SANDAKAN: The fourth edition of the National Training Week (NTW) 2026 officially kicked off on Saturday, offering thousands of free courses and skills development activities to Malaysians of all ages.
Organised by the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma), the programme aims to strengthen lifelong learning across the nation. Full details are available at www.nationaltrainingweek.gov.my.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan officiated the launch at the Sandakan Community Hall. Themed “Pelajari, Alami, Kuasai” (Learn, Experience, Master), the initiative represents more than an annual event—it is a national movement to embed a culture of continuous learning among the public.
“The NTW is not merely an annual programme, but serves as a national movement to instil a culture of lifelong learning among Malaysians,” said Khairul Firdaus.
He added that Sandakan was chosen as the launch venue to recognise Sabah’s vital role in the nation’s human capital agenda. This ensures that training opportunities are widely accessible to all segments of society, including employees, entrepreneurs, gig workers, homemakers, and retirees.
Among the contemporary courses on offer are programmes in artificial intelligence (AI) prompting, digital marketing, AI animation, drone operations, autism support, language classes, and vehicle maintenance.
HRD Corp Chairman Datuk Rusli Jaafar highlighted that close collaboration with industry players and training institutions has enabled these inclusive, free learning opportunities.
The fourth edition also featured the presentation of special incentives to 149 top-performing 2025 SPM students from the Batu Sapi parliamentary constituency, aimed at encouraging them to further enhance their academic and career skills.
Visitors to the carnival can look forward to a variety of interactive activities, including knowledge-sharing sessions, career development advisory services, and exhibitions by various training agencies.
The NTW 2026 roadshow will continue across the country before culminating in Penang on July 25 and 26. According to the official programme portal, the public can participate in the courses either online or at selected physical institutions, depending on the nature of the course. – James Leong
Khairul Firdaus (centre), during the launch of NTW 2026 at the Sandakan Community Hall in Sandakan yesterday.
