Employees in Malaysia lack training opportunities

However, the chances of this happening are limited, according to a Randstad survey.

About 97% of Malaysians are interested in learning and development opportunities, but only 36% said employers offered them training in the past 12 months.

Asked what they would want to receive training for, 61% of the respondents said technical skills, 60% want to develop soft skills, and 54% are keen on developing in their current roles. 

Besides wanting to become better at their jobs, the survey indicated that 96% of the respondents would like to meet with career coaches for advice on finding a better balance between work and personal life (65%), earning higher incomes (64%) and advancing their careers with their current employers (43%). 

However, despite the enthusiasm, there is still a hesitation to upskill because of the overwhelming workload, as well as lack of mental capacity to attend training courses. 

READ: Employers in Malaysia not ready for new minimum wage

Workforce upskilling is a combined effort of both the employer and employee. In the era of digital transformation, companies need to invest in developing a future-ready and agile workforce to gain a competitive advantage, the survey said. 

The survey was conducted between February 21 and March 13, with 750 locally based respondents who are employed and aged between 18 and 67.