Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 6

Posted on November 24, 2025November 24, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Forging the Dream of A Roti Canai Maker

Hailing from Kg. Langkap, Setiu, Wahidduzaman, better known as Wahid among his peers, is now one step closer to joining the nation’s oil & gas technical workforce. As a trainee of the INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) Batch 3, he is currently undergoing On-the-Job Training (OJT) at Upstream Downstream Process & Services Sdn. Bhd in Chukai., marking the final stage of his journey before graduation.

Having spent six months after his diploma graduation working as a roti canai maker at his parents’ stall did not stop him from pursuing his dream of joining the oil and gas industry. At the time, he had yet to uncover the path that would lead him there.

“Due to my limited knowledge and exposure on the education pathways and career progression, I didn’t know how to start working on realising my dream,” he shared.

Everything changed when Wahid came across posts featuring success stories from previous batches who had found new opportunities after completing the OGWTP at INSTEP. Their journeys inspired him to take the first step.

That was when his interest sparked to enrol in the INSTEP OGWTP programme, where he hoped to gain essential technical knowledge and hands-on experience.

“One key knowledge that was being emphasised in INSTEP is the safety of every worker in the workplace. We did a lot of Unsafe Act Unsafe Condition (UAUC) Walkabout to embody the lessons we learnt in classes.”

Though he took time to adapt to the strict HSE practices in classes and on campus, Wahid now know better that habits are built upon practices.

“At first, it felt awkward to wear gloves and full PPE all the time, especially since I was used to working bare-handed as a roti canai cook. But over time, I learned to adapt to the safety-first culture, where every piece of PPE and every hazard control plays an important role in maintaining a safe working environment.”

Anchoring himself in discipline and self-confidence throughout his learning journey at INSTEP, Wahid as the eldest of four siblings, remains determined to shape a better future for himself and his family. Despite the challenges of balancing his studies with his weekend work as a roti canai maker, he stays motivated to achieve financial stability and support his loved ones.

Wahid is among the beneficiaries of the OGWTP Batch 3, who are expected to graduate in early December this year, signifying the completion of their six-month training programme, and the beginning of Wahid’s next chapter in the oil and gas industry.

“Due to my limited knowledge and exposure on the education pathways and career progression, I didn’t know how to start working on realising my dream,” he shared.

That was when his interest sparked to enrol in the INSTEP OGWTP programme, where he hoped to gain essential technical knowledge and hands-on experience.

Though he took time to adapt to the strict HSE practices in classes and on campus, Wahid now know better that habits are built upon practices.

10th Batch of INPEX Engineers Completes Training at INSTEP

Posted on November 20, 2025November 20, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP recently celebrated the successful completion of the 1-Month INPEX HSE – OJT Primary Course Training Programme, held on 6 November 2025, involving 22 engineers from INPEX Corporation, Japan.

The training programme is curated to cater the blended learning approach by incorporating theoretical learning in classroom, practical activities in workshop and hands-on job training at UDTP, giving opportunity for the learners to translate their theoretical knowledge into action.

“As INPEX’s strategic partner, INSTEP is committed to enhancing technical competencies for energy workforce development, ensuring our partners receive the value and skills they need to thrive in the energy industry,” said En. Arezudin Abdullah during his speech at the event.

Throughout their one-month stay, learners not only gained technical knowledge through their learning journey in INSTEP, but also created lasting memories the cultural experiences they enjoyed during their time in Terengganu and Malaysia.

This marks the 10th batch of engineers from INPEX to participate in the HSE – OJT Primary Course Training Programme, alongside an additional five batches who have undergone Process Safety Management (PSM) training at INSTEP.

INSTEP recently celebrated the successful completion of the 1-Month INPEX HSE – OJT Primary Course Training Programme, held on 6 November 2025, involving 22 engineers from INPEX Corporation, Japan.

INSTEP Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme as The Turning Point Episode 5

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

From the Sea to the Workshop: A Journey Full of Grit

Nasih, a 20-year-old determined youth from Marang, Terengganu, is one of the beneficiaries of the Oil and Gas Wakalah TVET Programme (OGWTP) Batch 3. He is currently undergoing his on-the-job training (OJT) at Kemaman Supply Base (KSB).

Coming from a Madrasah Tahfiz background, Nasih had always envisioned the oil and gas industry as his dream career. With a clear goal to one day be part of the field, he made up his mind to venture into the technical world and took his chance when OGWTP Batch 3 opened its doors.

“As the eldest son living with my mother in the village, I’ve carried a big responsibility since my father passed away,” Nasih shared. “But that never stopped me from chasing my dream of joining the oil and gas industry one day. I’ve gone through a lot, balancing the search for opportunities to study and work while also providing for my family.”

“As far as I knew before, the oil and gas industry was a vast field, and that’s what drew my interest to join, even though I had no technical background,” he shared.

As a learner under OGWTP Batch 3, Nasih’s six-month journey in INSTEP equipped him with valuable certifications such as the Oil and Gas Safety Passport (OGSP) and T-BOSIET, which he described as a privilege he could not have afforded on his own.

“The knowledge I gained at INSTEP became the foundation for the technical work I’m now doing during my OJT, including tasks like valve servicing and measuring shaft runout,” he said proudly.

OGWTP continues to serve as a beacon of hope for Terengganu youths determined to step beyond their comfort zones and pursue technical careers in the oil and gas industry. Nasih is one of 43 OGWTP Batch 3 learners who are currently undergoing OJT, and are expected to graduate in early December this year.

From the Sea to the Workshop: A Journey Full of Grit

“As far as I knew before, the oil and gas industry was a vast field, and that’s what drew my interest to join, even though I had no technical background,” he shared.

“The knowledge I gained at INSTEP became the foundation for the technical work I’m now doing during my OJT, including tasks like valve servicing and measuring shaft runout,” he said proudly.

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.

KTC Secures Second Place in Sabah TVET Innovation Competition

Posted on November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) with their project Smart Pill Dispenser was recently named the second-place winner in the Sabah TVET Innovation Competition, organised by the Sabah Human Resource Development Department (JPSM) in collaboration with KTC on 18 October 2025 at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).

The event served as a platform for Sabahan youths from 10 technical colleges to showcase their innovative talents through creative products and models that highlighted the essence of TVET education.

In addition to the competition, the event also featured various government and corporate agencies, aimed at raising awareness on the oil and gas industry and providing on-site job recruitment opportunities.

Also present during the event were Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Pn. Siti Ayu Haniza bt. A. Wahab, General Manager of the PETRONAS Sabah Labuan Regional Office, and Pn. Kamsiah Ibrahim, Director of JPSM.

The event served as a platform for Sabahan youths from 10 technical colleges to showcase their innovative talents through creative products and models that highlighted the essence of TVET education.

KTC Supports National TVET Agenda, Produces Future-Ready Graduates

Posted on September 25, 2025September 25, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Twenty more trainees from the PETRONAS-run Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) have graduated from their three-year diploma programme and are transitioning into the workforce across the oil and gas sector as well as other industries.

Receiving their scrolls during convocation ceremony on 23 September 2025, the majority of graduates from the 2022 intake have secured employment since completing their training in June this year, underscoring KTC’s vital role in supporting the national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.

Chief Executive Officer of Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP), Ts. Azhar Ahmad said KTC has produced 231 graduates since its establishment in 2011, a crucial step forward in transforming the future of Sabahan youths by equipping them with comprehensive TVET skills, practical industrial training and exposure to industrial safety standard.

“Our KTC graduates are expected to uphold high-quality skills standards to ensure global competitiveness, as the TVET pathway is a strategic route focused on skills and building a future-proof workforce, and ultimately contributing to the development of both Sabah and the nation,” he said.

KTC’s comprehensive syllabus plays a crucial role in enhancing individual capability for industrial relevance by providing both theoretical lessons and hands-on practical experience through industrial training at PETRONAS operations such as Kimanis Power Plant, Sabah Oil and Gas Terminal, PETRONAS Chemicals Fertiliser Sabah Sdn Bhd, and PETRONAS Chemicals Methanol Sdn Bhd. To ensure the relevance of TVET graduates amidst the digital transformation and cleaner energy transition, sustainability elements that are embedded in PETRONAS values are integrated to KTC’s curriculum.

Extra-curricular activities are also an integral part of student life at KTC, complements academic learning and nurtures social responsibility. The graduates participated in initiatives such as TVET Innovation & Creativity Competition (TICC) 2024 and community services including Program Ihya Ramadhan, Gotong Royong Bersama Komuniti Kimanis, and Jejak TEBENA Program.

Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arifin presented the graduation files to the trainees, marking a significant achievement in KTC’s objective to equip young people from diverse backgrounds with practical skills for employment and self-reliance.

The total number of trainees selected is designed to represent every district in Sabah, with KTC giving priority to candidates from B40 families. To create a comprehensive and inclusive learning experience, learners are drawn from diverse districts across the state, including rural areas such as Tongod, Kota Belud, Pitas and Ranau. Notably, Sindy Joyce Ambrose, a graduate from Keningau, was honoured as the Best Graduate for the 2022 intake.

KTC is recognised by the Department of Skills Development (DSD) as an Accredited Centre. It offers a three-year, full-time Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM Level 4) in Industrial Instrumentation & Control Systems (Monitoring & Control).

Over the years, PETRONAS has continuously contributed to human capital development and enriching the nation’s energy workforce through the inception of learning institutions including Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM), and INSTEP.

Also present at the ceremony was General Manager of PETRONAS Sabah and Labuan Regional Office, Siti Ayu Abdul Wahab.

Receiving their scrolls at convocation ceremony on 23 September 2025, the majority of graduates from the 2022 intake have secured employment since completing their training in June this year, underscoring KTC’s vital role in supporting the national Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) agenda.

Chief Executive Officer of Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP), Azhar Ahmad said KTC has produced 231 graduates since its establishment in 2011, a crucial step forward in transforming the future of Sabahan youths by equipping them with comprehensive TVET skills, practical industrial training and exposure to industrial safety standard.

Also present at the ceremony was General Manager of PETRONAS Sabah and Labuan Regional Office, Siti Ayu Abdul Wahab.

Papua New Guineans Learners Celebrate 50th Independence Day at INSTEP

Posted on September 24, 2025September 29, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

On 16 September 2025, Papua New Guinean learners at INSTEP proudly celebrated their country’s Golden Jubilee with an internal event, sharing their rich culture and heritage with friends and INSTEP community.

Papua New Guinea, which gained independence in 1975, is home to almost 11 million people and more than 850 languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.

Back home, the Golden Jubilee was celebrated with vibrant songs, traditional dances, cultural showcases, and the raising of the national flag. Echoing that same spirit, the Papua New Guinean learners brought their traditions to life on campus, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.

20 Papua New Guinean learners at INSTEP are currently undergoing the Apprentice Training Programme, while another eight are enrolled in the Customised Petroleum Technology Programme for Engineers. Both batches are sponsored by Santos Limited. The Apprentice Training cohort is expected to graduate in June 2026, and the Customised Programme participants are scheduled to complete their training by November this year.

INSTEP had begun actively offering technical learning solutions to Santos Limited engineers and technicians through tailored training courses in 2018, and this has played a crucial role in technical capability development for the company, which formerly was also known as Oil Search Limited (OSL).

Papua New Guinea, which gained independence in 1975, is home to almost 11 million people and more than 850 languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world.

INSTEP Supports Bilateral Relations with Developing Countries through MTCP 2025 Programme

Posted on September 23, 2025September 23, 2025 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP, in collaboration with the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), organised a training from 7–15 September 2025, emphasising the theme of ‘Energy Transition through Sustainability and Technology Approach’, bringing together 17 participants from 10 countries. The programme concluded with a closing ceremony on 12 September 2025 at Perdana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

Designed to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of the energy value chain, sustainability practices within the energy sector, and the pivotal role of technology in driving the energy transition, the programme offered a blend of theoretical and practical learning.

It began with a two-day Overview of Petroleum Industry (OOPI) conducted at INSTEP’s Upstream and Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), where participants experienced a simulated real-plant environment under safe conditions.

Subsequent sessions combined classroom learning with experiential exposure through industrial site visits, including the Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Facility and the Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE).

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing global knowledge exchange with developing countries for a sustainable energy transition, and INSTEP is proud to serve as the technical training centre delivering this programme,” commented En. Arezudin b. Abdullah, Senior Manager of Technical Learning Solutions, INSTEP.

Celebrating Hari Alam Sekitar Negara 2023 with Batu Rakit Beach Cleaning

Posted on November 8, 2023November 8, 2023 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

A nationwide celebration for the environmentalist and green enthusiast, Hari Alam Sekitar Negara (HASN) 2023 is celebrated from 20 to 27 October annually. Since its inception in October 1989, HASN has been an annual commemoration by Malaysia Federal Government as its continuous support to educate environment knowledge and instil awareness of environmental conservation and reservation among local community.

Morning sun did not deter the participants to actively clean the shoreline.

Acting as a platform for Batu Rakit neighbourhood to experience ‘Gotong Royong Kutip Sampah Sambil Riadah’ or more famously known as KUDAH, MBKT in collaboration with Department of Environment and UNISZA celebrated HASN with beach cleaning activity at Pantai Batu Rakit.

Armed with trash pickers and plastic bags, 150 participants together with 15 volunteers from INSTEP roamed the Pantai Batu Rakit shoreline, with a mission, to restore the pristine sand beach to be free with trash.

264kg trash were collected throughout the programme.

With almost of 8 million tons of plastic in our ocean worldwide and even more winding up on beaches every day, it is always our duty to combat environmental harm, and beach cleaning is one of the efforts worth the try.

Echoing PETRONAS’ efforts in sustainability while highlighting our social impact branding through engagement with community, this activity served its purpose in celebrating the event, aligned with the theme of ‘Alam Sekitar Tanggungjawab Bersama’.

Morning sun did not deter the participants to actively clean the shoreline.

264kg trash were collected throughout the programme.

INSTEP Elevates Technical Competency for 23 TEP Graduates under MRCSB Sponsorship

Posted on November 8, 2023November 8, 2023 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

An avenue to celebrate the completion of 23 Technical Energy Enrichment (TEP) learners under Malaysia Refining Company Sdn. Bhd. (MRCSB) sponsorship, an intimate closing ceremony was held recently on 23 October 2023 in INSTEP, Batu Rakit.

The ceremony was filled with a mix of emotions, a sense of pride for the accomplishments achieved, nostalgia for the experiences shared, and anticipation for the future endeavours.

Started their journey since February 2023, the 23 learners from Process, Electrical and Mechanical trade completed their 10-month study after enriching learning journey in INSTEP. The learning block for TEP is Comprised of Competency Based Assessment (CBA) modules, which are based on PETRONAS Occupational Skill Standard (POSS) and complemented with experiential learning at UDTP.

“As a leading downstream company dominating nearly 70% of Malaysia’s marketing, trading, and refining sectors, MRSCB proudly extends a warm welcome to our 23 new graduates. Embrace this opportunity as a pivotal moment in your journey to contribute to our nation’s economic prosperity and join our family in driving positive change,” En. Ahmad Farid b Yaacob, Chief Executive of MRCSB mentioned in his speech.

En. Arezudin delivered his opening remark during the event.

“Keep in mind that as you venture further in your career later on, you will forever carry and represent the esteemed name of INSTEP. Be the exemplary ambassador of our brand, making us proud wherever your path leads,” En. Arezudin, Senior Manager of Technical Learning Solutions 2 mentioned in his speech during the event.

Prideful smiles were reflected on the learners face during the certificate giving session.

The learner’s representative, Muhammad Hafiz Rohan from Process Trade, rallied the progressive spirit from his batch mates through his speech during the event. “Let’s not be afraid to dream big. Our potential is limitless, and the world needs our unique talents, ideas, and contributions. Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Instead, let it be the catalyst that propels you forward.”

The learners prepared a special performance during the event.

Ultimately, the event encapsulates the essence of a transformative journey. It is a celebration of accomplishments and an acknowledgment of the hard work invested by the learners throughout the 10 months of their training in INSTEP.