Backward and Forward Reviews on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Malaysia: The Evolution and ICT-Driven Future Prospect

This paper discusses two important aspects of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) implementation in Malaysia, namely the evolution and the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in crafting the future of TVET in the Malaysian education landscape. The evolution of TVET is elaborated in seven stages, starting from the era of before the Second World War up to the present new millennium. On the other hand, the role ICT is narrated based on several contexts, such as the history behind ICT integration in TVET education, the advantages, and disadvantages, as well as the challenges and readiness to move along with rapidly shifted industrial demands. Education policies on TVET are constantly enacted and enhanced to ensure that the nation could overcome the challenges of the industrial revolution 4.0. These policies are implemented within three types of TVET institutions, which are school-based, non-school-based, and registered private entities. Therefore, this paper contributes to the existing knowledge by relating the past and the future of TVET education in Malaysia.