Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing career readiness among undergraduate students in selected public university in Klang Valley Malaysia, focusing on the role of career guidance and counselling, and parental guidance in shaping students' readiness for the workforce. Using a quantitative approach, the research involved surveying 144 undergraduate students from diverse faculties, employing validated instruments such as the Career Readiness Scale (CRS), Career Adapt- Abilities Scale (CAAS) and Parental Career-Related Behaviours Scale (PCB). The findings reveal that structured career guidance and counselling significantly along with parental guidance, significantly enhance students’ career readiness. This readiness is supported through the development of its three critical components; building career related self-efficacy, fostering adaptability to workplace challenges and strengthening decision making capabilities. Students who engage with comprehensive career guidance programs and receive supportive parental guidance demonstrate higher levels of career readiness. However, the study also highlights challenges such as variability in parental involvement and the need for broader collaboration between universities, families, and policymakers. To ensure sustainable career readiness, the study recommends integrating long-term career guidance strategies, fostering parental engagement, and aligning academic training with labour market demands. These findings contribute to the discourse on career readiness, offering practical insights for educators, policymakers, and families in creating a supportive ecosystem for students transitioning into professional careers.