He added that there were now 30 institutes nationwide, nine of which offer Malaysian Skills Certificates (SKM) in veterinary studies.
Chua said the nine institutes could produce about 500 graduates annually.
“But that number is still inadequate to fill the vacancies such as veterinarians, animal trainers and caretakers.
“Generally, about 80% of these graduates join the industry while the rest go on to start their own business.
“We are working to ensure that all veterinary institutes offer SKM-level courses to SPM graduates and also those interested in rearing domestic animals or horses and rabbits,” he said after visiting the Malaysia Veterinary Institute here yesterday.
Chua said government workers in the veterinary sector were also encouraged to take up SKM courses to improve their knowledge in the field.
“Students are given free food and lodging at hostels, while the course fees, which is about RM9,000 per student, is paid by the Government,” he added.
Chua said the Kluang veterinary institute was being expanded to enable it to cater to 500 students compared to 300 now.
“This is part of the Government’s initiative to train more people in the veterinary field through the ministry’s National Agriculture Training Council,” he added.
Just kid-ding around: Chua feeding a kid during his visit to the Malaysia Veterinary Institute in Kluang yesterday.
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