FMM concurs that the recent revelation of the misuse of funds for the purchase of property which had not followed proper procedures is indeed a very serious matter involving the management of public funds and should not have been allowed to happen. Nevertheless, FMM is of the view that following the review and recommendation of the GOC, stricter governance measures would be put into place with stronger controls and governance structures to ensure there will be no misappropriation or misconduct involving the HRDF assets.

More importantly, the overhaul of the governance structure and controls that have been recommended to be implemented would provide the foundation for realignment of the past wrong doings and to position the organisation for the purpose it was set up for in meeting the human capital development and training needs of the industry. The Pembangunan Sumber Manusia Berhad (PSMB) should focus its efforts to spearhead the human capital development of the labour force in ensuring that both the existing and future workforce is prepared to meet the demand driven by the current economic and technological changes especially the changes and challenges brought about by the 4th Industrial Revolution. It is important that PSMB harmonises efforts to upskill and reskill the existing workforce to meet the challenges of automation and digitalisation in particular the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills and facilitate the efficient utilisation of the HRDF levy towards ensuring that the industry is able to adapt to the changes and challenges quickly and maintain their competitiveness and remain sustainable.

The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has been the voice of the Malaysian manufacturing sector since 1968. Representing over 10,000 member companies (3,000 direct and 7,000 indirect) from the manufacturing supply chain, FMM is actively engaged with government and its key agencies at Federal, State and local levels. FMM is also well-linked with international organisations, Malaysian businesses and civil society. Apart from benefitting from FMM’s advocacy, FMM members enjoy value-add services, including training, business networking and trade opportunities as well as regular information updates.