PETRONAS hosts UUM students for Industry Immersion Programme, strengthening the future talent pipeline

News and photo Dr. Hasliza Abd Halim

KUALA LUMPUR, 3 August 2025: PETRONAS recently hosted a delegation of 14 students from Universiti Utara Malaysia’s (UUM) Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Business Administration (BALBA) programme for a two-day Industry Immersion Programme at the iconic PETRONAS Twin Towers.

Organized by the School of Languages, Civilisation, and Philosophy, this initiative aimed to enhance students’ English language proficiency while exposing them to the dynamic use of English within a real-world corporate environment.

This immersive visit offered a unique opportunity for students to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical experience, particularly in the realm of business communication. The programme, which included a series of professional engagements, significantly strengthen students’ understanding of corporate culture, branding, and global business operations.

A key highlight was the corporate briefing and guided tour of PETRONAS’ UpX Space, where students gained valuable insights into PETRONAS as both a world-renowned energy company and global brand. This exposure helped students understand the scope of the company’s operations and the pivotal role of language in shaping corporate identity and facilitating internal communication.

The experience was further enriched by a special address from PETRONAS General Manager, Mr. Fazli Ibrahim, who provided a comprehensive overview of the organisation’s strategic direction, communication strategies, and talent development efforts. He emphasised the importance of effective English communication in driving global collaboration and fostering innovation within PETRONAS.

Interactive breakout sessions and group activities promoted active participation and intellectual curiosity. The Sharing Highlights session proved particularly engaging, as PETRONAS staff shared their personal career journeys, communication practices, and real-world examples of how English proficiency contributes to career advancement and cross-departmental coordination.

In a more relaxed atmosphere, the delegation joined a casual luncheon at the PETRONAS Club, where students engaged in informal one-on-one conversations with PETRONAS professionals. These interactions encouraged deeper discussions and mentorship, giving students a realistic glimpse into the daily corporate work environment.

The visit continued with a courtesy tour of GALERI PETRONAS, adding a cultural dimension to the programme. Students explored the intersections of art, identity, and corporate social responsibility, which fostered broader perspectives and reflective dialogue. The day concluded with a visit to the PETRONAS Skybridge, where the group took a commemorative photo with Mr. Fazli and his team.

According to the accompanying officer, Dr. Hasliza Abd Halim, the Industry Immersion Programme was a transformative experience for the BALBA students.

She noted that the programme not only boosted the students’ confidence and communication skills but also broadened their understanding of how language and professionalism converge in a global corporate setting. The ongoing collaboration between UUM and PETRONAS, she added, reflects a shared commitment to nurturing future-ready graduates equipped with both linguistic competence and business acumen.

The programme concluded with an enriching educational visit to the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation (ISTAC-IIUM) in Bukit Tunku. During the visit, students were introduced to the institute’s unique academic environment and the pivotal role of the ISTAC Library in supporting research and intellectual inquiry in the fields of Islamic thought, civilisation, and philosophy.

One of the highlights of the visit was the introduction to the Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas Collection – an invaluable resource that reflects the intellectual legacy of one of Malaysia’s most distinguished scholars. Students had the rare opportunity to explore manuscripts, reference materials, and academic works not easily accessible elsewhere.

Reflecting on the experience, participant Nur Nabila Natasya shared, ‘The whole programme gave me a new perspective on language in a corporate setting. I came away more confident and excited about my future career.’