemen and women, empowering them to navigate the challenges of retirement with dignity and resilience.”
The ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ initiative aims to address the socio-economic well-being of ATM veterans by providing industry-driven skilling and facilitating their seamless transition into the private sector. Leveraging the unique skill sets of veterans to fill job vacancies in high-demand sectors such as E&E and aeronautics, the initiative seeks to empower veterans to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy, improve employability, and enhance their overall quality of life.
TalentCorp’s Group CEO, Thomas Mathew highlighted that ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ leverages on TalentCorp’s existing initiatives, including mynext TVET and Future Skills Talent Council, in collaboration with industry stakeholders. The structured approach involves profiling and upskilling ATM veterans to ensure their meaningful contribution to the workforce.
The pilot program with Micron, set to begin in March 2024, will provide on-the-job training for selected ATM veterans, offering them employment opportunities. Concurrently, TalentCorp has partnered with state training centres, offering 500 job openings initially and holding the potential for significant expansion in response to industry demand.
The ‘Veteran MyWIRA’ initiative embodies the collaborative spirit between government agencies and the private sector, signifying a crucial step towards creating sustainable post-retirement careers for ATM veterans.
