Event - 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.

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.

Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) Joins Sabah in Honouring Malaysia 68th National Day

Posted on September 18, 2025September 18, 2025 by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) proudly marked its presence at the recent Sabah State-Level National Day celebration, commemorating the nation’s 68th year of independence.

Held at Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Bandar Kota Kinabalu, the parade featured 167 contingents and 43 impressive vehicles under asset category.

KTC emerged as the third place winner in Merdeka Parade Sabah State, under Public Higher Education Institutions (IPTA) and Private Higher Education Institutions (IPTS), fielding a 40-member contingent in the parade. KTC celebrates yet another win this year, building on last year’s third place, and a strong track record.

The event was graced by the presence of the Head of State of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, as well as the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, along with the Sabah Cabinet members.

“This has been an annual event for us since 2012, aimed at encouraging our trainees to be well-rounded, not only focusing on technical skills capability development but also grounded in patriotism and national values,” En. Alfie Mahathir b. Semanis, Manager of KTC commented on the success.

Established by PETRONAS in 2011, KTC is managed by INSTEP under PETRONAS Technical Training Sdn. Bhd. (PTTSB). The center offers a 3-year full time Diploma Kemahiran Malaysia programme in Industrial Instrumentation & Control.

Kimanis Petroleum Training Centre (KTC) proudly marked its presence at the recent Sabah State-Level National Day celebration, commemorating the nation’s 68th year of independence.

Held at Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Bandar Kota Kinabalu, the parade featured 167 contingents and 43 impressive vehicles under asset category.

The event was graced by the presence of the Head of State of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, as well as the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, along with the Sabah Cabinet members.

From Awareness to Action: INSTEP’s Hands-On Approach to a Circular Economy

Posted on September 3, 2025September 3, 2025 by syahirahsyamimi.mabd@petronas.com

The INSTEP Sustainability Campaign 2025: Circularity successfully wrapped up on 24 August 2025, continuing the momentum from the earlier Beach & Breathe Circuit held on 13 August. The campaign brought together a vibrant mix of over 100 INSTEP participants and 50 primary school students.

Click here to read more on INSTEP Beach & Breathe Circuit.

The event featured the official launch of two internally developed gamification learning solutions, Carbon Busters and Circular Future, officiated by En. Arezudin B Abdullah, Senior Manager of Technical Learning Solutions 2. These games are designed to enhance awareness of sustainability concepts, such as Carbon Capture and Storage and Circular Economy, through interactive learning.

Further enriching the programme were two impactful talks under the “Voices of Circularity” segment. Siti Amirah Bt M Ismail from PETRONAS Corporate Sustainability delivered a session titled “5 Approaches to Adopt Circular Economy in PETRONAS”, providing strategic insights into corporate-level circularity. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Fadzilah @ Adibah Bt Abdul Majid from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu presented “The Household Loop: Simple Circular Practices for Every Room”, which offered practical and relatable guidance on incorporating circular economy principles into daily routines.

A key highlight of the INSTEP Sustainability Campaign 2025 was the Clothes Recycling Drive, which recorded an impressive total of 461.4 kg of clothing. This achievement reflects the strong commitment and collective participation of the INSTEP community in advancing sustainable practices.

Participants also engaged in hands-on circularity workshops, including a Plastics Upcycling Workshop by Pertubuhan Pendidikan Teknologi KITARAN Semula that showcased creative ways to transform plastic waste into useful products, and a Hydroponics Workshop by DIY Hydroponic Agrofarm that introduced soil-less gardening to support INSTEP’s green campus initiative. The campaign also featured an E-Waste Collection Drive, which raised RM311.80 from recycled electronic items with unclaimed funds to be donated to Badan Kebajikan INSTEP. Complementing these efforts, the Trade & Donate Corner fostered a spirit of reuse by encouraging participants to exchange or donate pre-loved items such as toys, books, and kitchenware.

To promote full engagement, all attendees were provided with a “Circularity Card”, which served as a participation tracker for the various booths and activities. Those who completed the card stood a chance to receive exclusive campaign merchandise, including products made from upcycled coveralls. This meaningful initiative aligned with PETRONAS’ circular economy aspirations, and supports the continuation of the program introduced by Upstream HSE.

The campaign not only highlighted sustainability in theory but made it actionable for all who attended. “Sustainability is a long-term responsibility that starts with each of us. Through initiatives like our upcycling workshops and the recycling drives, INSTEP is turning awareness into action. I am proud to see our staff and participating school students actively shaping a more sustainable future together.” remarked Ts. Azhar B. Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of INSTEP.

Moving forward, INSTEP will continue to encourage circular practices among staff and the wider community. The involvement of local students in this campaign has strengthened our collective impact and helped inspire future sustainability leaders within their own schools and neighbourhoods.