JENJAROM, Selangor: The Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), through its subsidiary Akademi Binaan Malaysia (ABM), and Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) have launched the tower crane training site for ABM's central region here.
The facility provides hands-on training for youth and construction workers in tower crane operation and rigging, emphasising safe management practices and aims to cultivate skilled, professional tower crane operators to support the construction industry.
"It is specifically intended to develop a group of competent persons as tower crane operators," it said.
MRCB group managing director Datuk Imran Salim said in the past, tower crane operator training mainly relied on simulators, and practical elements to meet real-world industry challenges were minimal.
"This training facility is expected to fill that gap by providing meaningful hands-on training, allowing trainees to gain experience in operating real tower cranes.
"This programme is also anticipated to address the shortage of trained tower crane operators in the industry and open job opportunities for those with this specialised skill, offering a stable and lucrative career, while meeting the broader needs of the industry," he added.
Work Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the tower crane training facility enables practical training with a focus on the professional operation and management of cranes.
"This facility is designed to produce competent tower crane operators. MRCB also offers job placements for TVET graduates, giving trainees valuable real-world work experience, which is essential in preparing them for the challenges of the construction site," he said at the launch.
MRCB executive vice president Datuk Dell Akbar Khan said the training site will become a centre for learning, innovation and growth for the years to come.
He said initially, it was proposed that the tower crane be installed at the Malaysian Construction Academy training facility.
"However, due to safety considerations, we had to find a more suitable location. Several sites were tested in this endeavour before identifying the right one.
"Securing the tower crane also required meeting various regulatory requirements, including obtaining permits and ensuring the site's suitability.
"These efforts reflect MRCB's deep commitment to this project, with an investment exceeding RM1 million, underscoring the company's substantial investment in the future of Malaysia's workforce," Dell Akbar said.
He added that MRCB remains committed to advancing the construction industry through innovative and sustainable solutions.