Sabah Shell extends SPOT programme to train O&G technicians

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 15): Sabah Shell Petroleum Company Limited (SSPC) has renewed its commitment to developing local youth into qualified oil and gas (O&G) technicians by continuing the Sabah Petroleum Operations Technicians (SPOT) programme.

The renewal was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between SSPC and TAS Institute of Oil & Gas during the institute’s 12th Graduation Ceremony at its Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) campus.

The event was attended by Sabah’s Assistant Finance Minister II Datuk Ishak Ayub, representing Deputy Chief Minister II cum Minister of Finance Datuk Seri Panglima Masidi Manjun, along with SMJ Energy chief executive officer Datuk Dr Dionysia Kibat and members of the TAS Group board.

“Through this programme, SSPC will continue to provide hands-on practical experience to successful trainees, equipping them with real-world skills and exposure that prepare them for work and life in the offshore environment,” Shell said in a statement on Saturday.

Each year, the top eight trainees undergo two weeks of on-the-job training at Shell Malaysia’s Malikai Tension Leg Platform (TLP) and Gumusut-Kakap Floating Production System (FPS).

“Gumusut-Kakap is Shell’s first deepwater development in Malaysia, operating in water depths of up to 1,200 metres, while Malikai is the country’s first tension-leg platform and Shell’s first such platform outside the Gulf of Mexico,” the statement read.

Since its inception in 2017, other petroleum arrangement contractors (PACs) have joined the SPOT initiative, giving more Sabahans offshore exposure and industry experience.

“These opportunities have contributed to strong employability outcomes, with many TAS graduates securing jobs within Sabah, across Malaysia and even internationally, some even before officially graduating,” Shell noted.

At the ceremony, graduates Lois Ann Iris Jofri and Noel Peter George Matthew shared their experiences, saying the programme has shaped their skills, confidence, and career direction.

Parent Kayleen Manuel Ayunini also praised the programme, saying: “This programme doesn’t just educate the mind, it builds character and life skills.”

A total of 58 students graduated, achieving a 100 per cent completion rate.

“We are presenting technicians who are not only qualified on paper, but who are truly work-ready, safety-conscious and standards-driven,” said TAS Institute executive director Datuk Willie Ng.

He added that the early partnership with SSPC inspired both the establishment of TAS and the implementation of the SPOT programme, which continues to play a key role in developing Sabah’s local talent pipeline for the O&G industry.