Empowering Johor’s Industrial Workforce Through Public-private Partnership

Sun Bus Tech, one of Malaysia’s leading bus body manufacturers based in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, has taken a proactive step in talent development by signing a Note of Understanding (NoU) under the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) framework. This initiative aims to support the Johor State Government’s vision to empower local talent and set a new standard within the industry.

Sun Bus Tech is among the companies that have responded to the Johor State Government’s call—announced by Menteri Besar Johor—to uplift salary levels and develop a future-ready workforce. The company now offers a premium starting salary of RM4,000 for skilled workers and has partnered with JTDC to provide hands-on practical training that bridges education with real industry needs.

At the NoU signing ceremony, Aznan Bin Tamin, Chairman of the Johor Education and Information Committee stated, “Sun Bus Tech’s commitment to providing structured training and competitive salaries is an excellent example of how local industries can take the lead in building a stronger future for Johor. These efforts support our vision to retain skilled talent, strengthen our industrial base, and ensure Johor remains an attractive destination for investment and innovation.”

Sun Bus Tech Chief Executive Officer, Shyan Phang, shared the inspiration behind the initiative and said, “We believe a company’s strength lies in its people. Through this initiative, we are creating opportunities for young talents to gain industry exposure, hands-on training, and a clear career pathway. Our collaboration with JTDC reflects our long-term commitment to building a capable local workforce that can grow alongside us in developing Johor.”

The Sun Bus Tech x JTDC partnership not only provides tuition support but also grants access to industrial exposure, on-the-job training at Sun Bus Tech’s facility, and a guaranteed career pathway upon graduation—effectively bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world employment.

This collaboration underscores the value of synergy between the Johor State Government and industry. It reaffirms Sun Bus Tech’s broader commitment to strengthening Johor’s position as a hub for skilled talent in the mobility and manufacturing sectors. It also reflects a growing trend of industry-led solutions in addressing workforce readiness and talent retention challenge.