Hands on: Teo Rhun Ming (centre) teaching his students at an Artificial Intelligence lab in New Era Institute of Vocational and Continuing Education in Taman Kajang Sentral, Kajang. — AZHAR MAHFOF/ The Star
PETALING JAYA: More young people are taking up Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses to “future-proof” themselves with the necessary skills.
They believe that they can go far in life with the right skills although they may not be academically inclined.
Alvin Wong, 19, said he was happy with his decision to take up a Diploma in Automotive Technology Body & Paint at a technical college in Ipoh.
“I did not do well in my SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) exam, but I did not want to quit just like that. So, I did some research and chose a technical course, which my parents supported.
“My course consists of two years of theory and six months of practical work. I enjoy it because it is something that interests me.”
Wong said he dreams of engineering and building a state-of-the-art luxury or high-performance car.
“I hope I can put to good use what I learn,” said the Taiping boy, adding that his long-term goal was to open an automotive workshop.
Abraham Solomon Mano, 23, a second-year automotive engineering student, said the course was his steppingstone to motorsport and eventually setting up his own workshop.
“Knowing the basics and the knowledge will be a good foundation for me. I don’t mind going through a period of low starting pay to gain more exposure,” he said.
He is looking forward to becoming a mechanic next year, adding that he estimates his starting salary would be around RM2,000.
His course-mate Bryant Kok Yong Zheng, 20, said learning about automobiles had always been his passion as he has loved cars since he was small.
“Whenever I see cars abandoned by the side of the road, I get the urge to fix them. I know I need to acquire such skills so that I can do it one day,” he said.
Having worked at a mechanic shop before, Kok said he learned the basics such as changing the engine oil, filter and brake pads and handling other services.
“Some may not be comfortable doing such work but it is fine with me. Without learning the basics, I wouldn’t be able to go far.”
He said his grandfather, who used to fix lorries, was also supportive of his career choice.
