AWS skills to jobs tech alliance launches in Malaysia

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has partnered with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to launch the AWS Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance, propelling Malaysia’s digital workforce development.

This initiative, launched in October 2024, positions Malaysia as a leader in cloud education, joining ten other countries globally to advance cloud-based career pathways.

Key industry and academic partners, including the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), are at the forefront of this initiative.

APU has been collaborating with AWS since 2017 to integrate cloud tools into its curriculum, equipping students with practical, in-demand skills.

“This partnership modernises our curriculum, ensuring our students are ready to enter the workforce with relevant certifications and hands-on experience,” said Amad Arshad, Senior Lecturer at APU’s School of Computing.

APU’s AWS Cloud Club: Building a skilled talent pool

A significant highlight of APU’s collaboration with AWS is the AWS Cloud Club, a thriving student community of over 800 members.

This club fosters hands-on learning through events like hackathons, workshops, and meetups. Its success has earned it recognition as the only Malaysian club featured on AWS’s official portal.

“The AWS Cloud Club has transformed how students engage with cloud technology,” noted Amad, who also serves as the club’s advisor.

Events such as “AWS Student Community Day” and “AWS Tech Sprint” allow students to solve real-world challenges using cloud platforms, supported by insights from AWS experts.

The programme’s impact is evident in the success stories of graduates like Yong Yung Hao, a former Cloud Club captain and ICT diploma graduate from APU.

Yong achieved multiple AWS certifications, including the coveted AWS Solution Architect Professional certification, and secured a role as a cloud engineer at eCloudValley Malaysia.

Reflecting on his journey, Yong stated, “Participating in AWS Jam at APU provided hands-on challenges that showcased my skills to industry leaders and opened doors to new opportunities.”

Driving Malaysia’s digital future with AWS

The AWS Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance aims to bridge academia and industry by preparing students for certifications and careers in cloud technology.

This collaboration aligns with Malaysia’s digital transformation goals, providing a pipeline of skilled professionals for the tech industry.

“Being part of AWS’s global initiatives is a milestone for APU,” said Amad.

“It reflects our dedication to equipping students with industry-relevant skills and highlights the transformative power of this partnership.”

APU’s Cloud Club recently showcased its expertise at AWS Cloud Day Malaysia 2024, where its captain, Kai Yong Lai, delivered a developer session—an achievement that underscores the calibre of talent the university is nurturing.

As Malaysia aims to achieve global recognition for its tech ecosystem, initiatives like the AWS Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance are essential.

With a commitment to bridging education and industry, APU and AWS are paving the way for a robust digital economy, powered by skilled graduates ready to lead in cloud innovation.