Enhancing Malaysian Polytechnic Graduates’ Employability in the ASEAN Workforce through Work-Based Learning for Industry 4.0
List of Authors
Kahirol Mohd Salleh, Muhammad Haziq Mazlan, Nor Lisa Sulaiman, Saifullizam Puteh, Wan Rosemehah Wan Omar, Zunuwanas Mohamad
Keyword
Work-Based Learning; TVET; Talent; Industry 4.0
Abstract
The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) has altered global workforce requirements, requiring a fundamental change in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. This study examines the strategic development of IR4.0-ready talent at Malaysian polytechnics via the deployment of Work-Based Learning (WBL) frameworks. The paper presents the IR4.0 Talent Excellence Framework as a multidimensional roadmap for talent development, grounded in a theoretical model that incorporates Emotional Intelligence, Multiple Intelligences, Cultural Intelligence, and Tech Talent. It rigorously assesses national policies, institutional reforms, and industry collaborations that have influenced Malaysia's polytechnic transformation program. This study employs a systematic literature review and case analysis of Malaysian Work-Based Learning models (2u2i, 3u1i) to illustrate how polytechnics integrate academic theory with industrial practice to cultivate graduates prepared for the future. Notwithstanding these achievements, obstacles endure, including fragmented governance, skill mismatches, and public misconceptions regarding TVET. The report finishes by advocating for coherent governance, increased industry involvement, and strategic investments to improve the scalability and efficacy of WBL as a tool for national and regional workforce development.