CIMB Islamic, PSDC Offer Technical Skills Training to Underprivileged Youth
GEORGE TOWN: CIMB Islamic Bank Bhd, in collaboration with the Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC), has introduced a technical skills training programme to help underprivileged youth secure employment in Malaysia’s electrical and electronics (E&E) and manufacturing sectors.
In a joint statement, CIMB and PSDC said the CIMB Islamic iTEKAD Technical Skills and Employment Programme, officially launched yesterday, aims to train 40 participants in two batches of 20, with each batch undergoing three months of training totalling 480 hours.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said initiatives such as the programme could bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, enabling more Malaysian youth to participate in the state’s growing industrial ecosystem.
Implemented through PSDC’s Future Manufacturing Talent Programme, the training covers manufacturing fundamentals, semiconductor and electronics assembly, precision assembly techniques, quality inspection, occupational safety and job readiness.
CIMB Islamic Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff said the initiative marks the bank’s first effort to provide an alternative pathway for underserved youth with limited access to education and training opportunities to acquire Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills.
He said the initiative also supports the development of high-growth, high-value sectors, particularly E&E and advanced manufacturing, which offer extensive employment opportunities.
“Through iTEKAD Kerjaya, we hope to provide an alternative pathway for underserved youth to acquire industry-relevant skills, secure meaningful employment and improve their long-term economic prospects,” he said.
Meanwhile, PSDC Management Council Deputy Chairman Glen Brownlie said the programme was designed not only to meet industry demand for skilled workers but also to provide participants with a foundation for long-term career development.
The programme offers fully funded technical training, along with a monthly allowance of RM1,000 for eligible participants throughout the three-month training period to help cover food, transportation and accommodation expenses.
Participant recruitment will focus on Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Perak, although applications are also open to eligible Malaysians who are able to attend the training in Penang.
Upon successfully completing the training, participants will receive a PSDC Certificate of Completion and job placement assistance through PSDC’s industry network.
The programme also includes financial literacy, fraud awareness and Islamic banking sessions conducted by CIMB Islamic.
In addition, eligible participants will receive individual takaful coverage to strengthen their financial resilience as they transition into employment.
BERNAMA