The majority of Malaysians are facing difficulties to learn new skills in adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey in the second quarter of 2020.

A survey by Randstad Malaysia found that 61 per cent of respondents faced the challenge, dominated by 69 per cent of young people aged 18 to 24 years compared to 49 per cent of respondents aged 55 to 67 years.

"The rapid digital transformation in 2020 has increased the demand for professionals who have technical knowledge and soft skills," said Fahad Naeem, Head of Operations Randstad Malaysia in a statement today.

However, he said, as opportunities to learn new skills diminish when working from home, employers need to play a role in building new opportunities and encouraging employee involvement.

"Human capital development requires collective effort between educational institutions, the government, organisations and employers themselves," he said.

In an effort to increase competitiveness in the job market, nine out of 10 respondents stated that they are constantly updating their skills and abilities.

However, apart from requests from employers, the survey also pays attention to the needs of employees.

The survey found that 55 per cent of respondents want to work in a conducive environment to share constructive criticism while 44 per cent of respondents prefer employers who offer training programs.

“With guidance from mentors, constructive criticism from customers and colleagues, including opportunities to get involved in new projects, employees will learn new skills and generate valuable experience.

"It is critical enough for a company to have a culture which is conducive to learning and focused on skills development so that the workforce is more flexible and ready to act, no matter what crisis they face," said Naeem.

The survey, as part of the Randstad Workmonitor report, was conducted online in 34 countries among workers aged 18 to 65 by October 2020.