MARA launches SWITCHPRO apprenticeship to build skilled workforce for electrical, automation and data centre industries
Majlis Amanah Rakyat launched the MARA-SWITCHPRO Apprenticeship Programme with 18 trainees completing cohort one and 22 more due to start in August 2026.
Source: Majlis Amanah Rakyat · July 26, 2026 at 10:58 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 27 JULY 2026 —
KUALA LUMPUR, 20 Julai 2026 – Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) has launched the MARA-SWITCHPRO Apprenticeship Programme, an initiative aimed at developing a skilled workforce in electrical, automation, and data centre operations to meet the growing demand of Malaysia’s high-tech sectors.
Market Impact
The programme, which combines structured technical training with industry exposure, targets 200 participants over three years, with the first cohort of 18 trainees completing their training and a second cohort of 22 set to begin in August 2026.
The programme is designed to bridge the skills gap between education and industry needs by providing work-based learning, international certifications, and direct industry placements. Participants undergo training under the Switchboard & Electrical Integrated Technician Training (SWITCHPRO) framework, which integrates theoretical learning, hands-on practical sessions, and real-world industry exposure. Schneider Electric Industries (M) Sdn. Bhd. provides professional certification, ensuring that graduates meet global standards in electrical, automation, and data centre operations.
MARA has partnered with three industry players—Bumi Perkasa Engineering Sdn. Bhd. (SIMATEC Industrial Training), Starlite Electrical Industries Sdn. Bhd., and Advance Industrial Solutions Sdn. Bhd.—to facilitate industry-based training, certification, and employment opportunities. The first cohort of 18 trainees has completed their training and will undergo industry placements before being absorbed into jobs with Schneider Electric, Starlite Electrical, and Advance Industrial Solutions.
The programme aims to reduce job mismatch by equipping graduates with skills, experience, and certifications that align with industry requirements, thereby improving their employability and career prospects.
Pengerusi MARA, Datuk Wira Dr. Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, highlighted the programme’s role in transforming Malaysia’s talent development model. He emphasised that the success of educational institutions should be measured not just by the number of graduates produced, but by how well they meet industry demands. The initiative aligns with Malaysia’s ambition to become a digital and high-tech economic hub, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce in critical sectors.
The programme’s structured approach—spanning training, certification, industry placement, and employment—reflects a shift towards more sustainable and impactful talent development. By integrating education with employment and training-to-employment pathways, MARA-SWITCHPRO aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports Malaysia’s digital economy goals. The initiative is expected to enhance the competitiveness of local talent while addressing the persistent challenge of job mismatch in high-tech industries.
The programme’s success will depend on sustained collaboration between MARA, industry partners, and educational institutions to ensure continuous alignment with evolving technological and market needs.