MARA, Aichi Daihatsu Shape Next-Gen Auto Talent for Global Market

Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) joined forces with Japan’s Aichi Daihatsu Co. Ltd. Together, they’ve launched an apprenticeship and job placement programme under the Japanese government’s Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) system.

The collaboration aims to equip students from Kolej Kemahiran Tinggi MARA (KKTM) - particularly those in the Diploma in Automotive Engineering Technology - with skills that meet international industry standards.

MARA Deputy Director-General (Education) Dr Mahzan Teh said the programme will offer three years of hands-on training in Japan, with Aichi Daihatsu providing full support, including facilities for learning and development.

Students who successfully complete the programme and earn SSW certification will be eligible for job opportunities in both Malaysia and Japan, with competitive salaries based on their field and employer.

Mahzan shared the update after the official handover of teaching and learning equipment from Aichi Daihatsu, including a Perodua Myvi, which will be used to support practical lessons at KKTM Masjid Tanah.

He added that the selection process will include interviews and Japanese language training to prepare students for life and work abroad. MARA plans to send 20 to 25 automotive students to Japan each year under this programme.

Beyond job placement, the partnership will also see the establishment of an industry-based training centre at KKTM Masjid Tanah, complete with a ‘teaching factory’ designed to simulate real-world automotive production.

The collaboration covers technology transfer, specialised training for both students and instructors, and the creation of new courses to stay aligned with industry trends. The teaching factory will also serve as a reference hub for other TVET institutions nationwide.

Mahzan noted that the employability rate for MARA TVET graduates now stands above 97%, thanks to strong industry partnerships and growing demand globally for skilled workers.

He further added that student interest is high, with enrolment across MARA’s skills institutions already exceeding 100%.

Source: BERNAMA