Hakim Hayat
More young locals are taking up the challenge of acquiring skills in industries that has long been dominated by foreign workers, to help them jump-start into entrepreneurship or to boost their marketability in the job market.
At the Youth Development Centre (PPB) in Kampong Tanah Jambu yesterday, 10 individuals will commence a three-month slaughtering and butchering programme while five will begin a short course on street art haircut skills.
Both programmes were launched by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Youth and Sports) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Colonel (Rtd) Pengiran Haji Maiddin bin Pengiran Haji Said in a ceremony.
Assistant Director of the PPB Fauziah binti Haji Mohammad Salleh was also present.
The PPB’s inaugural slaughtering and butchering course will impart not just the skills, but also the rituals and methods of slaughtering, as well as the proper butchering techniques.
MCYS in a statement said the course will see a two-month classroom and practical learning as well as a one-month placement.
The course is a joint collaboration with the Halal Food Control Division, Syariah Affairs Department and the Department of Agiculture and Agrifood.
Main players in the industry such as Golden Chicks Abattoir Sdn Bhd, Jamahat Haji Liman Abattoir, Syarikat Mohammed Nurfaidzal bin Haji Zainuddin dan Anak-Anak and Syarikat Assulay, are also involved in the programme by provisioning practical training for the participants.
The MCYS hopes that the course will help the participants in upskilling their abilities, in tandem with professionals in the industry.
The ministry also called on those interested in starting a business in the sector to register their companies and take advantage of the programme.
“This course is in-line with market needs in the hospitality sector and the PPB will continue to be proactive in offering courses relevant to industry needs, in ensuring career opportunities and a clear career path,” it added.
The street art haircut course is now in its second cohort, allowing participants to gain skills and understanding in men’s hair grooming, facilitated by Jay, the founder of Chaps and
Rebels Barbershop.