THE Penang government is exploring the possibility of preparing a suitable size of land, most probably in Bandar Cassia Technology Park, to build a training centre for engineering graduates.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the project would be a collaboration between the state government, the Institution of Engineers Malaysia IEM Penang branch and the Korean Professional Engineer Association (KPEA).
“I am particularly interested in the idea of collaboration in setting up the training centre as proposed by the IEM Penang branch and KPEA.
“This is mainly because in the past two years, among the main issues raised by the investors is the talent shortage in the state.
“Thus, through such initiative, we can provide adequate and quality talents in the engineering and technical field.
“So, I think we can explore this possibility as the land requested may be available next year and it is something that we can accommodate.
“But, we would also like to know more about this proposed suggestion,” Chow told delegates from IEM Penang branch and KPEA during their joint courtesy call on him in Komtar today.
IEM president Prof Dr Norlida Buniyamin said the IEM Penang branch and KPEA would sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) soon regarding this matter.
“Our MoU is quite broad. This includes an exchange of lecturers and experts. Korean instructors could also come to the training centre and teach the engineering graduates.
“The MoU also will further strengthen the professional relations and collaboration between the two professional institutions.
“The training duration will be around six months or so and it will focus on the E&E and semiconductor industry.
“We will do the proposal and the paperwork about this project, and will present it to the state government as soon as possible,” she said.
Also present were IEM Penang branch chairman Bernard Lim, IEM Penang branch vice-chairman Chan Wah Cheong, KPEA president Joo Seung-ho, KPEA policy department staff Shin So-i and International Cooperation Committee chairman Yoon Sugk-yong.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud