Wednesday, December 20, 2023

New HR minister outlines 3 focuses, cancels ‘Skills Passport’ initiative








New HR minister outlines 3 focuses, cancels ‘Skills Passport’ initiative


Newly appointed Human Resources Minister Steven Sim has outlined three core foundations for the ministry, with immediate measures including ordering HRD Corp to not proceed with its "Skills Passport" initiative which came under internal probe.

“The project has been delayed for over a year and the ministry finds that it’s no longer relevant for implementation,” Sim said in a statement today.

The Skills Passport project came under scrutiny in May after an online portal published an article which HRD Corp said contained false and defamatory statements pertaining to the contract and procurement process of the initiative.

As for the core areas, Sim said it involves strengthening welfare of workers, improving skills and increasing overall productivity of the workforce.

Sim also announced the appointment of the National Union of Bank Malaysia Employees (Nube) treasurer-general Chee Yeeh Ceeu as his special duties officer, as part of the ministry’s planning and direction next year.


National Union of Bank Malaysia Employees treasurer-general Chee Yeeh Ceeu (right) with Human Resources Minister Steven Sim


"Since the start of my appointment, I have expressed my commitment to stand with the workers. Therefore, I’m pleased to appoint a trade union activist, Chee, as a special duties officer.

"He is a labour movement activist, with 15 years of active experience in the trade union movement.

“His appointment allows closer involvement of workers in policy-making at the ministry level," said Sim.

Chee is also a member of the general council of the Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC).



Looking forward, Sim said the ministry will draft a National Human Resource Policy as the main guide in efforts to strengthen welfare, improve skills and increase the success of workers as well as prepare the labour market.

The policy is expected to address future challenges including the development of digital technology, the agenda of an ageing country, green economy, job mismatches and the need for decent work in line with the Madani economy framework.


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