KUALA LUMPUR - VTAR Institute and the Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance skills training and develop a more industry-ready workforce.

The agreement was signed in Jakarta on April 24 by VTAR Institute, an education institution founded by MCA, and Apindo.

The signing took place during the Malaysia-Indonesia Trade and Political Networking Programme organised by the MCA economic and SMEs affairs committee and the MCA Selangor liaison committee.

Apindo was represented by its training centre managing director Darwoto, while VTAR Institute was represented by its Chairman, Soon Mon Huay.

“Both parties also expressed their commitment to strengthening trade and business relations between Indonesia and Malaysia while expanding cooperation in economic, educational and academic fields through this collaboration,” MCA said in a statement on April 26.

The signing was witnessed by MCA economic and SMEs affairs committee deputy chairman Datuk Wong Tat Chee.

Also present were MCA central committee members Datuk Lee Ban Seng, Senator Datuk Ng Keng Heng, MCA national organising secretary Datuk Leaw Kok Chan and Datuk Ooi Jing Ting.

The delegation also met the Indonesian Chinese Entrepreneur Association (ICEA) to exchange views and explore potential areas of cooperation.

“The meeting was particularly meaningful with the presence of numerous prominent Indonesian corporate figures, making it a valuable platform for engagement.

“The evening concluded with a special dinner attended by the delegation led by Datuk Ir. Lawrence Low, further enhancing ties between MCA and ICEA,” said the statement.