PUTRAJAYA, Dec 28 (Bernama) -- The government’s decision to continue the Malaysia Short-Term Employment Programme (MySTEP) in 2026 is seen as appropriate in providing short-term job opportunities for graduates, including persons with disabilities (PwDs) and senior citizens, said work and disability expert Dr Wan Arnidawati Wan Abdullah.
She said MySTEP offers PwDs an early opportunity to build confidence, develop basic skills and establish an employment record.
“Most PwDs are not lacking in ability, but in opportunities to prove their capabilities,” she told Bernama.
Wan Arnidawati said participation by senior citizens also reflects the need to reassess their role in the workforce.
“With suitable adjustments to tasks and working hours, the programme could support their continued economic participation,” said Wan Arnidawati, who is also head of the Social Gerontology Laboratory at the MyAgeing Research Institute, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).
However, she noted that the programme’s success depends on post-placement support, including job guidance and employers’ understanding of the needs of PwDs and senior citizens.
“Success should be viewed as part of a broader employment support ecosystem. It is not only measured by the number of hires, but also by the quality of the work experience,” she added.
Meanwhile, Nordiana Mohd Samsul, 28, said the programme offers renewed hope for those seeking work experience in the public sector.
The Kota Bharu native said MySTEP shows that PwDs are trusted and given opportunities to contribute.
“Although the duration is short, opportunities like this are important for building experience and self-confidence. At least it gives me a chance to try,” said Nordiana, who suffered permanent injury to her right hand in a road accident last year.
Abdul Mizan Yusuf, 30, described MySTEP as a meaningful initiative that ensures equal opportunities for all segments of society.
“The programme reflects the government’s concern for our needs. It is not just temporary employment, but also recognition of the capabilities of PwDs,” said Abdul Mizan, who lost sight in his left eye following a workplace accident.
He added that the continuation of MySTEP demonstrates the MADANI government’s commitment to building an inclusive society.
Mohd Danial Irfan Samuri, 21, also welcomed the initiative, describing MySTEP as a holistic approach that not only creates job opportunities but also builds capacity and confidence among young people.
“I feel inspired by this initiative. It clearly shows the government’s commitment to providing a platform for us to gain experience and contribute to national development,” said Mohd Danial, a certificate holder from an agricultural training institute under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM).
A check on the official Facebook page of the Public Service Department (PSD) found that netizens welcomed the decision, announced in a circular dated Dec 24 and signed by its deputy director-general (Development) Datuk Dr Mohd Bakhari Ismail.
The circular, uploaded yesterday, received numerous likes and positive comments, and was widely shared.
Media reports today said the government had decided to continue MySTEP next year in line with the rules and procedures set out in the MySTEP Personnel Service Procurement Guidelines, effective Jan 1, 2026.
-- BERNAMA
