PROTON wins big at M100 Awards, emerging as top graduate employer in automotive sector

KUALA LUMPUR:  PROTON has been named the top automotive employer and the fastest-moving employer in Malaysia for the first time, according to the results of the Malaysia’s 100 Leading Graduate Employers (M100) Awards 2024.

This achievement highlights the growing appeal of the national carmaker among fresh graduates seeking employment in the automotive industry.

Photo from Proton

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This double accolade marks a significant milestone for PROTON. In the 17th edition of the prestigious awards, PROTON surpassed two other major automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to secure the top spot in its sector.

Additionally, the company clinched the Fastest Moving Employer Award by leaping from the 86th position in the overall rankings in 2023 to 44th this year.

Investing in fresh talent is a key factor behind PROTON's rise in the rankings is its focus on developing new talent through initiatives like the PROTON Young Talents (PYT) programme.

Launched in 2018, the PYT programme aims to identify and groom promising graduates into skilled professionals and future leaders within the company. To date, 259 participants have graduated from the programme, with 110 hired this year alone, maintaining an impressive 81% retention rate.

Photo from Proton

The current cohort consists of 210 individuals, of which 72% come from technical backgrounds.

Collaboration and Recognition The M100 Awards, organised by GTI Malaysia, assess the preferences of graduates through an annual survey. This year, 44,924 responses were collected across 169 universities between January and September, reflecting a growing pool of input compared to last year's 37,380 responses.

Graduates ranked employers based on criteria such as leadership, personal development opportunities, salary and benefits, work-life balance, and job security.

The award ceremony, held on November 7 at the Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur, celebrated top employers across 18 sectors, including banking, consulting, and retail.

GTI Media Managing Director Issac Hee commented on PROTON’s achievements, saying, “The awards speak volumes about the effectiveness of the hard work PROTON has put in to transform their hiring culture and build attractive talent development schemes for graduate hires. It is doubly exciting as we await their launch of our country’s first domestically produced EV car, and I believe many of the graduates who voted Proton as their employer of choice are all excited to be part of this historic moment.”

The survey also highlighted graduates' concerns about the cost of living, with 85.7% noting the challenge of managing expenses on a graduate salary. Respondents expected median starting salaries to range between RM3,000 and RM4,000 in 2024.

Amran bin Mohd Tomin, PROTON’s Vice President of Human Capital Division, acknowledged the recognition, stating, “At PROTON, we believe that a thriving workplace is built on a diverse and inclusive culture that empowers young talent to grow, innovate and lead. Our recognition as the top choice for graduates is a testament to our commitment to nurturing an environment where fresh ideas and strong values come together to drive success in the automotive sector.”

PROTON's success at the M100 Awards reflects not only its reputation as a leading automotive employer but also its role in shaping the future of the industry by prioritising talent development and innovation.

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