Collaboration - INSTEP

INSTEP Cultivates Sustainability Awareness Among Terengganu Youngsters at State Level Celebration of Hari Alam Sekitar Negara 2025

Posted on November 17, 2025November 17, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP recently participated as a strategic partner in the Hari Alam Sekitar Negara 2025 (National Environment Day) Terengganu State Level celebration, held in collaboration with the Terengganu Department of Environment, on 8 November 2025.

Some of the activities that was held throughout the day included e-waste and used cooking oil collection, with collection points made accessible to the public. This initiative encouraged community participation in collective efforts to protect and preserve our natural environment.

Additionally, a colouring competition was organised to engage children in appreciating the importance of nature and sustainability. INSTEP showed its support by sponsoring the colouring kits and exclusive merchandise for the participants.

“It has been our annual tradition to take part in the Hari Alam Sekitar Negara celebration at the Terengganu state level. This ongoing effort reflects our strong commitment to environmental stewardship and active community engagement,” remarked Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

Empowering Malaysia’s Future Energy Professionals: INSTEP Strengthens its TVET Focus

Posted on August 24, 2025August 24, 2025 by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

Held under the banner of the ASEAN Year of Skills (AYOS) 2025, the ASEAN TVET Conference (ATVET) 2025 brings together government representatives, industry professionals, academics and the public to address key issues, share best practices and explore strategies related to technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, INSTEP recently participated in the ASEAN TVET Conference 2025, held from 13 to 14 August 2025, as one of the exhibitors, showcasing its initiatives and sharing its experience in developing a future-ready technical workforce.

“INSTEP remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the TVET landscape in Malaysia. As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, we are driving the energy transition by delivering high-quality, future-relevant training programmes that bridge critical skill gaps within the energy workforce,” remarked Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

INSTEP’s signature Technical Energy Enrichment Programme (TEP), which is primarily dedicated to upskilling PETRONAS’ future workforce, has been expanded since 2024 to also benefit other future energy professionals through collaborations with Hibiscus Petroleum and Sarawak Shell.

Further underscoring our commitment to inclusive education, INSTEP has partnered with Yayasan Pendidikan MAIDAM for the 2024–2025 period to implement the Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP), an initiative that uplifts the Asnaf community in Terengganu by providing accessible technical training opportunities in the energy sector.

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

Posted on July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

On 15^th 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 July 21, 2025July 21, 2025 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 and UMT Forge Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Energy Transition Capability Development, Harnessing CEFORE

Posted on July 7, 2025July 7, 2025 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.

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

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.

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

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

Posted on June 17, 2025June 17, 2025 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.

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

Global Partnerships for Local Impact

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

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 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 Drives Innovation in Emission Control in Southeast Asia

Posted on October 6, 2024October 6, 2024 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

INSTEP as PETRONAS’ technical training arm has solidified its status as it has been selected as one of the venues to establish Southeast Asia Methane Emissions Technology Evaluation Centre (METEC), alongside Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, under a collaboration between PETRONAS and Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC).

This collaboration aims to enable Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) energy sector companies to validate their selected methane emissions measurement and quantification technologies prior to actual execution at operating facilities, and acting as a training facility for ASEAN energy sector field operators.

The compact design of the INSTEP Upstream and Downstream Training Plant (UDTP) was a key factor in its selection. Its ability to replicate the real-world congestion typical of PETRONAS offshore facilities creates an actual environment for methane detection, providing highly accurate and practical training conditions for operational readiness.

“With methane being one of the most potent greenhouse gases, this facility will play a key role in helping industries meet regulatory requirements and improve environmental performance, and this is a crucial step in addressing climate change and advancing environmental sustainability,” En. Mohamad bin Nasir, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP remarked in his statement.

This initiative is part of the ASEAN Energy Sector Methane Leadership Programme 2.0 (MLP 2.0), themed “Turning Capacity into Action,” launched on 2 October 2024. The inaugural Methane Leadership Programme (MLP), which ran from June 2023 to October 2024, aimed to build capacity across the energy sector, focusing on methane management and reduction strategies critical to achieving regional sustainability goals.

INSTEP and DOSH Terengganu Bond Over Sports Day

Posted on October 6, 2024October 6, 2024 by Wan Asrie Wan Ayu

INSTEP staff and DOSH Terengganu came together for Sports Day 2024 INSTEP & DOSH on 25 September 2024, leaving the laptops behind and stepping away from the corporate environment.

Aside from acting as the platform to unleash the sporty talents from both parties, this initiative is also to support PETRONAS MESTIfit4health agenda, under the element of Move Right.

The Move Right element aims to promote health and wellness among employees and the community, focusing on encouraging physical activity and proper movement techniques to enhance overall well-being.

Also present during the day were Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Terengganu management team including, Ir. Noorazman Soud, Director of DOSH Terengganu, Deputy Director of Operations, En. Mohammad Nizam Ali, and Ir. Nurlinda, Deputy Director of Technical Services.

“Inculcating a safe workplace culture requires a collective and continuous commitment from all individuals at the workplace, and it should be a primary focus especially for INSTEP, a pivotal point for nurturing the future workforce. We
continuously seek advice from DOSH Terengganu to ensure safety in INSTEP are fully enforced, at all time,” En. Mohamad bin Nasir, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP remarked on the continuous collaboration between DOSH Terengganu and
INSTEP, since 2014.

The collaborations are including turnaround Certificate of Fitness (CF) for Upstream Train A, Train B and Downstream Plant at UDTP during Turnaround 2024 and Seminar Safety Talk: Safety in Workplace during Turnaround 2022.

“Though during Turnaround period is a hectic time for employees, they still need to have some space to do the physical activities and exercise, to ensure to mental wellness, and this sports day is held to provide employees with the opportunity to do so,” added En. Mohamad bin Nasir.

INSTEP has maintained a strong partnership with DOSH, consistently collaborating on various safety-related initiatives to ensure the highest standards across all operations.