What is in the details Mercedes-Benz Malaysia signed with the Ministry of Youth?

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is once again doing their part to increase the level of skilled workforce in our country. Since 30 years ago, MBM has established the Mercedes Apprenticeship Training centre and has produced more than 700 apprentices who were absorbed into the Mercedes-Benz nationwide dealership network.

Now MBM has signed a MoU with the Ministry Of Youth and Sports to help further develop the skills of the nation’s youth, specifically for the automotive industry. The understanding will see 12 students aged between 19 to 25 years for the National Youth Skills Training Institute (IKBN) undergo an intensive product and system training at the training centre for three months.

During the three months of training the students will undergo training in both theory and practical aspects of the industry i.e maintenance, repairs, electrical, trouble-shooting and other selected areas. Soft skills through retailing in a workshop environment are also included in the programme.

As part of the knowledge transfer, MBM will also incorporate the “train-the-trainer” concept in the programme as well. Three IKBN trainers will not only be exposed to the latest changes and updates in the automotive industry but also the ethics and culture of today’s highly automated and customer centric automotive industry.

Speaking at the formalisation of the MoU, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Roland Folger said, “As a corporate citizen of this country, we are committed to contributing to the growth of the nation not only in terms of technological transfer, but also in the development of human capital. We see this partnership between Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and MOYS as a strategic investment and contribution that is in line with Malaysia’s vision of increasing the level of skills in high-technology industries. We hope that this MoU will also serve to strengthen industry partnership and pave the way for future collaboration in other areas.”

Minister of Youth and Sports, YB Encik Khairy Jamaluddin, said, “We need to have a competitive course in order to address the industry demands while enhancing students’ employability. This partnership with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is a culmination of our discussion in up-skilling Malaysian graduates with industry - recognised technical knowledge. It is my fervent hope that students who graduate from IKBN will ultimately be able to work in any industry-relevant workforce.”

The programme is expected to start in October 2015 with the inaugural batch of students completing the programme by January 2016.

Jerrica Leong