Proton underscored its commitment to advancing Malaysia’s automotive industry through talent development during the National Training Week (NTW) 2024. Held at National Stadium Bukit Jalil on June 29-30, the event was organized by HRD Corp under the Ministry of Human Resources, aiming to promote cutting-edge skills and lifelong learning.
Proton’s participation in NTW 2024 cantered on the vital message that talent development is essential for the company’s aspiration to become a global leader in the automotive industry. Among Proton’s seven strategic thrusts, “Talent Development” is a key priority. This strategic focus addresses various business challenges by enhancing staff experiences and nurturing home-grown leaders.
Aligned with the Human Capital department’s 10-year strategic roadmap, Proton is dedicated to investing in human capital growth. This commitment is evident in initiatives like the Proton Young Talent (PYT) program, launched in 2018. The PYT program accelerates the skills of young talents through multifunctional job rotations and project-based assignments. Since its inception, it has recruited 178 young talents, with 143 currently serving the company.
In 2024, Proton plans to hire over 100 new talents, with a goal 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 future leaders of Malaysia’s automotive industry are well-prepared.
This initiative aligns with DRB-HICOM’s broader strategy to develop Malaysia’s automotive industry through the Automotive High Technology Valley (AHTV), aimed at fostering advanced automotive technology and nurturing a highly skilled workforce.
“Proton is deeply committed to nurturing the talents of our youth and equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in the automotive industry. Our involvement in the National Training Week reflects our dedication to continuous learning and innovation. By investing in our young talents and providing them with world-class training opportunities, we are not only shaping the future of Proton but also contributing to Malaysia’s ambition to become a leader in the automotive arena,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of Proton.
Visitors to the Proton showcase at NTW 2024 experienced the latest advancements in the automotive industry. Two of Proton’s newest car models attracted significant attention. Additionally, exclusive sessions on the Future of Mobility, encompassing the CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric) philosophy, offered attendees insights into the future of transportation.
A notable moment occurred when PYT members presented the program’s impact on their skills development to Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. This session, hosted by Amran Mohd Tomin, Proton’s Vice President of Human Capital, emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.
Proton’s efforts in talent development have garnered numerous accolades. During the exhibition, over 500 applications were received from aspiring candidates eager to join the company, underscoring Proton’s status as a top employer in the industry. Upskilling and reskilling the workforce, especially in Electric Vehicle (EV) knowledge, remain top priorities for Proton. Engineers and subject matter experts are being actively sent for on-the-job training at Geely in China to stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving automotive industry.
