KUALA LUMPUR — Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia (BIM) today expressed concern over escalating national and global challenges, including geopolitical tensions, persistent supply chain disruptions, global energy pressures, and rising cost-of-living impacts affecting economies and societies worldwide.
Speaking on behalf of BIM, its President, Prof. ChM. Dr. Juan Joon Ching, said these developments are placing sustained pressure on national resilience, particularly in relation to the affordability of essential goods and services, including healthcare, energy-dependent industries, and professional service delivery.
“In this environment, Malaysia’s professional community must continue to play a stabilising role by providing ethical leadership, evidence-based expertise, and practical solutions to support the government, industry, and the rakyat in navigating these uncertainties,” he said.
Prof. Juan added that BIM acknowledges the Government’s continued efforts to strengthen economic resilience and safeguard national well-being. In support of this agenda, BIM has taken proactive steps to deepen institutional collaboration and reinforce governance integrity.
“Most recently, BIM formalised a strategic partnership with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration strengthens the role of professional bodies in promoting integrity, transparency, and good governance—key foundations for national resilience during periods of economic and structural pressure,” he noted.
He further highlighted that BIM has initiated engagement sessions with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and key agencies, including the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), and Malaysian Productivity Corporation (MPC).
“These discussions focus on coordinated strategies to strengthen industrial resilience, support trade continuity, enhance productivity, and ensure Malaysia remains competitive amid global economic disruptions,” he said.
PROFEX 2026 as a National Talent Platform
Addressing workforce challenges, Prof. Juan said that in response to rising cost pressures, rapid technological transformation—including artificial intelligence—and shifting workforce demands, professionals and graduates are actively seeking new pathways for career advancement and repositioning.
“Against this backdrop, BIM is organising PROFEX 2026 – Professional Conference and Exhibition 2026, themed ‘Uniting Professions, Transforming Malaysia’s Future’, to be held on 29–30 September 2026,” he announced.
He explained that PROFEX 2026 will serve as a national platform connecting employers with qualified professionals, students, and graduates, bridging talent supply with evolving industry demand across Malaysia’s professional sectors.
“The event will also welcome participation from international delegates and professional bodies, further enhancing cross-border knowledge exchange and global networking opportunities,” he added.
According to Prof. Juan, the programme will focus on three core objectives:
- Strengthening awareness of professional career pathways, entry requirements, and progression opportunities
- Promoting lifelong learning through certification, upskilling, and continuous professional development
- Facilitating direct engagement between employers and potential talent for recruitment, internships, and career placement
“Through this initiative, BIM aims to support structured talent development and strengthen Malaysia’s professional ecosystem in alignment with national economic priorities,” he said.
Commitment to National Integrity and Development
Prof. Juan underscored the importance of integrity, accountability, and public trust among professionals, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty.
“Professionals must uphold ethical standards, strengthen public confidence, and contribute constructively to national stability,” he stressed.
He added that through strengthened collaboration with key institutions such as MACC, MITI, MIDA, MATRADE, and MPC, BIM continues to position Malaysia’s professional community as an active partner in advancing governance integrity, economic resilience, and sustainable national development.
“BIM calls upon all stakeholders to work collectively in strengthening Malaysia’s competitiveness, safeguarding public trust, and ensuring that professional careers remain a key driver of national progress and future talent development,” he said. —Bernama
