CIMB Islamic, PSDC Offer Technical Skills Training To Underprivileged Youth
GEORGE TOWN, Oct 31 (Bernama) -- 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 iTEKAD CIMB Islamic Employment and Technical Skills Programme, officially launched today, targets 40 participants across two cohorts of 20, with each cohort 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 young Malaysians to participate in the state's growing industrial ecosystem.
The programme, delivered through PSDC's Future Manufacturing Talent Programme, covers manufacturing fundamentals, semiconductor and electronics assembly, precision assembly techniques, quality inspection, occupational safety and workplace readiness.
CIMB Islamic chief executive officer Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff said the initiative marked the bank's first effort to provide underserved youth with an alternative pathway to acquire Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) skills.
He said the initiative also supported the development of high-growth, high-value sectors, particularly E&E and advanced manufacturing, which offer significant employment opportunities.
"Through iTEKAD Employment, we hope to provide an alternative pathway for underserved youth to acquire industry-relevant skills, secure meaningful employment and strengthen their long-term economic prospects," he said.
Meanwhile, PSDC Management Council deputy chairman Glen Brownlie said the programme was designed not only to address industry's demand for skilled workers but also to provide participants with a foundation for long-term career development.
He said the industry-driven training would equip participants with practical skills, knowledge and workplace attitudes valued by employers.
The programme offers fully funded technical training, together with a monthly support allowance of RM1,000 for eligible participants throughout the three-month training period to help cover meals, transportation and accommodation-related expenses.
Recruitment will focus on Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Perak, but applications are also open to eligible Malaysians who are able to attend the training in Penang.
Upon successful completion, participants will receive a PSDC Certificate of Completion and benefit from employment placement facilitation through PSDC's industry network.
The programme also includes financial literacy, anti-scam awareness and Islamic banking sessions conducted by CIMB Islamic.
In addition, eligible participants will receive individual takaful protection to strengthen their financial resilience as they transition into the workforce.
--BERNAMA