Abdul Shukor Ruslan presentation abstract

Assuring Access to Lifelong Learning in Malaysia.

This presentation covers a report on the lifelong learning policies and initiatives taken in Malaysia at present and the future.  The 8th Malaysian plan has largely covered the infrastructure development.  The 9th Malaysian Plan (9MP) reveals the priorities of the country’s development programs from 2006 - 2010 of which the highest  is on human capital development.  The education and training provided under this scheme is  to face up to the current challenges of the social and economic needs due to the changing trends in technology, science, demographic factors and the globalization process.  It also recognizes the good governance  of the public institutions under various ministries and private institutions providing the infrastructure for various types of vocational training, entrepreneurship training, e- learning and budget allocations to fulfill the needs of lifelong education for all.
The entrepreneurial skills development program for potential entrepreneurs under Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) one of the agencies of the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development is highlighted. 
The current policy of the government requiring government employees at all levels to pass  different levels of competency tests as requirements for remuneration and promotion exercises will further ensure government institutions to become learning organizations. Fostering a K-based Civil service in itself will go a significant way towards creating a knowledge empowered Malaysian population.
 Incentives given to promote lifelong learning under the national budget for 2006 will help students the working population to pursue tertiary educations.
 A well-planned and visionary governance in creating k-workers of the 21st century will assure the accessibility of lifelong learning for all.