Young Malaysians looking to build a career in high-growth industries could soon have more opportunities through Bakat MADANI, a new national talent development initiative that aims to provide skills training, professional certifications and quality employment to 25,000 people by the end of 2027.
Launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Bandar Sri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, Bakat MADANI brings together PETRONAS, Government-Linked Investment Companies (GLICs) and Government-Linked Companies (GLCs) under one coordinated platform to strengthen Malaysia’s talent pipeline and improve access to quality careers.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the initiative creates a seamless pathway from education and technical training to certification and employment, helping more Malaysians build sustainable careers while supporting the country’s long-term economic growth.
Over the past five years, talent development programmes run by GLICs, GLCs and PETRONAS have awarded around RM250 million in scholarships annually to nearly 8,000 young Malaysians, with more than 90% coming from low- and middle-income families. Bakat MADANI expands these efforts into a single nationwide initiative with a broader reach.
Bakat MADANI Focuses On Skills That Match Future Industry Needs
Rather than offering training alone, Bakat MADANI is designed to prepare participants for careers in industries that are expected to drive Malaysia’s next phase of economic growth.
The initiative focuses on sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy, the digital economy and advanced manufacturing, where demand for skilled workers continues to increase. Participants will have access to technical training, recognised industry certifications and employment opportunities through the extensive network of participating organisations.
The programme also strengthens collaboration between industry players and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, ensuring graduates develop practical skills that match real workplace requirements.
Opportunities For Graduates, TVET Students And Vulnerable Communities
While university graduates are among the target groups, Bakat MADANI is designed to benefit a much wider segment of society. The initiative also supports TVET graduates, individuals from B40 households, asnaf recipients, vulnerable groups and former members of the Malaysian Armed Forces who are transitioning into civilian employment.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said every Malaysian deserves a fair opportunity to develop their talents regardless of their background, adding that investing in people is also an investment in the country’s economic future.
To encourage more companies to participate, the government is also considering introducing special tax incentives for employers that provide training under Bakat MADANI, helping expand the number of quality training and employment opportunities available.
Major Government Institutions And Companies Back The Initiative
Bakat MADANI is supported by PETRONAS together with six major GLICs: Khazanah Nasional Berhad, the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Retirement Fund Incorporated (KWAP), Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), Lembaga Tabung Haji and the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT).
As part of the initiative, Khazanah Nasional plans to contribute 15,000 trainees by 2027 through its K-Youth programme, which has already trained 35,000 young Malaysians since 2023.
Meanwhile, Lembaga Tabung Haji has introduced its Daya Insani programme to equip asnaf recipients and orphaned youths with vocational skills while connecting them with employment opportunities through strategic industry partners, including companies in Kulim Hi-Tech Park and hospitals under KMI Healthcare.
How To Apply For Bakat MADANI
Interested applicants can apply through the official Bakat MADANI portal.
First, visit https://www.mof.gov.my/ms/bakat-madani. Under the Programme Partners section, select the logo of the participating organisation you wish to apply to. You will then be redirected to the organisation’s application page, where you can review the eligibility requirements, follow the application instructions and submit your application online.
As participating organisations continue to open new intakes, applicants are encouraged to check the portal regularly for the latest programmes and opportunities.
With 25,000 Malaysians expected to benefit by 2027, Bakat MADANI represents one of the country’s largest coordinated talent development initiatives, helping bridge the gap between education, industry and employment while preparing more Malaysians for the high-value jobs of the future.
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