Proton showcased its dedication to advancing Malaysia’s automotive industry through talent development during the National Training Week (NTW) 2024. Held at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil on 29 and 30 June, the event was organised by HRD Corp under the auspices of the Ministry of Human Resources to promote cutting-edge skills and lifelong learning.
Strategic Focus on Youth and Talent Development
At the heart of Proton’s participation in NTW 2024 was a clear message: the development of talent is critical to achieving the company’s goal of becoming a global leader in the automotive industry. Proton has crafted seven strategic thrusts, with “Talent Development” standing out as one of the pivotal priorities.
This strategic focus aims to tackle multifaceted business challenges by nurturing staff experiences and cultivating homegrown leaders. Aligning with the Human Capital department’s 10-year strategic roadmap, Proton is committed to investing in human capital growth and enhancing capabilities. This is underscored by significant investments and strategic initiatives such as the Proton Young Talent (PYT) programme. Launched in 2018, this fast-track career development initiative offers young talents multifunctional job rotations and project-based assignments to accelerate their skills. The programme has hired 178 young talents, with 143 currently serving the company.
The current plan calls for the hiring of over 100 new talents in 2024 and to double this number in the coming years. Since 2022, Proton has invested over RM 9.4 million in training and development programs, dedicating more than 100,000 training hours annually to ensure that future leaders of Malaysia’s automotive industry are well prepared.
This initiative aligns seamlessly with DRB-HICOM’s broader strategy to develop the automotive industry in Malaysia through the establishment of the Automotive High Technology Valley (AHTV), aimed at fostering advanced automotive technology and nurturing a highly skilled workforce.
Innovative Exhibits and Engaging Activities
Visitors to the Proton showcase at NTW 2024 were treated to a display of the latest advancements in the automotive industry. Two of its newest car models attracted significant attention while exclusive sessions on the Future of Mobility encompassed the CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, Electric) philosophy, offering attendees insights into the future landscape of transportation.
A noteworthy moment at the event occurred when PYT members presented information about the impact the programme had on their skills development to the Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The session, hosted by Amran Mohd Tomin, Proton’s Vice President of Human Capital, emphasised the importance of nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.
Recognition and Career Opportunities
Proton’s efforts in nurturing talent have been recognised with numerous accolades. During the exhibition, over 500 applications were received from aspiring candidates eager to join the company, highlighting Proton’s role as a top employer in the industry. Upskilling and reskilling the workforce, particularly in Electric Vehicle (EV) knowledge, remain top priorities for Proton, with engineers and subject matter experts being actively sent for on-the-job training at Geely in China to ensure they remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving automotive industry.
Proton’s participation in NTW 2024 underscores its unwavering commitment to talent development, innovation, and the future of Malaysia’s automotive industry.
