#Malaysia #Kuala Lumpur #Global Skills Forum #ASEAN Year of Skills #Steven Sim

Global Skills Forum 2025: A Pivotal Event for ASEAN's Skill Development

On October 22, 2025, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, became a significant landmark in the global human capital landscape by hosting the Global Skills Forum (GSF) 2025. This prestigious event aligned with Malaysia's role as the ASEAN Chair and the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS) 2025, gathering representatives from governments, industries, and communities worldwide to address essential skill transformation issues.

A Visionary Launch

The Global Skills Forum was officially launched by Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, and Minister of Rural and Regional Development. His opening remarks underscored the unique potential ASEAN has in shaping its future through skilled development. "With the right skills, this youth dividend can transform into a source of innovation and prosperity, not just for Southeast Asia but for the global economy," he stated, illustrating the promise that the forum holds for the future workforce.

International Recognition for Leadership

Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), praised the Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim, for his leadership in promoting the ASEAN Year of Skills 2025. Houngbo recognized Sim as a vital figure within the region and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Malaysian government’s achievements during its chairmanship. He remarked, "The ILO stands ready to support Malaysia and ASEAN in realizing your vision of a region whose workforce is prepared for future challenges."

Workers at the Core of Development

In his address, Minister Steven Sim reaffirmed the importance of keeping workers at the center of economic growth. He stated, "Workers are creators of value in our economy. The gains for workers over the last 100 years must not only be safeguarded but must continue to progress, especially in view of new dynamics." He emphasized that GSF forms an integral part of the broader ASEAN movement towards enhanced skills development, underscoring the collaboration that lies within the region.

Theme and Objectives of GSF 2025

This year’s forum theme, "The Transformative Role of Private Sector in Skills Development Driving Innovation and Impact,” sparked discussions on various challenges associated with workforce development. The event featured nearly 600 delegates who engaged in conversations about co-creating agile strategies that prioritize human-centered approaches, vital in adapting to rapid technological changes and evolving global labor markets. The forum reinforced the notion that skills are the currency of opportunity, competitiveness, and sustainability for businesses and society alike.

Commitment to Future Workforce Development

One of the most significant moments during the event was Malaysia's firm commitment to developing skills for the future workforce in ASEAN countries and beyond. This pledge was aimed at enhancing collaboration and nurturing skills adaptable to future challenges, ensuring stability, sustainability, and competitiveness within the ASEAN community.

Celebrating Achievements

As the GSF 2025 draws towards its conclusion, a gala dinner titled "Colours of Success: A Celebration of Achievements" showcased the accomplishments of seven flagship platforms within the ASEAN Year of Skills 2025 initiative, illustrating the collective effort towards achieving set objectives.

In summary, the Global Skills Forum 2025 marks not only a significant milestone for Malaysia but also serves as a beacon for skill development across ASEAN, demonstrating a commitment to future-ready workforce capabilities that are indispensable for navigating the complexities of a fast-evolving professional landscape.