In a significant move to strengthen ties with industry sectors while advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Malaysia, the German-Malaysian Institute (GMI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with Melaka Corporation (MCorp) and a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Volkswagen Malaysia. This event took place during the opening of the Deutscher Brand Summit (DBS) at the Melaka International Trade Center on 15 October 2024. The agreements were signed by Tuan Haji Ahmad Solihin bin Mohamed Yusoff, CEO of GMI; YBhg. Datuk Mohd Yusof bin Abu Bakar, CEO of MCorp; and Dr. Susanne Lehmann, Managing Director of Volkswagen Malaysia.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab. Rauf bin Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka; Honourable Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Economic Affairs, Labour, and Tourism of the State of Baden-Württemberg; YBhg. Datuk Wira Hj. Ibrahim bin Durum; Speaker of the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, YBhg. Datuk Wira Dr. Asyraf Wajdi bin Dato’ Dusuki, Chairman of MARA; YBhg. Datuk Khaidhirah binti Datuk Seri Abu Zahar, Deputy Executive Council Member for Investment, Industry, and TVET Development of Melaka State; Ms. Geeta Khandiah, President of the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC) and, members of the Melaka State Executive Council.
Partnership with MCorp
The MOU signed with Melaka Corporation (MCorp) aims to establish the foundation for collaboration and mutual interest in exploring a working relationship, as well as the establishment of a One-Stop Training Center to support the development of the German Technology Park (GTP) in Melaka. This initiative will offer GMI students the opportunity to receive training and exposure to cutting-edge technology, preparing them to meet industry demands. Additionally, both parties will collaborate to create a commercial framework that will be jointly developed to implement more detailed Definitive Agreements.
Collaboration with Volkswagen Malaysia
The agreement with Volkswagen provides GMI students with opportunities to undergo industrial training or internships in the automotive industry at Volkswagen. This partnership opens doors for students to gain practical experience and essential skills required in the industry. Both parties have committed to ensuring the smooth and successful implementation of this collaboration and will explore additional joint initiatives over time.
Strengthening Through Strategic Partnerships
This strategic partnership not only solidifies GMI’s relationships with Melaka Corporation (MCorp) and Volkswagen but also reaffirms GMI’s commitment to delivering quality education that aligns with current industry needs. Through this collaboration, GMI aims to elevate the quality of TVET education while offering students enhanced opportunities for their future careers.
Deutscher Brand Summit
During the summit, GMI also showcased a range of final-year student projects, allowing students to demonstrate their creativity and innovation to visitors. In addition, GMI partnered with strategic collaborators AsiaRV and Tapio Management Advisory Sdn. Bhd. to explore AR/VR technologies for caravan and campervan development. This partnership fosters new innovations within the industry.
Looking Ahead
We are confident that these initiatives will have a significant positive impact on the development of TVET education in Malaysia, while also supporting the growth of the country’s industries. Through these strategic collaborations, we hope that TVET institutions and industry players can come together to develop a high-quality workforce that meets the demands of today’s industries.
