By Mohd Noor Iqram Rosli
KOTA BHARU, July 31 (Bernama) -- The Academy in Industry (ADI) programme is more than a platform for training and industry exposure as it has become a turning point for participants to build self-confidence, develop their potential and pursue their ambitions.
This initiative not only provides opportunities for participants who have faced life challenges or dropped out of the education system, but also enables companies to secure skilled talent that fulfils industry needs regardless of their backgrounds.
One of the participants Muhammad Arif Nurul Azmi said the knowledge and experience gained from the programme would be valuable in helping him achieve his ambition of opening his own workshop.
“I have been interested in fixing things since I was a child. I first started fixing bicycles, and later learnt to repair motorcycles when I was a teenager.
“The skills I had at that time were limited, but after joining the ADI programme, it really changed my life. I learnt a lot, including how to manage a workshop and other things related to the business,” said the 20-year-old, who is now based in Kajang, Selangor.
The holder of a Professional Diploma certificate in Motorcycle Maintenance and Service hoped more young people would seize the opportunity to participate in the programme to develop their talents and generate income.
“I believe we should not be afraid to ask questions and try new things. Failure is not the end because we can learn from our mistakes, improve ourselves and keep trying until we succeed.
“My dream is to open my own workshop. Through this programme, I learnt many things, including how to manage a workshop according to the proper SOPs. Insya-Allah, if I have the opportunity, I hope to make that dream a reality and open my own motorcycle workshop one day,” he said.
Meanwhile, Academy Director at Syarikat Nawireton Legacy Sdn Bhd, also known as Dania Garage, Nurul Azura Md Adnan, 41, said the ADI programme curriculum was tailored to reflect real workplace experiences, with the knowledge and skills taught based on actual industry practices.
“We emphasise strong discipline in terms of time management and attitude. We also ensure participants learn everything from the basics before moving on to more advanced skills in their chosen fields.
“With the ADI programme, participants can pursue their diploma while working because we adopt a learning approach that combines workplace exposure with studies,” she said.
Syarikat Nawireton Legacy Sdn Bhd @ Dania Garage chief executive officer Mohd Mustakim Mohd Munawir said the eight employees who participated in the ADI programme since 2024 had shown positive changes, including being more focused, forward-thinking and confident in making decisions.
“I see the ADI programme as a good platform to produce skilled workers because they can gain work experience while continuing their studies. The changes in them are obvious compared with before they joined the programme.
“This programme has also helped companies address the shortage of skilled workers as participants are equipped with the knowledge and skills, along with recognised certificates, in their respective fields,” he said.
The ADI programme is a strategic government initiative aimed at developing a high-quality vocational education and training ecosystem by linking educational institutions with industry requirements and workplace demands.
ADI has established collaborations with key industry sectors such as food processing, automotive and metals to strengthen the vocational ecosystem and develop a skilled workforce that meets industry demands.
--BERNAMA