Proton has always had the role of helping develop the local auto industry. This was one of its missions as a Malaysian automaker and one which it has been fully committed to right from the start. Proton’s breadth of involvement in the automotive industry allowed it to help numerous areas grow substantially since the 1980s.
The development of the industry also include ensuring that the workforce is skilled to support the industry’s needs. In line with the government’s aspiration to produce a skilled workforce under the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Policy 2030, Proton, along with its vendors and dealers, has partnered with the Department of Manpower (JTM) under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) to upskill students and existing employees through the Proton ADTEC Structure Training Program and Job Placement, addressing the skilled labour shortages in the local automotive industry.
To extend and expand the initiatives, the collaboration will also provide access to 33 other ADTEC and Industrial Training Institutes (ILP) under JTM. These JTM Training Institutions (ILJTM) encompasses 10 clusters, including electrical maintenance, engineering services, product manufacturing and ICT.
The partnership will benefit not only Proton but also has the potential to extend to its vendors and dealers through training and placement, module development, apprenticeship and certification programs.
“These propositions aim to bridge the skills gap and enhance the social mobility of skilled workers who are trained, particularly through fair compensation. The focus to develop high-value, skilled and competitive talents also enable them to compete on an international level,” said Tuan Sutekno Bin Ahmad Belon, Deputy Secretary-General of the KESUMA, at the Carnival TVET at ADTEC Melaka recently.
Importantly, the collaboration aims to optimise resources to ensure training aligns with current industrial needs. These include pooling expertise to develop training modules that address technological changes, co-developing professional programs aimed at producing future talents for capacity building and leveraging resources such as machinery, facilities, instructors, specialised expertise and more.
The rebranding of the cooperation program between ADTEC Melaka and Proton has led to the new name of Proton Advanced Automotive Technology Institute.
Following the MoU signing ceremony at the event, 16 students from ADTEC Melaka received internship offer letters for up to 6 months, while 5 lecturers received letter of job attachments for 1 month with Proton, PVA and PEDA. The interns will have the opportunity to undergo on-the-job training at the Proton and Geely plant, with an optional job placement at Proton’s manufacturing or engine plant.
Additionally, 5 existing Proton employees have been selected to participate in the modular program by ADTEC Melaka, with a target to reach 600 employees in phases. These modular programs include automotive technology, computer technology and telecommunication technology.
Besides offering the offer letters, there was also a transfer of training equipment which included an engine, transmission and 2 Proton X50 SUVs to ADTEC Melaka.
“By investing in our youth through targeted training and development, we are not just cultivating skilled workers, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future in the automotive sector that benefits our entire ecosystem. Our commitment to upskilling and empowering talent is vital for the growth of both Proton and the automotive industry. This initiative will not only enhance our workforce but also foster innovation and excellence in our operations, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.