Malaysia’s Rail Skills Pipeline Reaches WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

China, September 2026 — Skills development is becoming an important component of rail-sector growth as expanding networks require technicians and engineers with specialised knowledge across mechanical, electrical and rail vehicle systems. Malaysia’s participation in the Rail Vehicle Technology category at WorldSkills Shanghai highlights the role of technical and vocational education in developing this workforce.

Wan Hamiz Ozai Wan Hamidzi, a 20-year-old Diploma in Rail Systems Engineering Technology student at Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Italy Design Institute (UniKL MIDI), represented Malaysia in the competition. The Butterworth, Penang native had undergone nearly three years of preparation, developing the combination of electrical and mechanical skills required for the rail vehicle discipline.

His interest in rail systems developed during his school years and was strengthened by exposure to major Malaysian projects, including the East Coast Rail Link and Mutiara Line. His WorldSkills experience began in 2023 as a technical assistant before progressing to participation in the 2024 and 2025 WorldSkills Malaysia University Challenge editions.

Training and mentorship have been central to his development. UniKL MIDI Rail Engineering Technology lecturer and coach Mohd Firdaus Hassan said Wan Hamiz’s interest and technical potential were identified during his early workshop experience, with structured training subsequently used to develop his competition skills.

Wan Hamiz was among 22 Malaysian competitors participating across 21 internationally recognised skills at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, which brought together about 1,400 young skilled professionals from more than 65 countries and regions. His participation also reflects the wider importance of strengthening rail-focused TVET pathways as Malaysia and other Asian markets develop and modernise their rail infrastructure.

Source: Malay Mail