The Occupational Safety & Health (OSH) Competency program, a partnership involving the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Malaysian Indians Transformation Unit (Mitra), has recently expanded its reach to include young individuals of Indian descent belonging to the M40 income group.
This collaborative effort not only enhances workplace safety but also promotes opportunities for Indian youths, particularly those from the B40 group, by providing them with valuable OSH training and certifications. It plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals with essential skills and knowledge, ultimately contributing to safer and healthier workplaces while fostering economic empowerment within the Indian community.
When initially introduced last year, the RM4.5 million funded program was exclusively available to Indian youths from the B40 income group, according to Human Resources Minister V. Sivakumar.
“The programme has also been upgraded to upskill participants to fulfil the needs of employers in various industries,” he said in a statement today, adding that four packages were currently offered, which are Safety and Health Officer, OSH Train the Trainer Competency-based, OSH Coordinator, and Safe Handling of Forklift Trucks.
Each package would encompass additional courses. For example, the OSH Coordinator program would incorporate the confined space course, and the OSH Train the Trainer Competency-based program would involve elements related to first aid and mental health awareness. This approach is intended to offer extra benefits by equipping participants with the skills needed to enhance their effectiveness in a variety of tasks.
Additionally, Human Resource minister Sivakumar mentioned that his ministry’s goal for this year is to enroll 960 individuals in the Occupational Safety & Health (OSH) Competency program. He also highlighted that 172 Indian youths from the B40 category, who have completed the NIOSH-Mitra program, have successfully obtained suitable employment thanks to the skills they acquired.
Various enhancements have also been made to the program to ensure that participants acquire a diverse set of skills that meet the demands of employers across various industries. The packages offered under the program are open to individuals aged 18 and above, with course durations ranging from 9 to 30 days. Accommodation, meals, and allowances will be provided to participants, and those interested can proceed with enrolment.
You may get further information for registration HERE.
Source: V. Sivakumar Facebook
