In Photo: Malaysian Consul General Deddy Faisal Bin Ahmad Salleh congratulates participants who completed the Automotive Basic Vehicle Maintenance Training at the KorPhil Vocational Training Center in Davao City in a celebration held at Mabini town, Davao de Oro, on October 26. (Photo via Quinn Florence Astillo)
By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – The Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City honored a new batch of Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme graduates on Saturday, October 25, highlighting the role of technical training in deepening Malaysia–Philippines relations.
Malaysian consulates organized the ceremony and recognized Mindanaoan participants who completed the Automotive Basic Vehicle Maintenance Training at the KorPhil Vocational Training Center in Tibungco, Davao City.
As part of Malaysia’s MTCP initiative, the program promotes regional Technical and Vocational Education and Training cooperation, Malaysian Consul General Deddy Faisal Bin Ahmad Salleh said in his speech before the participants.
Salleh commended the graduates for embodying the “spirit of lifelong learning” and advancing shared skills development goals and regional excellence. He said the training equipped participants with essential technical knowledge while strengthening international cooperation.
He added that the graduates represent a new generation of skilled professionals contributing to a stronger and more united region.
The consul general thanked the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for their continued partnership in Malaysia’s human capital development initiatives.
Salleh said the Consulate is coordinating with DFA-Mindanao to select outstanding Mindanaoan professionals for upcoming short courses in Malaysia in 2025, referring to them as “little ambassadors” of friendship and cooperation.
National Commission on Muslim Filipinos–11 regional director Sherrila Porza Sawah praised Malaysia’s sustained support for Mindanaoan participation in the MTCP and Halal ecosystem programs.
“This fellowship is a powerful testament to the enduring bond and vibrant cooperation between the Philippines and Malaysia,” Sawah said. “These connections serve as bridges that strengthen our nations’ economic and cultural relationships.”
Salleh also cited the success of the 2024 Halal Ecosystem Program — including the Halal Advantage Seminar, Stakeholders Engagement Forum, and Halal Masterclass Program — in partnership with the Malaysian Consulate in Davao and Malaysia’s Halal Development Corporation.
“These programs showcase the strong potential of Philippine–Malaysia cooperation, especially in Mindanao’s Halal industry,” Sawah said. “We are extremely optimistic about the future and look forward to seeing more talented Mindanaoans in the upcoming MTCP programs, Insha Allah.”
The event concluded with renewed pledges of cooperation and friendship between Malaysia and the Philippines in advancing skills development, regional peace, and economic growth.
