omani delegates visit to brunei darussalam - energy.gov.bn documents/eicf/publications/8.final...

1

The Energy Department, Prime Minister’s Office have received 4

delegates from The Ministry of Oil and Gas, the Sultanate of Oman on

11th and 12th May 2015. The Omani delegates were Sheikh Khalid Bin

Ghalib Bin Ali Al-Hinai (Human Resources Advisor to the Honorable

Minister), Mr. Suliman Bin Mohamed Bin Majid Al Saifi (in charge of

Human Resources at the In-country Value Office), Mr. Jamal Bin Hadib

Bin Mohsin Alhabsi (Head of Omanisation at Oxydental Company) and

Mr. Muslim Bin Rushed Bin Qasim Almunziri (Chief Executive Officer at

Oman Society for Petroleum Services). (continue to page 2)

Omani Delegates Visit

To Brunei Darussalam 17th February 2015

Energy Industry Competency

Framework (EICF)

Current Trainees

As of 31st July 2015

ISQ3 216

ISQ4 323

HNTEC2 85

NTEC 39

BMA1 30

BMA2 160

BMA3 16

BMA4 34

Mason2 11

Carpenter2 11

NEGAS 18

Total 943

EICF Quick Fact

172 ISQ2 trainees

have commenced

their employment

upon completion of

their program.

CONGRATULATIONS!

2

General

Continuation from Page 1

The event kicked-off with an engagement session about

EICF (Energy Industry Competency Framework) followed

by a visit to ISQ3 Welders at 2 Registered Training

Organisations (RTOs) namely Institut De Soudure and Pakar

Tenaga Bersatu (PTB) at Pusat Latihan Mekanik, Tungku

Gadong. Later that evening, a dinner was hosted by Dato

Paduka Awang Haji Jamain Bin Haji Julaihi, Permanent

Secretary of Downstream and Power, Energy Department,

Prime Minister’s Office, at Tarindak d’Seni.

The second day of the visit was conducted at Seria, a

continuation visit to RTOs namely Joffren Omar Sdn Bhd

(JO), Mashhor General Contractors Sdn Bhd, Brunei Asia

Pacific Shell Learning Hub (BAPSLH) and Megamas Training

Company Sdn Bhd. The visit was concluded with briefings

on Brunei Maritime Academy (BMA) and Higher National

Technical Education Certificate (HNTEC) at Maktab

Kejuruteraan Jefri Bolkiah (MKJB).

Mr. Muslim Bin Rushed Bin Qasim

AlMunziri

Chief Executive Officer at OPAl

(Oman Society for Petroleum

Services)

In general, for me EICF is a fantastic

example of a national effort towards

utilization and meeting the Wawasan

2035 goal. The visit fully met our

expectations and we take back with us

a lot of best practice that will be useful

to apply in Oman.

Mr. Jamal Bin Hadib Bin Mohsin

Alhabsi

Head of Omanization at

Oxydental Company

EICF programs in general is an excellent

program with a hard work involvement

among the ministries and the industry. I

expected this program to grow more

and contribute to the local content

and 2035 vision. Hope to see you guys

in Oman to share with you our

experience and practice.

3

General

INTERVIEW with RTOs Representatives

28th May 2015

INSTEP Visit to Brunei Darussalam

By Public Relations and Marketing Division (IBTE)

On 28th May 2015, Institute Brunei Technical Education (IBTE)

welcomed several key personnel from Institut Teknologi Petroleum

(INSTEP) PETRONAS to Pusat Latihan Mekanik (PLM) and Maktab

Kejuruteraan Jefri Bolkiah (MKJB). During the one-day visit to the

IBTE schools of excellence, the INSTEP delegates - Encik Amri bin

Alias (Head of Business Operation & Development), Encik Abd

Rahim bin Yusoff (Head of Learning Engagement Downstream,

Business Operation & Development) and Encik Mohd Ayub bin

Hassan (Account Manager) were also joined by several officers

from Petroleum Brunei where the visit was aimed at exploring

opportunities and cooperation that would benefit both parties.

At PLM, the visiting delegates were briefed on the transformation

by the principal, Cikgu Sheikh Lukman bin Sheikh Hamid and was

followed by a tour to the RTO which was Pakar Tenaga Bersatu

(PTB). Among those present were Dr Chin Wei Keh (CEO, IBTE), Lim

Kian Boon (Deputy CEO, IBTE - Development) as well as officers

from IBTE.

In the afternoon, the delegates were welcomed by Cikgu

Norjemee bin Jenek, the principal of MKJB. After listening to the

briefing on BMA by Cikgu Zulfadli bin Masri which was then

followed by a short presentation on HNTec by Pg Mohd Hassan

bin Pg Rahman, the group was brought around the campus to

visit the EICF programs workshop & classrooms.

Ferdinand De Chavez

(Project Manager)

Mashhor General Contractor Sdn Bhd

In general, EICF is one of the best programs in Brunei. Here you’ll see the start, the process and the

end product. The government funded it, the students realized it and finished it well. The trainees are

lucky as they have higher chances to be employed immediately and have the opportunity to

develop their future from the fundamental basic of ISQ programs.

Regino Millan

(Welder Instructor)

Joffren Omar Sdn Bhd, Learning and Development

This program is a good program for local Bruneians because we are able to train them and send

them to oil and gas companies (to their assigned Conditional Offer Employment (COE)). After the

training, the students are qualified and can proceed to work and continue their careers. Some

trainees have never been exposed to working environment, however, after undergoing hands-on

training, it will open up their mind and hence stimulate their interest. Grab this opportunity and don’t

waste the opportunity given, hopefully for those currently in EICF program will excel and continue

their career.

4

ISQ

9th May 2015

Mini Matahari Hands Free Awareness Workshop

By Abdul Khalid Hj Jalil (Baker Hughes)

A one-day workshop at Pusat Latihan Mekanik on HSSE was organized and run by Brunei Shell Petroleum Drilling ‘Menang’

Network Team and assisted by staff from Energy Division of Pusat Latihan Mekanik. The workshop was conducted for ISQ2

Scaffolder and Welder trainees that have completed their training programs at respective Registered Training

Organisations (RTOs). The workshop was facilitated by Johnny Yap, QHSE manager from Aban Singapore as well as Abdul

Khalid Jalil, HSE Manager from Baker Hughes.

The objective of the event was to raise awareness on HSSE and various hazards aspects especially hazards that can

cause finger injury when working in the oil and gas industry and operations. The training conducted during the workshop is

designed to make the trainees understand the importance of HSE as well as cultivating a safety interdependence culture.

Amon the activities held was syndicate exercise, ice breaker and team presentation. It is hoped that through this

workshop, it will protect Brunei generation from being injured at the workplace.

Similar workshops have been previously organized and attended by ISQ1 trainees as well as ISQ2 Rigger and Marker/Fitter

programs. It is hoped that similar exercises will be held for all trainees enrolled into EICF programs.

23rd May 2015

2nd Intake ISQ Certificate Award Ceremony for Pakar Tenaga Bersatu

Certificate Award Ceremony was conducted by Pakar Tenaga

Bersatu (PTB), a private Registered Training Organisations (RTO)

at Lecture Theatre, Pusat Latihan Mekanik on the 23rd May

2015. The ceremony was organized for 20 ISQ2 Welder trainees

that have completed their six months training starting from 28th

October 2014 until 27th April 2015. The Guest of Honour at the

event was His Excellency, Mr. Craig Allen, the United States

Ambassador to Negara Brunei Darussalam.

The ceremony began with Recital of Surah Al Fatihah, followed

by welcoming remarks by Managing Director of PTB, Pg

Hishamuddin Alli Bin Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran Haji Moktar

Puteh and a keynote address by the Guest of Honour, His

Excellency Mr. Craig Allen. (continue to page 5)

5

ISQ

13th June 2015

Parent-Teacher Network Meeting

By Cg Mohammad Nur Azrin Bin Haji Adnan (PLM)

A parent-teacher network meeting was conducted on 13th June 2015 at Training Room, Pusat Latihan Mekanik (PLM).

Attending during the meeting were the parents of ISQ 4th intake trainees. The meeting was facilitated by Haji Abdul Lani

Bin Abdul Samad from Brunei Asia Pacific Shell Learning Hub (BAPSLH) as well as Cikgu Hjh Farizah Binti Hj Abdul Jalil from

PLM.

The objective of the event was to share with the parents on ISQ programs and the positive feedback received from the

industries as well as from the ISQ trainees. Following that, it was explained that there is a need to have a robust

parent-teacher network in order for PLM and the parents to work hand in hand to help improve the quality of the

programs.

The meeting began with ice-breaker session with the parents, followed by proposed roles and responsibilities, activities

participation, ISQ4 office bearer election, electing sub-committee from the parents, ISQ programs support, consultation

clinic, trainees’ welfares, electing the treasurer for fund raising as well as electing the focal point of communication with

regards to ISQ4 trainees.

It was expected that via this establishment of parent-teacher network, it will foster better communication between

parents and teachers as well as the trainees. Through this network, it is hoped that it can be used as a platform for sharing

concerns, achievements, ideas and potential activities between parents and teachers, which eventually can enhance

the overall quality of the EICF-ISQ programs.

It was hoped that in the future, there will be more upcoming activities, discussions and decision making involving parents’

input.

Continuation from page 4

AWS-CT certificates were awarded to ISQ2 Welders by

the Guest of Honour, followed by Award of Token of

Appreciation to the Guest of Honour, His Excellency

Mr. Craig Allen by PTB Managing Director, Pg

Hishamuddin Alli Bin Pengiran Jaya Indera Pengiran

Haji Moktar Puteh. The event concluded with

celebratory lunch and live performance by graduating

class ISQ2 Welder trainees.

Welders from PTB were certified with American Welding

Society (AWS) as Certified Welders, one of the world’s

leading welding standards authority. Trainees with 6G

levels will commence their full time employment with

their respective COE companies on 8th June 2015.

6

ISQ

16th June 2015

Convocation Ceremony for ISQ2 Trainees

Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) has held its 22nd

convocation ceremony for IBTE students including 208 ISQ 2nd

intake trainees, at Musyawarah Hall, International Convention

Centre (ICC). This is from the following ISQ programs: Marker/

Fitter, Scaffolder, Rigger and Welder.

Dr. Chin Wei Keh, the Director of IBTE, have noted that various

changes have been implemented by IBTE to achieve its vision of

becoming the leading post-secondary institution for education

and technical training by 2018.

Towards this vision, IBTE strives to reach the goals of two of its

main key performance indicators (KPIs), which is the

employability rate of its graduates and employers’ satisfaction.

A pre-convocation study indicated that 96 per cent of

yesterday’s graduates have obtained employment or

conditional offer of employment, and 97 per cent of them are

working in fields relevant to their programs.

Dr Chin pointed out that they have begun re-assessing and

re-structuring their existing curriculum and have replaced it with

competency-based and demand-driven programs. This initiative,

he said, will be implemented in stages. As many as 27 new

programs will be introduced as early as next month, which are

more focused on education and training, in sync with industrial

needs, ensuring the graduates meet industry standards.

The ceremony continued with a speech by the Guest of Honour,

the Minister of Education, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri

Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar Bin Haji Apong.

He urged for a ‘holistic approach’ in education for the students

of IBTE, by providing other skills beyond the specific programs in

view of the nature of working environments today, which

requires employees to perform a wider scope of tasks. In order

for the students to become more employable and marketable,

characteristics such as motivation, communication skills, critical

and creative thinking, problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills

are needed.

The ceremony saw the presentation of certificates to all IBTE

students. Best Student Awards were also presented to the ISQ2

trainees from each program: Ahmad Asyraf Bin Abd.Aziz (Best

Marker/Fitter), Ahmad Zulmuazzam Bin Tarip (Best Rigger),

Noraqilah Binti Mohd Azaman (Best Scaffolder) and Mohammad

Nadzirun Bin Haji Abdul Halik (Best Welder). The best students

were selected based on their excellence in academic as well as

involvement in co-curriculum activities throughout their program.

7

ISQ

INTERVIEW with ISQ2 Trainees

Ak. Ali Bahiyuddin Abdul Qayyum Bin Pg Haji Metusin

Program: ISQ2 in Welder

RTO: Syarikat Pakar Tenaga Bersatu (PTB)

COE: Sahid Sdn Bhd

“It is always been my dream to be part of oil and gas industry. I have tried to apply for work

within the industry but were rejected. Nevertheless, I never give up but instead I decided to

enhance myself with relevant skills required in the industry. I decided to enroll in ISQ specifically

in welding after being briefed about the course.

With zero experience in welding, at first, I find it quite hard to adapt to the course. However, with

instructors’ motivation and a lot of practicing, I was able to excel in welding. The first hardship

that I encounter is when we were required to take 4G Test but eventually I was able to

overcome it and now I have passed my 6G Test and were awarded with an internationally

recognized American Welding Society Certified Welders.

For me, EICF is offering a good program to youth out there who has zero experience and wish to

have or enhance their technical skills. Most importantly, never give up and focus in achieving

your personal goals.”

Siti Hasibah Binti Shahrum

Program: ISQ2 in Welder

RTO: Syarikat Pakar Tenaga Bersatu (PTB)

COE: Sahid Sdn Bhd

“After high school, initially I want to look for a job. However, during a job fair conducted in

November 2013, I was interested in ISQ courses after being briefed by one of the ISQ1 trainees.

Seeing the potential ISQ courses could offer, I decided to enroll in ISQ courses specifically in

welding since I like challenging task.

During our training at Syarikat Pakar Tenaga Bersatu, it is quite challenging for me as we were

required to take 3G and 6G Tests in order to be successfully awarded with Conditional Offer of

Employment (COE). However, I overcome the challenges by practicing a lot and now have

been awarded with American Welding Society Certified Welders, which are internationally

accepted and recognized. Now, I am looking forward to start my employment at Sahid Sdn

Bhd, and have set my personal goal to be an inspector welder within 2 years of employment.

In my opinion, EICF is offering a very good program because it helps unemployed youth to be

employed by oil and gas operators and develop their skills once the trainees completed their

courses. Therefore, to those who are currently in the course, never give up and prove to

everyone that you are capable in achieving what you wish as long as there is determination to

succeed. “

8

Bridging Mason and Carpentry

14th May 2015

SVNR Motivational Session

By Cg Noorisman Bin Mentarais (SVNR)

A motivational talk for Bridging Mason and Carpentry trainees as well as Sekolah

Vokasional Nakhoda Ragam (SVNR) students from Skills Certificate 2 and Skills

Certificate 3 of Building Craft and Electrical Electronics was conducted at SVNR on

14th May 2015. Present during the event was Cikgu Aminurrashid Bin Haji Ibrahim

(Head of Built Environment and Technology Department), Cikgu Noorisman Bin

Mentarais (Bridging Coordinator) as well as Bridging Teaching Instructors.

The event started with Recital of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by HSSE briefing and a

motivational talk by the Guest of Honour, Haji Abdul Lani Bin Haji Abd Samad on how

to create a vision and mission, writing a good Curriculum Vitae as well as tips on how

to win the interview. The event continued with assignment briefings by Cikgu

Noorisman Bin Mentarais requiring students to create their own vision and mission and

writing their own Curriculum Vitae to be submitted on 21st May 2015.

The aim of the event was to highlight the

importance of mapping the desired journey in life

as well as the importance of vision and mission. It

was also aimed to emphasize the importance of

self-discipline, high motivation, setting up network,

institutional and family support, stayed focus and

self-evaluation. In addition, key importance of

having a great Curriculum Vitae as well as how to

win the interview were also aimed.

A second session will be conducted at a later date

with the objective to evaluate the students’ vision

and mission, Curriculum Vitae as well as role play of

interview.

30th June 2015

Mason and Carpentry First After Action Review (AAR)

First AAR session for Bridging Mason and Carpentry was conducted on

30th June 2015 at Sekolah Vokasional Nakhoda Ragam (SVNR). The

participants consist of representatives from EICF/EDPMO team,

Curriculum Development Division and Continuing Education and

Training from Institute Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) as well as

representatives from Conditional Offer of Employment (COE)

companies namely Fazrul Sdn Bhd, Sahid Sdn Bhd, Syarikat Haji Idris

Kalong Sdn Bhd and Batamas Sdn Bhd.

The objectives for the session are: 1) to review the program through

previous intake that have commence their employment in June 2015,

2) to enhance any development which are already in place and 3)

to develop new actions for a better quality of the program to be

implemented for the upcoming September 2015 intakes and ahead.

Various issues and concerns were also discussed which will be further

deliberated in the next engagement with all COE companies. It was a

good turnout and participants showed their commitment and were

supportive in achieving the objectives.

9

NEGAS

19th May 2015

National Energy Graduate Apprenticeship Scheme (NEGAS)

After Action Review (AAR) with Companies

A one-day AAR session on NEGAS was facilitated by the Energy

Industry Competency Framework (EICF) Secretariat Team from

the Energy Department, Prime Minister’s Office on 19th May 2015.

Present during the session were representatives from oil and gas

companies who are directly involved in NEGAS (Human

Resource, Supervisors, Management).

The objectives of the session were to review NEGAS

implementation processes for improved efficiency and

effectiveness, to share what went well and opportunities to

improve as well as to learn on best practices by companies to

be standardized in NEGAS.

Prior to the event, a survey was sent to the companies to obtain

feedbacks. The outcome of this survey exercise was presented

at the beginning of the session. The issues were highlighted as

identified Focus Areas to be discussed throughout this one-day

AAR session.

The representatives from companies who attended this session

were split into groups according to the five identified Focus

Areas namely: Demand Forecast and Implementation,

Recruitment Process, Familiarisation Program, Development

Program and Managing Performance and General.

Several group exercises were carried out throughout the day

which includes identifying solutions to pre-identified issues; the

members came up with proposed solutions which they

presented to the whole participants. Other participants also had

the opportunity to challenge the proposed solutions whereby

the original team will present back their revised solutions. The

revised solutions were then compiled and the outcome was

presented with the agreed way forward.

EICF Secretariat Team appreciated the effort and contribution

from the representatives. The team is looking forward for further

collaboration to improve this scheme further based on what was

agreed/discussed during this session.

NEGAS was implemented since July 2014, to date there are 3

intakes with 41 apprentices already enrolled into the scheme.

Therefore, after the 3 intakes, it is a good time to review back on

the implementation of NEGAS scheme. A number of key

learnings were derived throughout this period since its

implementation.

10

NEGAS

25th June 2015

National Energy Graduate Apprenticeship Scheme (NEGAS)

After Action Review (AAR) With Apprentices

Another AAR session was conducted with NEGAS apprentices on

25th June 2015 at Brunei Asia Pacific Shell Learning Hub (BAPSLH),

Seria. The participants consist of apprentices from the 1st intake until

3rd Intake who were still in the scheme, apprentices who are already

been offered employment as well as those who have left the

scheme.

The objectives of this second session of AAR were to gain feedback

from the apprentices on NEGAS for further improvement, to serve as

a motivational session amongst apprentices as well as to answer

any questions that the apprentices have on NEGAS.

The session began with ice-breaking session, followed with

managing expectations of NEGAS elements, i.e. workscope (Task

and Targets), on-boarding session, 6-month assessment review,

roundatable evaluation/assessment, exit interview, channel of

communication and terms and conditions of NEGAS Scheme.

There were also groups exercise whereby 5 groups have to come up

with what they think went well, what they think could be done

better and what they should stop or start doing throughout NEGAS

Scheme. The session was concluded with a sharing session of

success stories from ten of the NEGAS apprentices that are already

offered full-time employment. It was a good turnout and

participants showed their commitment and were supportive

throughout the session.

INTERVIEW with 3rd Intake NEGAS Apprentices

I just graduated from Aberystwyth University in BSC Marketing and

Management. Actually, I don’t really know much about NEGAS program

at first. I always wanted to be in the oil and gas industry, therefore I

applied for a job in Petroleum Brunei and was selected to be part of

NEGAS. For me, NEGAS is a good program because it provides

employment to unemployed graduates as well as providing the

opportunity to be expose to a real working environment. My advice to

those who are planning to apply for NEGAS; if you have the chance to be

part of NEGAS, you have to prove them what you got!

Dylan Chai

Germanischer Lloyd

Offshore and Industrial

Services Sdn Bhd

I am a Master graduate in Chemical Engineering from University of

Manchester, United Kingdom. I always wanted to be part of oil and

gas industry because it is the major export of the country. I heard

about NEGAS from Energy Job fair that was conducted last

November 2014. Hence, I applied for NEGAS through Germanischer

Lloyd Offshore and Industrial Services Sdn Bhd. In my opinion, NEGAS

program under EICF is a good program and also a good start for

those graduate student as it exposed us to a real work environment.

My advice to others; Do what you like and succeed in it!

Pg Seri Aqeelah Bt Pg Hj

Sofrey

PetroleumBrunei

11

NEGAS

INTERVIEW with 3rd Intake NEGAS Apprentices (Success Stories)

NEGAS SUCCESS STORIES #1

I’m from the 2nd Batch of NEGAS, started my apprenticeship in

November 2014. A few weeks after my 6 months review, I received an

invitation for an interview process with Shell for permanent

employment, which was in May 2015. The result was given on the day

itself. I obviously was overjoyed, happy and grateful for being given

the opportunity to be a permanent staff. What I have done

differently? I just took up any challenges given to me, especially

because my position now is production team lead. It is quite

challenging for me because I started in maintenance team and I

have a mechanical background, but they’re giving me a post in

operation, which I only have few weeks of experience during the

onboarding. I was told that they saw my potential during the first few

months in maintenance team, where I work for 3 months and they

want to challenge me by placing me in the operations team. I took up

the challenge and continuously seek guidance and support from my

supervisors and colleagues, which were very supportive. In addition,

there is a monthly review with my supervisors as well just to know where

I am at and where I need to be, which enable me to have continuous

improvement and development especially in operations.

What makes my supervisor see my potential? I continuously engage

my supervisor, letting him know what I did correctly, and any mistakes I

just consult with my supervisor, ensuring no mistakes will be done

again. To me, the most important thing is communication with your

supervisor, only then they will know where they need to guide you

more and also you will know where to improve on. One of the

challenges that I encountered was the lack of experience in

operational background at the earlier stage, but I managed to

overcome that. In addition, I have never actually lead a team before,

so it was good opportunity for me to experience that and develop my

leadership skills. My advice to others in the scheme; keep working

hard, show your determination to learn and work for the company.

That’s what I did, I showed them the passion I have towards my work. I

was responsible, well disciplined and always on time, and finally do

continuously communicate with your supervisors and be proactive

towards learning, growing and improving yourself whilst in the scheme.

Haziq Hardi Bin Awg Bidin

HND in Mechanical Engineering

2nd Intake NEGAS Apprentice

Brunei Shell Petroleum

Co. Sdn Bhd

12


Assalamualaikum, my name is Amal Karimah Latif and I am currently

working in Brunei Gas Carriers (BGC) as a Learning Adviser. I started my

NEGAS apprenticeship scheme in July 2014 and Alhamdulillah, this July will

be my 1st year anniversary working in BGC which marks another milestone

in my career after having received permanent employment in April 2015. It

took me nine months after I have started NEGAS to be given the offer and

to be honest, that was one of the happiest moments in my life and I could

not stop smiling for a week.

NEGAS apprenticeship scheme in my opinion, is an excellent program

which provides fresh graduates with no working experience like myself an

opportunity to work within the oil and gas industry and to gain experience

while developing our knowledge and skills. To me BGC have become a

great platform for me to understand, learn and apply the theories learnt in

university into practical and actual working situations. Looking back

through all the months working as an apprentice, there were challenges of

course especially in meeting the expectations of supervisors because at

the beginning I was not confident that I will be able to do the job well

based on the limited experience I had. In order to be successful in meeting

those challenges, I had to ask a lot of questions in order to get through and

had to overcome my fear of making mistakes because mistakes are

learning points for future reference. Another challenge for me during the

apprenticeship scheme was having to work outside of your interest and

field, I was working under External Affairs department where creativity was

crucial in creating great fun and interesting events. I have never

considered myself as a very creative and innovative person but while

working in that department I had given outside my comfort zone and had

the chance to try and learn new set of skills. Speaking in public was

another challenge, but in BGC I was given plenty of opportunities to

improve this skill and I am proud to say that I am slowly starting to dislike

presentations less and less.

If I had the chance to do it all over again, there are things that I would do

differently, I would change my mindset and not think myself as an

“apprentice” and rather take the initiative to be more pro-active and find

ways on how the organization can leverage on my capabilities to add

more value to their processes or projects etc. My advice to others is to

never stop asking questions, seek guidance when in need, be confident

and have determination, build relationship among colleagues to create a

supportive working environment and most importantly to always find

positivity in any task you do – enjoy the journey!

Amal Karimah

Binti Hj Abdul Latif

MA in Human Resources

Management

1st Intake NEGAS Apprentice

Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd

NEGAS

13


I was excited to be offered permanent employment by a company

like Petroleum Brunei (PB). One thing I did differently that made my

supervisor see my potential was being proactive. I know that’s what

everyone says, but it is true. We have to assure ourselves to be

proactive and being really vocal. I have already started to express

my ideas and opinions during discussions by the second week of

being in the Scheme. Do not be scared to express your opinions

because it can go a long way. In addition, I enjoy doing

presentations. Through presentations, people can see your

potential. That is one unique feature people would like to see. For

example in PB, we have Knowledge Sharing Session (KSS)

conducted every Friday where a group of people will have the

opportunity to present on a topic to all PB staff. So every time I get

chosen, I relish the opportunity.

Alhamdulillah, during apprenticeship scheme, I didn’t encounter too

many challenges, but the workload sometimes can get too much

and this is where time management is important. Know how to

manage your time and prioritize which one is important and which is

not.

My advice for those who are still in the scheme looking to become

permanent, be proactive and do not be scared to be vocal and

express your opinions but of course, it must be reasonable. On top of

that, try to have a good relationship with your colleagues, be

approachable and always smile. Most importantly, work hard. In

shaa Allah, if you achieve all of these, you’ll be offered permanent

employment in no time.


I am from BSP, Brunei Shell Refinery as a Mechanical Technician. In Brunei Shell

Refinery, the mechanical team divided into 2 team; rotating and static. During

apprenticeship, I was being settled at rotating team basically handling

pumps, compressors and other related tasks. Towards the end, I was being

transferred to static which shows that I can do both work and take up any

challenges. I can say that, I am a proactive person. It took me around 10-11

months to become permanent. So basically I am happy with the permanent

contract. What did I do differently? Basically I just took all the challenges and

do all the jobs being provided by supervisor and willing to do jobs overtime for

example emergency works. What do my supervisor sees in me? Basically I do

all the maintenance within the timeframe. One of the challenges that I

encounter is the emergency work. It can be stressful as it takes time to prepare

documents and materials and might need to work overtime. Any advice for

those still in the scheme, just do anything, take up any challenges and be

proactive.

Abdul Hakim Bin Hussin

MSc Occupational Health, Safety

and the Environmental


Brunei National Petroleum Co. Sdn

Bhd (Petroleum Brunei)

Abdul Muiz Bin Mahri

HND in Mechanical

Engineering


Brunei Shell Petroleum Co.

Sdn Bhd

NEGAS

14


I was attached under the Quality, Health, Safety, Security and

Environment (QHSSE) Department as an apprentice for nine months in

BGC starting July last year. It was quite a journey. The assessment was

conducted in February with three other BGC apprentices and we were

being tested on our communication skills, behaviours and how we work

with each other. Alhamdullilah, in April this year I started my full time

employment with BGC. I was overjoyed when I received the offer. It

made me very happy that now I can support and contribute back to my

family.

One example of my unique potential that I think I have done differently is

to use my ability in videography – which I developed back when I was in

Maktab Duli – and incorporated it to my job. For instance, I made HSSE-

related video to create awareness on the existing ISO standards we

have in BGC for all employees. ISO stands for International Organization

of Standardization. The video would not be a success without the help of

the three other apprentices and BGC staff.

What my supervisor sees in me is that I learn things fast and often give out

fresh new ideas. With that, the adaptation to the working environment

went smoothly and I’m for bigger roles and responsibilities. Maintaining

good relationship with colleagues and stakeholder is something that I’m

capable of as I believe it will create positive outcomes.

The challenges lie at the beginning of my apprenticeship, settling down

and understanding my work scope were difficult at first but with the

constant support from my supervisor, it has made the transition and

familiarization of my work scope and BGC easier. The other challenge

that I had to face during my apprenticeship was to do presentations

which I think I’m never good at but as time goes with proper training and

guidance, it is no longer a problem for me.

So, advices to the apprentices…be organized, set your priorities, have

good disciplines, keep asking questions when in doubts and more

importantly enjoy the journey positively!

Abdul Khaliq Bin Kaflee

BA in Environmental Studies



NEGAS

15


Currently, I was attached at Asset Engineering under ORMC Fabrication. I

got an interview for the permanent employment in February 2015 and

managed to get the contract by April, apparently around 9 months after I

started my NEGAS. After being told that I have been successfully offered for

the permanent employment, I am very excited and also am thankful to

Allah and to the scheme for giving me opportunity to prove and contribute

to the country.

What do I think that I have done differently and make my supervisor sees my

potential? I’m good in Data analysis and IT, so I was able to help my

colleagues who encounter problems related to it. That makes me unique in

this department. In addition, I keep on proving that I am worthy, I always

engage my supervisor by having a one-to-one session and show my outmost

potential. For me, it is never a problem to make mistakes, because everyone

does but at least you learn from it and try to improve it.

What challenges that I encounter? My challenges are firstly I am

inexperienced and also I work with different people with different attitudes

and thoughts. However for me, it’s a challenge where it proves that I can

stand wherever I am. One advice that I can give is, just continue what

you’re doing now and give more because the opportunity will always

come.


I was an apprentice at Refinery Department, Brunei Shell Petroleum

(BSP), which requires instrumentation background that is totally

different from my education background: electrical engineering. It

took me about 11 months before I get hired permanently by the

company. I had my interview around May this year and get my

employment contract in June. How do I feel for getting the offer for

permanent employment? Of course, I was happy as I will be able to

buy everything I want after getting the contract.

What do I think I have done differently that makes my supervisor sees

my potential? I have learnt electrical for 5 years before I joined the

NEGAS scheme. I often give some constructive ideas to electrical

department, learn with them, and gain new things within electrical

team. For me, always do the things your supervisor never expect you

can do it. If you can do something that your supervisor can’t believe

you can do it but you have proved them wrong, it makes your

supervisor proud and to never underestimate your capability.

What are the challenges I encounter? As previously mentioned, my

background is on electrical but was attached under instrumentation,

so it is very different background. When I was an apprentice, I did not

have any training on instrumentation but I learnt throughout doing my

job and from there I gained experience. My advice to other

apprentices: keep working hard, be proactive and if you were asked to

do overtime, just do it even though you were not paid for it. At the

same time, do the job sincerely. In Shaa Allah there will be rewards for

all your hard work.

Muhammad Alinurrezan Bin

Md Faisal Shahrul

HND in Electrical Power and

Control Engineering



Sdn Bhd

Muhammad Izzat Bin Zainal

HND in Civil Engineering



Sdn Bhd

NEGAS

16


As part of my success stories, there are always challenges: ups and

downs. It is like when you want to climb up to the mountain. When you

reached up to the peak of the mountain, you will feel worried. So this is

my side of stories of how I reached up to the peak of the mountain.

After signing the NEGAS contract, I was allocated to Contracts and

Procurement (CP) (similar to supply chain) for 5 months and I was

working with another NEGAS apprentice. One of the challenges that I

encountered was being unfamiliar with the tasks and the workscope.

However, I managed to learn it with the help of the supervisor and do

some private reading in order to be familiar with the tasks. Also at the

same time, it teach myself to be independent in my learning and able

to figure out my mistakes in order for me to improve.

After 5 months of apprenticeship, I had a job transfer opportunity to

Human Resource (HR) Department where I was positioned to be

employee relation assistant. This is the opportunity for me to learn what I

had during my university years and applied it in the real working

environment.

How my supervisor did see my potential? I just take up the responsibilities

and tasks that were given, and listen to what she/he said and I always

take notes of what she’s saying and I always meet the deadlines. So

how do I reach up the peak i.e. getting the offer for permanent

employment? I was informed by the Recruitment Department that I got

the job offer. I was really happy and cried as I feel like I already

reaching up to the peak of the mountain. For me, that was my biggest

achievement not only in university life but in real working life. I feel really

grateful as it is not easy to get a job nowadays.

I also have a good support from the company. They have helped me a

lot and always ready to give me a hand if I encounter any difficulties in

completing my tasks. The good support is part of how we can reach up

to the peak of the mountain. My advice to everyone who are still in the

scheme is always listen to your boss, jot down everything he/she said, as

they won’t repeat it again. Therefore, I suggested to have a logbook,

i.e. record all my achievement and what I have learnt, what mistakes

and put it in a report because by having this, I am able to see how I

grow and develop professionally.

Every time you’re given a task, you have to try to meet the deadline,

and most importantly, with all the hardships and efforts made, don’t

forget to make a Doa, because without Allah’s help, we won’t be able

to reach the peak of the mountain. Also, be good to our parents as

there are also the reason we are be able to make it.

So I would like to say thank you for NEGAS for having this program, There

will always be ups and downs but it helps me a lot in terms of my

personal and professional development. And through this program, I

have learnt a lot.

Nur Atikah Binti Hj Suffian

MSc in Human Resources

Management



NEGAS

17


I am currently working with Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) at Seria

Crude Oil Terminal. I started this apprenticeship scheme in

December 2014 and have passed my interview for permanent

employment earlier this June, around 6 months after I started my

apprenticeship scheme. When I was told that I have been offered

permanent employment, I cried all the way home and felt grateful.

What did I do differently which made my supervisor see my

potential? I go beyond instruction and I proposed my own task

besides from performing my designated task. I was given a task but

then I saw something else that I think can potentially improve my

asset, hence I took an initiative by proposing a new task and I am

still doing it until today. In addition, I keep on asking questions so that

I can learn. I often give constructive feedbacks to my supervisor and

always talk out any gaps in order to improve and to provide

awareness to BSP staff on what needs to be improved.

In a previous interview that I attended, I was given negative

feedbacks with regards to my presentation skills which might be one

of the factors that caused me to fail the interview. I still remember

their feedback saying that I have a monotone voice. However, I

have received a positive feedback form my superior stating that I

have an excellent presentation skills which have proved that my

previous interviewers were wrong. One of the challenges I

encountered during apprenticeship scheme is trying to understand

the basic skills such as those who are using SAP-system (used in Shell)

with too many abbreviations and too many short terms. I overcome

the challenges by self-learning, seek for guidance and ask a lot of

questions. In addition, I have a social anxiety problem which affects

my communication skills. I always get nervous around people and

don’t know how to maintain good communication with people.

However, during my apprenticeship scheme, I have improved and

have gained confidence. I conduct review meetings every week

and that has helped me a lot.

My advice to all apprentices who are still in the scheme: work hard,

do what you are given to do, whether it is tedious or not, don’t be

hasty and be patient. Just do what you are capable to do because

at the end of the day, it will improve. In addition, ask a lot of

reasonable questions and don’t be shy because it can help you to

gain knowledge. Go beyond instruction but of course, consult it first

with your supervisor. That is where you can prove yourself that you

are making an effort and had the ability.

Noremah Binti Hj Tuah

HND in Mechanical

Engineering



Sdn Bhd

NEGAS

18


I am Amira from GL. I had my 6 months assessment last month, right after

that they decided to hire me permanently. Obviously, I was happy and

thankful but I think the original happiness I felt was when they originally took

me in as a trainee. Since it has only been six months, the feeling of being

newly employed is still fresh in my mind. I am still happy and thankful about

that because they chose to take a chance on me; a graduate with no

relative background.

What I think I have done differently is I am proactive, a multitasker and I ask

for harder tasks even before my supervisor thought to give me more

challenging ones. By the 3rd month mark, I was relatively good at the

current tasks I was given and met the daily target, if not more, during that

time. I still didn’t feel like I was doing enough so I would be given little side

jobs, I guess to see how or if I could multitask. I would especially enjoy if I

was given a new task, for example, I was asked to draw a vessel and after

completing it, even though it wasn’t much and barely a fraction of what a

real difficult one would be, I was proud of myself. I did that. I learnt how to

do that even though I was clueless in the beginning. I persevered through

the unknown and got it done. I did get frustrated on the way because I was

convinced I had no idea what I was doing but I made it through. Mostly by

taking my time, not rushing myself and making sure to ask if I didn’t

understand anything but that sense of accomplishment whenever I finished

a task. That feeling is what I aim to achieve with every task I am given and

even being praised for the good job I had done makes me want to

achieve it even more. My supervisor likes to say that I am very abnormal,

because I have a very systematic way of doing my job. I am very

pragmatic; I do it one way and if I do it different way, it seems really slow or

not as functional so I don’t like to change how I do my job unless have to.

He also thinks it’s weird of me to be setting small goals for myself, like

making a pre-deadline deadline so I would have enough time to check my

work. It really helped me to be patient and to manage my time wisely.

What challenges I encounter? I came from a different background so I

really had to learn; I had to do drawings, I had to learnt what this meant,

what that meant and I had to learn how to read the lines for piping and

everything. At first everything was very confusing and everything looked the

same. The first few months were tough. Especially the first few weeks

because I had so many questions and had to make sure I was doing

everything right. One slipup and it could cost more than I could even

understand at the time but I like to think I handled those months as best as I

could and them wanting to take me in as a permanent employee shows

that the hard work and determination I showed must have shone through.

They looked through my fresh-graduate façade and saw I had the

potential to work under them.

My advice? I don’t really have any advice that hasn’t probably already

been said. I just did my job. They kept giving me workload after workload,

and time just went by and it’s already 6 months. I really just hung in there

and some days it felt like by just a thread but those goals no matter how

small they seemed, they really pushed me through. I guess, just take your

time. There’s no rush.

Dk Amira Farzana Binti Pg

Maszidi

HND in Architectural Design

and Technology


Germanischer Lloyd Offshore

and Industrial Services Sdn

Bhd (DNVGL)

NEGAS

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