Category: Announcement

Eight Santos Engineers Say Goodbye to INSTEP

Posted on by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP recently celebrated the successful completion of a 90-day training programme for eight engineers from Santos under Customized Petroleum Technology Program for Engineer Batch 2, on 30 November 2025. Santos is a global energy company with operations across Australia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), Timor-Leste, and the United States of America (USA).

Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad delivered his speech during the event.
Lineups of celebrated participants from Santos engineers.
The certificates were presented by Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP.
Our participants at INSTEP have undergone comprehensive training guided by experienced instructors.

This specially tailored programme for Santos engineers covered Production, Mechanical, Electrical and Instrumentation module. This programme integrates multi skills from these four trades, for our participants to obtain the comprehensive knowledge and experiential learning at INSTEP.

Team building programme for Santos engineers and apprentices.

Beyond their classroom and workshop sessions, the programme was also designed to include several engaging activities aimed at strengthening trainee bonding and teamwork. These activities supported the development of key competencies such as Effective Teams, Effective Communication, Conflict Management, Leadership, and other essential soft skills. One of the highlights was a team-building programme conducted together with 20 Santos Apprentices from Apprentice Batch 4 at INSTEP.

Cultural exposure visit to Batu Caves.
One group photo to commemorate the achievement.
Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP (middle) with Santos representatives, Natasha Ma, Global Support Centre Manager (left), Rosemary Veari Kula, Organizational Development Advisor of Santos (right).

“As the engineers conclude their time with us, INSTEP extends our warmest congratulations to each participant for their dedication and growth throughout the programme. INSTEP remains committed to supporting talent development across the industry and hopes to welcome future cohorts in the years ahead,” remarked Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP.

INSTEP recently celebrated the successful completion of a 90-day training programme for eight engineers from Santos under Customized Petroleum Technology Program for Engineer Batch 2, on 30 November 2025. Santos is a global energy company with operations across Australia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), Timor-Leste, and the United States of America (USA).

Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad delivered his speech during the event.
Lineups of celebrated participants from Santos engineers.
The certificates were presented by Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP.
Our participants at INSTEP have undergone comprehensive training guided by experienced instructors.

This specially tailored programme for Santos engineers covered Production, Mechanical, Electrical and Instrumentation module. This programme integrates multi skills from these four trades, for our participants to obtain the comprehensive knowledge and experiential learning at INSTEP.

Team building programme for Santos engineers and apprentices.

Beyond their classroom and workshop sessions, the programme was also designed to include several engaging activities aimed at strengthening trainee bonding and teamwork. These activities supported the development of key competencies such as Effective Teams, Effective Communication, Conflict Management, Leadership, and other essential soft skills. One of the highlights was a team-building programme conducted together with 20 Santos Apprentices from Apprentice Batch 4 at INSTEP.

Cultural exposure visit to Batu Caves.
One group photo to commemorate the achievement.
Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP (middle) with Santos representatives, Natasha Ma, Global Support Centre Manager (left), Rosemary Veari Kula, Organizational Development Advisor of Santos (right).

“As the engineers conclude their time with us, INSTEP extends our warmest congratulations to each participant for their dedication and growth throughout the programme. INSTEP remains committed to supporting talent development across the industry and hopes to welcome future cohorts in the years ahead,” remarked Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of INSTEP.

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

Posted on 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.

Wahid honed his technical skills at INSTEP through his 6-month learning journey.

“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.”

Wahid with one of his instructors, whose guidance had greatly enriched his knowledge.

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 now undergoing OJT at Upstream Downstream Process & Services Sdn. Bhd.

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.

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.

Wahid honed his technical skills at INSTEP through his 6-month learning journey.

“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.”

Wahid with one of his instructors, whose guidance had greatly enriched his knowledge.

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 now undergoing OJT at Upstream Downstream Process & Services Sdn. Bhd.

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.

10th Batch of INPEX Engineers Completes Training at INSTEP

Posted on 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.

Learners were given the opportunity to put their learning into practice through hands-on experiences.

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.

The certificate was presented by En. Arezudin Abdullah, Senior Manager of Learning Academy, INSTEP.

“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.

Learner’s appreciation speech delivered by the batch leader, Akira Murata.
INPEX learners had the opportunity to spend their weekend exploring the rich natural beauty of Terengganu.

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.

The learners took this chance to convey their heartfelt gratitude and share their INSTEP learning journey through enthusiastic performances.

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.

Learners were given the opportunity to put their learning into practice through hands-on experiences.

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.

The certificate was presented by En. Arezudin Abdullah, Senior Manager of Learning Academy, INSTEP.

“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.

Learner’s appreciation speech delivered by the batch leader, Akira Murata.
INPEX learners had the opportunity to spend their weekend exploring the rich natural beauty of Terengganu.

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.

The learners took this chance to convey their heartfelt gratitude and share their INSTEP learning journey through enthusiastic performances.

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

Posted on 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.

From being a seaman to working as a part-time barber, Nasih has gone through it all to support himself and his family, as the sixth child in a family of twelve.
Nasih’s daily view during his seaman days, overlooking the waters of Pulau Kapas, Marang.

“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.”

Nasih and his classmates during learning journey in INSTEP.

“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.

Nasih and his colleagues during OJT.

“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

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.

From being a seaman to working as a part-time barber, Nasih has gone through it all to support himself and his family, as the sixth child in a family of twelve.
Nasih’s daily view during his seaman days, overlooking the waters of Pulau Kapas, Marang.

“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.”

Nasih and his classmates during learning journey in INSTEP.

“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.

Nasih and his colleagues during OJT.

“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.

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

Posted on 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.

Used cooking oil collection point.

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.

Colouring competition involving primary school students.

“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.

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.

Used cooking oil collection point.

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.

Colouring competition involving primary school students.

“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 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).

Institut Latihan Teknik dan Perdagangan (ILTP) emerged as the first-place winner, followed by Kolej Vokasional Keningau in third place.

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.

Various activities were conducted at the booths.

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.

The event was officiated by YBHg. Tuan Hasan bin Mahali, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI) (In the middle).
PETRONAS booth, jointly hosted by KTC and INSTEP, featured a range of technical upskilling opportunities and diploma programme offered by KTC.

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.

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).

Institut Latihan Teknik dan Perdagangan (ILTP) emerged as the first-place winner, followed by Kolej Vokasional Keningau in third place.

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.

Various activities were conducted at the booths.

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.

The event was officiated by YBHg. Tuan Hasan bin Mahali, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI) (In the middle).
PETRONAS booth, jointly hosted by KTC and INSTEP, featured a range of technical upskilling opportunities and diploma programme offered by KTC.

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.

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

Posted on 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’s booth became a platform to engage with visitors and clients.

“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. 

Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the National TVET Committee, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi with Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad.

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. 

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’s booth became a platform to engage with visitors and clients.

“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. 

Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the National TVET Committee, Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi with Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad.

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. 

Five Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) Engineers Completed 3-month Programme in INSTEP

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

INSTEP recently celebrated the achievement of five engineers from Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) who successfully completed a 3-month Customised Programme for Refinery Operation Engineers at INSTEP, Batu Rakit. The Closing Ceremony took place at Mercure Living Putrajaya on 7 August 2025. 

The certificate giving session during the ceremony.

The programme was designed to equip participants with comprehensive technical knowledge and skills in plant operation and maintenance of oil and gas facilities, aligning with industry requirements and adhering to relevant standards and regulations.

In addition to classroom-based theoretical lessons, the engineers gained hands-on experience at the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP). Their learning journey was further enriched through a two-week On-the-Job Attachment at Malaysian Refinery Company Sdn. Bhd. (MRCSB), providing them with direct exposure to real refinery operations. 

The engineers upon completion of OJT Attachement at MRSCB.

“This programme signifies our commitment to supporting the energy workforce on a global scale through strategic collaboration with UNOC, ensuring operational readiness of Uganda’s energy infrastructure. We hope these engineers have gained the knowledge and experience needed to drive Uganda’s journey towards industrial maturity,” said En. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP. 

INSTEP recently celebrated the achievement of five engineers from Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) who successfully completed a 3-month Customised Programme for Refinery Operation Engineers at INSTEP, Batu Rakit. The Closing Ceremony took place at Mercure Living Putrajaya on 7 August 2025. 

The certificate giving session during the ceremony.

The programme was designed to equip participants with comprehensive technical knowledge and skills in plant operation and maintenance of oil and gas facilities, aligning with industry requirements and adhering to relevant standards and regulations.

In addition to classroom-based theoretical lessons, the engineers gained hands-on experience at the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP). Their learning journey was further enriched through a two-week On-the-Job Attachment at Malaysian Refinery Company Sdn. Bhd. (MRCSB), providing them with direct exposure to real refinery operations. 

The engineers upon completion of OJT Attachement at MRSCB.

“This programme signifies our commitment to supporting the energy workforce on a global scale through strategic collaboration with UNOC, ensuring operational readiness of Uganda’s energy infrastructure. We hope these engineers have gained the knowledge and experience needed to drive Uganda’s journey towards industrial maturity,” said En. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP. 

INSTEP Celebrates 68 Trainees Completing OPITO Global 2 Programme Sponsored by TotalEnergies E&P Uganda

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

On 6 August 2025, INSTEP held a Closing Ceremony to celebrate 68 trainees from Tilenga Academy under the sponsorship of TotalEnergies E&P Uganda (TEP Uganda) upon completing the 4.5-month OPITO Global 2 Training Certificate Practical Assessment and Customised Training Programme at INSTEP, Batu Rakit. 

The training certificate is designed to upskill learners seeking to develop expertise in one or more processing operations. The programme integrates HSE and working practices with hands-on skill application and plant experiential learning at the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), INSTEP. Trades offered under this programme include Upstream/Processing Operations, Mechanical, Electrical, and Instrument & Control. 

Happy faces of the trainees during the event.

As part of the Tilenga Academy TEPU Traineeship Cohort 1/2025, graduates of this programme are expected to serve in the Tilenga project, including drilling 400 wells and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which spans almost 1,400 km of underground pipeline for oil transportation. 

“INSTEP is honoured to host the 68 trainees throughout this programme, in line with our mission to enrich business partners through competency development. This aligns with TotalEnergies E&P Uganda’s mission to be a key player in Uganda’s energy development and to contribute to the country’s economic growth,” commented En. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP. 

On 6 August 2025, INSTEP held a Closing Ceremony to celebrate 68 trainees from Tilenga Academy under the sponsorship of TotalEnergies E&P Uganda (TEP Uganda) upon completing the 4.5-month OPITO Global 2 Training Certificate Practical Assessment and Customised Training Programme at INSTEP, Batu Rakit. 

The training certificate is designed to upskill learners seeking to develop expertise in one or more processing operations. The programme integrates HSE and working practices with hands-on skill application and plant experiential learning at the Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), INSTEP. Trades offered under this programme include Upstream/Processing Operations, Mechanical, Electrical, and Instrument & Control. 

Happy faces of the trainees during the event.

As part of the Tilenga Academy TEPU Traineeship Cohort 1/2025, graduates of this programme are expected to serve in the Tilenga project, including drilling 400 wells and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which spans almost 1,400 km of underground pipeline for oil transportation. 

“INSTEP is honoured to host the 68 trainees throughout this programme, in line with our mission to enrich business partners through competency development. This aligns with TotalEnergies E&P Uganda’s mission to be a key player in Uganda’s energy development and to contribute to the country’s economic growth,” commented En. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP. 

INSTEP Drives Energy Transition in TVET at Energy Talent Summit 2025

Posted on by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

INSTEP recently participated in the Energy Talent Summit 2025 on 6 August 2025 at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, a platform that featured impactful panel discussions, reinforcing key stakeholders’ commitment and efforts in line with the theme “Empowering Talent, Energising Industry: Unlocking a Competitive and Sustainable Future.” 

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including YBhg. Tuan Sutekno b. Ahmad Belon, Deputy Secretary General (Operations), Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR), and Pn. Rosnoizam bt. Abd Majid, Director of Industry Relations & Strategic Cooperation Division, Department of Skills Development (DSD), MOHR. 

Representing INSTEP, Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Acting Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Learning Academy INSTEP, served as a panelist for Session 2, titled “Membina Pekerja Mahir Mampan untuk Masa Depan” (Building a Sustainable Skilled Workforce for the Future). The session focused on talent development initiatives across TVET and institutional efforts aimed at meeting sectoral workforce demands. 

Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad as INSTEP’s representative during the sharing session.

In the discussion, he highlighted INSTEP’s role as technical training institution in enhancing TVET competency among technical talents to meet the demands of the dynamic energy transition, with sustainability elements embedded in its programmes. 

“INSTEP is actively enhancing our curriculum in line with the energy transition agenda, to ensure we equip the right talent with the relevant competencies. As part of the ecosystem, we look forward to more collaborations with various organisations and institutions, walking hand in hand to embrace and drive the change,” he shared during the session. 

Together with Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, in the second session’s panelists were Sr. Ahmad Farrin Mokhtar, Senior General Manager, Contractor and Construction Personnel Development Sector, CIDB, En. Hilmy Hussain, Senior Vice President, Industrial Manpower Development, JPDC, Ir. Ts. Dr. Aziyati Binti Yusoff, Head of Digital Learning, Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST), JPK and Ts. Dr. Hj. Azli Amin Ahmad Raus Director, ADTEC JTM Kampus Pasir Gudang and Senai, ILP Pasir Gudang.  

INSTEP recently participated in the Energy Talent Summit 2025 on 6 August 2025 at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, a platform that featured impactful panel discussions, reinforcing key stakeholders’ commitment and efforts in line with the theme “Empowering Talent, Energising Industry: Unlocking a Competitive and Sustainable Future.” 

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including YBhg. Tuan Sutekno b. Ahmad Belon, Deputy Secretary General (Operations), Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR), and Pn. Rosnoizam bt. Abd Majid, Director of Industry Relations & Strategic Cooperation Division, Department of Skills Development (DSD), MOHR. 

Representing INSTEP, Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Acting Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Learning Academy INSTEP, served as a panelist for Session 2, titled “Membina Pekerja Mahir Mampan untuk Masa Depan” (Building a Sustainable Skilled Workforce for the Future). The session focused on talent development initiatives across TVET and institutional efforts aimed at meeting sectoral workforce demands. 

Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad as INSTEP’s representative during the sharing session.

In the discussion, he highlighted INSTEP’s role as technical training institution in enhancing TVET competency among technical talents to meet the demands of the dynamic energy transition, with sustainability elements embedded in its programmes. 

“INSTEP is actively enhancing our curriculum in line with the energy transition agenda, to ensure we equip the right talent with the relevant competencies. As part of the ecosystem, we look forward to more collaborations with various organisations and institutions, walking hand in hand to embrace and drive the change,” he shared during the session. 

Together with Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, in the second session’s panelists were Sr. Ahmad Farrin Mokhtar, Senior General Manager, Contractor and Construction Personnel Development Sector, CIDB, En. Hilmy Hussain, Senior Vice President, Industrial Manpower Development, JPDC, Ir. Ts. Dr. Aziyati Binti Yusoff, Head of Digital Learning, Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST), JPK and Ts. Dr. Hj. Azli Amin Ahmad Raus Director, ADTEC JTM Kampus Pasir Gudang and Senai, ILP Pasir Gudang.