Petros to launch Industrial Capability initiative to boost grads employability in S’wak

KUCHING (Oct 31): Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) is set to launch a new Industrial Capability initiative aimed at enhancing graduates employability in the state, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said that he had just been informed about this by Petros chief executive officer Datuk Janin Girie.

“This specially curated programme will immerse students in a comprehensive curriculum that integrates skill development, mindset training and a career-focused pathway,” he said during Petros’ 7th anniversary dinner here last night.

Earlier, Abang Johari said that beyond harnessing natural resources, maximising Sarawak’s assets – its people, rich cultural heritage, and infrastructure – is essential to achieving Sarawak’s vision.

“The people of Sarawak are our greatest asset. We must ensure that the success of Petros translates into real, tangible improvements in the daily lives of Sarawakians.

“This means investing in people’s development through industrial capability initiatives to enhance their employability, so that we can grow a resilient, future-ready workforce for Sarawak.

“In this respect, it is in the state government’s agenda to provide free tertiary education to all Sarawakians in all Sarawak-owned universities.

“This will enable us to build the right workforce with the talent as part of our PCDS agenda and talent is the key for us to add value to our resources,” he said.

Towards this vision, Abang Johari shared Petros’ progress with the launch of the Industrial Capability initiatives, which aim to equip Sarawak’s young talents with relevant industrial skills to meet the job market demands while leveraging industry expertise to create a highly employable workforce and exploring innovative interventions to elevate education experience for the youth.

One of such initiatives includes the Train and Place Programme that provides hands-on trade skill training and creates employment opportunities for young Sarawakians.

He said eligible Sarawakians interested in exploring a career opportunity in our local oil and gas industry are, of course, encouraged to join this programme.

True to its name, the Train and Place currently offers industry-focused, entry-level trade skill training in areas such as basic scaffolding, mechanical fitting, painting and blasting, and welding, he said.

“Upon completion, participants are matched with an employment placement with industry partners. This approach ensures that participants can easily transition into relevant job roles, bridging the gap between education and employment.

“To make this opportunity accessible, Petros shares the training costs with potential industry employers, providing a minimum of 12 months employment for successful participants.

“Through collaborations with leading training providers and industry partners, the Train and Place Programme ensures that young Sarawakians gain the competencies needed to ensure employment and thrive in the dynamic oil and gas, and energy sectors,” Abang Johari added.