The role of the private sector is essential if skills development systems are to meet the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world of work, participants at the Global Skills Forum (GSF) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia heard.
Organized 22-23 October 2025 by the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) under the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia, in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) the Forum served as a global platform to explore how the private sector can drive workforce transformation amid digitalisation, the green transition, demographic shifts and emerging industries.
"No skills development strategy can succeed without enterprise engagement. This Forum rightly places the private sector at the heart of global skills and lifelong learning," said Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
The GSF saw two days of discussions between governments, industry leaders and stakeholders, sector skills bodies as well as education and training providers from countries around the world.
"When we speak about skills we are not merely discussing about training or employment, but essentially we are talking about restoring dignity to labour, giving purpose to effort and building a future where progress and compassion walk hand in hand," said Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato' Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi in his opening remarks.
Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of Human Resources, Malaysia, said, "As the world discusses the future of work, we also have to work towards the future. The dignity of the worker comes not only from protection but also from competence and opportunity. This is where skills education is important."
High on the agenda were sector-specific sessions covering manufacturing, construction, mining, tourism, hospitality, and emerging digital industries. Participants explored strategies to strengthen public-private partnerships notably Sector Skills Bodies (SSBs) but also apprenticeships and Centres of Excellence, recognizing the vital role these industry-led initiatives play in identifying and addressing evolving skills requirements. Apprenticeships and work-based learning were also featured as mechanisms to empower learners and support businesses and build a skilled workforce aligned with fast-evolving labour market needs.
"We are at a pivotal moment. AI and emerging technologies are transforming industries, generating new types of jobs and demanding new skills at remarkable speed. Employers are finding it more and more difficult to hire workers with the right skills in all sectors and all regions," said Matthias Thorns, Vice President of the IOE.
Discussions emphasized the importance of aligning workforce development with industry needs and integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and EdTech solutions, into training systems to build more resilient, future-ready workforces.
The GSF took place under Malaysia's Chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and marked the final event of the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS) 2025. A highpoint was the declaration of a Joint Statement by ASEAN Manpower Ministers reinforcing the region's commitment to advancing skills development and enhancing cross-country collaboration.
"I must recognize the outstanding work that the Government of Malaysia has carried out as ASEAN chair for the ASEAN Year of Skills 2025. The ILO stands ready to support Malaysia and ASEAN as you strive to realize your vision of a region whose workforce is ready to meet the challenges of the future," Mr Houngbo added.
