ALOR STAR: The 1Malaysia Training Scheme (SL1M) Northern Zone programme has provided the best platform for fresh graduates and job seekers to find jobs under one roof.
The two-day programme at held at Stadium Sultan Abdul Halim in Jalan Suka Menanti here, attracted some 20,000 job seekers from as far as Perak and Penang who were looking for work.
Abdul Halim Mohamad, 28, from Taiping, Perak, said he came as early as 9am to take part in the programme.
Halim, a Business graduate from Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), said he found many matching jobs based on his qualification.
“I went for interviews at several booths at the programme and found many interesting offers.
“I came to learn about SL1M through social media platform and found that it has benefited many graduates, and that is why I came to try my luck,” he said.
For Nurul Nadirah Azmi, 24, from Sungai Petani, the programme brings potential employers to job seekers from small towns and rural areas.
The Chemical and Bio Processing Engineering graduate fromUniversiti Teknologi Mara(UiTM) said she found many interesting jobs that suited her qualification.
“This is the first experience for me and I find it interesting to meet new friends and also gain new experience by meeting with various people,” he said.
Nadirah said even if she failed to get any offers from her first attempt, she would try again in the next SL1M.
Norfatin Nabilah Abu, 24, said SL1M has helped her to obtain a job and helped her to improve her life and that of her family.
She attended the first SL1M Northern Zone programme held at the same location last year and was offered a job with Coway Malaysia based in Alor Star.
“I was provided with a six-month training stint and after that Icontinued working with Coway, selling various products.
“Thanks to SL1M in finding me a matching job, I can now earn up toRM7,000amonth doing what I love,” she said.
Nabilah said before participating in SL1M, she was unemployed for two years after breaking both her legs in an accident.
When she attended the programme last year, she was not optimistic she could find a job as she was only dependant on her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) results.
“My advice to job seekers, don‘t be afraid to attend SL1M because they will definitely find something that is suitable to their skills and qualifications.
“They need to have confidence, come with open mind and be willing to take up new challenges,” she said.