Certifying skills of Baleh workers

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SEB assistant general manager (corporate social responsibility) Jiwari Abdullah (seventh left) presents a gift to Masing.

KAPIT: The Baleh Skills Training Programme will provide certification for skilled workers in the area.

When launching Sarawak Energy Berhad’s (SEB) programme last Friday, Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Dr James Masing said he hoped the programme would reduce urban migration among Baleh folk, particularly the youth.

“We have many skilled drivers of pick-up trucks, bulldozers, lorries, as well as mechanics and welders. But one thing, no certificates. International companies won’t take any worker without a certificate.

“Without certificates, if any accident happens, they can’t claim any insurance,” he said.

“SEB organised the training programme so that those who wish to work, they have certification. With a certificate, one could work anywhere. Certification is very useful. This is the good thing SEB has done for Baleh folk. The skills training and certification is beyond the Baleh Dam. You can be employed by any company throughout the world.”

He pointed out that construction on the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam, which will begin in October, would require at least 3,500 workers.

Masing said SEB targeted 500 youths to attend the 11 courses offered – engine operation and maintenance; scaffolder and inspector; abseiling/working at heights; welder and non-destructive testing inspector; metal blaster; rigging and slinging; heavy truck driver; dozer, excavator, and roller operator; electrical and mechanical engineering; office administration and human resources level 2 (six months); and entrepreneurship.

The Baleh Dam project, scheduled for completion in 2025, is set to be one of the largest infrastructure projects in Sarawak, and will add an additional 1,285MW of renewable electricity to the state grid.