The Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp.) and Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Asia Pacific signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the development of a future-ready energy workforce and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for technical expertise and innovation.
This landmark collaboration between HRD Corp. and SPE Asia Pacific is designed to create a tangible impact for Malaysia’s energy workforce, bridging local talent with world-class expertise and future-ready skills. It goes beyond training by opening doors to global networks, cutting-edge knowledge, and career-defining opportunities that will empower Malaysian professionals to thrive in the energy transition.
Under this collaboration, HRD Corp. and SPE will:
- Train, upskill, and reskill at least 500 engineers within 1 year, through SPE Asia Pacific’s globally recognized technical programs, ensuring Malaysian engineers are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and practices.
- Enable HRD Corp. registered employers to channel levy contributions directly towards participation in internationally recognized SPE programs including conferences, workshops, and events, making world-class learning accessible to more companies and professionals.
- Expand opportunities for Malaysian professionals to connect with international experts, gain exposure to innovative technologies, and participate in high-level industry dialogues that will strengthen their competitiveness on the global stage.
This initiative directly supports Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap, while advancing the broader national agenda of building a high-skilled, future-ready workforce. It also strengthens Malaysia’s role in the global energy transition, ensuring that local talent is well-prepared to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Speaking at the ceremony, Terry Palisch, 2024 SPE President, said, “This partnership is about empowering people. By working together, HRD Corp. and SPE are unlocking new pathways for Malaysian professionals to engage with global expertise, accelerate their growth, and contribute meaningfully to the future of energy.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Syed Alwi bin Mohamed Sultan, chief executive of HRD Corp., emphasized, “This MoU aligns directly with HRD Corp.’s mission, to upskill and reskill Malaysians, ensuring that our workforce remains competitive, agile. and ready for the future. HRD Corp. registered employers will be able to now channel their levy payment towards internationally recognized technical training and programs, thus expanding opportunities for Malaysian professionals to learn, grow, and lead.
The MoU was formalized at the inaugural Asia Pacific Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) Conference and Exhibition (APCC 2025), held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, which saw approximately 700 participants from 25 countries. It was signed by Dr. Syed Alwi bin Mohamed Sultan, chief executive of HRD Corp., and Michelle Tan, director of SPE Asia Pacific (M) Sdn Bhd.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by Terry Palisch, 2024 SPE President and chief technology officer, CARBO Ceramics; Hazli Sham bin Kassim, Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Asia Pacific regional director and senior vice president, Malaysia Assets, PETRONAS, and chief executive officer, PETRONAS Carigali; Datuk Azman bin Mohd Yusof, secretary-general of Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia; and Datuk Abu Huraira Abu Yazid, chairman of the Board of Directors, HRD Corp.
Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to advancing knowledge, promoting continuous learning, and positioning Malaysia as a regional center for energy talent and innovation.
For more information, visit www.hrdcorp.gov.my and www.spe.org.