SHAH ALAM: The Housing and Local Government Ministry (KPKT), in collaboration with the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp), successfully helped 137 prospective graduates secure jobs after they completed their respective sentences.
This achievement is part of the "Sinar Di Sebalik Tirai Besi" programme, which is designed to provide practical and theoretical training and culminate in the award of the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM).
KPKT secretary-general Datuk M Noor Azman Taib stressed the programme’s significance during the 3rd SWCorp Convocation Ceremony at Universiti Putra Malaysia's Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts and Cultural Centre.
He said this initiative aims to reduce the sector's dependency on foreign labour by developing a skilled local workforce in solid waste management and public cleansing.
"Through SWCorp's supervision, 17 prison institutions across Peninsular Malaysia hosted interview roadshows conducted by concession companies.
"A total of 137 individuals have successfully secured positions and will commence their careers in June 2024 as cleaning workers across seven states managed by SWCorp," he added.
This programme not only offers former inmates a new lease on life but also addresses the broader objective of decreasing industry reliance on foreign workers.
Azman highlighted the long-term vision of prioritising skilled Malaysian labour, ensuring sustainable growth in the solid waste management sector.
"The collaboration between KPKT, SWCorp, and the Home Affairs Ministry through the Malaysian Prison Department, opens new avenues for human capital development in this field,” he said.
The convocation also celebrated graduates from Alam Flora Sdn Bhd, SWM Environment Sdn Bhd, Environment Idaman Sdn Bhd, and SWCorp staff, demonstrating the programme's broad impact.
Azman expressed confidence in the initiative's potential to meet the national target of 10,000 workers in the sector by 2030.
This ambitious goal is driven by optimising training programmes and fostering strategic partnerships between local authorities and NGOs.
"SWCorp is actively advancing new initiatives in Malaysian Skills Certification using the National Occupational Skills Standards (NOSS) in solid waste management and public cleansing through strategic collaborations,” he explained.
A graduate, Ahmad (not his real name), 53, who received the best graduate award, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild his life.
A former executive chef, Ahmad recognised his vast potential in solid waste management throughout his training.
"Solid waste management holds significant prospects and offers extensive knowledge that can be further developed,” he said.
This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating reformed individuals into the workforce, enhancing the local economy, and promoting sustainable environmental practices.