Kota Kinabalu: A total of 20 graduates from Petronas’ Kimanis Training Centre (KTC) are poised to make their mark in the workforce after receiving their qualifying certificates from Sabah’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif, at the convocation ceremony yesterday.
“Developing a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and ethical workforce capable of adapting to rapid changes is crucial for the oil and gas sector, which remains the backbone of the nation’s economic development, especially in Sabah,” said Arifin.
He highlighted that the industry faces new challenges, including the shift to green energy, digital transformation, and rising safety standards.
“These trends underscore the need for a competent, future-ready workforce that can meet industry demands while contributing to sustainability and competitiveness,” he added.
Speaking at the event, Arifin emphasised the importance of comprehensive technical and vocational training (TVET), which equips KTC graduates with practical knowledge, hands-on industry experience, exposure to safety standards, and professional skills essential for excelling in their fields.
The minister presented the graduation certificates to the trainees, marking another milestone in KTC’s mission to equip young people from diverse backgrounds with practical skills and self-reliance.
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Sindy Joyce Ambrose from Keningau was recognised as the Best Graduate for the 2022 intake.
The majority of the 2022 graduates have already secured employment since completing their training in June, highlighting KTC’s vital role in supporting Malaysia’s national TVET agenda.
To ensure a comprehensive and inclusive learning experience, KTC selects trainees from all districts across Sabah, including Tongod, Kota Belud, Pitas, and Ranau, with priority given to candidates from B40 families.
“It’s heartening to see the next wave of young talent ready to step confidently into the workforce,” said Arifin, congratulating the graduates.
“Your achievement is a clear testament to your hard work, discipline, and dedication. Every experience you have gained has shaped you not only into technically skilled individuals but also into confident, disciplined, and capable young professionals ready to face real-world challenges.”
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of Institut Teknologi Petroleum Petronas (INSTEP), Azhar Ahmad, said KTC has produced 231 graduates since its establishment in 2011.
“Our KTC graduates are expected to uphold high-quality skills standards to ensure global competitiveness. The TVET pathway is a strategic route focused on skill-building, creating a future-proof workforce that ultimately contributes to the development of Sabah and the nation,” he said.
Earlier during his speech, Arifin also expressed his gratitude to Petronas for their continued support in establishing KTC and implementing the Vocational Institution Sponsorship and Training Program (Program VISTA).
He commended the enhancement of the programme into VISTA i-Plus, a more integrated, industry-led model designed to ensure the availability of skilled professionals not only for Petronas but for the entire oil and gas ecosystem.
“This support, which combines academic curriculum with industry-based training and project-orientated learning, allows Sabah’s youth to gain knowledge and skills while enhancing graduate employability through close industry collaboration, improving soft skills, and preparing them to meet global workforce challenges,” he added.
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