Isuzu’s new apprenticeship program

The program is a six-month course that will see the five apprentices receive training in a range of theory and practical classes on a syllabus developed by Isuzu Malaysia under the guidance of the Malaysian National Skill Department. The course will include basic principles, of workshop operations, commercial vehicle operating systems, procedures of vehicle service and maintenance as well as component overhaul skills.

Internships at Isuzu workshops will follow the classes where apprentices are exposed to real-world working conditions in commercial workshops, brushing up on their working procedures, dealing with customer experience and handling parts operations.

According to CEO of Isuzu Malaysia Kenji Matsuoka, the programme was initiated to raised capabilities of skilled technicians and to improve the level of competence offered by Isuzu service centres.

“Through the ITS and with the support of the Ministry of Human Resources, we hope to develop a new level of competency among mechanics coming out to join the work force. With the expansion of Isuzu’s product line-up and the growing number of Isuzu dealerships throughout the country, the establishment of the ITS will strengthen Isuzu’s commitment to provide excellent after-sales services to our customers,” said Matsuoka.

Isuzu Malaysia’s Head of Training and Skill Development Syaiful Azuan hopes that the School will produce a new level of after-sales personnel who will be able to raise the level of customer satisfaction more effectively.

“As a world-class vehicle manufacturer, it is our aim to produce the next generation of skilled personnel through the Isuzu Technical School. Our current certification level from the government is at level two and three but we hope that as we gain more traction in the programme, we will be able offer higher levels of skills training and build a professional foundation for our local mechanics,” said Syaiful.

The apprentices will graduate the six-month course with a Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia – Level II (SKM II) certificates. Interested candidates will need a minimum SPM credit in math and science to enrol in the school.