2027 Budget: HRD Corp to benefit from RM3 billion worker training fund

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 OCTOBER 2026 —

KUALA LUMPUR — Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) will deploy RM3 billion from its levy fund to create three million training opportunities for the local workforce under Budget 2027, the agency said in a statement on October 11.

The initiative places specific emphasis on professional certification and skills upgrading aligned with current industry requirements, and is designed to support the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) target of raising the share of skilled workers to 35 per cent by 2030 as the country transitions toward a high-value economy. The focus on human capital in Budget 2027 reflects the importance of strengthening national workforce capabilities amid structural economic shifts, the agency said.

"As an agency under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), HRD Corp will continue to focus on training relevant to industry needs, recognised professional certification, and strategic utilisation of levy funds so that employer investments deliver meaningful value to workers and businesses," the agency said in the statement.

The statement added that efforts to upskill and reskill the workforce must continue to be expanded across all segments of society to unlock more employment opportunities and career progression pathways. For employers, levy contributions channelled through the programme will support skills development aimed at enhancing workforce capability and productivity. For workers, access to industry-driven training and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) stands to support sustained career advancement.

Beyond the core levy deployment, the government has also allocated RM40 million for the implementation of the MADANI Professional Caregiver Skills initiative under KESUMA, which is expected to benefit up to 8,000 participants. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the care economy.

The caregiver programme covers training for elderly care, infant care, child care, care for persons with disabilities (OKU), and post-natal care. The allocation underscores a parallel policy push to professionalise caregiving roles and expand the supply of certified caregivers in response to demographic and social demand.

HRD Corp said it would continue to align its training portfolio with evolving industry signals and the national skills agenda, ensuring that levy-funded programmes remain responsive to both employer requirements and worker aspirations. The agency did not specify a rollout timeline for the three million training places or the caregiver initiative beyond their inclusion in the Budget 2027 framework.

Related: HRD Corp · Ministry of Human Resources · Kuala Lumpur