Kedah govt’s programme a boost for fresh graduates
ALOR STAR: It was Noor Idayu Rosli’s happiest day when she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus in July.
Her degree was supposed to be her ticket to secure a job, but it was a rough start for her and thousands other fresh graduates due to the current economic uncertainties.
When the 22-year-old saw a Facebook post on the Internship Mahasiswa Anak Negeri (Iman) programme, organised by the Kedah government, she decided to apply.
The Iman programme is part of the Bantuan Rakyat Kedah (Barakah, or Kedah People’s Aid) Programme, introduced by the state government to tackle unemployment among local graduates.
Lady Luck smiled on
Noor Idayu when she was selected for the programme, along with 24 other candidates, from a total of 1,052 applicants.
Through the Barakah Iman programme, which began on Oct 5, the trainees would undergo a six-month training and attachments at the Menteri Besar’s Office, state secretary office, state executive councillors’ offices and state governmentlinked companies.
Barely a month into the programme, Noor Idayu said she had developed her self-confidence and soft skills.
“Even if I’m not offered a position at the end of this internship, I am still thankful that I was among the 25 trainees selected for the programme.
“The experience and knowledge that I gained will help me be more marketable, considering that my degree offers very limited job opportunities due to the current economic slowdown,” she said.
Noor Idayu said her attachment with the Public Complaints Bureau had taught her many lessons about the real world and had enabled her to apply her knowledge in psychology.
Fellow trainee Nur Amalina Othman, 23, said she was thankful that the state government decided to offer the programme, especially during this challenging time.
“Seeking employment is challenging today, especially considering the global economic uncertainties.
“There are news that companies, even the big ones such as banks, are trimming down their manpower to stay afloat .
“I am definitely lucky to be among those selected for this internship programme,” said Amalina, who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia.
As for Muhammad Iffat Sukeri, 22, who holds a Diploma in Science Administration and Policy Study, the internship programme allowed him to compete with those with higher qualifications.
“I truly appreciate the state government’s initiative to introduce this programme as it helps graduates, including diploma holders like me, improve our skills to perform well in the job market,” said the Universiti Teknologi Mara graduate.