Business : Malaysia Must Capitalise On Motorsport 'Spillovers' For Talent, Technology -- Jazeman Jaafar
Jazeman Firhan Jaafar, a former Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One development driver, is connecting Malaysian technical talent to the global motorsport and automotive industries. His company, Persona Energy Sdn Bhd, runs the Technology Transfer Apprenticeship Programme (TTAP). This program has placed 95 talents in industry roles or further studies. TTAP offers seven months of hands-on experience at international races, supported by partners like Porsche and Bosch Engineering.
Jazeman Jaafar's TTAP addresses a critical talent gap in Malaysia's advanced manufacturing sector. By placing 95 individuals with international partners, the program creates a pipeline for high-skilled automotive engineering and mechanics. This directly supports Malaysia's industrial ambitions beyond traditional manufacturing.
This initiative benefits Malaysia by retaining and developing specialized technical expertise. It provides a structured pathway for engineers and mechanics to gain global experience. The program's expansion to ASEAN would further solidify Malaysia's role as a regional hub for automotive talent development, attracting more industry investment.
The thing to watch is TTAP's long-term self-sustainability and its ability to integrate 10 to 20 talents annually. Success hinges on consistent industry partnerships and funding. If the program can secure stable corporate backing, it will demonstrate a viable model for private-sector-led talent development in Southeast Asia.
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