Employers Raise Alarm Over Graduates’ Communication Weaknesses
By Subaashinee Kupusamy,
22nd October: A growing concern in Malaysia is the lack of communication skills among recent graduates, which has been highlighted by the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF). Employers across industries have pointed out that many graduates struggle with basic communication, particularly in English. This issue is viewed as a major impediment to employability in today’s competitive job market.
The president of MEF, Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman, emphasized that the gap in communication skills is making it difficult for graduates to secure jobs, especially in sectors requiring strong customer interaction and teamwork. Although graduates may possess technical skills, their inability to express themselves effectively in both oral and written forms hinders their career prospects.
This deficiency is not limited to just English proficiency. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can present ideas clearly, engage in meaningful conversations, and navigate discussions within diverse teams. Graduates must also learn to adjust their communication styles according to different professional settings.
To tackle this issue, there have been calls for educational institutions to place greater emphasis on soft skills development, including public speaking, teamwork, and active listening, alongside technical training. By fostering these abilities early on, Malaysia can better prepare its graduates for a globalized workforce.
In conclusion, addressing the communication skills gap is crucial for boosting graduates’ employability and ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern workplace as stated in The Star.
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