SERIAN: The Serian Industrial Training Institute (ILP) officially welcomed its first intake of students on Monday (Jan 13), enrolling 60 individuals into two courses, namely the Civil and Structure Technology Level 3 and Computer-aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Architecture Technology.
Its Director Azmi Pelah expressed optimism about the institution’s role in developing skilled talent for Sarawak’s industries.
He said the full-time programmes are designed to cater to SPM school leavers and currently include Civil and Structure Technology, CADD Architecture Technology, Building Operation Maintenance Technology (BOM), Refrigerant and Air Conditioning Technology, and Electrical Technology.
In addition to full-time courses, ILP Serian plans to offer short-term programmes tailored to the needs of industries and communities.
“These include Wireman Grade 1 and 2, as well as the Certification Course for Service Technicians (CSTP) in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.
“The short-term programmes will be introduced soon, welcoming both industry professionals and the public interested in enhancing their technical skills,” he said.
With a maximum capacity of 600 students, ILP Serian aims to become a key hub for technical and vocational education in the region.
Azmi expressed hopes that the institution would inspire young people in Serian and across Sarawak to explore opportunities in TVET.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration with industries and local communities to enhance technical skills, aligning with the government’s vision of creating a highly skilled workforce to support Malaysia’s development.
ILP Serian has two male dormitory blocks and two female dormitory blocks, with security personnel stationed at the female dormitories to ensure safety.
Currently, the institute has over 20 teaching staff. However, once fully operational by July, each of the five courses offered will have six dedicated instructors.
During the enrolment process, Sarawak Tribune interviewed several students eager to begin their journey at ILP Serian.
Among them was Dayang Nor Asmina Awang Seleman, 23, from Kota Samarahan.
As the first student to arrive for registration, she expressed her excitement about starting a new chapter.
“I arrived at 7am, and my parents sent me here. I’m grateful to continue my studies, especially in the CADD programme. My only hope is to make my parents proud. Who knows, maybe this is my path to success,” she said.
Similarly, Johanes Marconi, another student from Kota Samarahan, shared his enthusiasm for studying at a new location despite the presence of an ILP in his hometown.
“I feel proud to be among the first students to study here,” he said.
For Shawn Gibson Sylvester, 20, from Kuching, discovering ILP Serian’s new intake through Facebook was a turning point.
“I want to study at a new place, even though there’s an ILP in Kota Samarahan. My hope is to succeed,” he said.
ILP Serian has also attracted students from further afield, such as Pusa and Betong.
Abang Safiq Azizan, 21, chose ILP Serian after a friend recommended the institute.
“My parents sent me here, and I decided to join because it offers a Civil and Structure Technology programme,” he said.
