Author: syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

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.