WORKFORCE-ORIENTED EDUCATION SYSTEMS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT IN VIETNAM AND MALAYSIA

Human Resource Development (HRD) plays a critical role in supporting social progress, workforce readiness, and sustainable development. In emerging economies, workforce-oriented education systems, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), are essential for aligning skills development with labour market needs. This article examines the challenges and opportunities of HRD within workforce-oriented education systems in Vietnam and Malaysia. Using a literature-based review, the study compares national HRD strategies and workforce development approaches in both countries. The findings indicate that Malaysia demonstrates stronger education–industry alignment and skills-based training, while Vietnam continues to face challenges related to workforce readiness and skills development. The study highlights the importance of strengthening workforce-oriented education systems to enhance HRD outcomes in emerging economies.