Penang launches Internship Subsidy Programme to find and retain talent

GEORGE TOWN, March 31 (Bernama) -- The Penang government has launched the Penang Internship Subsidy Programme (PISP) to find and retain the right talent in the areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and accounting.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Penang recently announced a commendable manufacturing investment performance in 2021, reaching a record high of RM76.2 billion investment inflows, according to data from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Chow said the rising trend in investment value per job created signifies that Penang is constantly attracting high value-added investments, which serves as a good omen for job seekers in securing high income jobs.

"I hope PISP can serve as a talent gateway to the countless opportunities in Penang that are waiting to be discovered. 

"To all the talent, come to Penang and experience what the state has to offer as the Silicon Valley of the East," he said at the virtual press conference during the official launch of PISP here today.

He said Penang aspires to attract 150,000 knowledge workers over the next 5 years and PISP is introduced to unlock vast career opportunities for talented individuals to experience Penang’s captivating live-work-play balanced lifestyle.

"With the mission to further enhance the state’s effort in attracting an influx of talent, PISP offers monthly wage subsidy amounting to RM300 per intern for a maximum period of six months when companies recruit talent throughout 2022. In other words, qualified companies are eligible to claim up to RM1,800 per intern," he said.

Chow explained that PISP is open for all SSM-registered companies with a presence in Penang and the company must hire a minimum of three interns in the areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and accounting. 

"On top of that, hiring must be completed by 2022, with a minimum monthly allowance of RM1,200 per intern," he said.

He also hoped all homegrown companies would take advantage of this opportunity to apply for PISP in enticing talent to Penang. Application can now be made online via Penang CAT Centre’s website and the closing date will be Dec 31, 2022.

-- BERNAMA