Abstract

This study seeks to investigate the correlation between the concept of fashion sustainability knowledge and the readiness to pursue careers in fashion among vocational students. This quantitative cross-sectional correlational study encompassed 140 vocational college students enrolled in the Fashion Design program in Selangor. Simple random sampling was used to choose the sample. The data was gathered through a structured questionnaire divided into three sections: Section A (demographics), Section B (knowledge of fashion sustainability), and Section C (readiness to pursue a career in fashion). The Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) software was used to analyze the data. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and Pearson correlation analysis were used to find the relationship between variables. The findings indicate that the level of fashion sustainability knowledge is high (mean = 3.78, SD = 0.46), and the willingness to pursue a career in fashion is similarly high (mean = 4.00, SD = 0.10). The correlation analysis indicates a substantial positive association between the concept of fashion sustainability knowledge and the readiness to pursue a career in fashion (r = 0.56, p < 0.01). These results corroborate the Theory of Planned Behavior, which posits that individuals' knowledge and beliefs affect their intentions and actions regarding career choices. In conclusion, students possessing extensive knowledge of fashion sustainability are better equipped to pursue careers in the sustainable fashion sector. This study's effect on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) demonstrates that incorporating sustainability components into the curriculum and practical training can enhance students' awareness, social responsibility, and employability in the sustainability-focused fashion industry. So, the TVET education system needs to focus on teaching students about sustainable values so that they can work in the green industry in the future.