Comparative Analysis of TVET Instructor Competency Standards: Insights from Malaysia and Beyond

The competency standards for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructors are crucial in ensuring the delivery of quality education and training, which supports the development of a skilled workforce. In Malaysia, the National Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS) - TVET Instruction, developed by the Department of Skills Development (DSD), serves as the benchmark for preparing instructors to meet industry demands and contribute to national economic growth. However, as global standards evolve, it is essential to assess how NOSS compares with other established frameworks, including the TVET Teaching Competency (TTC) by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Regional TVET Teacher Standard for ASEAN (RTTS) by SEAMEO VOCTECH and GIZ. This study conducts a comparative analysis of these three competency frameworks, aiming to identify strengths, areas of alignment, and opportunities for improvement within the NOSS framework. The findings reveal that while NOSS is well-tailored to Malaysia’s specific industrial and educational needs, there are opportunities to integrate broader competencies, such as digital pedagogical skills and continuous professional development, which are emphasized in the TTC and RTTS frameworks. Based on this analysis, several recommendations are made to enhance the NOSS framework, ensuring that Malaysia’s TVET instructors are equipped with both technical expertise and the adaptability required to meet the evolving demands of the global workforce.