Author: syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

INSTEP Continues to Produce 73 Industry-ready Technical Talents Through TEP Plus

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) celebrated the achievements of 73 graduates from the January 2024 intake of the Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) Plus Upstream, at Dewan Sri Gelam, INSTEP.

The 18-month programme, sponsored by PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB), comprised 73 participants: 43 from the Peninsular Malaysia Asset (PMA), 20 from the Sarawak Asset (SKA), and 10 from the Sabah Asset (SBA). Participants also engaged in hands on practical training at INSTEP’s facilities, including the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), complemented by classroom-based learning and technical workshops.

To strengthen their industry readiness, participants earned globally recognised certifications such as the Authorized Entrant and Standby Person (AESP), Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and OPITO: Basic Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Training.

Meanwhile, trainees specialising in Electrical and Instrumentation received IECEx certification (International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres), equipping them with the skills necessary to operate safely in high-risk environments.

“Programmes like TEP Plus reflect INSTEP’s and PETRONAS’ continued commitment to strengthening local technical talent and building a sustainable energy ecosystem. With strong support from strategic partners such as SBA, SKA, and PMA, we remain focused on investing in human capital as a key driver of future industry growth,” said Ts. Azhar Bin Ahmad, INSTEP Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Beyond technical skills, TEP Plus promotes holistic development, with activities ranging from sports and talent showcases to community engagement and spiritual programmes.

TEP Plus is a pre-employment sponsorship programme aimed at bridging the skills gap between diploma holders and industry needs. Participants underwent blended learning, competency based interviews, plant visits, and technical workshops, with a focus on Production, Instrumentation, Electrical, and Mechanical key areas aligned with the evolving energy sector.

TEP Plus reaffirms INSTEP’s unwavering commitment to developing competitive technical talents, in alignment with the aspiration to support the sustainable growth and resilience of the national energy industry. The programme forms part of PETRONAS’ efforts to build core technical competencies and a generative culture.

Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) celebrated the achievements of 73 graduates from the January 2024 intake of the Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) Plus Upstream, at Dewan Sri Gelam, INSTEP.

The 18-month programme, sponsored by PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd (PCSB), comprised 73 participants: 43 from the Peninsular Malaysia Asset (PMA), 20 from the Sarawak Asset (SKA), and 10 from the Sabah Asset (SBA). Participants also engaged in hands on practical training at INSTEP’s facilities, including the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), complemented by classroom-based learning and technical workshops.

To strengthen their industry readiness, participants earned globally recognised certifications such as the Authorized Entrant and Standby Person (AESP), Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), and OPITO: Basic Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Training.

Meanwhile, trainees specialising in Electrical and Instrumentation received IECEx certification (International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres), equipping them with the skills necessary to operate safely in high-risk environments.

“Programmes like TEP Plus reflect INSTEP’s and PETRONAS’ continued commitment to strengthening local technical talent and building a sustainable energy ecosystem. With strong support from strategic partners such as SBA, SKA, and PMA, we remain focused on investing in human capital as a key driver of future industry growth,” said Ts. Azhar Bin Ahmad, INSTEP Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Beyond technical skills, TEP Plus promotes holistic development, with activities ranging from sports and talent showcases to community engagement and spiritual programmes.

TEP Plus is a pre-employment sponsorship programme aimed at bridging the skills gap between diploma holders and industry needs. Participants underwent blended learning, competency based interviews, plant visits, and technical workshops, with a focus on Production, Instrumentation, Electrical, and Mechanical key areas aligned with the evolving energy sector.

TEP Plus reaffirms INSTEP’s unwavering commitment to developing competitive technical talents, in alignment with the aspiration to support the sustainable growth and resilience of the national energy industry. The programme forms part of PETRONAS’ efforts to build core technical competencies and a generative culture.

Building a Greener Future Together: INSTEP and UMT leaders engage!

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

On 15th July, INSTEP charts ahead for institutional synergy and the shared mission of advancing PETRONAS and Malaysia’s renewable energy (RE) capability development, with a conversation with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).

Lead by INSTEP’s Acting CEO and General Manager of Learning Academy, Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad, the courtesy visit centered around key discussions with UMT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim.

Both leaders exchanged views on the RE value chain and the ongoing collaboration between both institutions towards capability development centered around harnessing the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE) project.

Naturally, the conversation evolved into how CEFORE could complement INSTEP’s work—not only by offering structured upskilling opportunities but also by co-developing new solutions grounded in local needs such as edu-tourism.

Both parties expressed intent to explore areas such as technical collaboration, knowledge exchange, and regional projects. Also present from UMT were Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd Asamudin A. Rahman, Head of Programme and Associate Professor at the Faculty of Ocean Engineering Technology (FTKK); and Dr. Mohd Afifi bin Jusoh, Lecturer at FTKK.

As both institutions look ahead to a more sustainable energy future, the potential for impactful partnership is immense, especially in realising the PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA). INSTEP looks forward to turning this dialogue into tangible action.

On 15th July, INSTEP charts ahead for institutional synergy and the shared mission of advancing PETRONAS and Malaysia’s renewable energy (RE) capability development, with a conversation with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).

Lead by INSTEP’s Acting CEO and General Manager of Learning Academy, Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad, the courtesy visit centered around key discussions with UMT’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim.

Both leaders exchanged views on the RE value chain and the ongoing collaboration between both institutions towards capability development centered around harnessing the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE) project.

Naturally, the conversation evolved into how CEFORE could complement INSTEP’s work—not only by offering structured upskilling opportunities but also by co-developing new solutions grounded in local needs such as edu-tourism.

Both parties expressed intent to explore areas such as technical collaboration, knowledge exchange, and regional projects. Also present from UMT were Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd Asamudin A. Rahman, Head of Programme and Associate Professor at the Faculty of Ocean Engineering Technology (FTKK); and Dr. Mohd Afifi bin Jusoh, Lecturer at FTKK.

As both institutions look ahead to a more sustainable energy future, the potential for impactful partnership is immense, especially in realising the PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA). INSTEP looks forward to turning this dialogue into tangible action.

INSTEP and ILSAS Strengthen Collaboration to Advance Energy Transition and Workforce Development

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

INSTEP recently conducted a courtesy visit to TNB Integrated Learning Solution Sdn Bhd (ILSAS) to explore potential areas of collaboration, particularly in support of Malaysia’s energy transition agenda. 

During the engagement, INSTEP’s Acting CEO and General Manager of Learning Academy, Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad and TNB ILSAS’s Head of Engineering & Energy Technology Centre, Ir. Ts. Yeoh Chien Wern , identified energy transition skills as a shared priority. Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad highlighted a strategic opportunity to jointly contribute toward building future-ready talent and accelerating the national energy transition.

The discussion also touched on key projects such as the PETRONAS-TNB Hybrid Hydrogen and Floating Solar facility project at Tasik Kenyir, which will showcase an integrated end-to-end low carbon value chain.

Additionally, TNB’s Virtual Power Plant initiatives and the peer-to-peer energy trading project in Pengerang, enabling the issuance of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)—were noted as progressive efforts toward a more flexible and decentralized energy system.

The visit served as a platform to rejuvenate earlier conversations held between INSTEP and ILSAS in November 2023. A proposal was tabled to anchor collaboration in several key areas, including energy transition, electrical training, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), and learning innovation exchange. 

Both parties recognised strong potential for joint content development, co-branding, and co-delivery of training programmes, which could significantly strengthen the national capability pipeline and drive impactful outcomes in the evolving energy landscape.

As the energy sector continues to evolve, through continued collaboration with key industry players such as ILSAS, INSTEP is well-positioned to flourish as a leading talent development institution, committed to driving sustainable growth, empowering energy transition efforts, and advancing national capability development for generations to come.

INSTEP recently conducted a courtesy visit to TNB Integrated Learning Solution Sdn Bhd (ILSAS) to explore potential areas of collaboration, particularly in support of Malaysia’s energy transition agenda. 

During the engagement, INSTEP’s Acting CEO and General Manager of Learning Academy, Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad and TNB ILSAS’s Head of Engineering & Energy Technology Centre, Ir. Ts. Yeoh Chien Wern , identified energy transition skills as a shared priority. Ts. Azhar bin Ahmad highlighted a strategic opportunity to jointly contribute toward building future-ready talent and accelerating the national energy transition.

The discussion also touched on key projects such as the PETRONAS-TNB Hybrid Hydrogen and Floating Solar facility project at Tasik Kenyir, which will showcase an integrated end-to-end low carbon value chain.

Additionally, TNB’s Virtual Power Plant initiatives and the peer-to-peer energy trading project in Pengerang, enabling the issuance of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)—were noted as progressive efforts toward a more flexible and decentralized energy system.

The visit served as a platform to rejuvenate earlier conversations held between INSTEP and ILSAS in November 2023. A proposal was tabled to anchor collaboration in several key areas, including energy transition, electrical training, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), and learning innovation exchange. 

Both parties recognised strong potential for joint content development, co-branding, and co-delivery of training programmes, which could significantly strengthen the national capability pipeline and drive impactful outcomes in the evolving energy landscape.

As the energy sector continues to evolve, through continued collaboration with key industry players such as ILSAS, INSTEP is well-positioned to flourish as a leading talent development institution, committed to driving sustainable growth, empowering energy transition efforts, and advancing national capability development for generations to come.

Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) – 2025 Intake

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

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.

Application deadline is by 19 July 2025, Saturday, 11.59 p.m. (GMT+8).

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.

Application deadline is by 19 July 2025, Saturday, 11.59 p.m. (GMT+8).

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 and UMT Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Energy Transition Capability Development, Harnessing CEFORE

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

In a significant step towards supporting PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA), Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) have symbolised a strategic collaboration through the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The collaboration aims to strengthen the energy transition capability development, harnessing the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE) project.

CEFORE is a pilot project jointly led by PETRONAS Global Technical Solutions Sdn Bhd (PGTSSB), a subsidiary of PETRONAS, and UMT. Strategically located off the coast of Pantai Tok Jembal in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, the project features the development of a wind turbine and floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system.

The facility is designed as a 328 kW demonstration site for various renewable energy sources including wind, floating solar PV, wave energy and smart energy management solutions.

Through this collaboration, INSTEP and UMT will also develop and implement technical programmes focused on renewable energy. Both parties are committed to actively promoting CEFORE as a platform for education, innovation and public engagement in clean energy.

Beyond its technical objectives, CEFORE will serve as an edu-tourism destination and a community learning hub for renewable energy. This aligns with efforts to raise awareness and understanding of sustainable practices among the local population.

The partnership also opens avenues for academic and industrial exchange, fostering closer ties between industry and academia.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, INSTEP Acting Chief Executive Officer said that the collaboration is a timely and strategic initiative. “This partnership is critical to positioning INSTEP as the P-ETA and equipping the future workforce to meet the demands of a low-carbon energy landscape,”.

Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, UMT Vice Chancellor, echoed the importance of the collaboration. “The strategic partnership between UMT and INSTEP strengthens research and development in renewable energy. Through CEFORE, we are committed to creating an innovative platform that supports industry-academia collaboration, empowers future talent, and enhances public awareness of sustainable energy,”.

This MoU marks a milestone in Malaysia’s transition towards clean energy, further solidifying INSTEP’s role as a world-class provider of technical training and a key driver of innovation within the national energy ecosystem.

In a significant step towards supporting PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA), Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) have symbolised a strategic collaboration through the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The collaboration aims to strengthen the energy transition capability development, harnessing the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE) project.

CEFORE is a pilot project jointly led by PETRONAS Global Technical Solutions Sdn Bhd (PGTSSB), a subsidiary of PETRONAS, and UMT. Strategically located off the coast of Pantai Tok Jembal in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, the project features the development of a wind turbine and floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system.

The facility is designed as a 328 kW demonstration site for various renewable energy sources including wind, floating solar PV, wave energy and smart energy management solutions.

Through this collaboration, INSTEP and UMT will also develop and implement technical programmes focused on renewable energy. Both parties are committed to actively promoting CEFORE as a platform for education, innovation and public engagement in clean energy.

Beyond its technical objectives, CEFORE will serve as an edu-tourism destination and a community learning hub for renewable energy. This aligns with efforts to raise awareness and understanding of sustainable practices among the local population.

The partnership also opens avenues for academic and industrial exchange, fostering closer ties between industry and academia.

Ts. Azhar Ahmad, INSTEP Acting Chief Executive Officer said that the collaboration is a timely and strategic initiative. “This partnership is critical to positioning INSTEP as the P-ETA and equipping the future workforce to meet the demands of a low-carbon energy landscape,”.

Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, UMT Vice Chancellor, echoed the importance of the collaboration. “The strategic partnership between UMT and INSTEP strengthens research and development in renewable energy. Through CEFORE, we are committed to creating an innovative platform that supports industry-academia collaboration, empowers future talent, and enhances public awareness of sustainable energy,”.

This MoU marks a milestone in Malaysia’s transition towards clean energy, further solidifying INSTEP’s role as a world-class provider of technical training and a key driver of innovation within the national energy ecosystem.

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 4

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

Perseverance from Day One, Nurul Maisarah Abdul Hakim

At just 13 years old, Nurul Maisarah Abdul Hakim faced the life-changing responsibility of becoming the breadwinner for her family after the loss of her father. As the eldest of three siblings, she stepped up with unwavering resilience and determination, embodying strength beyond her years.

Today, at 24, Maisarah is paving the way to a brighter future not just for herself, but for her family. She recently completed her journey of being part of the Protégé programme at PETRONAS PD&T, after successfully completing INSTEP’s Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) in June 2024. Inspired by her passion for the oil and gas industry, she applied for the programme after discovering the intake advertisement on MAIDAM’s official Instagram account in February 2024.

“I completed my bachelor’s degree despite financial struggle I faced throughout the three years in UMT. My sole motivation was to serve my family and uplift our condition for a brighter future, considering my mother’s income only depended on her part time job as babysitter.”

Maisarah reflects on her time at INSTEP as transformative and deeply inspiring, though it was her first time delving into technical subjects. “In INSTEP, I learnt beyond technical skills. The experience there shaped me as whole person I am now. The instructors were very helpful and knowledgeable, and I aspired to be like them one day.”

The wholesome environment in INSTEP also had left a lasting impression on Maisarah. From the air conditioned rooms and classrooms to the opportunity for hands on practical in lab, workshops and training plant, it allowed the learners to fully focus on upskilling and equipping themselves with technical knowledge conveniently. 

Maisarah sees her training at INSTEP as a foundation that helps her grasp the bigger picture of PETRONAS’ oil and gas operations. She continues to learn and grow, knowing that every step is bringing her closer to her aspirations.

Maisarah’s ultimate goal remains rooted in her family. Her 12-month contract with PETRONAS allows her to support her loved ones, ensuring that her mother and siblings in Terengganu have the financial stability they deserve.

“Every struggle I’ve faced, from losing my father to juggling studies and supporting my family has taught me resilience and gratitude. These experiences shaped me into someone who refuses to give up, not for my own sake but for the people I love and the future I envision.”

Maisarah is one of the 27 graduates from OGWTP Batch 1, that has completed their 4 months training in INSTEP, benefiting from the collaboration between INSTEP and Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM (YPM). INSTEP as a technical training center for PETRONAS was assigned by Dana Assyakirin, a trustee body which managed the wakalah fund received from zakat center (MAIDAM) to execute the training programme. These efforts uplift the socio-economic status of the B40 group while addressing industry talent demands.

Perseverance from Day One, Nurul Maisarah Abdul Hakim

At just 13 years old, Nurul Maisarah Abdul Hakim faced the life-changing responsibility of becoming the breadwinner for her family after the loss of her father. As the eldest of three siblings, she stepped up with unwavering resilience and determination, embodying strength beyond her years.

Today, at 24, Maisarah is paving the way to a brighter future not just for herself, but for her family. She recently completed her journey of being part of the Protégé programme at PETRONAS PD&T, after successfully completing INSTEP’s Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) in June 2024. Inspired by her passion for the oil and gas industry, she applied for the programme after discovering the intake advertisement on MAIDAM’s official Instagram account in February 2024.

“I completed my bachelor’s degree despite financial struggle I faced throughout the three years in UMT. My sole motivation was to serve my family and uplift our condition for a brighter future, considering my mother’s income only depended on her part time job as babysitter.”

Maisarah reflects on her time at INSTEP as transformative and deeply inspiring, though it was her first time delving into technical subjects. “In INSTEP, I learnt beyond technical skills. The experience there shaped me as whole person I am now. The instructors were very helpful and knowledgeable, and I aspired to be like them one day.”

The wholesome environment in INSTEP also had left a lasting impression on Maisarah. From the air conditioned rooms and classrooms to the opportunity for hands on practical in lab, workshops and training plant, it allowed the learners to fully focus on upskilling and equipping themselves with technical knowledge conveniently. 

Maisarah sees her training at INSTEP as a foundation that helps her grasp the bigger picture of PETRONAS’ oil and gas operations. She continues to learn and grow, knowing that every step is bringing her closer to her aspirations.

Maisarah’s ultimate goal remains rooted in her family. Her 12-month contract with PETRONAS allows her to support her loved ones, ensuring that her mother and siblings in Terengganu have the financial stability they deserve.

“Every struggle I’ve faced, from losing my father to juggling studies and supporting my family has taught me resilience and gratitude. These experiences shaped me into someone who refuses to give up, not for my own sake but for the people I love and the future I envision.”

Maisarah is one of the 27 graduates from OGWTP Batch 1, that has completed their 4 months training in INSTEP, benefiting from the collaboration between INSTEP and Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM (YPM). INSTEP as a technical training center for PETRONAS was assigned by Dana Assyakirin, a trustee body which managed the wakalah fund received from zakat center (MAIDAM) to execute the training programme. These efforts uplift the socio-economic status of the B40 group while addressing industry talent demands.

PETRONAS and Partners Launch Energy Transition Academy to Accelerate Energy Industry Workforce Development

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

PETRONAS marked a significant milestone at the second edition of the Energy Asia conference on 16 June 2025, with the launch of the PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA), a visionary initiative aimed at preparing the workforce of tomorrow for the demands of a low-carbon energy future.

P-ETA, established by Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP), PETRONAS’ premier technical training arm, will offer curated programmes to equip talent with essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate the fast-evolving global energy landscape. The academy will be open to both local and international participants from across the energy value chain.

The launch ceremony was officiated by PETRONAS President and Group CEO, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, and attended by key leaders from the sustainability and energy sectors, including Ruslan Halim Islahudin (Group Chief Human Resources Officer, PETRONAS), Charlotte Wolff-Bye (PETRONAS Chief Sustainability Officer), Koh Keng Sen (COO, SEDA Malaysia), Dr. Nick Wayth (CEO, Energy Institute), Alex Spencer (COO, OPITO), and Azhar Ahmad (CEO, INSTEP).

In his speech, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik underscored the importance of workforce development in driving an inclusive and balanced energy transition:

“It is our hope that the launch of P-ETA will lay the foundation for an equitable energy future shaped by leaders and professionals with the vital skillsets to meet the world’s growing energy needs. As we pursue our Energy Transition Strategy, one that balances energy security, affordability, and sustainability, this initiative supports equitable opportunities for talent development in this changing landscape.”

Global Partnerships for Local Impact

During the event, INSTEP formalised strategic partnerships with three P-ETA training collaborators: Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia (SEDA Malaysia), the Energy Institute (EI) in the UK, and OPITO, a global skills organisation for the energy industry. These partnerships, cemented through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signal a shared commitment to developing internationally aligned, future-ready programmes.

The academy will be housed at INSTEP in Terengganu, where learners will benefit from hands-on, experiential training, ensuring a strong connection between theory and practical application.

Driving Decarbonisation Through Collaboration

The launch took place during a High-Level Session on Decarbonisation hosted by PETRONAS. This session brought together experts from PETRONAS, the International Society for Energy Transition Studies, and Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) to share insights on methane reduction strategies and broader decarbonisation challenges.

A key discussion was on the upcoming Southeast Asia Methane Emissions Technology Evaluation Centre (METEC), a regional’s first of its kind. The METEC will support efforts in methane measurement, monitoring, and verification, while also serving as a hub for R&D. 

As the global energy transition continues to accelerate, INSTEP remains committed to ensuring that talent development keeps pace. With the launch of P-ETA, the company is investing not only in the future of energy but in the people who will drive it forward.

PETRONAS marked a significant milestone at the second edition of the Energy Asia conference on 16 June 2025, with the launch of the PETRONAS Energy Transition Academy (P-ETA), a visionary initiative aimed at preparing the workforce of tomorrow for the demands of a low-carbon energy future.

P-ETA, established by Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP), PETRONAS’ premier technical training arm, will offer curated programmes to equip talent with essential skills and knowledge needed to navigate the fast-evolving global energy landscape. The academy will be open to both local and international participants from across the energy value chain.

The launch ceremony was officiated by PETRONAS President and Group CEO, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, and attended by key leaders from the sustainability and energy sectors, including Ruslan Halim Islahudin (Group Chief Human Resources Officer, PETRONAS), Charlotte Wolff-Bye (PETRONAS Chief Sustainability Officer), Koh Keng Sen (COO, SEDA Malaysia), Dr. Nick Wayth (CEO, Energy Institute), Alex Spencer (COO, OPITO), and Azhar Ahmad (CEO, INSTEP).

In his speech, Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik underscored the importance of workforce development in driving an inclusive and balanced energy transition:

“It is our hope that the launch of P-ETA will lay the foundation for an equitable energy future shaped by leaders and professionals with the vital skillsets to meet the world’s growing energy needs. As we pursue our Energy Transition Strategy, one that balances energy security, affordability, and sustainability, this initiative supports equitable opportunities for talent development in this changing landscape.”

Global Partnerships for Local Impact

During the event, INSTEP formalised strategic partnerships with three P-ETA training collaborators: Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia (SEDA Malaysia), the Energy Institute (EI) in the UK, and OPITO, a global skills organisation for the energy industry. These partnerships, cemented through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), signal a shared commitment to developing internationally aligned, future-ready programmes.

The academy will be housed at INSTEP in Terengganu, where learners will benefit from hands-on, experiential training, ensuring a strong connection between theory and practical application.

Driving Decarbonisation Through Collaboration

The launch took place during a High-Level Session on Decarbonisation hosted by PETRONAS. This session brought together experts from PETRONAS, the International Society for Energy Transition Studies, and Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) to share insights on methane reduction strategies and broader decarbonisation challenges.

A key discussion was on the upcoming Southeast Asia Methane Emissions Technology Evaluation Centre (METEC), a regional’s first of its kind. The METEC will support efforts in methane measurement, monitoring, and verification, while also serving as a hub for R&D. 

As the global energy transition continues to accelerate, INSTEP remains committed to ensuring that talent development keeps pace. With the launch of P-ETA, the company is investing not only in the future of energy but in the people who will drive it forward.