Why Soft Skills Matter as Much as Hard Skills
It is very common for us Malaysians to think that preparing for their careers equals focus on technical knowledge: mastering the law, understanding finance, coding, or learning the latest design software.
These hard skills are essential, but in today’s job market they are no longer enough on their own. Employers are increasingly looking for something just as valuable...
Strong Soft Skills
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum highlighted critical thinking, communication, creativity, and adaptability as some of the most in-demand skills for the next decade. As automation and AI take over routine and repetitive tasks, what sets modern professionals apart is their ability to connect, solve problems, and lead.
For example, a lawyer who can explain complex cases in simple terms will always have an edge. A business graduate who can work across cultures and manage diverse teams is invaluable. An IT professional with technical expertise is important, but one who can also collaborate with clients and translate technical solutions into business terms becomes indispensable.
How Soft Skills Shape Success
Soft skills make technical skills useful. You may know the law inside out, but without the ability to persuasively argue or negotiate effectively, your knowledge won’t be able to carry you. You may be able to design an app, but without empathy for user experience, it may never find success. In short, soft skills is your bridge between what you know and how effectively you apply it in the real world.
Preparing for the Future
The good news is that soft skills can be developed. Joining clubs and societies, taking part in debates, working on group projects, volunteering, or even engaging in part-time work are all excellent ways to build them. Unlike hard skills that can be learned from textbooks, soft skills often grow from experience, practice, and self-awareness. So, put yourself out there!
Why the Right Institution Matters
Ultimately, your education is about more than lectures and exams. Picking the right institution will equip you with all the technical knowledge for your chosen field, while also giving you the opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and teamwork. It is an ecosystem where you can grow your skills horizontally as well as vertically, preparing you for the specific and more broader challenges of the modern workplace.
In a world where industries are constantly evolving, finding that balance between hard skills and soft skills could be what makes you stand out in your career journey. Choosing the right place to study is the first step toward making that possible.
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