KUALA LUMPUR: The Works Ministry has been urged to have an exchange programme with developed countries so that it could increase the quality of its vocational programme. 

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak said last night that the ministry must be practical as ?either it works or it doesn't?. 

"And if it doesn't work, then you will find out why and then set about making sure it does work". 

Najib was speaking at the presentation of the Prime Minister's Golden Hand awards in conjunction with the 17th Malaysian Vocational competition at a hotel here. 

"In the Ninth Malaysia Plan, the Government has prioritised human resources and RM45bil is for human resources development, " he said. 

He also urged participants in the coming Asean Skills Competition to be held next year to do their best like the athletes in the recent SEA Games in Korat, Thailand did. 

Giat Mara beat 175 participants from various agencies and vocational institutions to win the Prime Minister's Golden Hand award. 

On hand to receive the award were Mara chairman Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Zainal Abidin and its director-general Datuk Nam Martinin.