The plantation sector as a major economic contributor to the country, faces a dire need for quality and skilled local human resource. One way to fulfil this shortage is by roping in rural youths who are likely to be exposed to this agriculture activity.
Realising this, the Malaysian Estate Owners Association (MEOA) has partnered with the Monfort Youth Training Centre (MYTC) to introduce a new skill training programme with a pilot Oil Palm Plantation Conductorship course.
The initiative, carried out as MEOA’s social responsibility contribution to human resource development in the plantation sector, will target underprivileged youths.
“We hope to encourage our local youths to join the plantation sector not only as one way to reduce dependency on foreign workers but also to give a chance to a better future for the underprivileged by equipping them for jobs,” said MEOA president Jeffery Ong.
“The course aims to generate skilled workforce who can contribute to the pursuit and improvement of best practices in the Malaysian oil palm industry. In this context, the underprivileged youths should not be left out.
“In addition to the start-up contribution, MEOA members will also be visiting and providing the trainees with the know-how on best practices in plantation supervision. Other companies, including IJM Plantations Berhad and Eurostar Tractors will also be rendering leadership and local training support,” added Ong.
During MEOA’s 74th annual dinner on April 15th, MYTC Board of Governors Chairman Tan Sri Bernard G. Dompok received mock cheques totalling RM215, 000 for the training programme, witnessed by Minister of Primary Industries, YB Puan Teresa Kok.
A cheque for RM 185,000.00 was presented by Mr. Joseph Tek on behalf MEOA and friends, while Mr. Sylvester Fong who represented Sarawak Oil Palm Plantation Owners Association (SOPPOA) presented a cheque for RM30, 000.
The two-year course which covers full training and boarding will be provided free. The course covers both the knowledge and practical skills needed in plantation supervision.
In addition, both basic motor vehicle mechanics and shielded metal arc welding will also be incorporated. To fortify the coursework, the trainees will also undergo fieldwork training as well as industry practical attachment training. The trainees will also be nurtured in basic communication in English language, arithmetic and computer knowledge.
Application is open to Malaysians between 18 and 20 years old with priority given to orphans, the poor and those from large families in the rural and interiors areas. SPM leavers, as well as youths who did not complete their formal primary and secondary school education are also encouraged to apply.
The pilot course will start in July 2019 at MYTC’s campus in Kinarut, Sabah. Interested applicants can apply to – MYTC–MEOA Conductorship Training Programme, Montfort Youth Training Centre, Jalan Lama Penampang- Papar, Kinarut, 88200 Kota Kinabalu or P.O. Box 612, 89507, Penampang, Sabah, Malaysia, or email at [email protected]. — Bernama
