The International College of Management and Sports (ICMS), DrSound Productions and Megastar Arena joined forces to transform Malaysia’s audio, video and light (AVL) industry by delivering high-quality technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to individuals via ICMS-pioneered TVET Train2Place scheme.
The collaborative effort seeks to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to seize opportunities and realize their fullest potential in the professional arena.
The tri-partite memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed on March 20, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the transformation of vocational education, offering a blend of innovation, practicality and enjoyment.
In his speech, ICMS Education Group Sdn Bhd managing director Dato’ Swaminathan Mahalingam highlighted the significance of the partnership and the transformative potential of the TVET Train2Place scheme.
“The TVET Train2Place scheme stands out for its fusion of innovation and practicality. By providing students with cutting-edge facilities and an engaging curriculum, the initiative aims to create an environment where learning is not only enriching but also enjoyable.
“With the support of Megastar Arena, students can look forward to a holistic educational experience that nurtures both their skills and confidence,” he said.
He added that vocational education played a critical role in Malaysia’s economic growth and social development, bridging the gap between education and employment, and ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic job market.
Dr Sound Productions technical director Anthony Chow Chee Ming said skilled professional shortage at various levels is the biggest challenge facing the AVL industry.
Recognizing this crucial gap, he said the collaborative initiative between the ICMS, DrSound Productions and Megastar Arena aims to address this talent deficit and fortify the industry’s workforce.
“The need to have certified and knowledgeable skilled crew is in very much demand not only to industry vendor partners but also to the hotel industry, government halls, houses of worship and event venues.
“Experienced and skilled event crew have gone up the ladder and are now in demand not only in Malaysia but also in the rest of South East Asia. AVL vendors in Singapore, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam use a lot of Malaysian technical personnel for their concerts and large events thus leaving a big void to fill for our own local use,” said Chow.
The skilled-labour shortage in the AVL industry is posing a significant bottleneck to achieving sustained growth.
“This scarcity spans across various levels, from seasoned executives to entry-level technicians. The consequences of this shortage resonate throughout the industry, affecting operational efficiency, innovation, and the ability to meet the rising demands of the entertainment sector,” added Chow.
Mega Star Arena Sdn Bhd founder and chairman Dr Paul Wong said the demand for audio, visual and lighting professionals is on the rise, driven by increased concert events.
“With more than 150 concerts happening in Malaysia this 2024, this collaboration will create a more skilled and comprehensive workforce to address the rising needs of the AVL industry,” said Wong who has been in the events industry for more than 38 years.
