JOHOR BAHRU, Sept 10 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST), successfully hosted the 6th Technical and Vocational Education & Training International Conference (TVETIC2025) on 10 September 2025 at UTM Johor Bahru. The event brought together leading scholars, researchers, industry practitioners, and policymakers from across the globe to deliberate on the future of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the era of digital transformation.
Carrying the theme “Empowering TVET Through Innovation in Digital Economy,” the conference served as a platform for intellectual exchange and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Discussions revolved around the integration of digital technologies, sustainable practices, and innovative teaching strategies in technical and vocational education, with an emphasis on preparing a skilled workforce for Industry 5.0.
The conference featured distinguished keynote addresses. Prof. Dr. Ramlee Mustapha from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Future TVET Education in the Age of AI: Driving Innovation, Preparing the Emerging Workforce, and Advancing Sustainable Development.” He highlighted how artificial intelligence and digital tools are reshaping education, stressing the need for educators and institutions to adapt rapidly. Meanwhile, Dr. Mohd Khairul Ikhwan Ahmad from Cybersolutions Technology Sdn. Bhd. spoke on “Smart Industries, Smart Skills: TVET’s Role in Industry 5.0,” where he underscored the importance of aligning TVET curricula with the demands of smart industries and sustainable growth.
Beyond the keynote sessions, TVETIC2025 witnessed vibrant parallel presentations and panel discussions covering diverse sub-themes such as curriculum innovation, inclusive and special education, entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and industry engagement. Participants actively shared their latest research findings, innovative practices, and collaborative strategies to strengthen the role of TVET as a driver for national and regional development. The first International Product Profile Innovation Competition (IPPIC2025) was also held in conjunction with TVETIC2025, receiving participations from various skills and training institutes, and higher learning education all around Malaysia.
The conference drew participation from local and international institutions, creating a dynamic environment for knowledge sharing and networking. The strong presence of policymakers and industry representatives also signified the growing recognition of TVET as a central pillar in equipping the workforce with future-ready skills.
Through TVETIC2025, UTM reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for excellence in TVET education and research. The success of the conference further demonstrated FEST’s dedication to advancing global collaboration, digital innovation, and sustainable human capital development.