KOTA SAMARAHAN: Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel heading into retirement are now stepping into a world of global exposure, high-value skills training and industry-backed job opportunities – a shift that is redefining their post-service future and boosting the nation’s talent pool.
Eastern Field Army Commander, Lt-Gen. Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi, said the expanded training pathways and industry collaborations are ensuring that retiring ATM members do not leave service “without a clear post-retirement pathway”, but instead transition into meaningful roles that match their experience and capabilities.
“For instance, on September 25, the first group of participants under the Industrial Skills Training Programme – East Coast Rail Link Project (PLKI-ECRL) – was sent to Liuzhou, China, for a year-long Railway Power Supply Technology course at Liuzhou Railway Vocational Technical College.
“After completing the training, participants are guaranteed employment with Malaysia Rail Link (MRL) and China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Malaysia.
“This is the result of a public-private partnership involving Malaysia Rail Link, UCYP University, Pahang Rail Academy, and other industry partners,” he said during the Malaysian Skills Diploma Award Ceremony and PERHEBAT Certificate Presentation at Kota Samarahan Civic Centre here yesterday.
Mohd Sofi shared that PERHEBAT has inked agreements with over 62 agencies and companies across sectors including manufacturing, transportation, green technology, marine, telecommunications, and agri-food – expanding career possibilities for veterans seeking a second chapter.
“These initiatives are part of the PERHEBAT Transformation Plan 2026–2035, providing clear direction and global skills development opportunities for ATM members.
“They enhance workforce competitiveness and empower veterans to continue serving the country in a new capacity,” he said.
The long-term plan also supports job placement through PERHEBAT’s Career Second Initiative, offering more than 3,000 employment opportunities with a minimum monthly income of RM2,200, connecting veterans directly with hiring industries.
To date, 2,867 ATM members nationwide have completed transition training, with 576 personnel and veterans awarded the Malaysian Skills Diploma through the Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) programme.
In Sarawak, 94 members have completed transition training while eight have been awarded the Diploma.
The RPEL programme formally recognises skills and practical experience already acquired, enhancing employability and preparing veterans for a dignified second career.
