In 2023, the global aviation industry soared to a valuation of approximately USD814.5 billion, marking a 7% uptick from the previous year despite the pandemic’s turbulent impact. The resilience of the airline industry prevailed through strategic measures like passenger distancing, digital immunity passports, and contact tracing. In addition, the industry rebounded to a mere 3% below its pre-COVID figure in 2019.
In this dynamic realm of aviation, Malaysia emerges as a beacon for aspiring pilots and enthusiasts. Boeing’s 2022 Pilot and Technician Outlook forecasted a demand for 602,000 new pilots, 610,000 new maintenance technicians, and 899,000 new cabin crew members by 2041. Malaysia, with its vibrant aviation sector, stands as a fertile ground where aviators are nurtured.
Prestigious institutions like the Malaysian Flying Academy (MFA), HM Aerospace, and the University College of Aviation Malaysia (UniCAM) shine with international acclaim for their flight training programmes. These institutions offer a comprehensive range of courses, from private pilot licenses to advanced commercial pilot training, nurturing the next generation of aviators.
As one of Malaysia’s pioneering private higher education institution dedicated to aviation management, UniCAM, formerly known as Aviation Management College (AMC), was founded in 2007. Situated in Jenderam Hilir, Dengkil, Selangor, it caters to approximately 900 active students, including 80 international students from 15 countries. Offering over 20 aviation-related courses, from Certificate to PhD levels, UniCAM places a strong emphasis on cultivating essential technical and soft skills. Graduates, numbering in the thousands, showcase excellence globally.
With a focus on adding value to Malaysia’s aviation industry, UniCAM’s success lies in producing skilled professionals equipped for international standards. To date, UniCAM has produced more than 1,000 alumni and they have been employed by various companies around the world. Some of them are working in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Singapore, and other countries in various position such as Pilot, Cabin Crew, Air Traffic Controller, Load master and Flight dispatcher.
The Malaysian Government through MIDA is actively promoting and encouraging private sector investment in higher education for talent skills development in the country. Companies providing sciences, technical and vocational courses/training that undertake new investments to modernise their training facilities or expand their training capacities benefit from tax incentives. This include 100% of qualifying capital expenditure incurred within a 10-year period, offset against 70% of statutory income for each y assessment year.
In 2021, UniCAM acquired an A320 Flight Simulator to enhance training for pilots and students, creating a positive impact on skill development at UniCAM with the support from MIDA.
Malaysia’s robust aviation education ecosystem thrives, marked by diverse flying schools, aviation academies, and training centers cultivating skilled professionals who elevate the industry globally. The soaring expanse of aviation sector in Malaysia stands as a testament to dreams taking flight and aviators being born in a landscape where excellence knows no bounds.
For more information, please get in touch with the Healthcare, Education & Hospitality Division at https://www.mida.gov.my/staffdirectory/healthcare-education-hospitality-division/