Despite Malaysia’s reliance on agriculture for food security, the sector struggles to attract youth due to perceptions of low prestige and income. While the nation invests in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the impact of educational pathways on agricultural career aspirations remains unclear.

IDEAS surveyed students aged 15-16 from TVET and Non-TVET streams, supplemented by qualitative interviews. This research highlights how educational experiences and perceptions of the sector influence career choices among Malaysian youth.

This event launches the IDEAS report, “Youth Voices, Future Choices: A Comparative Analysis of Career Aspirations Among TVET and Non-TVET Students in Malaysia“. It convenes stakeholders to discuss findings and collaborate on cultivating Malaysia’s next generation of agricultural talent, as well as facilitates discussion on structural and educational factors to make agricultural careers more attractive and future-oriented for the next generation.