MISI to upskill Indian lorry drivers in Malaysia in goal to boost careers and road safety

Beyond traditional driving roles, certified drivers will be able to explore avenues such as self-employment, fleet ownership, consulting, and niche logistics services.

In a move to strengthen road safety and provide better opportunities for the Malaysian Indian community, the Malaysian Indian Skills Initiative (MISI) has launched the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) – Dangerous Goods (DG) Driver’s Training. This three-day intensive course has attracted 50 participants eager to master the complexities of transporting hazardous materials safely and efficiently.

Upon completion, attendees will receive professional certification from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), along with affiliate membership. This credential seeks to both validate their expertise, and open doors to new career opportunities within the logistics sector.

Announcing this last week, the Human Resources Development Corporation (HRD Corp) noted that the rapid growth of industries such as electronics, automotive, oil & gas, and chemicals has led to an increased need for skilled DG drivers. MISI's training programme aims to bridge this talent gap by equipping drivers with the necessary skills to meet industry demands.

Beyond traditional driving roles, certified drivers will be able to explore avenues such as self-employment, fleet ownership, consulting, and niche logistics services. These opportunities empower individuals to boost their income and advance their careers.

As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance and international safety regulations become increasingly pivotal, this training also aims to ensure that drivers are well-versed in best practices, positioning them to thrive in a competitive market.

The initiative has garnered support from notable figures, including YB Tuan Prabakaran a/l M Parameswaran, Chairman of the Special Task Force Committee of the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (MITRA) and Member of Parliament for Batu, according to HRD Corp. The corporation highlighted that his endorsement underscores the programme's commitment to enhancing safety, compliance, and economic empowerment for Malaysia’s Indian community, aligning with the Malaysia MADANI vision.

Announced on Labour Day 2024 by YAB Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, MISI is a government-funded initiative under KESUMA, the Ministry of Finance, and MITRA, designed through HRD Corp. The programme is dedicated to upskilling and reskilling the Indian community, with more high-impact, future-ready courses.