Today, mechanics must be proficient at working with complex computer systems, understand intricate electronics, and troubleshoot software-related issues on top of delivering excellent customer service, said Brunei Shell Marketing Company Sdn Bhd (BSM) Managing Director Muhammad Norshafiee bin Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil.
“Gone are the days when a wrench and a manual were sufficient tools for their trade,” he said.
He made these comments at the official launch of BSM’s Master Mechanics programme which received an overwhelming response with over 500 registrations.
The event was held at Tarindak D’Seni yesterday.
Muhammad Norshafiee noted that the evolution is an opportunity to elevate the profession and secure relevance in the years to come.
The process of capability building is crucial to the continued success and growth of all mechanics and from the BSM survey in July with mechanics in Brunei, it was found that capacity building was ranked most important to them and closely as important was customer service.
He said the programme has been meticulously designed to provide mechanics with a comprehensive platform to expand knowledge.
A comprehensive initiative that encompasses lubricants, engine technology, industry standards, customer service, and business development, showcases BSM’s unwavering commitment to driving the development of the automotive sector.
The programme, open to automobile mechanics working as part of the engagement strategy, was officially launched by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Dato Seri Setia Dr Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, who is also a member of BSM Board of Directors.
BSM also launched the Shell Mechanic Loyalty programme, as part of BSM’s appreciation to the automotive mechanics in the Sultanate. It aimed at rewarding mechanics for encouraging customers to choose Shell lubricants as part of their vehicle maintenance regime.
Non-genuine lubricants brought in from other sources and distributed in the Brunei market could harm vehicles in the long run.
BSM introduced the ‘Untuk Pasaran Brunei’ feature of authentication labels with a QR function on all Shell lubricant products to assure customers that these products are authentic and meet the product quality specifications.
“As we move forward as leaders in the automotive sector, let us not neglect the importance of bolstering our most essential asset – the automotive mechanics. Capability building not only fosters personal growth, it also catalyses innovation within the community. Together we can build a future based on competence, collaboration, and excellence,” said Muhammad Norshafiee.
Programme participants have the opportunity to refine their skills through the Shell Workshop Academy, gaining insights into the quality standards of Shell lubricants and will be evaluated through practical challenges and quizzes.
Top performers will be provided advanced training and the opportunity to develop a sustainable business plan with support through the BSM business partner ecosystem including Shell Helix branded workshop programmes.
Support in terms of asset investment and start-up materials will be provided by the Shell Helix branded workshop. In addition, there will also be job-matching opportunities facilitated by BSM and BSM business partners. BSM has also engaged with Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) Mechanical Campus to raise awareness about the Master Mechanics programme to drive industry growth and empower mechanics to make substantial contributions to the nation’s economy.
Permanent Secretary (Wawasan) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Pengiran Hajah Siti Nirmala binti Pengiran Haji Mohammad and Acting Permanent Secretary (Energy) at the PMO Pengiran Haji Jamra Weira bin Pengiran Haji Petra witnessed the launching.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Ir Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof, Deputy Permanent Secretary (Transport) at MTIC Haji Mohammad Salihin bin Haji Aspar and Acting CEO at Darussalam Enterprise and Brunei Economic Development Board Daniel Leong were also present. – Lyna Mohamad
