Event - INSTEP

Farewell Before the Next Adventure

Posted on July 19, 2026July 19, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

What better way to wrap up ten months of learning than with good company, great food and a touch of Terengganu tradition? Before heading off for their plant familiarisation, the TEP learners and INSTEP staff gathered for a casual appreciation session, dressed in colourful batik to celebrate the end of an unforgettable chapter at INSTEP.

The Technical Enhancement Programme (TEP) under sponsorship of PETRONAS Gas Berhad (PGB), which commenced in September 2025 equipped learners with ten months of intensive technical training through a combination of classroom learning, practical sessions and hands-on simulations. Throughout the programme, the learners developed essential technical competencies and completed the required professional certifications, preparing them for the next stage of their development before their eventual job postings.

The celebration also featured the announcement of the Let’s Get Fit Programme 2026: Weight Loss Challenge winners, recognising those who embraced a healthier lifestyle throughout the programme. To top it all off, everyone enjoyed a durian feast, sharing one last memorable moment together before embarking on their plant familiarisation. From classrooms to the field, all the best to our TEP learners, we look forward to seeing you excel in the next chapter of your journey!

INSTEP Highlights Technical Capability and Talent Development at the 3rd Malaysia-China International Industry-Education (MCIEF) Cooperation Forum 2026

Posted on June 16, 2026June 16, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP participated in the 3rd Malaysia-China International Industry-Education Cooperation Forum (MCIEF) & 5th Malaysia-China Vocational Education Fair 2026, held in conjunction with Hari TVET Negara 2026. The forum serves as a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia-China collaboration in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), talent development, industry engagement, and international skills mobility.

Centered on the theme “Future Talent, Global Impact”, the forum brought together industry leaders, educational institutions, and government representatives to discuss key areas such as industry-driven education, technology transfer, talent mobility, and cross-border collaboration.

Representing INSTEP, Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, participated as a panellist in the forum session titled “Closing the Talent Gap: Aligning Skills Development with Industry Demand.” During the discussion, he highlighted the importance of lifelong learning and industry-relevant skills development in addressing the rapidly evolving needs of the energy sector.

“As PETRONAS and energy industry evolves, roles are being redefined, and skills can quickly become outdated. The real advantage lies in the ability to continuously learn, adapt and remain relevant. At INSTEP, we ensure our programmes are aligned with industry requirements through close collaboration with business partners and our Industry Collaboration Committee,” he shared.

“Since its establishment in 1992, VISTA has been instrumental in developing skilled talent for Malaysia’s energy industry. Its evolution into VISTA i-Plus reflects PETRONAS’ continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s workforce through a more integrated, industry-led approach and wider collaboration with industry players and authorities.” Ts. Azhar Ahmad added.

The session also explored strategies to strengthen talent pipelines and accelerate workforce readiness. INSTEP’s approach focuses on scaling structured Work-Based Learning (WBL), enhancing trainer industry exposure, and aligning certifications with real-world job competencies to develop future-ready talent for the energy industry and beyond.

INSTEP to Upskill 25 Technicians from East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)

Posted on April 15, 2026April 21, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP proudly welcomes 25 technicians from the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) for an intensive eight-week hands-on training programme in oil and gas equipment maintenance, running from 9 April to 5 June 2026.

The EACOP, also known as the Uganda–Tanzania Crude Oil Pipeline (UTCOP), is a major regional infrastructure project led by TotalEnergies, alongside partners including Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), and CNOOC. The pipeline is designed to transport crude oil from Uganda’s Tilenga and Kingfisher oil fields to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania.

Building upon its established track record, INSTEP has implemented a series of technical training programmes aimed at enhancing the competencies of oil and gas workforce, globally. Most notably for Uganda, the recent completion of Tilenga Academy (TEPU) Traineeship Cohorts 1 and 2 had successfully produced 125 highly skilled trainees, certified by Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO), complemented by specialised training provided to five engineers from the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).

The EACOP training will focus on practical, hands-on learning to enhance participants’ skills in maintenance of rotating and static equipment, preparing them to perform maintenance tasks competently and safely. The additional curriculum in INSTEP complements the earlier 12-month training undertaken at the Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba (UPIK) and the EACOP Academy, which was primarily theory-based. It serves to bridge the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing technical knowledge through real-world application.

“Having successfully delivered technical programmes for TEPU and UNOC, INSTEP is excited to extend its expertise to support EACOP. Amid today’s evolving global landscape, we remain committed to nurturing skilled talent and building sustainable pipelines that contribute to the global energy transition,” Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP remarked.

INSTEP and UMT Inks Agreement for Strategic Collaboration in Renewable Energy Capability Development

Posted on April 6, 2026April 6, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP and UMT have formalised their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to advance strategic collaboration in renewable energy capability development, in support of the Centre of Excellence for Offshore Renewable Energy (CEFORE). This agreement builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in June last year, followed by a series of dialogue sessions in July, reflecting a sustained commitment to deepening cooperation.

Beyond technical training, both parties are committed to positioning CEFORE as a dynamic platform for education, innovation and public engagement in clean energy. The centre is envisioned not only as a hub for industry-relevant learning and research, but also as an edu-tourism destination and community learning space, offering visitors valuable insights into renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices.

The MoA also marks a significant step forward in enhancing knowledge sharing and industrial training opportunities, including academic staff and student exchanges, further strengthening the link between academia and industry.Top of Form

“As PETRONAS’ technical training arm, INSTEP remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the adoption of innovative technologies for learning and upskilling. Our efforts are closely aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and PETRONAS Net Zero Carbon Emission (NZCE) aspiration, as we continue to support the transition towards a low-carbon future,” commented Ts. Azhar b. Ahmad, Chief Executive of INSTEP.

INSTEP And UTP Formalise Strategic Partnership to Future-Proof PETRONAS’ Human Capital

Posted on February 15, 2026February 15, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

INSTEP and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) formalised a strategic partnership through the signing of three Memoranda of Agreement (MoAs), reinforcing a shared commitment to future-proof PETRONAS’ human capital.

The MoAs comprise the INSTEP–UTP Collaboration Agreement, the Learning Agreement for Industrial Energy Systems and Risk Management, and the Collaboration Agreement for the Southeast Asia Methane Emissions Technology Evaluation Centre (SEA-METEC) Project.

This strategic collaboration reflects a unified commitment between INSTEP and UTP to elevate national technical capabilities, strengthen industry–academia integration, and future proof Malaysia’s and PETRONAS’ talent pipeline in line with evolving energy landscape demands.

The agreements were signed by Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, and President and CEO of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Ir. Mohamed Firouz Asnan.

The event was also in attendance of Pn. Akmal Niza Ahmad, Senior General Manager Education & Human Capital Investment (EHCI), PETRONAS, who witnessed the signing ceremony between the two institutions. Her attendance underscored the strategic importance of this collaboration, marking a significant step towards deeper integration as learning arms under PETRONAS.

Key areas of cooperation include capability development and training, joint course development and third-party programme offerings, access to facilities and technical resources, as well as staff exchange and industrial placements.

“Through the signing of this MoAs today, we foresee stronger alignment between academia and industry, enhancing operational readiness through competency-based training that meets evolving industry demands and future energy challenges,” remarked Ts. Azhar Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

As PETRONAS’ technical learning arm, INSTEP remains committed to addressing both current and future industry challenges. By leveraging the combined strengths, resources, and expertise of INSTEP and UTP, this partnership is set to accelerate research, enhance capability development, and deliver practical, industry-driven solutions. INSTEP and UTP joint role as host sites for the development of SEA-METEC further underscores this commitment and our readiness to advance technological innovation in the region.

The agreements were signed by Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP, Ts. Azhar Ahmad, and President and CEO of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Ir. Mohamed Firouz Asnan.

INSTEP Strengthens Uganda’s Energy Workforce ahead of Nation’s First Oil

Posted on February 10, 2026February 15, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

A total of 57 participants from the Tilenga Academy (TEPU) Traineeship Cohort 2/2025 were recognised at a closing ceremony marking the successful completion of a 4-month intensive training programme at Institut Teknologi Petroleum PETRONAS (INSTEP).

This milestone follows the successful completion of 68 participants from the first cohort in August last year, as well as five engineers from the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), reinforcing INSTEP’s continued role in developing skilled talent for Uganda’s expanding oil and gas sector.

The event was graced by the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Betty Bigombe, High Commissioner of Uganda to Malaysia, and Mr. Lamin Sabally, Operation Director, TotalEnergies E&P Uganda.

The participants underwent the Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO) Global Level 2 Certificate Programme, a comprehensive international certification spanning in 4 months. The programme integrates health, safety and environment (HSE) principles with industry working practices, simulated skills training, and hands-on plant experiential learning at INSTEP’s Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP).

Designed to meet industry demands, the programme covers four key trades which are, Operations, Mechanical, Electrical, and Instrument & Control, while embedding HSE elements throughout the learning journey.

Upon completion, participants are expected to return to Uganda equipped with enhanced technical competencies, ready to contribute to national development and support the growth of the local oil and gas industry in pursuit of long-term economic prosperity.

“This shared vision highlights our commitment to inclusive and sustainable technical development. Our offerings are rooted in the success of our clients, prioritising resilience and sustainability,” said Ts. Azhar B. Ahmad, INSTEP Chief Executive Officer.

The event was graced by the presence of Her Excellency Dr. Betty Bigombe, High Commissioner of Uganda to Malaysia, and Mr. Lamin Sabally, Operation Director, TotalEnergies E&P Uganda.

INSTEP and Hibiscus Petroleum Advance Tomorrow’s Technical Workforce

Posted on February 3, 2026February 3, 2026 by Ainul Nabilah M Asri

Ten participants from Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad were recognised at the closing ceremony of the second batch of the Hibiscus Graduate Technician Programme, held at the Institute of Technology PETRONAS (INSTEP), Kuala Nerus.

Designed to support newly onboarded technicians, the six-month programme equips participants with essential knowledge and practical skills in upstream operations and maintenance. Through structured, hands-on experiential learning, the programme upskills Hibiscus Petroleum’s workforce while preparing them for a confident transition into the industry upon completion.

The Hibiscus Graduate Technician Programme comprises four intensive technical modules covering Production, Mechanical, Instrumentation and Electrical disciplines. These are delivered through a combination of classroom-based theoretical learning and practical, hands-on training at INSTEP’s Upstream Downstream Training Plant (UDTP), providing participants with exposure to real-world operational environments.

“At INSTEP, we are committed to developing a highly skilled and competent workforce to meet the evolving demands of the energy industry. This strategic collaboration between INSTEP and Hibiscus Petroleum exemplifies our shared commitment to nurturing local talent and strengthening industry expertise,” said INSTEP Chief Executive Officer, Encik Azhar Ahmad.

The programme received positive feedback from participants, who highlighted the value of practical exposure and teamwork. One of the participants, Joshua Raj Rayner, 26, from Sabah, shared that the programme provided a realistic experience of working in an operational plant environment.

“One of my most memorable experiences was during the utility system plant start-up module, which extended beyond an eight-hour shift. The session tested our communication and resilience, while giving us a true sense of real-world operations and strengthening our bond as a team,” he said.

Another participant, Aaron Roy Lawrence, 28, from Selangor, noted that the programme also contributed to his personal growth, allowing him to better understand his strengths and adaptability in a demanding technical environment.

INSTEP continues to play an important role in strengthening the technical capabilities of Hibiscus Petroleum’s workforce. Since the successful completion of the first cohort of 10 technicians in 2024, both organisations have collaborated on a range of upskilling and competency development programmes. These include Advanced Pigging Operations, safety certification under the IECEx Scheme for explosive and hazardous environments (Ex001, Ex007 and Ex008), as well as High Voltage (HV) and Low Voltage (LV) Switching and Generator Synchronising Practices.

The ongoing collaboration between INSTEP and Hibiscus Petroleum serves as a strong foundation for building a more resilient and sustainable energy future for Malaysia, while advancing the development of the nation’s next generation of technical professionals.

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 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 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.