ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia apprenticeship programme delivers first cohort of employees

From L-R: Ivan Lim, Regional Vice President Asia, ExecuJet MRO Services; Suniljit Singh, general manager, Maintenance, ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia with Ibnu Hidayat bin Ishak, head, Training and Talent Management, D'viation; and Ganesh Thiruselvam, co-founder and director of operations, D'viation.

ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia’s new apprenticeship programme produces first batch of qualified, full-time employees.

All six apprentices in the programme successfully completed their apprenticeship and have accepted full-time jobs at the company’s Kuala Lumpur facility, the Dassault subsidiary reported.

Suniljit Singh, general manager, Maintenance at ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to building long-term industry capability rather than short-term recruitment solutions.

“Aircraft technology is advancing rapidly, increasing the level of skill and precision required in maintenance operations. At the same time, the industry faces growing challenges in attracting technically strong young talent,” he said.

The apprenticeship programme, developed in collaboration with Malaysian MRO training organisation D’viation, is part of ExecuJet MRO Services Malaysia’s workforce development strategy to address growing industry challenges in attracting and retaining skilled aviation talent.

Applicants were required to hold a diploma or degree in relevant engineering or aviation disciplines and successfully complete technical and non-technical assessments, including IQ and emotional quotient (EQ) evaluations.

The selected apprentices were drawn from established aviation and engineering institutions, including Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology, Aviation Australia and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia.

Over the six-month period, apprentices were embedded in the company’s MRO business, gaining hands-on exposure under the supervision of licensed aircraft engineers.

Training covered key maintenance areas across business aviation platforms, including Bombardier, Gulfstream and Dassault Aviation aircraft.

Practical exposure included:

• Basic aircraft maintenance practices and safety procedures
• Aircraft engine removal and installation
• Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) removal and installation
• Exterior panel removal and installation
• Cabin interior removal and reinstallation
• Sealant application
• Paint touch-up and finishing works

“This programme focuses on building solid foundations. Without strong fundamental skills and hands-on experience, it becomes increasingly difficult to develop engineers capable of supporting modern aircraft systems,” added Singh.

“Our priority is not only to train apprentices, but to develop competent professionals who can grow with the industry and contribute to its long-term sustainability.”