Author: Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP Strengthens Environmental Stewardship with 100 Mangrove Trees at Taman Negeri Setiu Wetlands

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

The lush greenery of Taman Negeri Setiu Wetlands, provided a refreshing setting on 27th September 2026 as 100 participants comprising of INSTEP staff, Jabatan Alam Sekitar officers and Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) students came together for “Grounded in Harmony”.

Opening of the programme by Ts. Azhar Ahmad, MD/CEO INSTEP, Environment Awareness Talk by En. Mohd. Asri Hussin, Jabatan Alam Sekitar (JAS) and Taman Negeri Setiu Wetlands briefing by En. Muhammad Huzaimi Ab. Jalal.

True to its name, the initiative brought participants closer to nature through the planting of 100 additional mangrove trees within the existing greenery of the wetlands. The activity also provided a meaningful platform to strengthen employee engagement, teamwork and cross-functional collaboration while reinforcing a shared sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship.

The walk to the planting site was full of smiles.

Beyond contributing to ongoing conservation efforts at one of Terengganu’s mangrove ecosystems, the programme brought participants together around a shared purpose, giving back to nature while building stronger connections among colleagues and partners. The involvement of UniSZA students further enriched the programme by fostering meaningful connections between industry and local university, bringing together diverse perspectives and encouraging greater appreciation for environmental conservation.

Hands-on activities throughout the planting session encouraged teamwork between participants

“Grounded in Harmony reflects PETRONAS’ commitment to nurturing a connected, engaged and responsible workforce while advancing sustainable environmental practices. Through initiatives such as this, INSTEP continues to provide meaningful opportunities for our staff and partners to contribute positively to the environment and surrounding communities, while creating lasting value for all,” remarked Ts. Azhar Ahmad, MD/CEO of INSTEP.

Group photo to commemorate the success of mangrove trees planting.

The lush greenery of Taman Negeri Setiu Wetlands, provided a refreshing setting on 27th September 2026 as 100 participants comprising of INSTEP staff, Jabatan Alam Sekitar officers and Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA) students came together for “Grounded in Harmony”.

Opening of the programme by Ts. Azhar Ahmad, MD/CEO INSTEP, Environment Awareness Talk by En. Mohd Asri Hussin, Jabatan Alam Sekitar (JAS) and Taman Negeri Setiu Wetlands briefing by En. Muhammad Huzaimi Ab. Jalal.

True to its name, the initiative brought participants closer to nature through the planting of 100 additional mangrove trees within the existing greenery of the wetlands. The activity also provided a meaningful platform to strengthen employee engagement, teamwork and cross-functional collaboration while reinforcing a shared sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship.

The walk to the planting site was full of smiles.

Beyond contributing to ongoing conservation efforts at one of Terengganu’s mangrove ecosystems, the programme brought participants together around a shared purpose, giving back to nature while building stronger connections among colleagues and partners. The involvement of UniSZA students further enriched the programme by fostering meaningful connections between industry and local university, bringing together diverse perspectives and encouraging greater appreciation for environmental conservation.

Hands-on activities throughout the planting session encouraged teamwork between participants

“Grounded in Harmony reflects PETRONAS’ commitment to nurturing a connected, engaged and responsible workforce while advancing sustainable environmental practices. Through initiatives such as this, INSTEP continues to provide meaningful opportunities for our staff and partners to contribute positively to the environment and surrounding communities, while creating lasting value for all,” remarked Ts. Azhar Ahmad, MD/CEO of INSTEP.

Group photo to commemorate the success of mangrove trees planting.

KTC Marks 15 Years of Collaboration with Sabah to Develop Talent Pipeline

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

The PETRONAS-run Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) marked 15 years of advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Sabah on 6 October 2026, having produced 256 skilled technical graduates since its establishment in 2011.

The achievement was commemorated with the graduation of 25 trainees from its three-year diploma programme, further reinforcing the centre’s role in developing industry-ready talent for the nation’s workforce.

Most of the 25 graduates have secured employment after completing their training in June this year, reflecting the industry relevance of the programme and KTC’s contribution to the national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.

Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Hassan Mahali, presented the graduation scrolls to the graduates at the convocation ceremony.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Technical Training Sdn Bhd, Ts. Azhar Ahmad said KTC’s 15-year journey reflects PETRONAS’ commitment to equipping young Sabahans with industry-relevant technical skills and preparing them for employment.

“Through KTC, young Sabahans gain access to technical education, practical training and industry exposure that prepare them for the workplace. We are pleased to see our graduates applying the skills acquired to build meaningful careers and better futures for themselves and their families,” he said.

KTC is recognised as an Accredited Centre by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources. The centre offers a three-year full-time Diploma Kemahiran Malaysia (DKM) Level 4 in Industrial Instrumentation and Control Systems.

The programme combines theoretical know-how with extensive hands-on training through industry-standard simulation facilities designed to mirror real-world industrial operations.

Also present at the ceremony was General Manager of PETRONAS Sabah and Labuan Regional Office, Datuk Siti Ayu Abdul Wahab.

The PETRONAS-run Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) marked 15 years of advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Sabah on 6 October 2026, having produced 256 skilled technical graduates since its establishment in 2011.

The achievement was commemorated with the graduation of 25 trainees from its three-year diploma programme, further reinforcing the centre’s role in developing industry-ready talent for the nation’s workforce.

Most of the 25 graduates have secured employment after completing their training in June this year, reflecting the industry relevance of the programme and KTC’s contribution to the national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.

Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Hassan Mahali, presented the graduation scrolls to the graduates at the convocation ceremony.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Technical Training Sdn Bhd, Ts. Azhar Ahmad said KTC’s 15-year journey reflects PETRONAS’ commitment to equipping young Sabahans with industry-relevant technical skills and preparing them for employment.

“Through KTC, young Sabahans gain access to technical education, practical training and industry exposure that prepare them for the workplace. We are pleased to see our graduates applying the skills acquired to build meaningful careers and better futures for themselves and their families,” he said.

KTC is recognised as an Accredited Centre by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources. The centre offers a three-year full-time Diploma Kemahiran Malaysia (DKM) Level 4 in Industrial Instrumentation and Control Systems.

The programme combines theoretical know-how with extensive hands-on training through industry-standard simulation facilities designed to mirror real-world industrial operations.

Also present at the ceremony was General Manager of PETRONAS Sabah and Labuan Regional Office, Datuk Siti Ayu Abdul Wahab.

INSTEP Reinforces Learning Excellence with Brandon Hall Group Recognition

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

The 2026 Brandon Hall Group Excellence in Awards™ recognise outstanding achievements across Learning and Development, Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Sales Enablement, Future of Work and Education Technology.

INSTEP continues to mark significant milestones on the global learning stage, with its latest achievement comprising three Gold Awards and one Silver Award across four key learning categories: Best Use of Learning, Best Certification Programme, Best Customer Training, and Best Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEI&B).

The latest achievement further reinforces INSTEP’s three-year streak of recognition in the Brandon Hall Group Human Capital Management (HCM) Excellence Awards, building on its previous achievements. This year, INSTEP added three Gold Awards and one Silver Award to its growing portfolio of Brandon Hall Group recognitions.

“With three consecutive years of recognition in the Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards, INSTEP is steadily strengthening its presence on the global stage. This recognition is a testament to the quality and impact of our learning experiences, and we are committed to building on this momentum and reaching greater heights, commented Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), INSTEP.

The 2026 Brandon Hall Group Excellence in Awards™ recognise outstanding achievements across Learning and Development, Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Sales Enablement, Future of Work and Education Technology.

INSTEP continues to mark significant milestones on the global learning stage, with its latest achievement comprising three Gold Awards and one Silver Award across four key learning categories: Best Use of Learning, Best Certification Programme, Best Customer Training, and Best Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEI&B).

The latest achievement further reinforces INSTEP’s three-year streak of recognition in the Brandon Hall Group Human Capital Management (HCM) Excellence Awards, building on its previous achievements. This year, INSTEP added three Gold Awards and one Silver Award to its growing portfolio of Brandon Hall Group recognitions.

“With three consecutive years of recognition in the Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards, INSTEP is steadily strengthening its presence on the global stage. This recognition is a testament to the quality and impact of our learning experiences, and we are committed to building on this momentum and reaching greater heights, commented Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO), INSTEP.

INSTEP Bridges Industry-Academia through Experiential Learning

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Preparing future engineers goes beyond the classroom, it requires real-world exposure, hands-on experience, and a deeper understanding of industry practices.

INSTEP has launched its inaugural customised training programme for Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), providing students with experiential learning that bridges academic knowledge with real-world oil and gas operations. Held at the INSTEP campus in Batu Rakit, Terengganu, the 10-day programme combines classroom learning, hands-on activities, and plant exposure to bridge the gap between theory and industrial application.

The learning journey started with Conversation with INSTEP MD&CEO session by Ts. Azhar Ahmad.

The first cohort features 50 first-year students from the Bachelor of Integrated Engineering (Hons) programme at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), participating in the Industrial Energy Systems & Risk Management programme. The programme introduces students to the energy value chain, fundamental risk management practices, and essential mechanical equipment used in the oil and gas industry.

Upstream Downstream Training Plant Familiarisation introduces participants to the training plant before they take on the Hazard Hunt, where they identify technical errors and potential hazards in a simulated plant environment through hands-on learning.

Throughout the programme, students experience a dynamic learning environment through interactive classroom sessions, workshops and training plants. From simulated plant operations to basic operational and maintenance activities, the students gain practical insights while strengthening their problem-solving abilities and safety awareness in an industrial setting.

The participants during the deployment of specially designed HATCH (Hatchery Automation and Temperature Control for Harvesting) monitoring units by UTP, to support sea turtles conservation.

Beyond technical learning, the participants also were involved in an outreach session with SBPI Batu Rakit and a social impact initiative at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, Chagar Hutang, Redang Island, allowing students to connect, contribute, and appreciate the importance of sustainability.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, INSTEP, emphasised that the programme provides students with a valuable opportunity to experience the connection between engineering concepts learned in academia and their real-world applications in the energy industry.

Hands-on learning in the practical workshop reinforces participants' technical knowledge and skills.

“Through this experiential learning approach, students can develop a stronger understanding of industrial operations, safety practices, and the role of future engineers in driving a sustainable energy future,” he remarked in his speech during the engagement session.

Through initiatives like this, INSTEP continues to strengthen industry-academia collaboration and nurture future-ready engineers equipped with the knowledge, mindset, and experiences needed to thrive in the evolving energy landscape.

Preparing future engineers goes beyond the classroom, it requires real-world exposure, hands-on experience, and a deeper understanding of industry practices.

INSTEP has launched its inaugural customised training programme for Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), providing students with experiential learning that bridges academic knowledge with real-world oil and gas operations. Held at the INSTEP campus in Batu Rakit, Terengganu, the 10-day programme combines classroom learning, hands-on activities, and plant exposure to bridge the gap between theory and industrial application.

The learning journey started with Conversation with INSTEP MD&CEO session by Ts. Azhar Ahmad.

The first cohort features 50 first-year students from the Bachelor of Integrated Engineering (Hons) programme at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), participating in the Industrial Energy Systems & Risk Management programme. The programme introduces students to the energy value chain, fundamental risk management practices, and essential mechanical equipment used in the oil and gas industry.

Upstream Downstream Training Plant Familiarisation introduces participants to the training plant before they take on the Hazard Hunt, where they identify technical errors and potential hazards in a simulated plant environment through hands-on learning.

Throughout the programme, students experience a dynamic learning environment through interactive classroom sessions, workshops and training plants. From simulated plant operations to basic operational and maintenance activities, the students gain practical insights while strengthening their problem-solving abilities and safety awareness in an industrial setting.

The participants during the deployment of specially designed HATCH (Hatchery Automation and Temperature Control for Harvesting) monitoring units by UTP, to support sea turtles conservation.

Beyond technical learning, the participants also were involved in an outreach session with SBPI Batu Rakit and a social impact initiative at the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, Chagar Hutang, Redang Island, allowing students to connect, contribute, and appreciate the importance of sustainability.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, INSTEP, emphasised that the programme provides students with a valuable opportunity to experience the connection between engineering concepts learned in academia and their real-world applications in the energy industry.

Hands-on learning in the practical workshop reinforces participants' technical knowledge and skills.

“Through this experiential learning approach, students can develop a stronger understanding of industrial operations, safety practices, and the role of future engineers in driving a sustainable energy future,” he remarked in his speech during the engagement session.

Through initiatives like this, INSTEP continues to strengthen industry-academia collaboration and nurture future-ready engineers equipped with the knowledge, mindset, and experiences needed to thrive in the evolving energy landscape.

Farewell Before the Next Adventure

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

What better way to wrap up ten months of learning than with good company, great food and a touch of Terengganu tradition? Before heading off for their plant familiarisation, the TEP learners and INSTEP staff gathered for a casual appreciation session, dressed in colourful batik to celebrate the end of an unforgettable chapter at INSTEP. 

Certificate handover to all learners.
Group photo with instructors to commemorate the celebration.

 The Technical Enhancement Programme (TEP) under sponsorship of PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB), which commenced in September 2025 equipped learners with ten months of intensive technical training through a combination of classroom learning, practical sessions and hands-on simulations. Throughout the programme, the learners developed essential technical competencies and completed the required professional certifications, preparing them for the next stage of their development before their eventual job postings.

The Weight Loss Challenge winners were also celebrated for their inspiring commitment to fitness.

The celebration also featured the announcement of the Let’s Get Fit Programme 2026: Weight Loss Challenge winners, recognising those who embraced a healthier lifestyle throughout the programme. To top it all off, everyone enjoyed a durian feast, sharing one last memorable moment together before embarking on their plant familiarisation. From classrooms to the field, all the best to our TEP learners, we look forward to seeing you excel in the next chapter of your journey!

What better way to wrap up ten months of learning than with good company, great food and a touch of Terengganu tradition? Before heading off for their plant familiarisation, the TEP learners and INSTEP staff gathered for a casual appreciation session, dressed in colourful batik to celebrate the end of an unforgettable chapter at INSTEP. 

Certificate handover to all learners.
Group photo with instructors to commemorate the celebration.

 The Technical Enhancement Programme (TEP) under sponsorship of PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB), which commenced in September 2025 equipped learners with ten months of intensive technical training through a combination of classroom learning, practical sessions and hands-on simulations. Throughout the programme, the learners developed essential technical competencies and completed the required professional certifications, preparing them for the next stage of their development before their eventual job postings.

The Weight Loss Challenge winners were also celebrated for their inspiring commitment to fitness.

The celebration also featured the announcement of the Let’s Get Fit Programme 2026: Weight Loss Challenge winners, recognising those who embraced a healthier lifestyle throughout the programme. To top it all off, everyone enjoyed a durian feast, sharing one last memorable moment together before embarking on their plant familiarisation. From classrooms to the field, all the best to our TEP learners, we look forward to seeing you excel in the next chapter of your journey!

PETRONAS Secures Bronze in MTM Learning Excellence Awards

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

PETRONAS’ learning organisations have been awarded a Bronze Award at the MTM Learning Excellence Awards, held at Boston University on 19 June 2026. The ceremony was attended by INSTEP Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, and Head of Academy at the PETRONAS Leadership Centre (PLC), Min Edina Mustapha Kamalin.

As part of the MTM evaluation, individual organisational performance across the PETRONAS ecosystem was rigorously benchmarked. Earlier this year, INSTEP was recognised among the top 5% of learning organisations worldwide, placing it among the best in global learning performance. Alongside PLC’s achievement, this contributed to the overall Bronze Award recognition for PETRONAS’ learning organisations.

Among the 24 organisations recognised at the ceremony, INSTEP and PLC ranked within the top 25% of Bronze Award recipients, underscoring the strength of PETRONAS’ learning and capability development ecosystem.

The MTM Learning Excellence Awards recognise organisations that demonstrate outstanding performance in learning measurement and outcomes. Recipients are assessed through rigorous benchmarking across four key metrics: Likert Average Scores, Net Promoter Score, Scrap Learning Reduction, and Estimated Performance Improvement. These results are drawn from billions of data points across MTM’s global learning measurement framework, highlighting organisations that exemplify data-driven learning excellence and impactful L&D leadership.

From left: Anastasia Tsimiklis, Chief Marketing Officer of Explorance, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, CEO of INSTEP, Min Edina Mustapha Kamalin, Head of Academy at PLC and Steve Lange, General Manager of MTM.

“This award recognises INSTEP’s effectiveness in delivering high-quality programmes that create meaningful value for the business, its stakeholders, and workforce development through continuous upskilling and capability enhancement. It reflects our commitment to our winning aspirations by consistently meeting rigorous qualification criteria across multiple key performance indicators, an achievement that requires sustained excellence in data collection, learning design, and measurable business impact,” said Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

PETRONAS’ learning organisations have been awarded a Bronze Award at the MTM Learning Excellence Awards, held at Boston University on 19 June 2026. The ceremony was attended by INSTEP Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, and Head of Academy at the PETRONAS Leadership Centre (PLC), Min Edina Mustapha Kamalin.

As part of the MTM evaluation, individual organisational performance across the PETRONAS ecosystem was rigorously benchmarked. Earlier this year, INSTEP was recognised among the top 5% of learning organisations worldwide, placing it among the best in global learning performance. Alongside PLC’s achievement, this contributed to the overall Bronze Award recognition for PETRONAS’ learning organisations.

Among the 24 organisations recognised at the ceremony, INSTEP and PLC ranked within the top 25% of Bronze Award recipients, underscoring the strength of PETRONAS’ learning and capability development ecosystem.

The MTM Learning Excellence Awards recognise organisations that demonstrate outstanding performance in learning measurement and outcomes. Recipients are assessed through rigorous benchmarking across four key metrics: Likert Average Scores, Net Promoter Score, Scrap Learning Reduction, and Estimated Performance Improvement. These results are drawn from billions of data points across MTM’s global learning measurement framework, highlighting organisations that exemplify data-driven learning excellence and impactful L&D leadership.

From left: Anastasia Tsimiklis, Chief Marketing Officer of Explorance, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, CEO of INSTEP, Min Edina Mustapha Kamalin, Head of Academy at PLC and Steve Lange, General Manager of MTM.

“This award recognises INSTEP’s effectiveness in delivering high-quality programmes that create meaningful value for the business, its stakeholders, and workforce development through continuous upskilling and capability enhancement. It reflects our commitment to our winning aspirations by consistently meeting rigorous qualification criteria across multiple key performance indicators, an achievement that requires sustained excellence in data collection, learning design, and measurable business impact,” said Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

INSTEP Highlights Technical Capability and Talent Development at the 3rd Malaysia-China International Industry-Education (MCIEF) Cooperation Forum 2026

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP participated in the 3rd Malaysia-China International Industry-Education Cooperation Forum (MCIEF) & 5th Malaysia-China Vocational Education Fair 2026, held in conjunction with Hari TVET Negara 2026. The forum serves as a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia-China collaboration in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), talent development, industry engagement, and international skills mobility.

The launching ceremony of Malaysia-China Industry-Education Alliance (MCIEA) by Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamid.

Centered on the theme “Future Talent, Global Impact”, the forum brought together industry leaders, educational institutions, and government representatives to discuss key areas such as industry-driven education, technology transfer, talent mobility, and cross-border collaboration.

Representing INSTEP, Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, participated as a panellist in the forum session titled “Closing the Talent Gap: Aligning Skills Development with Industry Demand.” During the discussion, he highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and industry-relevant skills development in addressing the rapidly evolving needs of the energy sector.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, INSTEP among the panellists for the forum.

“As PETRONAS and energy industry evolves, roles are being redefined, and skills can quickly become outdated. The real advantage lies in the ability to continuously learn, adapt and remain relevant. At INSTEP, we ensure our programmes are aligned with industry requirements through close collaboration with business partners and our Industry Collaboration Committee,” he shared.

“Since its establishment in 1992, VISTA has been instrumental in developing skilled talent for Malaysia’s energy industry. Its evolution into VISTA i-Plus reflects PETRONAS’ continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s workforce through a more integrated, industry-led approach and wider collaboration with industry players and authorities.” Ts. Azhar Ahmad added.

The session also explored strategies to strengthen talent pipelines and accelerate workforce readiness. INSTEP’s approach focuses on scaling structured Work-Based Learning (WBL), enhancing trainer industry exposure, and aligning certifications with real-world job competencies to develop future-ready talent for the energy industry and beyond.

INSTEP participated in the 3rd Malaysia-China International Industry-Education Cooperation Forum (MCIEF) & 5th Malaysia-China Vocational Education Fair 2026, held in conjunction with Hari TVET Negara 2026. The forum serves as a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia-China collaboration in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), talent development, industry engagement, and international skills mobility.

The launching ceremony of Malaysia-China Industry-Education Alliance (MCIEA) by Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamid.

Centered on the theme “Future Talent, Global Impact”, the forum brought together industry leaders, educational institutions, and government representatives to discuss key areas such as industry-driven education, technology transfer, talent mobility, and cross-border collaboration.

Representing INSTEP, Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, participated as a panellist in the forum session titled “Closing the Talent Gap: Aligning Skills Development with Industry Demand.” During the discussion, he highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and industry-relevant skills development in addressing the rapidly evolving needs of the energy sector.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, INSTEP among the panellists for the forum.

“As PETRONAS and energy industry evolves, roles are being redefined, and skills can quickly become outdated. The real advantage lies in the ability to continuously learn, adapt and remain relevant. At INSTEP, we ensure our programmes are aligned with industry requirements through close collaboration with business partners and our Industry Collaboration Committee,” he shared.

“Since its establishment in 1992, VISTA has been instrumental in developing skilled talent for Malaysia’s energy industry. Its evolution into VISTA i-Plus reflects PETRONAS’ continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s workforce through a more integrated, industry-led approach and wider collaboration with industry players and authorities.” Ts. Azhar Ahmad added.

The session also explored strategies to strengthen talent pipelines and accelerate workforce readiness. INSTEP’s approach focuses on scaling structured Work-Based Learning (WBL), enhancing trainer industry exposure, and aligning certifications with real-world job competencies to develop future-ready talent for the energy industry and beyond.

Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) – 2026 Intake

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) is a PETRONAS pre-employment sponsorship programme that is specifically designed to develop essential technical competencies with generative culture mindset to accelerate your career in the global energy industry.

Upon completion of this programme, you will be a certified job-ready technician with skills of tomorrow to support the global energy industry.

For more information on the requirements and application procedure, simply refer to the brochure below or download the pdf here.

Scan the QR Code above or click here to apply! Upon accessing the link, you will be brought to the TEP Application Form page, as shown below. Refer to the steps shown to register for the programme.

Should you require any help on registering for the programme, do reach us at instep@petronas.com for further enquiry or information. We would love to assist you!

Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) is a PETRONAS pre-employment sponsorship programme that is specifically designed to develop essential technical competencies with generative culture mindset to accelerate your career in the global energy industry.

Upon completion of this programme, you will be a certified job-ready technician with skills of tomorrow to support the global energy industry.

For more information on the requirements and application procedure, simply refer to the brochure below or download the pdf here.

Scan the QR Code above or click here to apply! Upon accessing the link, you will be brought to the TEP Application Form page, as shown below. Refer to the steps shown to register for the programme.

Should you require any help on registering for the programme, do reach us at instep@petronas.com for further enquiry or information. We would love to assist you!

INSTEP to Upskill 25 Technicians from East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP proudly welcomes 25 technicians from the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) for an intensive eight-week hands-on training programme in oil and gas equipment maintenance, running from 9 April to 5 June 2026.

The EACOP, also known as the Uganda–Tanzania Crude Oil Pipeline (UTCOP), is a major regional infrastructure project led by TotalEnergies, alongside partners including Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), and CNOOC. The pipeline is designed to transport crude oil from Uganda’s Tilenga and Kingfisher oil fields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania.

Building upon its established track record, INSTEP has implemented a series of technical training programmes aimed at enhancing the competencies of oil and gas workforce, globally. Most notably for Uganda, the recent completion of Tilenga Academy (TEPU) Traineeship Cohorts 1 and 2 had successfully produced 125 highly skilled trainees, certified by Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO), complemented by specialised training provided to five engineers from the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).

Group photo to commemorate the first day of EACOP participants' learning journey in INSTEP.

The EACOP training will focus on practical, hands-on learning to enhance participants’ skills in maintenance of rotating and static equipment, preparing them to perform maintenance tasks competently and safely. The additional curriculum in INSTEP complements the earlier 12-month training undertaken at the Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) and the EACOP Academy, which was primarily theory-based. It serves to bridge the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing technical knowledge through real-world application.

“Having successfully delivered technical programmes for TEPU and UNOC, INSTEP is excited to extend its expertise to support EACOP. Amid today’s evolving global landscape, we remain committed to nurturing skilled talent and building sustainable pipelines that contribute to the global energy transition,” Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP remarked.

INSTEP proudly welcomes 25 technicians from the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) for an intensive eight-week hands-on training programme in oil and gas equipment maintenance, running from 9 April to 5 June 2026.

The EACOP, also known as the Uganda–Tanzania Crude Oil Pipeline (UTCOP), is a major regional infrastructure project led by TotalEnergies, alongside partners including Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), and CNOOC. The pipeline is designed to transport crude oil from Uganda’s Tilenga and Kingfisher oil fields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania.

Building upon its established track record, INSTEP has implemented a series of technical training programmes aimed at enhancing the competencies of oil and gas workforce, globally. Most notably for Uganda, the recent completion of Tilenga Academy (TEPU) Traineeship Cohorts 1 and 2 had successfully produced 125 highly skilled trainees, certified by Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO), complemented by specialised training provided to five engineers from the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).

Group photo to commemorate the first day of EACOP participants' learning journey in INSTEP.

The EACOP training will focus on practical, hands-on learning to enhance participants’ skills in maintenance of rotating and static equipment, preparing them to perform maintenance tasks competently and safely. The additional curriculum in INSTEP complements the earlier 12-month training undertaken at the Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) and the EACOP Academy, which was primarily theory-based. It serves to bridge the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing technical knowledge through real-world application.

“Having successfully delivered technical programmes for TEPU and UNOC, INSTEP is excited to extend its expertise to support EACOP. Amid today’s evolving global landscape, we remain committed to nurturing skilled talent and building sustainable pipelines that contribute to the global energy transition,” Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP remarked.

INSTEP and UMT Inks Agreement for Strategic Collaboration in Renewable Energy Capability Development

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP and UMT have formalised their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to advance strategic collaboration in renewable energy capability development, in support of the Centre of Excellence for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE). This agreement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in June last year, followed by a series of dialogue sessions in July, reflecting a sustained commitment to deepening cooperation.

Ts. Azhar, CEO of INSTEP delivered his welcoming remarks during the event.
Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim, Vice-Chancellor UMT, delivered his remarks during the event.

Beyond technical training, both parties are committed to positioning CEFORE as a dynamic platform for education, innovation and public engagement in clean energy. The centre is envisioned not only as a hub for industry-relevant learning and research, but also as an edu-tourism destination and community learning space, offering visitors valuable insights into renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices.

The MoA also marks a significant step forward in enhancing knowledge sharing and industrial training opportunities, including academic staff and student exchanges, further strengthening the link between academia and industry.Top of Form

“As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, INSTEP remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the adoption of innovative technologies for learning and upskilling. Our efforts are closely aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and PETRONAS Net Zero Carbon Emission (NZCE) aspiration, as we continue to support the transition towards a low-carbon future,” commented Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP.

Group photo to commemorate the event.

INSTEP and UMT have formalised their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to advance strategic collaboration in renewable energy capability development, in support of the Centre of Excellence for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE). This agreement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in June last year, followed by a series of dialogue sessions in July, reflecting a sustained commitment to deepening cooperation.

Ts. Azhar, CEO of INSTEP delivered his welcoming remarks during the event.
Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim, Vice-Chancellor UMT, delivered his remarks during the event.

Beyond technical training, both parties are committed to positioning CEFORE as a dynamic platform for education, innovation and public engagement in clean energy. The centre is envisioned not only as a hub for industry-relevant learning and research, but also as an edu-tourism destination and community learning space, offering visitors valuable insights into renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices.

The MoA also marks a significant step forward in enhancing knowledge sharing and industrial training opportunities, including academic staff and student exchanges, further strengthening the link between academia and industry.Top of Form

“As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, INSTEP remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the adoption of innovative technologies for learning and upskilling. Our efforts are closely aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and PETRONAS Net Zero Carbon Emission (NZCE) aspiration, as we continue to support the transition towards a low-carbon future,” commented Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP.

Group photo to commemorate the event.