TNB is empowering Malaysia’s next generation of energy professionals through its expanded Better Brighter Internship Programme
TENAGA Nasional Berhad (TNB) has been steadily investing in Malaysia’s future energy workforce through the Better Brighter Internship Programme (BBIP), launched in 2014.
This programme has served as a cornerstone of TNB’s talent development strategy, designed to give students practical, hands-on experience in the energy sector, with the aim of preparing them to drive Malaysia’s sustainable energy goals.
In May 2024, TNB introduced BBIP 2.0, an enhanced version of the programme that broadens opportunities for students across different levels of study and academic disciplines, marking a significant step towards building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
BBIP initially catered exclusively to degree students from Universiti Tenaga Nasional (Uniten), TNB’s own educational institution.
However, the expanded BBIP 2.0 now opens its doors to full-time students across Malaysia who are enrolled in certificate, diploma, degree, master’s or doctorate programmes.
This wider access allows TNB to draw from a richer talent pool, fostering diversity within the organisation and strengthening the programme’s impact on Malaysia’s job market.
BBIP 2.0 has evolved into a more tailored learning journey that adapts to the unique interests and career goals of each intern. TNB matches students with departments and work locations which align with their academic discipline and personal preferences, ensuring that each intern receives a well-rounded experience.
For example, interns studying electrical engineering may find themselves shadowing experts at TNB power stations or solar farms, while those with a focus on business or finance might be embedded in TNB’s corporate offices, gaining exposure to the company’s financial and operational strategies.
Beyond placement, BBIP 2.0 immerses interns in practical, real-world projects, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge to solve the actual challenges that TNB faces daily.
Whether through hands-on project management or involvement in strategic initiatives like integrating renewable energy sources into Malaysia’s national grid, these interns gain valuable problem-solving skills and experience working as part of a team.
Additionally, opportunities to visit TNB facilities and participate in site visits deepen their understanding of the Malaysian energy sector and its vital role in national development.
TNB has also shown a commitment to enhancing BBIP 2.0 based on feedback from interns, mentors, and supervisors.
The programme regularly collects insights through feedback surveys and benchmarks itself against industry standards, it remains competitive and aligned with the latest developments in workforce training and energy technology.
One of the unique aspects of BBIP 2.0 is its focus on equipping interns with skills and knowledge about cutting-edge technologies like solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and smart grids.
Interns are often given the opportunity to work on projects directly related to Malaysia’s clean energy goals, such as renewable energy integration and energy efficiency initiatives.
By the end of the programme, they not only understand TNB’s role in the energy transition but also gain practical insights into the technologies that are shaping Malaysia’s energy landscape.
Intern Nurfarahin Kamarul Azman, a Bachelor Engineering (Hons) Electrical Engineering (Power System) from Universiti Malaysia Pahang, shares: “The knowledge gained from the internship was spot on. It was 100% related to my course. I got to understand all the calculations I’ve learnt in class and apply them to real job situations.”
TNB’s commitment to talent development has been steadfast, offering internship opportunities to nearly 33,000 students since 1990.
This dedication has not only cultivated skilled professionals within the energy sector but also reinforced TNB’s reputation as a socially responsible company contributing to Malaysia’s economic growth.
The BBIP 2.0 programme, in particular, is a significant step in equipping a diverse, future-ready workforce poised to lead Malaysia’s clean energy transition.Looking ahead, BBIP 2.0 remains central to TNB’s strategy of nurturing young talent through hands-on experience, preparing future leaders to navigate an evolving energy landscape.
This focus on building a sustainable, skilled workforce aligns with TNB’s mission of supporting Malaysia’s energy sector and powering a brighter future for the nation.