mbm-youth-ministry

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) to further develop the skills of the nation's youth, specifically for the automotive industry.

Under the collaboration, 12 students aged 19 to 25 from the National Youth Skills Training Institute (IKBN) will be selected to undergo intensive product and systems training at MBM's 30-year old Apprentice Training Centre, which has to date trained more than 700 apprentices, all of whom have been absorbed into the company's dealership network.

During the three months, students will undergo training in maintenance repairs, electrical, trouble-shooting and also acquire soft skills through retailing in a workshop environment. As part of the knowledge transfer, MBM will also incorporate the "train-the-trainer" concept into the programme. Three IKBN trainers will not only be exposed to the latest changes and updates in automotive technology, but also the ethics and culture of today's highly automated and customer-centric car industry.

"As a corporate citizen of this country, we are committed to contributing to the growth of the nation not only in terms of technological transfer, but also in the development of human capital. We see this partnership between MBM and MOYS as a strategic investment and contribution that is in line with Malaysia's vision of increasing the level of skills in high-technology industries," said Roland Folger, MBM's president and CEO.

The programme is expected to start in October with the inaugural batch of students completing the programme by January 2016.