PETALING JAYA, Oct 25 — Malaysia’s military veterans are set to step confidently into high-value careers, with the Armed Forces Veterans Affairs Corporation (Perhebat) unveiling a decade-long transformation plan to expand job opportunities, develop skills, and promote sustainable socio-economic growth for ex-servicemen and women.

The Perhebat Transformation Plan 2026–2035, launched on October 15, 2025 by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, is designed to ensure veterans’ continued well-being while positioning them as drivers of the national economy.

Addressing the launch, Khaled highlighted the importance of providing meaningful second-career opportunities. 

“Even after early retirement, their future does not end there. Perhebat is the bridge that translates this potential into reality,” he said. 

The minister emphasised that veterans’ transition into civilian employment should reflect their skills, discipline, and commitment developed during military service.

Three phases, four strategic pillars

The plan is structured across three phases and four strategic pillars to holistically empower ex-servicemen:

Phase 1 (2026–2029): Capacity building and policy strengthening

• Modern TVET and sustainable entrepreneurship programmes tailored to industry needs, enhancing skills, knowledge, and competitiveness.
• Strengthening strategic policies in line with government priorities and global technological changes to prepare veterans for high-competency second careers.

Phase 2 (2030–2032): Commercialisation and high-value industry empowerment

• Positioning Perhebat as a provider of skilled labour contributing to high-value industries.
• Expanding partnerships with multinational companies to broaden career opportunities for veterans.
• Offering recognised certification programmes nationally and internationally, opening pathways to commercial and high-value employment.

Phase 3 (2033–2035): Perhebat excellence and sustainability

Establishing Perhebat as a national policy reference centre and collaborating with leading international institutions to enhance the development of veterans on a global scale.

The plan is anchored by four strategic pillars:

Career market expansion: Collaborating with 200 agencies to provide over 3,000 job opportunities across multiple industries, targeting minimum monthly income of RM2,200.

Sustainable community economic development: Launching Hebat E-Co, a new initiative supporting veterans in group-based economic ventures, including agriculture, food security, livestock, and aquaculture, in partnership with public universities, government agencies, and private sector companies.

Access and digitalisation: Boosting digital infrastructure and literacy, offering upskilling and reskilling programmes, and integrating AI-driven learning for interactive and effective digital training.

Policy, governance and professional empowerment: Strengthening financial resilience, upholding global ESG standards, and fostering integrity, professionalism, and talent development.

Building a high-value workforce

Perhebat Director-General Datuk Ts Amir Md Noor said the transformation plan is a progressive step to provide quality employment in high-growth, high-value sectors such as renewable energy, digital technology, electrical and electronics, agriculture, and modern agribusiness.

“The presence of Perhebat in the job market will not only make the institution more dynamic and effective but also open significant pathways for skills matching and quality employment for veterans in transition,” he added.

Meanwhile, the minister also stressed the role of industry in supporting veterans. 

“Companies must welcome our national heroes, recognising the skills they bring — from mechanics and chefs to professional drivers — and provide training and opportunities to harness their experience effectively,” Khaled said.

Through this 10-year road map, Perhebat aims to create sustainable socio-economic benefits and a brighter, dignified future for Malaysia’s military veterans.