Malaysia's Transport Ministry and Defence Ministry announced a joint effort to create 3,208 job opportunities for military veterans and upcoming retirees in the transport sector. The announcement was made at a strategic cooperation ceremony in Putrajaya on June 4, officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi [1, 2].
The jobs cover multiple sub-sectors including ports, logistics, railways, public transport, land transport, and supply chain management [2]. The programme aims to help armed forces personnel transition smoothly to civilian roles by simplifying the conversion of military driving licences to civilian Class E licences for heavy vehicles. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said, "Many armed forces personnel have years of experience handling various types of vehicles and transport assets. We want to ensure that the skills they have acquired throughout their service can be translated into job opportunities more easily, without unnecessary bureaucracy." [1]
Minister Loke added the licence conversion is now done directly, removing typical delays and costs. Retiring personnel can obtain their licences immediately but will receive training placement within logistics companies during a transition period [1]. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin explained that military personnel still serving will continue receiving their military salary throughout this training. Once retired and employed by civilian companies, they will receive salaries alongside their pension [1].
Approximately 5,000 military personnel retire annually in Malaysia, with over 4,000 aged 39 and older. The government highlighted the difficulties many veterans face in maintaining economic stability after retirement [1, 2]. Khaled Nordin noted, "Various issues and challenges will arise, including the fact that at that age, their pensions may not be sufficient. It is also a loss for the country, as in a rapidly developing nation, we require a skilled and experienced workforce." [1]
The collaboration includes expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to offer skills training, upskilling, re-training, employment placement, and career development for veterans [1, 2]. The Land Transport Department (JPJ) will facilitate the transfer of military licences to civilian licences as part of the transition programme [2].
This initiative supports Malaysia’s Defence Industry Policy (DIPN) and the 2026-2035 Veterans Affairs Corporation (PERHEBAT) transformation blueprint aimed at enhancing veterans’ economic sustainability [2]. So far, 10 agencies, companies, and associations in the transport sector have signed memoranda of understanding with PERHEBAT to expand training and job opportunities for veterans [2].
