Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

INSTEP to Further Enhance Oil & Gas, Services & Equipment Capability Development Programme through Grant by HRD Corp

Posted on March 27, 2025March 27, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

PETRONAS together with INSTEP was few of the companies present during the launch of the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) Premier Employers Network (PEN), recently held on 17 March 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. PEN is an exclusive initiative designed to provide premier employers within the network with personalised training management solutions and exclusive benefits, under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA).

Also present at the event was the representative of Minister of Human Resources, YBhg. Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, Secretary General Minister of Human Resource.

As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, INSTEP’s signature training programme for the future technical workforce, the Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP), was highlighted as one of the key initiatives under the Oil & Gas, Services & Equipment (OGSE) Capability Development Programme.

TEP, a structured pre-employment sponsored training programme, is specifically designed to equip learners with essential technical competencies, while embedding sustainability and a generative culture mindset to accelerate their technical careers in the global energy industry. Through TEP, trainees will undergo several months of professionally curated training for both the upstream and downstream sectors at INSTEP’s campus in Batu Rakit, Terengganu.

Under the Future Workers Training Scheme (FWT), INSTEP has received a training grant amounting to RM68.23 million to train 527 trainees up to the year 2027, ensuring future workers transition seamlessly into the energy, oil, and gas sector.

“Through this training grant, we look forward to further enhancing the Oil & Gas, Services & Equipment (OGSE) capability development programme, with the embedment of sustainability and energy transition elements in our learning modules, supporting the development of sustainable pipeline of skilled technical workforce,” En. Mohamad bin Nasir, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, remarked on the event.

Also present at the event was the representative of Minister of Human Resources, YBhg. Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, Secretary General Minister of Human Resource.

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 3

Posted on March 27, 2025March 27, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

Episode 3: A Journey in Shaping Technical Career

Firdaus bin Azman, a 19 year-old Terengganu lad, is currently undergoing Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) 2.0 at INSTEP, as a beneficiary for the sponsored programme under collaboration with Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM. As part of the second batch of OGWTP, Firdaus is now gaining hands-on experience through his internship at RB Spectra Sdn. Bhd.

A graduate of SMA Mahmudiah Kuala Berang, Firdaus earned his Sijil Tamat Pelajaran Sekolah Menengah Agama, a recognition for students who have successfully memorised the Al-Quran during their five years of study. Despite having the option to pursue Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM), he chose a different path, venturing into the technical field through OGWTP 2.0 at INSTEP.

Firdaus’ journey into technical education began when he first worked as an air-conditioner technician in Kuala Lumpur after completing his SPM. Though it first started due to his family’s financial constraint, it soon sparked his interest in technical field and continued to fuel his passion to pursue study in TVET-related course.

Inspired by his teachers’ advice that knowledge is vast and one should never limit themselves to a single field, he embraced this transition and is now pursuing a Mechanical course at INSTEP, preparing himself for a future in the technical industry.

Beyond academics, Firdaus remains deeply connected to his religious pursuits, actively participating in religious activities during his free time. Guided by his principle of balancing spiritual and academic growth, he leverages INSTEP’s campus environment to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

The Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) serves as a lifeline for the less fortunate, particularly the B40 and Terengganu asnaf communities, offering them a pathway to a brighter future. With participants from diverse backgrounds, including SPM graduates, Tahfiz graduates, and technical diploma holders, the programme is designed to enhance employability and connect these learners with opportunities in the oil, gas, and energy industry within the region.

Episode 3: A Journey in Shaping Technical Career

INSTEP Agih Bakul Makanan kepada 80 Keluarga Asnaf Batu Rakit

Posted on March 24, 2025March 24, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

Seramai 80 keluarga asnaf daripada 20 kampung di kawasan Batu Rakit menerima sumbangan bakul makanan hari ini, menerusi program Memacu Kehidupan: Jelajah Ramadan, anjuran Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP).

Sumbangan itu disampaikan oleh Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif INSTEP, Mohamad Nasir, kepada Ahli Dewan Undangan Negeri (ADUN) Batu Rakit, Mohd Shafizi Ismail, dalam satu majlis penyerahan yang berlangsung di Pusat Khidmat Masyarakat Batu Rakit.

Setiap keluarga terpilih menerima bakul makanan yang mengandungi barangan keperluan asas seperti beras, tepung gandum, sardin, garam, gula, pek kuih raya serta barangan keperluan asas lain sebagai usaha meringankan beban mereka dalam persiapan menyambut Aidilfitri.

Sumbangan itu merupakan sebahagian daripada usaha INSTEP untuk menyantuni masyarakat sekitar kampus. Bantuan ini disampaikan kepada keluarga asnaf yang terpilih dari senarai berdaftar di Pusat Khidmat Masyarakat Batu Rakit.

Terdahulu, INSTEP juga telah menganjurkan program Ihya Ramadan dengan mengadakan aktiviti kemasyarakatan seperti “Jom Kacau Bubur Lambuk” dan program berbuka puasa “Iftar4U”, yang mana melibatkan pengagihan pek makanan serta bubur lambuk kepada masyarakat sekitar Batu Rakit.

Menurut Mohamad, kepelbagaian program yang dianjurkan adalah sebahagian daripada komitmen INSTEP dalam memperkukuh hubungan dengan masyarakat setempat.

“Di INSTEP, kami bukan sekadar melatih tenaga kerja industri, tetapi juga komited untuk menyumbang kepada kesejahteraan masyarakat di sekeliling kami. Melalui program ini, kami berharap dapat meringankan beban keluarga yang memerlukan, terutama menjelang sambutan Aidilfitri,” katanya.

Menurut Mohamad, kepelbagaian program yang dianjurkan adalah sebahagian daripada komitmen INSTEP dalam memperkukuh hubungan dengan masyarakat setempat.

Terengganu Media Conquers Explorace in INSTEP

Posted on March 2, 2025March 2, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

On 26 February 2025, INSTEP hosted an Explorace: Media Pusing INSTEP participated by Terengganu Media from multiple outlets including Kosmo, Utusan Malaysia, Urusetia Penerangan Darul Iman, RTM, Sinar Harian and Bernama.

The programme commenced with an experiential visit to INSTEP Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP) as one of the first training plants that simulates real life experiences in the world. The participants took the chance to explore and gain insights in PETRONAS oil and gas operations and relating to the roles of INSTEP as PETRONAS technical training arm.

Checkpoints were strategically arranged to share information about INSTEP and PETRONAS in a fun and interactive manner while showcasing INSTEP’s training capabilities and facilities.

Through quizzes and challenges in the Explorace games, participants gained a deeper understanding of INSTEP’s offerings. The programme featured engaging activities such as matching puzzle pieces, creative news writing, and storytelling through photography, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The Explorace successfully promoted INSTEP’s offerings and aspirations but also fostered teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity. By providing an immersive, hands-on experience, the event strengthened INSTEP’s network with Terengganu media outlets while making learning dynamic.

Checkpoints were strategically arranged to share information about INSTEP and PETRONAS in a fun and interactive manner while showcasing INSTEP’s training capabilities and facilities.

INSTEP Wins Its Second STAR Excellence Award by EMEPMI

Posted on February 24, 2025February 24, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

INSTEP once again proved its status as the progressive preferred technical learning solutions partner after being selected as the winner of 2023 Supplier Tracking Assessment & Rating (STAR) Excellence Award in Provision of Training Instructors, Facilities and Course Content from ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc. (EMEPMI). This achievement marks another milestone for INSTEP, enforcing its relevance as one of the key players in upskilling the energy industry workforce.

The award presentation was held on 5 February 2025, at Kuala Lumpur Convention Center during the Senior Contractor Management Forum. The award was presented by Head of Procurement, EMEPMI, Mr. Tang Soon Seng.

This award recognises INSTEP’s commitment in ensuring the top-notched status in the areas of Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) Quality, Timeliness and Responsiveness for Provision of Training Instructors, Facilities and Course Content.

“This marks the second time INSTEP has received this prestigious award from EMEMPMI, following its inaugural win in 2021 in the same category. Our unwavering commitment to supporting EMEPMI is reflected in our continuous efforts to be the preferred technical training center, consistently shaping skilled talents for the energy workforce,” commented Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Mr. Mohamad bin Nasir, on the achievement.

INSTEP has contributed generously to the acceleration of human capital development in the energy industry ever since its establishment in 1981. This success story further manifests INSTEP’s contribution and advancement in building technical competencies and commitment in enriching the energy workforce towards a sustainable future.

To learn more about INSTEP’s first achievement, read here: myPETRONAS

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 2

Posted on February 11, 2025February 11, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

The Journey to Self-Discovery

Once a wallflower, Siti Aisyah Azman, 24, has now flourished to her peak potential. Currently working as a multi-discipline technician at NDE Consultancy Services Sdn. Bhd., Aisyah is a graduate of INSTEP’s Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP). This four-month training programme, a collaboration between INSTEP and Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM (YPM), utilises wakalah funds received from the zakat center to benefit B40 youths in Terengganu while addressing industry talent demands.

“When I was in Form 5, I felt lost because I didn’t know what to do next. My family wasn’t well-versed in education pathways. Fortunately, when I pursued my diploma studies, I began to gain exposure to different opportunities,” shared Aisyah.

Holding a Diploma in Digital Design from Kolej Professional Mara Indera Mahkota, Pahang, Aisyah went through the ups and downs of life with resilience. During her internship at a printing company, which later extended into a year-long contract, she began building her learning curve and professional experience.

Initially, Aisyah lacked the confidence to pursue technical training when she joined INSTEP. However, during her four months of training, she not only gained confidence but also upskilled her previously limited technical abilities to become the capable technician she is today.

“One of my core memories at INSTEP was the scaffolding activity. It was the first time I stepped out of my comfort zone. The old me would have shaken and cried trying to do something so challenging, but thanks to INSTEP, I had the chance to grow and improve myself for the better,” Aisyah reflected.

Her journey to INSTEP was far from easy. Going through heavy rain by motorcycle to submit her application at MAIDAM office, her determination never wavered. After completing her studies at INSTEP, Aisyah’s proactive mindset led her to her current role. She began by joining courses offered by her company, aiming to become a plant inspector before taking the necessary exams. Within a month of attending the course, she was offered a one-year contract with the company, where she continues to thrive.

Her advice for fellow juniors is to not be afraid to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and acquire new knowledge, as it can serve as a strong foundation for their future. For her, completing her studies at INSTEP opened a wide gate of opportunities, allowing her to explore new career paths, a journey she reflects on with gratitude.

The Journey to Self-Discovery

INSTEP Uncovers Paths in TVET for Back to School Programme with 100 Students from Fisherman Community

Posted on January 26, 2025January 26, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

INSTEP recently partnered with PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad for a Back-to-School Programme, an initiative aimed at supporting students from the fishing community under Lembaga Kemajuan Ikan Malaysia (LKIM). This collaborative effort was designed not only to provide educational support but also to enhance awareness of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) opportunities, particularly in the Oil & Gas industry.

As part of this initiative, INSTEP was invited to conduct a career-sharing session on “Kerjaya Bidang TVET – Oil & Gas.” The session aimed to introduce students and their parents to the vast career prospects within the industry, highlighting the potential pathways available through TVET education. The event saw participation from 100 students, including 70 primary school students and 30 secondary school students, along with their parents.

Also present during the event were Chairman of LKIM, En. Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, and the Pengurus Besar of Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan (PNK) Kuala Terengganu Utara, En. Abdul Qadir Yusoff.

“Through this programme, it signifies INSTEP’s unwavering commitment to drive awareness about TVET education, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to explore fulfilling careers in the Oil & Gas sector,” En. Mohamad bin Nasir commented on the success of the programme.

Also present during the event were Chairman of LKIM, En. Muhammad Faiz Fadzil, and the Pengurus Besar of Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan (PNK) Kuala Terengganu Utara, En. Abdul Qadir Yusoff.

INSTEP Empowers 153 Technicians with Industry-Ready Skills

Posted on January 6, 2025January 12, 2025 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) today concluded the 10-month Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) with a closing ceremony for the March 2024 intake.

The event, held at Dewan Sri Gelam, INSTEP, marked a significant milestone for 153 graduates who completed the programme. Among them, 24 technicians were sponsored by Sarawak Shell Berhad (SSB), while the remaining 129 graduates were sponsored by PETRONAS Operating Units (OPUs) such as Malaysian Refining Company Sdn Bhd (MRCSB), Malaysia LNG (MLNG), PETRONAS Chemical MTBE (PC MTBE), PETRONAS Chemical Derivatives (PCOGD), PETRONAS Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (PFLNG), PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB), and PETRONAS Penapisan Terengganu Sdn Bhd (PP(T)SB).

The certificates to learners were presented by company representatives from Shell Sarawak Berhad, PC MTBE, PFLNG 1 and MRCSB.

Also present during the event were Fauzamsaari Geran, Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Chemicals MTBE, and Choong Yen Li, General Manager of Sarawak Gas Conventional Oil and Gas Malaysia.

TEP, a pre-employment sponsorship programme, is designed to bridge the competency gaps between diploma holders and industry-level technicians. The March 2024 intake incorporated a comprehensive training approach with blended learning, technical competency interviews, plant visits, and advanced technical workshops. Graduates specialised in critical trades such as Process, Instrument, Mechanical, and Electrical.

The programme leveraged INSTEP’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), to deliver hands-on practical training alongside classroom sessions and workshops. Graduates also earned essential technical certifications, such as the Authorised Gas Tester and Entry Supervisor for Confined Space (AGTES), and the Authorized Entrant & Standby Person (AESP).

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Mohamad Nasir, commended the graduates on their remarkable achievements and highlighted INSTEP’s commitment to excellence. “INSTEP remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate a highly skilled energy workforce that meets the needs of PETRONAS and the global energy industry. This milestone is a testament to the success of our training programmes, which are strengthened by the unwavering support of our partners, including PETRONAS OPUs and Sarawak Shell Berhad,” he said.

“The March 2024 intake marks the latest achievement in INSTEP’s journey as a preferred training solutions provider for industrial partners. This follows the success of initiatives such as the inaugural Technician Onboarding Programme with Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad, which saw 10 technicians graduate in June 2024,” added Mohamad.

For Muhammad Izzuddin bin Zoo, 26, the Terengganu born lad willingly left his freelance instrument and electrical job at multiple companies, after being accepted into INSTEP. “I had a very deep interest in furthering my study at INSTEP, ever since my first application in 2021. I was very grateful to be accepted upon my third application earlier this year,” he said.

Over the past 10 months at INSTEP, Izzudin has seized the opportunity to upskill and enhance his technical competency through a combination of theoretical and practical classes. “The instructors at INSTEP have vast experience and knowledge in their respective fields, and that is incredibly valuable for us to learn and gain insights from them,” he said.

Adlan Hidayat Mohd Sabri, 25, who previously helped his mother at a food stall, seized the opportunity to apply for the TEP program as soon as he saw the intake announcement. Despite holding a diploma in aviation engineering, Adlan faced challenges in securing a job that matched his qualifications, leading him to apply to INSTEP.

“I didn’t expect to complete my studies at INSTEP. This marks a significant milestone in my life, achieving this. It is a golden opportunity for me to enroll in INSTEP and be sponsored by PETRONAS Gas Berhad,” he said.

As one of the few girls in her batch, Ton Nurin Syasya Binti Ton Burhan, 23, navigated the male-dominated 10-month program at INSTEP through sheer effort and determination. Inspired by her father to work in instrument field in PETRONAS, Syasya, one of the youngest in her class, initially struggled with insecurities and a lack of confidence.

“Since most of my classmates are experienced in their own fields, and some were even working prior to joining INSTEP, I had to go the extra mile to keep up,” she shared.

Her determination to stay ahead, despite being both one of the few girls and the youngest in her class, paid off when she successfully celebrated the completion of her 10-month training program at INSTEP today.

Beyond technical training, TEP also emphasises holistic development. Participants engaged in various extracurricular activities, including sports tournaments, hiking trips, talent showcases, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as blood donation drives. The programme also featured motivational and spiritual activities, such as Quran classes for Muslim students.

The closing ceremony was a celebration of the hard work and determination of the graduates while reaffirming INSTEP’s dedication to empowering the next generation of technical talent.

Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP) today concluded the 10-month Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP) with a closing ceremony for the March 2024 intake.

Also present during the event were Fauzamsaari Geran, Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS Chemicals MTBE, and Choong Yen Li, General Manager of Sarawak Gas Conventional Oil and Gas Malaysia.

“Since most of my classmates are experienced in their own fields, and some were even working prior to joining INSTEP, I had to go the extra mile to keep up,” she shared.

The closing ceremony was a celebration of the hard work and determination of the graduates while reaffirming INSTEP’s dedication to empowering the next generation of technical talent.

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 1

Posted on December 31, 2024December 31, 2024 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

A Path to Personal and Professional Growth

Kemerol Harith Daniel Bin Kemerolzeman Su’ut, a 24-year-old former professional hockey player, is currently undergoing a six-month training program at INSTEP as part of the Oil and Gas Wakalah Technical Programme (OGWTP) Batch 2. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards INSTEP and Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM (YPM) for their pivotal role in executing the programme.

The youngest of three siblings, Daniel grew up with his single mother after his father’s passing in 2008. With the financial support of his brother, Daniel pursued his passion for hockey at Sekolah Sukan Bukit Jalil (SSBJ), a premier national sports school, where he meld his discipline over four years, a quality he continues to value deeply in his studies at INSTEP. Although he had the opportunity to play professionally for Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) Thunder Bolt in 2018, Daniel prioritised education, as he is aware of the challenges and limited opportunities for sustainable growth in Malaysia’s sports sector.

Now, as one of the select learners in the OGWTP Batch 2.0, which commenced in October 2024, Daniel is eager to deepen his knowledge in the mechanical field. The Terengganu born lad aspires to contribute to the state’s energy sector upon graduation in February 2025. Daniel’s ambition is to support his family and give back to the community while balancing his passion for hockey as a part-time coach for MRSM Kuala Berang and the Hulu Terengganu District team. His journey embodies resilience, and dedication, values that will drive him forward in both his professional and athletic endeavours.

As for Muhammad Shahrizal Bin Ramli, 18, being one of the youngest in the batch never held him back from standing out in his class. When he received his SPM results last June, he started his post-SPM life as a cooking assistant and ultimately climbing the ladder to become lead chef in a well-established café in Gong Badak.

Aware that his family is underprivileged in a financial sense, Shahrizal, as the youngest son to wet market wholesaler and a housewife, is determined to take the chance to improve his livelihood, starting from the first step, joining OGWTP in INSTEP. Motivated by a desire to uplift his family’s financial circumstances, he seized the opportunity to join OGWTP at INSTEP as his first step toward a brighter future. Over the course a month at INSTEP, he nurtured his passion for the mechanical field, dedicating himself to study alongside his batchmates and benefiting from the guidance of experienced instructors.

Despite his busy schedule in INSTEP, Shahrizal as the only son living with his parents, he did not neglect his duty to his parents. He spent his weekends helping his father to sell groceries at wet market, a vital source of income that supports their family. His unwavering dedication to both his education and his family wellbeing exemplifies a rare blend of perseverance, and compassion, and a testament to his commitment to transforming his life and honouring the sacrifices his family has made for him.

The inspiring journeys of these two young asnafs, who were given a chance to improve their education lives started from INSTEP, stand as powerful reminders of the transformative impact of opportunity and education. As the preferred technical solutions partner, INSTEP remains committed in its mission to advancing national TVET development and contributing to the Terengganu B40 community through the OGWTP programme.

A Path to Personal and Professional Growth

INSTEP Wins Silver in Brandon Hall Group’s Excellence in Technology Awards

Posted on December 23, 2024December 23, 2024 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

The 2024 Brandon Hall Group Excellence in Awards™ are given for work in Learning and Development, Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Human Resources, Sales Enablement, Future of Work, and Education Technology.

INSTEP recently was recently announced as one of the winners for Silver award for excellence in the category of Best Advance in Technology for Testing or Learning Evaluation.

INSTEP’s initiative in automation of programme evaluation analysis led to improvement of programme performance report and dashboard readiness from m+10 (end of month plus 10 working days) to real-time, successfully empowers decision making, analysis and evaluation driven by real-time insights.

Entries were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, Brandon Hall Group analysts, and executives based upon these criteria: fit the need, program design, functionality, innovation, and overall measurable benefits.

INSTEP, as the technical training arm of PETRONAS, focuses on enhancing technical capabilities and upskilling the technical workforce of PETRONAS and the energy industry. This award underscores INSTEP’s unwavering commitment to talent development through enhancement of programme evaluation analysis enabling real-time insights and faster responses to opportunities for improvement,” praised En. Mohamad bin Nasir, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, in recognition of the achievement.

Excellence Award winners are scheduled to be honored at Brandon Hall Group’s HCM Excellence Conference, January 28-30, 2025, at the Hilton West Palm Beach, Florida. Select winners will also serve as presenters in breakout sessions, sharing their leading practices during the conference.

This marks the second time INSTEP has received accolades from the prestigious Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards, following its first win in July. This achievement further solidifies INSTEP’s global reputation and reinforces the institute’s dedication to advancing the technical workforce within the energy sector. For more details on INSTEP’s first award from the Brandon Hall Group, click here: myPETRONAS