KUCHING: MBSB Bank is allocating RM146,400 in zakat funding to train 61 asnaf wiremen and chargemen for solar work.
The funding will be provided through a partnership with the Sustainable Energy Development Authority Malaysia (SEDA Malaysia).
MBSB Bank is the first banking institution to partner with SEDA Malaysia in funding professional solar certification for the asnaf community.
According to the bank, the initiative comes as Malaysia prepares to offer 2,650MW of new solar capacity under the sixth round of the Large-Scale Solar programme.
“The programme is expected to attract between RM13 billion and RM15 billion in private investment and create between 15,000 and 20,000 jobs during development and construction, increasing demand for qualified local technical workers.
“The participants will attend SEDA Malaysia’s five-day Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems for Wireman and Chargeman programme,” it said.
It said that each participant already holds at least a valid PW2 Wireman certificate or A0 Chargeman certificate issued by the Energy Commission.
“The course will build on their electrical qualifications through training in grid-connected solar photovoltaic system integration, testing, commissioning, operation and safety compliance,” it added.
“Participants who complete the training and pass the competency examination will be recognised as SEDA Malaysia Qualified Persons.
“The certification will enable them to undertake grid-connected solar photovoltaic work within the scope of their professional qualifications.”
It also said that MBSB Bank will provide RM2,400 for each participant, covering course fees, learning materials, meals and the certification examination.
“The qualification could provide a route into skilled roles with potential starting salaries of between RM2,800 and RM3,000 a month,” it reiterated.
“Certified participants could also provide services independently, including on a freelance basis, and develop their own service businesses.”
