SUBANG JAYA: Since its launch in 2018, the Proton Young Talent (PYT) management trainee programme has recruited 311 youth across 27 batches in various roles within the company.
In a statement, Proton said this programme offers extensive exposure across all core automotive functions, from advanced manufacturing to strategic sales and operations, helping young professionals refine their expertise in modern manufacturing and EVs (electric vehicles).
Also, Proton is building a national talent pipeline through collaborations with governmental agencies such as the Department of Manpower (JTM) under the Ministry of Human Resources
(KESUMA).
These partnerships are instrumental in bridging the national skills gap by co-developing industry-relevant training modules, providing essential internship and job attachment opportunities, and optimising talent development.
The Proton Advanced Automotive Technology Institute further underscores Proton's dedication to elevating technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to meet the sophisticated demands of the automotive sector.
The PYT programme is also about fostering growth and pushing individuals beyond their limits.
Take Umaibala Rajendiran, or Bala, a 24-year-old mechanical engineering graduate whose six-month assignment in China with Proton R&D and Geely offered a firsthand look into global automotive innovation.
As part of a select group of eight PYT chosen for international assignments in China, Bala’s experience reflects the programme’s commitment to broadening technical capabilities and fostering a global perspective among its young talents.
While deeply immersed in the complexities of suspension and braking systems, Bala's learning equally extended into the Chinese culture.
"What surprised me most about China was not how fast-paced and efficient the industry is but also how supportive people can be," said Umaibala.
He quickly formed connections with Chinese locals who helped him with the language and received crucial guidance from Malaysian senior engineers and mentors from Geely.
This blend of challenging international exposure and a strong support network underscores how Proton's initiatives, even abroad, ensure young talents like Bala gain not only technical knowledge but also develop critical soft skills and cultural fluency.
Meanwhile, for Halisha Halim, as an accounting graduate, a career in the automotive sector once seemed a distant prospect, aspirations firmly anchored in the world of financial analysis.
Yet, the PYT programme opened an unexpected door.
Within Group Communication, Halisha was entrusted with a significant responsibility by shaping the public narrative and safeguarding the image of Malaysia’s national carmaker.
“Most people think you need to be an engineer to work at Proton, but there are multiple departments where diverse skills are crucial. Here, I’m writing official press releases and
managing vital media engagements that directly influence how Proton is perceived by the public eye,” states Halisha.
Meanwhile, revolutionising the automotive sector demands not only technical expertise but also dynamic talents capable of navigating new frontiers and shaping public perception.
Lan Sue Sim, a 24-year-old computer science with AI graduate, exemplifies this through her pivotal role into Pro-Net, that immediately positioned her at the forefront of the nation's
push for electrification.
Lan was given the responsibility of understanding and influencing the rapid expansion in the EV market.
Insights gathered by Pro-Net reveal that Malaysians primarily remain hesitant about switching to EVs due to fears around battery lifespan, charging availability, and range anxiety.
"EVs are still new and hesitation is normal. But change is inevitable and often uncomfortable. EVs are designed with sealed battery packs and high safety standards, similar to ICE models in caution zones," said Lan.
“Our proactive vision is to cultivate a diverse, dynamic, and empowering environment for the youth with significant responsibilities and unparalleled insights beyond manufacturing," said Proton head of learning & talent management Shafinaz Jamaludin.
