Download as docx, pdf, or txt
Download as docx, pdf, or txt
You are on page 1of 69

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

MANAGEMENT

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

UNIVERSITI UTARA MALAYSIA

PRACTICUM REPORT
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM
SECOND SEMESTER A181 (2018/2019)

EMERY OLEOCHEMICALS (M) SDN. BHD.


LOT 4, JALAN PERAK, KAWASAN PERINDUSTRIAN TELOK PANGLIMA
GARANG, 42500 TELUK PANGLIMA GARANG, SELANGOR, MALAYSIA.

PREPARED FOR:
DR KHAIROL ANUAR BIN ISHAK

PREPARED BY:

VITYASRI A/P JEYAPALAN

243297
Acknowledgement

First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all those who have

provided me the possibilities to complete this report as well as my internship program in the time

period of four months. I am glad as I could complete this internship program as UUM’s student.

This internship program also known as industrial training program is specially coordinated for

undergraduate students to get the opportunity of exposing and experience themselves in real

working life. It is also as the first step of career setting for the students.

A special gratitude to my UUM report supervisor, Dr Khairol Anuar Bin Ishak, whose

contribution in stimulating suggestions and encouragement helped me to complete my

internship program especially in writing this report. I would like to express my deepest gratitude

to Mr. Asit Nautiyal, Director of Business Development of sales and marketing department for

giving me much attention and time in order to guide me through this industrial training. I had

learnt so much throughout this industrial training period and act like a real employee as I had a

chance to learn new task and other knowledge. He had been a wonderful person to inspire me

in completing my internship program. He had exposed me patiently to the working environment

and also gave me a lot of business knowledge.

Last but not least, thanks to all the employee of Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd.

who were so supportive throughout my internship period in the company. They have been a

wonderful team of colleague and have taught in various aspects of working life and business.

Without this team, it would have been impossible for me to complete my internship program.

Once again I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all of you who are involved either

directly or indirectly in order to carry out and helped to set up the final report. Hopefully the

experience and guidelines that has gained will be used as the first step once promising career.
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

UNIVERSITI UTARA MALAYSIA

SECOND SEMESTER A181


(2018/2019)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

It is hereby acknowledgement that the Practicum Report at Emery Oleochemicals (M)


Sdn. Bhd. by Vityasri A/P Jeyapalan Matric No.243297 is accepted in partial fulfillment
of BPBX4908 practicum

Practicum Supervisor: Dr. Khairol Anuar Bin Ishak

School Of Business Management


College Of Business

Contents
Part 1: Introduction to Organization.............................................................................................1

1.0 Introduction............................................................................................................................ 1

2.0 Background of Emery............................................................................................................3

2.1 History of Emery.................................................................................................................5

2.2 Emery Evolution.................................................................................................................7

2.3 Emery Global Footprints.....................................................................................................8

2.4 Emery Vision...................................................................................................................... 9

2.5 Emery Mission.................................................................................................................... 9

2.6 Emery Core Values.......................................................................................................... 10

2.7 Emery Logo...................................................................................................................... 10

2.8 Emery Objectives............................................................................................................. 11

2.9 Code of Conduct and Ethical Policy.................................................................................11

3.0 Product/ Services Offered....................................................................................................12

3.1 Agro Green....................................................................................................................... 14

3.2 Bio-Lubricants.................................................................................................................. 15

3.3 Eco-Friendly Polyols.........................................................................................................16

3.4 Green Polymer Additives..................................................................................................17

3.5 Home & Personal Wellness..............................................................................................18

3.6 OleoBasics....................................................................................................................... 19

4.0 Organization Structure......................................................................................................... 20

4.1 Organizational Culture......................................................................................................21

4.2 Dress Code and Footwear...............................................................................................23

4.3 Internal Communication Tools..........................................................................................24

4.4 Reward and recognition system.......................................................................................25

4.5 No smoking area.............................................................................................................. 25


4.6 The usage of equipment & personnel protective equipment policy...................................25

5.0 Brief Description of the Practicum Programme Organized By Organization.........................27

5.1 Purchase Order (PO).......................................................................................................27

5.2 Submit PO for Approval....................................................................................................28

5.3 Approve / Reject PO.........................................................................................................28

5.4 Approve/ Reject PO from the application..........................................................................28

Part 2: Organization’s Problem..................................................................................................30

6.0 Internal Problems................................................................................................................. 30

6.1 Sources of the Problem....................................................................................................32

6.2 Impacts of the Problems and Issues................................................................................33

7.0 SWOT Analysis.................................................................................................................... 34

7.1 Strengths.......................................................................................................................... 35

7.2 Weaknesses..................................................................................................................... 37

7.3 Opportunities.................................................................................................................... 39

7.4 Threats............................................................................................................................. 41

7.5 TOWS Analysis................................................................................................................ 42

8.0 Suggestions to Solve the Problems.....................................................................................43

8.1 SO Strategies................................................................................................................... 43

8.2 WO Strategies.................................................................................................................. 44

8.3 ST Strategies................................................................................................................... 45

8.4 WT Strategies.................................................................................................................. 46

8.5 Suggestions to the Organization......................................................................................47

Part 3: Self-Experience/ Conclusion..........................................................................................48

9.0 Theories and Practices That I Have Gained In the Given Task............................................48

9.1 New Experience in Undertaking the Practicum.................................................................50

9.2 Practicum Program Help in Preparing To Enter the Workforce In The Future..................54

9.3 Constraints While Undergoing the Practicum Training and How I Cope...........................55
10.0 Conclusion......................................................................................................................... 56

11.0 References........................................................................................................................ 58

12.0 Appendices........................................................................................................................ 59

Appendix A: Malaysia............................................................................................................. 59

Appendix B: Germany............................................................................................................ 60

Appendix C: United States.....................................................................................................61

Appendix D: Samples of Chemicals.......................................................................................62


BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Part 1: Introduction to Organization

1.0 Introduction

Practicum or internship in one way by which we student are given an opportunity to apply the

theories and learning from universities. It also helps us to obtain applicable knowledge and skills

by performing in actual work settings. This Industrial Training Program is compulsory for

students in University Utara Malaysia (UUM) before they graduate. For Bachelor of Business

Administration with Honors, a syllabus of practical training must be carried out when the

students have taken all the required subjects. Practical training is one of the university policies

in which practical training is held on final semester for the duration of four months or 17 weeks

(11th February 2019 until 10th June 2019). Besides providing the opportunities for students to

experience the real working environment before graduation, the students will be able to relate

the theories that learnt in the university into practical aspects respectively to their field of

studies. In addition, by practicum can produce students who are knowledgeable about the

intricacies of their jobs, creative, innovative and also dynamic. The students are expected to be

more confident when they have graduated and venture into the real working world.

During the practicum period, each student will be monitored by three separate parties

which were report supervisor (School of Business Management Lecturer), visiting supervisor

(College Of Business Lecturer) and supervisors (employer) that was appointed by the

organization in which the student was placed. The purposes of having those supervisors were to

provide guidance to the students in the implementation of the practical work and to ensure that

the students gain maximum benefits from the training.

Lastly, students had to prepare a practicum report, which is an important aspect in the

assessment of the practicum to report supervisor, School of Business Management Lecturer

1|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

after the four month period of industrial training. In the report, the important scope which needs

to be explained were organizational information, analysis of the organizational financial

performance, SWOT, a summary of the scope of responsibility assigned, recommendations and

end with the conclusions. My placement for practical training was in Emery Oleochemicals (M)

Sdn Bhd, Teluk Panglima Garang (TPG), Selangor. My placement in Emery was scheduled in

Sales & Marketing department from 11th February 2019 until 10th June 2019.

2|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

2.0 Background of Emery

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd manufactures natural-based chemicals made from natural

oils and fats. It offers agrochemical formulations, bio-lubricants, eco-friendly polyols, green

polymer additives, home and personal wellness products, and environmentally friendly

alternatives. The company also offers DEHYLUB 4105, an ester with high thermal and

hydrolytic stability combined with low temperature and lubrication properties for customers in

Europe, North America, and Asia.

The company offers its products for use in home and personal care, construction,

automotive, lubricants, packaging, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, textiles and leathers,

paper and ink, electrical and electronic appliance, furniture and bedding, agricultural, and

transportation industries, as well as for paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers

applications. It offers its products through a distribution network in Malaysia and internationally.

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd

Lot 4, Jalan Perak, Kawasan


Perindustrian Telok Panglima Garang,
42500 Telok Panglima Garang,

Selangor, Malaysia

General Line: + 603-3326 8686


General Fax: + 603-7844 9334

Figure 1.0: Emery’s Headquarters

The company was formerly known as Cognis Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd and changed

its name to Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd in May 2009. The company was founded in

3|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

1989 and is based in Shah Alam, Malaysia with production, sales, and marketing locations in

Cincinnati, Ohio; Düsseldorf and Loxstedt, Germany; Selangor, Malaysia; Tsukuba, Japan;

Tuen Mun, Hong Kong; and Anyang, South Korea. As of November 24, 2008, Emery

Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd operates as a joint venture between PTT Global Chemical Public

Company Limited and Sime Darby Plantation Sdn Bhd.

4|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

2.1 History of Emery

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian oleochemical company. Emery operates

production plants in Malaysia, the United States and Germany. Its products serve a wide range

of industries, including agriculture, heavy industry and consumer products. The company is a

50:50 joint venture between Malaysian agriculture group Sime Darby Plantation and PTT Global

Chemical of Thailand. Emery traces its origins to 1840, when Thomas Emery began converting

lard discarded by meat producers in Cincinnati into candles and lamp oil. In 1887, the Emery

Candle Company was incorporated. From then, the company underwent expansion and

diversification, most notably under the stewardship of John J. "Jack" Emery, Jr. (grandson of

founder Thomas Emery) and was renamed Emery Industries. Jack Emery headed the company

until 1968, and was the last of the family to run the business.

In 1978, Emery Industries was merged into National Distillers and Chemical Corp. In

1989, the business was acquired by Henkel and became part of its Chemicals Group. Henkel

Chemicals Group was later renamed Cognis and was spun off by Henkel in 2001. In 2006,

Cognis transferred its global oleochemicals business to Cognis Oleochemicals, a 50:50 joint

venture between Cognis and Golden Hope Plantations of Malaysia. The business's

headquarters were moved to Teluk Panglima Garang (near Banting) in Malaysia. Golden Hope

subsequently underwent a merger with Guthrie and Sime Darby in 2007, with the enlarged

group retaining the Sime Darby name. Cognis sold its 50% stake in the company to PTT Global

Chemical in 2008.

5|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 2.0: Emery’s Timeline

Following the exit of Cognis, the company revived the "Emery" brand name and was

renamed "Emery Oleochemicals". Emery is a producer of commodity and specialty chemicals

made from natural oils and fats. It is one of the largest oleochemical manufacturers in the United

States, along with Vantage Specialty Chemicals. Emery's products are organized into six

business units: Agro Green, Bio-Lubricants, Eco-Friendly Polyols, Green Polymer Additives,

Home and Personal Wellness, and OleoBasics. The company's main production plants are in

Teluk Panglima Garang, Cincinnati, Ohio and Loxstedt, Germany. Cincinnati and Loxstedt also

house the group's technical development centers (TDCs). Its Dusseldorf plant and operations

was sold to another Malaysian agriculture group, Kuala Lumpur Kepong, in 2015.

6|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

2.2 Emery Evolution

Year Event

1980 Foundation of Henkel Oleochemicals Malaysia is laid


1984 Production of fatty acids and methylesters begins
1992 Another fatty alcohols plant comes on stream
1999 Henkel Chemicals Group officially becomes Cognis
2001 Henkel KGaA divests Cognis to a consortium of private equity firms
2003 Fractionation capacity is increased
2005 Joint venture formed between Cognis and Golden Hope, Malaysia (later called

Sime Darby Plantation). This partnership is called Cognis Oleochemicals


2008 Cognis sells its shares in Cognis Oleochemicals to PTT Global Chemical

(Thailand)
2008 The Emery Oleochemicals brand is launched, a nod to the rich Emery legacy
2012 Asia Pacific’s first integrated plastic additives starts up in a complex adjacent to

the main fatty acids plant


2014 Methylester fractionation plant begins production to support current fatty alcohol

production. Sulphation process facility built in partnership with sulphation

technology leaders, Desmet Ballestra, begins production in specialty fatty alcohols

for household and personal care products


2015 Specialty ester facility, established as a joint venture with AK ChemTech, a leading

Korean-based chemical company, comes on stream. Called Emery Aekyung, the

site produces a range of specialty co-surfactants used in personal care products,

which is to be commissioned in the third quarter

2.3 Emery Global Footprints

7|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 2.1: Emery’s Location

2.4 Emery Vision

8|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

To Become the World Leader in Value-added, Natural-based Chemicals

2.5 Emery Mission

We believe that tomorrow's world will be shaped by all that we do today. Guided by our purpose

as a company, we are committed to achieving sustainable, quality growth by creating value in

our relationships. By combining science and innovation in implementing operational best

practices throughout our international network, Emery Oleochemicals believes that through our

understanding of our customers’ business needs and changing societal requirements, we are

able to exceed their expectations and continuously create new business value.

As we advance the skills necessary for us to be the world’s leader in natural-based

chemicals, our core values and established business governance ensures that we operate

responsibly, therefore ensuring a long-term sustainable future for our employees, business

partners, community and investors. After all, we are committed to building a brand that

embraces innovation, diversity and quality that spans the spectrum of products and services we

offer.

9|Page
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

2.6 Emery Core Values

Competitive Advantage We strive to be the best and provide value-added advantages to our

stakeholders.
Innovation We embark on continuous improvement and offer innovative

solutions to our stakeholders.


Partnership We seek win-win collaboration with our stakeholders to derive

synergies. Your success is our success.


Trust We display integrity, responsibility and accountability to deliver

results and satisfy our stakeholders’ expectations.

2.7 Emery Logo

Figure 2.2: Emery’s Logo

2.8 Emery Objectives

10 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Emery’s objective is to “ACT SUSTAINABLY”, where our actions across the board aim to

deliver sustainable methods to achieve our long term goals and advocates day-to-day behaviors

at the workplace and beyond. It is a rallying call to our team members and business partners

alike to play a leading role in mitigating sustainable development risks through responsible

operations. Emery also aim to provide a progressive, inclusive and safe workplace for our

employees so as to retain and attract talents, invest in the communities in which we do business

to uphold our ‘license to operate and realize progressive ways to reduce our impact on the

environment, that additionally allows us to lower our operating costs.

2.9 Code of Conduct and Ethical Policy

This code of conduct and Ethical Business Policy has been established to promote, enhance

and support.

i. Respect for our planet and the natural environment which supports present and

future generations.

ii. Respect for human dignity and decent working conditions.

iii. Respect for our suppliers with which we grow together

We are guided by the 10 principles of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). The UNGC

encourages companies to embrace and embed universal principles in their business. The

UNGC addresses human rights, labor, the environment and corruption, and provides a

framework for engagement by enlightened global business.

3.0 Product/ Services Offered

11 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Through a global operation that spans three regions: Asia Pacific, Europe and North America;

we provide customers with best-in-class renewable solutions recognized for its ability to improve

processing efficiencies, deliver outstanding technical performance and enhance environmental

safety. Our products, derived from renewable resources are predominantly made from natural

oils and fats such as palm kernel oil and tallow. From commodity chemicals to semi-specialty to

specialty chemicals, we are able to meet your specific application needs in many high-growth

sectors such as home and personal care, construction, automotive, lubricants, packaging, food

and beverage, pharmaceutical, textiles, electrical and electronics, and agriculture.

Additionally, through our focus in research and technological advancements, we are

poised to provide you, differentiated, customizable and innovative solutions. Backed by our

regional Technical Development Centres, Emery Oleochemicals is in the position to further

support both exclusive and joint solutions development efforts with our customers. Together, we

aim to bring our business closer to the high-growth marketplace, leveraging our pipeline of

renewable resources, global operations, market insights and oleobasics capabilities.

Emery Oleochemicals’ solutions portfolio spans six business units, providing you with

over 3,000 products and a growing base of leading product brands. Today, our expanded

portfolio includes products that are Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Supply Chain

System Certified for Segregated (SG) and Mass Balance (MB). In remaining committed to

producing effective renewable and sustainable solutions that contribute towards the

development of more efficient end user goods and industrial products for our customers; our

natural-based solutions are offered through the following business units:

i. Agro Green

ii. Bio-Lubricants

iii. Eco-Friendly Polyols

12 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

iv. Green Polymer Additives

v. Home & Personal Wellness

vi. OleoBasics

Figure 3.0: Emery’s 6 Core Business

3.1 Agro Green

13 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.1: Emery’s Agro Green

Emery’s Agro Green business is committed to being your preferred agriculture solutions partner

for high-performance, natural-based products that include weed control, insect control and

performance products that enhance efficacy. We are passionate about developing products that

are effective, environmentally-responsible and sustainable.

We provide the marketplace with renewable solutions that even Mother Nature is proud

of through our EMERION®, EMEREEN® and EMTROL® brands. Readily biodegradable,

improved worker safety, no known resistance and bee-friendly are just some of the benefits our

customers enjoy as we tap into the unique capabilities of our renewable feedstock chemistry

and focus on research and technological advancements to provide you with differentiated and

innovative solutions.

3.2 Bio-Lubricants

14 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.2: Emery’s Bio-Lubricants

We believe our natural-based lubricant solutions have the ability to move the world. Our Bio-

Lubricant brands DEHYLUB®, TERRADRIL®, EMEROX®, EMERY® are recognized for their

ability to improve processing efficiencies, deliver outstanding technical performance and

enhance environmental safety. Leveraging Emery Olechemicals’ technical expertise, market

insights, and back-end integration to renewable feedstock has resulted in lubricant solutions

used in a wide range of applications.

3.3 Eco-Friendly Polyols

15 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.3: Emery’s Eco-Friendly Polyols

Emery’s polyols can help to achieve your performance and sustainability objectives. We are the

leading pioneer in oleochemicals and ozonolysis technology. Coupled with our team’s deep

understanding of polyurethane chemistry and our expertise in producing high-performance

specialty chemicals, this makes us uniquely positioned to support your specific polyol

requirements while ensuring performance, quality, ease of use and security of supply.

EMEROX® polyols offer enhanced performance properties, increased efficiencies and

sustainability. They are excellent raw materials for use in the manufacture of a broad range of

end products and applications including flexible foam, rigid foam, coatings, adhesives, sealants

and elastomers. Key benefits include:

i. Structural similarity to petrochemical polyols but with high (45-99%) renewable

content

ii. Engineered to perform (process and properties)

iii. Superior hydrophobicity

iv. Based on well-established feedstock

v. Cost competitive

3.4 Green Polymer Additives

16 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.4: Emery’s Green Polymer Additives

Emery Oleochemicals manufactures high value, renewable polymer additive solutions that offer

excellent technical performance. Our Green Polymer Additives product portfolio includes

lubricants, plasticizers and viscosity depressants, antistatic and antifogging agents as well as

release agents made from sustainable materials that are formulated to optimize production and

improve efficiency. Our LOXIOL®, EDENOL® and EMEROX® brands stand for high quality and

reliable products for the plastics industry.

3.5 Home & Personal Wellness

17 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.5: Emery’s Home & Personal Wellness

Emery Oleochemicals’ customer-focused and solution-oriented approach to the Home and

Personal Wellness market is driven by its extensive experience in surfactant, emulsifier,

specialty esters and product formulations. We focus on product development based on the

unique properties of the natural-based chemistry while maintaining ecological equilibrium.

Our portfolio includes a wide range of Oleochemicals and Surfactants for a variety of

applications such as solubilizers, emollients, intermediates, stabilisers, emulsifiers, detergents,

dispersing agents and many more. We constantly collaborate with our partners in extending our

product range to ensure your product is ready to meet the most demanding requirements and

remain committed to expanding our technical, sales and services to become your preferred

solutions partner for Home and Personal Wellness.

3.6 OleoBasics

18 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 3.6: Emery’s

175 years of heritage and innovation for renewable solutions suited from basics to niche

applications. We proudly trace our 175-year heritage in oleochemicals to The Emery Candle

Company, a store-front that manufactured and produced tallow for oil lamps in Cincinnati in

1840. Today, having established a brand that is synonymous with the production of high quality,

natural-based chemicals - Emery Oleochemicals’ philosophy of Creating Value is principled on

our ability of offering back-end integration, sustainable access to renewable feedstock; global

footprint and in-depth technical know-how. With products that are predominantly made from

natural oils and fats such as palm oil, palm kernel oil and tallow, our wide ranging product

portfolio, caters to the diverse and unique needs of an evolving marketplace.

4.0 Organization Structure

19 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 4.0: Emery’s Organization Structure

4.1 Organizational Culture

20 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Emery establishes 5S approach in each department to make sure clean, efficient and safe

manner to enhance their employee productivity, visual management and to ensure the

introduction of standardized working. The aim of 5S in Emery is the need to introduce standard

operational practices to ensure efficient, repeatable and safe ways of working. Therefore,

Emery’s employees in Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor need to follow the rules as below.

Figure 4.1: 5S Approaches

i. Sort - Decide the proper amount of chemicals to be kept in the area and move the

remaining quantity to storage.

ii. Set in order - All chemicals should be properly labeled. The label should include

chemical name, chemical description, storage location and the expired date.

iii. Shine - Operators should clean their areas at the end of each shift. By doing this

they will likely notice anything out of the ordinary such as chemical leaks, worn lift

cables, burnt out bulbs and others.

21 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

iv. Standardize - Work instructions, checklists, standard work and other documentation

are developed. Color coding and standard colors are sometimes used for the

chemicals.

v. Sustain - Sustaining is the continuation of the Sort, Set in order, Shine and

Standardize steps. The organization must strive to make 5S a way of life so the

benefits gained through can be maintained.

22 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

4.2 Dress Code and Footwear

Emery has set the dress code for all the employees in the organization which has been followed

by all the workers. Employees are encouraged to wear formal attire from Monday until

Thursday. For those employees under probation period or doing practicum in Emery are also

advise to wear formal attire to make sure everyone follow Emery’s culture. Meanwhile, those

who are working in the lab and production area need to wear Emery’s uniform which is grey in

color. On Friday, all the employees are given privileged to wear casual attire such as jeans and

t-shirt. Besides that, Emery also highly concentrates on the safety and set rules to the employee

to wear separate shoes in the lab and production area.

Figure 4.2: Dress code for men Figure 4.3: Dress code for women

23 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

4.3 Internal Communication Tools

Emery has come out with effective communication tool among their workers and top

management besides email which is intercom phone. This communication tools allow

employees to ask questions to their senior management and seek for help through intercom

phone. Besides that, it also can connect from one department to another. From here, Emery

management can ensure that their messages to employees are actually being delivered to them

and can solve their problem or doubt immediately. Emery set the rules to all the office

employees and top management to have email account in their computer or laptop in order for a

smooth communication.

Figure 4.4: Intercom phone

24 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

4.4 Reward and recognition system

i. Annual bonuses - Payment based on the performance of the company.

ii. Years of service award - Token of appreciation to those who has been loyal to Emery

for the past 10 years and more.

iii. Meal subsidies - All the employees in Emery have subsidies RM3 on their daily meal

at the canteen.

iv. Discounted health checkups - Employees are given MICARE health card to use

during sickness until up to certain amount.

4.5 No smoking area

i. Employees are not allowed to smoke at the prohibited area. Those caught smoking

at prohibited areas can be fined or jailed.

ii. Employees are allowed to smoke at the smoking zone or outside of the company.

4.6 The usage of equipment & personnel protective equipment policy

i. Employees in production area and lab are compulsory to wear boots or safety shoes

and safety gloves.

ii. Safety goggles or spectacles must be worn when there is a risk of flying particles or

objects or splash from hazardous liquids at production area and lab.

iii. Do not bring any flammable items near the chemicals or hazardous liquids and

employees must return all tools and equipment upon their separation from the

company.

25 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Figure 4.5: Safety gloves Figure 4.6: Safety shoes

Figure 4.7: Safety goggles

5.0 Brief Description of the Practicum Programme Organized By Organization

26 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn Bhd is divided into two sections under management section and

operation section. My practicum placement is located in sales and marketing department under

management section. Each department under management section has its own descriptive

work and have different functions and responsibilities. The sales and marketing department is

the team which will connect with Emery’s customers directly. Sales and marketing department

will cover the customers from all around the world such as Europe, China, India, Middle East

and other regions. Thus, the team will devide the task among themself. An employee will cover

a region but there are also cases an employee that covers more than a region. During my

praticum, I was able to access customer requirement from all the region.

5.1 Purchase Order (PO)

A purchase order (PO) is a commercial document and first official offer issued by a buyer to a

seller indicating types, quantities, and agreed prices for products or services. It is used to

control the purchasing of products and services from external suppliers. Once the Purchase

Order is created, the PO should be submitted for approval to the concern authority. The

approval process is initiated by sending a request for approval to the concerned authority and

depending on their decision the PO is approved or rejected.

i. The requester approving the purchase order should be assigned with the Purchase

Order Approver role.

ii. While creating a purchase order the approver should be selected from the approver's

list to send for approval.

iii. If the approver is not selected or if there are no approver in the list, a warning

message appears while submitting the PO for approval.

iv. Once the request is submitted for approval the status of the PO changes to PO

Pending Approval.

27 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

5.2 Submit PO for Approval

i. Click the Purchase tab in the header pane to open the PO List View page.

ii. Select the Open POs to be submitted for approval using the Filter drop down. Click

the PO name link.

iii. From the PO details page, click Actions tab -> Submit for Approval option. The

Submit for Approval dialog pops up.

iv. Enable Send Mail Notification check box, if you wish to send a mail to the approver

regarding the PO Approval.

v. The field is pre populated with the email address of the approvers. If required, you

can modify the subject content manually.

vi. Type in the message text for mail notification in the Description field.

vii. Click Send. The mail notification is sent to the user addressed in the field of the

notification.

5.3 Approve / Reject PO

Once the PO is submitted for approval, a mail is sent to the user addressed in the field. The

email contains the link to the PO requiring approval. Clicking the link displays the PO awaiting

approval. The user can also approve/reject the PO directly from the application.

5.4 Approve/ Reject PO from the application

If you have the permission to approve/reject a Purchase Order,

i. Login to the Service Desk Plus - MSP application with your login credentials.

ii. Click the Purchase tab in the header pane.

iii. Select the POs Pending for Approval using the Filter drop down. Click the PO

name link.

28 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

iv. From the PO details page, click Actions tab -> Approve/Reject option. You can send

an email notification to the PO owner regarding your decision.

The approved Purchase Order is grouped under the status Approved POs while all the rejected

Purchase Orders is grouped under Rejected POs status. The Rejected POs can be deleted

completely from the system or can be edited and sent for approval again.

Part 2: Organization’s Problem

6.0 Internal Problems

i. Attendance and Lateness

29 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

The major problem that I found during my practicum is that Emery employees in sales and

marketing department take leaves and come late frequently. Employees who are allowed to

sustain an excessive number of absences and lateness without any apparent penalty from

management can affect others performance. It creates a cycle that leads to low productivity,

poor employee morale and a high turnover rate. From my observation, a few of the

employees would take leave every week. Discipline is one of the most important aspects of

the organization and the discipline problem can be seen when they are on leave frequently.

This may lead to their works to delay and drag, which can affect performance of this

company.

ii. Server Problem

The other major problem that I found in Emery is the server of internet and system are the

serious problem that had make employees who work in Emery become frustrated and stress

because of the system down, unstable and lag. The entire computer that provided by the

company were linked to the system in order to perform the task, such as intranet and

company email. So all of the task that need to use computer or office phone were unable to

do when the system crash. Due to this, employees are unable to access the file, email and

intranet even the office telephone unable to use. Besides that, the system is taking long time

to recover. Therefore, the employees may have difficulties in finishing their task at particular

time.

iii. Sudden Changes In Company’s Term And Condition

The sudden changes in term and conditional without any proper notice is one of the problem

that I found in the company. This problem has led employees become confuse about their

job and do not know what to do next. Moreover, employees also feel unsatisfied with their

30 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

boss and the reluctant to change. The communication between the boss and employees is

important to reduce misunderstanding and the employees will become more faithful and

obey the rules. Therefore, a non-friendly environment is created between management and

employees.

6.1 Sources of the Problem

i. Lack Of Communication Within Organization

There’s poor communications within the organizations, between top management and

departments. Certain issues and task are informed late to the person in charge such as

31 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

replying email to sales and marketing team regarding the products. Therefore, the

department had to wait to receive the email, take time to understand the enquiry and to

proceed within the due date fixed by the manager. Furthermore, certain tasks are

overlapped and overlooked because of confusion in roles and responsibilities which are

actually caused from poor communication between.

ii. Lack Of Supervision From The Head Of Department

The lack of supervision from the superior also may lead to some problems in the company.

The company’s managing director doesn’t actively involved in the company administration

and operation. This makes the employees to act carelessly at certain time. Other than that, it

also makes the employees to take advantage on some matters such as doing unrelated

works during working hours. For example, the server of internet and system problem is not

fully solved even complaints were made many times.

iii. Certain Employee Not Disciplined While In Duty

Many employees sometimes did not understand what is the real problem and how to solve it

in order not happen again. This is because they are simply doing work without any

appropriate courses related to their work specification. Thus, employees could not clearly

understand and cannot upgrade their knowledge according to new technology and system.

That is the main reason why internet server and system in Emery have not been solve and

always having problem. Therefore, for a better result it is a must for all employees to

maintain their performance and to get a good outcome.

6.2 Impacts of the Problems and Issues

i. Works Will Be Delayed And Cannot Meet Deadlines

32 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

The problems in the organization will lead to serious or major impact to its organization. The

works that are assigned to sales and marketing department will be delayed because of the

problems. Indirectly, the organization performance will be affected and the objectives and

aim of company goals might not achieved. Other than that, the employees will be lack of

time to complete their works as they have to meet the deadlines. When the employees

started to rush in completing the tasks to meet the deadlines, it will lead to silly mistakes. For

example, an appointment with customer need to be arrange in a rush due to limited period

of time. Thus, the quality of their work is not high as expected.

ii. Hard To Get Recognition And Low Motivations

The Emery employees face difficulties in receiving recognition from the Head of department.

This might affect the performance of the organization. Therefore, the organization will face

difficulties in getting recognition too. Employees are lack of proper planning and in their

performance. When they did not get any recognition or awards, their motivation level will be

low and tend to switch to another company. Motivations is very important for all the

employees. They need motivations to boost their energy level and to give good performance

in their works. This will lead them and the organization to get recognition and good

reputation from all around the world as well to maintain their standards.

7.0 SWOT Analysis

33 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

SWOT Analysis of Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. shows the strengths, weaknesses,

opportunities and threats of the company.

Helpful Harmful

Strengths Weaknesses

 Effective training programmes  Less upgraded computer facilities

 5S Approach  Limited parking space

 Well-known world wide  Supervisor has insufficient time to

monitor the trainees

Opportunities Threats

 New markets  Lack of marketing

 Improve communication skill  Government regulatory

 High image and reputation

7.1 Strengths

S1- Effective Training Programme

34 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

The management for the human capital within the organization is vital for the organization to

develop competitive advantage so that the organization can compete with their competitors. The

organization needs to determine whether their employees are capable, skillful and experience or

not. The more effective management of human capital, the easier the firm can achieve success

in the industry. Emery has implemented a competitive salary package to their employees in

order to recruit and retain individual’s performance. Other than that, they also adopted several

training programme to encourage professional development and develop leadership skills

among their employees such as Supervisor Development Programme and Group Leader

Apprentice Programme and Teambuilding Programme.

S2- 5S Approach

Through the 5S method, the company able to improve the organizational climate quickly and

bring back motivation to employees with more quality of life came increased productivity and

efficiency. 5S approach is including clean their areas at the end of each shift and their

stationaries during and after the working hour. Most all of the employees follow 5S in this

company. This will improve the performance of this company. The communication between the

boss and employees are important to reduce misunderstanding and the employees will be more

loyal and obey rules as well respect their bosses. Therefore, Emery continuously increase their

productivity more efficient and in effective processes, reduced costs and make work

environments more favorable, organized and enjoyable. However, the supervisor is practiced to

monitor the employees to follow the 5S concept in the office.

S3- Well Known Worldwide

35 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Emery Olechemicals is headquartered in Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor with three

manufacturing sites and sales and marketing offices in Malaysia, United States, and Germany

with network covering over 50 countries globally and 1000 employees worldwide. This is

because Emery has developed manufacturing partnerships with some of the world’s leading

corporation in the manufacturing field such as Sime Darby Plantation and PTT Global Chemical

which make them presented worldwide.

7.2 Weaknesses

36 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

W1- Less Upgraded Computer Facilities

It is important for Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. to make improvement on computer

facilities in order to enable the workers to follow the footsteps of the entire agency. For example,

when transferring the documents from supervisor’s computer to trainee’s computer, some

documents are unable to open due to different version of Microsoft and that might buy sometime

in order to convert the documents to the old version. This has caused inefficiency in the work.

They can increase numbers of computers and other facilities for employees to do the works.

W2- Limited Parking Space

Employees in Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. has a limited parking space. Due to this

situation, it is difficult for the trainees to find parking. The space of parking is limited which

makes them to rush in the morning. If there are more parking lots, it will much easier for

employees and trainees. As this company requires a large workforce and the majority of them

prefer to use a car to go to work. Each of the parking needs to be addressed by numbers or

employees name. The employees cannot continually rush to begin their work because they

have a hard time finding a parking space. A parking shortage is a serious problem, but it is

something that can be avoided or remedied if Emery provide more parking spaces for

employees and visitors who come to Emery.

W3- Supervisor Has Insufficient Time to Monitor the Trainees

Another problem that is facing by Emery is lack of expert employees. Expert employees plays

the most important role in an organization. From my observation, some of the employees are

lack of skills and are not expert in certain task. Their performance will not reach the objectives

and aim of Emery and this will affect the whole organization. Therefore, Emery need enough

expert employees who has all the skills and ability to perform the tasks with great time

37 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

management and could discuss to come up with strategies and ideas to improve Emery

Oleochemicals. Besides that, most of the time supervisor is busy with his work because his

work load is too many and the time to monitor the trainees has become lesser. In the end

trainees do not have enough time to learn more new things. Supervisor need to approach

trainees face to face in order to settle the problem that occur in work place and to gain more

knowledge.

38 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

7.3 Opportunities

O1- New Markets

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. is a world leader and global manufacturer of high-

performance, natural-based specialty chemicals. They have good reputation as manufacturer at

the highest quality. It helped Emery to increase their sales during the year which seen under

review. The company seeks market opportunities in Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil

(RSPO). RSPO will transform markets to make sustainable palm oil the norm to develop,

implement, verify, assure and periodically review credible global standards for the entire supply

chain of sustainable palm oil. The company also seeks co-operations in contract manufacturing

with large companies that recognize worldwide such as Sime Darby and PTT Global Chemical.

Therefore, Emery have the opportunity to expand their business into other develop countries as

well.

O2- Improve Communication Skill

Another chance that may increase organizational performance is to improve communicate skills

among the employees. It may help the employees to speak out their initiative and ideas without any

barriers. It also may tighten the relationship between superior and subordinate. By then, the

employee will feel comfortable and thus may increase the loyalty towards the company.

O3- High Image and Reputation

Emery has high potential to increase profit and could attract more new customers. This is

because Emery has good image and reputation for their best service for their customers. Other

than that, Emery has been received awards for Excellence in Environmental, Health, Safety &

Security Performance by the Ohio Chemistry Technology Council (OCTC) for Safety Leadership

Program in 2011, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, Risk Reduction Award by the Alliance for

39 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Chemical Safety for INFIGREEN® Polyols Process in 2016, Cincinnati USA Partnership Growth

Award in 2013, Manny Award for Innovative Solutions to Environmental Problems in 2012 and

2013. In 2009 and 2011, Emery has received Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Green Excellence

Award for Product Innovation in Renewable Chemicals. Emery received Champion of the 2011

Corporate Friends of the House Society, Ronald McDonald House in 2011 meanwhile Partner of

the Fire Brigades in 2008. Emery is also creating a fine name in Malaysia and in global

manufacturing outsourcing arena. Therefore, I personally feel that this is an opportunity for

Emery to build and maintain their reputations and gain more customers and maintain their good

name.

40 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

7.4 Threats

T1- Lack of Marketing

Marketing is one of the way to enhance the products that provide by the company. With a great

marketing, it will make the customers to be aware about this organization’s services. Marketing

plays an important role in developing the business in the market. Unfortunately, Emery is lack of

marketing because they maintain relationship with their regular customer only. Based on my

observation, Emery did not do any marketing and there are very less advertisement about

Emery services and products. This weaknesses will lead to the situation that only regular

customers will know the existence of Emery.

T2- Government Regulatory

Since Emery Oleochemicals is the company who provides integrated manufacturing chemicals

for home and personal care, construction, automotive, lubricants, packaging, food and

beverage, pharmaceuticals, textiles and leathers, paper and ink, electrical and electronic

appliance, furniture and others should go through custom approval before progressing the

shipment to the customer. The sudden changes and new government policies may threat the

company process. The recent governments policies about custom regulation have cause a

great concern for the industry. Strict government regulatory is also considered as threat for

Emery. There are many government regulations and policies need to be follow by the company

such as minimum wage legislation, cargo insurance and mainly about the custom shipment. If

companies fail to follow or break the rule which enforced by government, it will bring them into

trouble such as receive penalty from the government.

41 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

7.5 TOWS Analysis

Strength Weakness
S1 Effective training W1 Less upgraded computer
Internal Programmes facilities
S2 5S Approach W2 Limited parking space
External S3 Well-known worldwide W3 Supervisor has insufficient
time to monitor the trainees

Opportunities SO Strategies WO Strategies


O1 New market S1O1 Capturing Opportunity W2O3 Improvement by providing
O2 Improve S3O3 Maintenance of more parking space
communication skill competitive advantage W3O2 Increase communication
O3 High image and between staffs and
Reputation management

Threats ST Strategies WT Strategies


T1 Government regulatory S2T1 Systematic W1T2 Technological
T2 Lack of marketing management Advancement
S3T2 Marketing W3T2 Provide training
Implementation Programs

8.0 Suggestions to Solve the Problems

42 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

8.1 SO Strategies

S1O1 Capturing Opportunity

Emery Oleochemicals with four manufacturing sites in Malaysia, United States, and Germany

manufactures chemicals for home and personal care, construction, automotive, lubricants,

packaging, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, textiles and leathers, paper and ink, electrical

and electronic appliance, furniture and others. There are many wins from Emery’s stable of

branded with global benchmarking are endorsement of Emery competitiveness. Therefore, by

using this strength, Emery expand their business into other develop countries or new market as

well by creating fine name in Malaysia and in global manufacturing outsourcing arena and to be

a center of attraction for talents while taking on the global competition.

S3O3 Maintenance of Competitive Advantage

Emery is specialized in product and service in home and personal care, construction,

automotive, lubricants, packaging, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, textiles, electrical and

electronics, and agriculture. Therefore, the strategy to maximize high image and reputation as

opportunity by using fast service as strength to maintaining competitive advantage. By

maintaining a fast service to customer which is a competitive advantage of Emery can boost up

and indirectly increase high image and reputation. This is because satisfied customer who

experienced a high level manufacturing capabilities will be a loyal customer and give best rating.

By achieving the performance target and customer satisfaction, Emery can have a high image

and reputation.

8.2 WO Strategies

43 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

W2O3 Improvement by Providing More Parking Space

Emery Oleochemicals should minimize the weakness which is insufficient parking space by

taking effective action of the strategic location to increase profits and for more since most of

Emery’s customer are from overseas. To avoid Emery employees and customers from facing

more difficulties, Emery should provide more parking spaces by building parking lot. This

strategy will definitely can increase high image and reputation of Emery which indirectly can add

more profits. The more parking spaces are available, the more comfortability felt by Emery

stakeholders and others.

W3O2 Increase Communication between Staffs and Management

Emery’s management team should communicate with the employees to let know the flow of the

operations as well all their decisions and the progress of the business operations. The staffs

should be given opportunity to voice out their suggestions in order for the business betterment.

Apart from that, the company may appoint a leader to communicate with higher management in

monthly basis for the company to know the employees needs and problems. This will help the

company to reduce employee turnover among the employees as the employees will appreciate

the company effort to consider their needs and problems. A well communication will able the

employees understand the changes and follow according to the changes. Thus, I suggest that

the company should list the term that have been modified or changed by the top management

and compose a memo to inform the employees about the changes.

8.3 ST Strategies

44 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

S2T1 Systematic Management

Emery Oleochemicals should manage the employees and business operations more efficiently.

The top management should do routine supervision on the business operations. They have to

make sure that the employees tasks are not overlapped and in proper manner so that the

important documents are filed and the employees are following all the company rules and

regulations. The top management also has to inform all the decisions made to the employees as

soon as possible so that the employees are always up-to-date with the company progress.

Besides that, make sure the employees follow government regulations and policies that need to

be follow by the company such as minimum wage legislation, cargo insurance and mainly about

the custom shipment. Emery can set an approach or procedures that need to be followed in

their daily working routine to avoid any trouble to Emery such as penalty from the government.

S3T2 Marketing Implementation

Emery is well known for its quality and fast services of integrated manufacturing chemicals

throughout worldwide. In order to upgrade its services and overcome the lack of marketing

problem, coming up with more technological advancements according to customer’s

requirement that can minimize this threat. Other than that, new marketing strategies should be

technology advanced which should be effective and easier to reach all customers and also

attract new customers other than using emails and skype. One of the best marketing strategies

may come out is with hire more sales and marketing executives to attract new customer and

promote Emery’s service and product throughout the country to increase the customer. With a

great direct marketing, it will make the customers to be aware about this organization.

Therefore, marketing plays an important role in developing the business in the market.

8.4 WT Strategies

45 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

W1T2 Technological Advancement

Emery Oleochemicals is a bigger manufacturing company thus all the employees need to be

technology advanced which should be effective and easier to reach all customers and also

attract new customers. These technologies advancement is very necessary for sales and

marketing executives because they need to travel the countries to reach them. They must make

sure all the software and apps or different version of Microsoft should the install in the personal

computer in order to make efficiency in the work when direct with different customers for

business attraction. This also will be easier for management to track the customer’s requirement

from the sales executive’s report and to perform work smoothly.

W3T2 Provide Training Program

Emery should provide training and develop innovations to compete with their competitors. For

the lack of expert employees, Emery should provide training program frequently to upgrade the

Emery’s employee’s skills and their performance. Emery should add more training to its

employees so that they can increase the credibility and productivity of the organization.

Therefore, lack of expert staffs can be minimized by providing training program and will be able

to face the competitors and increase in financial profit from the previous year’s target. Besides,

Emery also can increase the number of potential customers for good recognition that gains

good investment from foreign companies.

8.5 Suggestions to the Organization

46 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

I strongly recommend Emery Oleochemicals to focus on their weakness. Emery should improve

their weaknesses first to become more desirable employer. Emery should target to be a better

service provider and increase number of products and come out with own brand product over

worldwide. Besides, the top management should responsible in increase their communication

among the staffs and the organization. The management should communicate and discuss their

decisions and progresss to all employees so that the employees will get the idea of what’s

happening around them. The employees should be given an opportunity to voice out their

suggestions for a better management. Apart from that, the organization can appoint a leader to

communicate with higher management monthly for the organization to know the employees

needs and problems. This will help the company to reduce employee’s turnover and the

employees will appreciate their leader’s effort for considering their needs and problems.

A well communication will make the employees understand the changes and follow

them. Therefore, I suggest that Emery should discuss with the employees and compose a

memo to inform the employees about these changes or emailing them. In addition, Emery’s

management must come out with rules or procedures where head of each department should

monitor the employee’s task given. Emery should manage the section head and employees

more efficiently especially sales and marketing department and customer service department

because they are the one interacting directly with the customers. The leader must make sure

that each employee’s tasks are not overlapped and are done without mistakes and most

importantly the employees are following the organization’s rules and regulations. Therefore, the

head of the department has an authority to monitor the employees in the organization. Lastly,

Emery should motivate their employees for a better management system.

47 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Part 3: Self-Experience/ Conclusion

9.0 Theories and Practices That I Have Gained In the Given Task

In this 4 months duration of internships, I have gained a lot of knowledge and skills

throughout this practicum. Practicum gave me the opportunity to practice my leadership,

independent learning and team building skills. The training given in practicum program is mind

opening as well as it taught me on how to adapt with colleagues who are way more elder than

me and who has different characters and point of view. In order to compete in working life, the

main thing I need to do is adapting with new environment and new people. Besides that, I

learned how to adapt myself in such group of people throughout this industrial training. It also

makes me to observe things from different outlook. I started to observe the work tasks and

people deeper.

Besides that, I learned how to do certain things and how not to do certain things in

working life. For example, I learned to double check all the documentation tasks that I did in

order to avoid mistakes. This is because certain employees in the company used to do their

task in hurry and likely make silly mistakes which gave a bad impression on them from the

superior. I also find out so much about working life through this practicum program. Not only

from the view of developing practical competencies, I also realized how has the entire

management process the work of daily task. This program helps me to gain depth of

understanding in the business and its management field. I think this was the most crucial thing

about this practicum program.

During my industrial training period at Emery Oleochemicals, I had learnt the concept of

patient with the staffs and certainty I had contributed in terms of ideas as well as my

commitment to the organization. In addition, I had assisted and backed up by my supervisor in

handling works and key in data in excel sheet. I also helped my supervisor to capture the

48 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

product image and prepare the description of each products. I assign to do other tasks such as

arrange claimed sheet form for each employee under Sales and Marketing team.

I also enjoyed in performing my job responsibilities and fortunately everything went

smoothly even it was quite tiring and may do over time to finish the daily task. This industrial

training experience was very educative because it makes me to learn many things and to be

self-reliance without depending on anyone. Overall, I had great practicum experiences of being

a part of an organization and its operations throughout these 4 months.

49 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

9.1 New Experience in Undertaking the Practicum

Industrial training is the opportunity for the students to expose to the real working environment

and gaining knowledge. During my industrial training period which started from 11 th February

2019 until 10th June 2019 at Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. I had been exposed to the real

scenario of private sector working procedure. Thus, I can relate the theories learned in the

university with the industry training that I had done for almost 17 weeks. On the first day, I

reported my attendance to the Human Resource Executives in Emery who is Ms. Manisha. She

had given me a short briefing about the flows of works at Emery Oleochemicals and especially

in Sales and Marketing department. She explained to me about the rules and regulations of the

organization that I have to follow.

Besides, she also reminds me as a practical student, the main objective is to observe

the real working environment and able to adapt well in the organization. Meanwhile, the

secretary of Head of Sales and Marketing, Ms. Mariam shared much of the knowledge

regarding the starting point Emery where it comes from up to the latest improvement of Emery

especially in Sales and Marketing department. Almost every Monday she will give short brief

about job task and give some motivational talk to the team. Also, she had highlighted four most

important things for an individual to be succeeded in their career, which are knowledge, skills,

discipline and attitude.

The experience that I gain during my practical are as follow:

i. Computer Skills

I learned in details more about the functions of Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Excel which

I studied in STID (Computer Application class) where I had an opportunity to really make

use of it in working environment. Most of my tasks include the use of the Website, Microsoft

Excel and Microsoft Outlook. Even when key-in the data in the sheet I have to use certain

50 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

shortcut keys to make my task easier and faster. All this while I learn it theoretically but now

I have the chance to apply it during my practical.

ii. Team Work

I learnt the importance of teamwork during my practical. When there’s a task given, we help

each other as a team to complete it. In my company, some might have to do multi task to

complete all the work in company. When the work load is very heavy we will form in small

team to complete the task. For example, during mid of the year many enquiry about the

products will occur from customer. Thus, we form small group or divided according two

groups so that we minimize our work and can save energy and time. Most of time we will

help each other to complete our task.

iii. Learning Through Trial And Error And Mistake-Making

Practicum experience gave me a chance to see how things really works, trying out new

things, take risks, experiment and make mistakes. Whenever I get an unclear task from my

supervisor, I tried to do it on my own first or ask the senior staff Ms. Narmathaa and Ms.

Meerasri. I used to have the fear yet in whatever situation, my supervisor will treat me well

even though I make mistakes my supervisor patiently guided me to do the tasks in a right

manner. Thus, I learnt the importance of trial and error, and mistake making in the tasks.

iv. Time Management

First of all I learned to come early to work that is 10 minutes earlier to work so that I can

manage to get parking. I learned how to manage time when performing certain tasks as for

some people time is crucial. Since most of our task involve multi task work so I have divided

51 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

my time wisely so that I can finish my daily job routine on time. Hence, time management is

very important in any job as it will give impact on the company’s reputation.

v. Communication Skill

Workplace communication is very important to companies because it allows companies to

be productive and effective. I even experience an increase in morale, effective and

commitment when I’m are able to communicate up and down the communication chain in

my team. I also sharpened English language for my daily interaction and email replies to

other departments here. Most of us communicate in English with each other, thus my usage

of English is high. This makes me to improve my language proficiency when communicating

with customers and working colleague.

vi. Using Office Equipment Properly And Efficiently

To carry out office routine tasks which require extensive use equipment and machines in the

office to add more efficiency and save time to do the work. I have gained some experiences

to operate office equipment such as photocopy machines, fax machines, computer and

telephone. Even though it seems easy to use the equipment but without a proper procedure

and accurate manner, it might damage the equipment of the company. These skills I have

been mastered and it is a basic skill that should be on every employee.

vii. Skills Developed

Throughout my internship, I have gained more experience about working environment and

business trends nowadays. They are several skills that I feel have been improved in myself

which is personal skills, interpersonal skill, presentation skill, numeracy skill, writing skill and

also have gained self-confidence. In the aspect of personal appearance I learned a basic

52 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

skill of positive body language and negative body language in professions level. It might be

strange that certain body language we felt it is right but at the organizations level it might be

wrong especially when in meeting room or talking with a person. A person body language

and appearance will demonstrate whether the person has full concentration on the meeting

or not. The writing skill is another important part of communication. Good writing skills allow

us to communicate the message with clarity and ease to a far larger audience than through

face-to-face or telephone conversations.

viii. Learn To Work Under Pressure

Although I have placed under Sales and Marketing department which is related to my

education field, I really faced many difficulties to learn all tasks in short time. I have to

perform multi task skills so I found many difficulties to complete the entire task on time and

feel so stress. Sometimes I have to learn for myself some new things. But my supervisor

willing to spend time to correct all my mistakes and that make me easy to learn. At first the

work really make me feel stress but later on I learn to work under the pressure.

ix. Learn To Think More Creatively And Critically

The supervisor in the office made me to think more creatively and apply what I studied in

creative and innovative subject by asking my ideas and opinion on doing certain tasks. The

supervisor wants me to be more effective at work, so he used to collect my ideas and

opinions on doing tasks within a new way. I contributed certain new ideas such as placing

the name card in the name card folder according to alphabetic and country. Thus, it will

make my supervisor’s life better and easy to search for customers email address or contact

number.

53 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

9.2 Practicum Program Help in Preparing To Enter the Workforce In The Future

For a final year student, industrial training is one of the compulsory programmed. Through my

own experience I find out that it is totally different from what we learn. Once we entered working

field, the most important part is punctuality and discipline. It teaches us on how to be a

responsible and independent person in every work and it’s important to be a responsible person

and not to depend on other people to complete our task given. Besides that, in universities we

are more familiar with our friends, course mates, and lecturers. But in an organization, we will

be facing with different types of people and culture. For an example, in my organizational I will

be facing foreign employees and many different suppliers and customers. When we meet

different type of people, we need to have a good communication skill. This will be a good

experience for industrial training student to improve their communication skill and learnt on how

to hand people in complicated situation.

Other than that, industry training will help fresh graduate to involve themselves socially

with working colleagues. They can learn on how to be friendly with working colleagues and this

could lead to good communication network. However, this priceless experience may help fresh

graduate to learn and understand lots of knowledge. As a conclusion, experience actually

depend on the place or company where the student had their internship because they are many

types of companies such as manufacturing, forwarding and so on. The experience that gains by

the students depends on their job scope. Some students will get more experience compare then

other students. During my internship, I had to work under Sales and Marketing department so I

gain a lot of new experience by working in multi task environment. I was given different type of

task such as from capturing of sample products until key in the description of the products.

Giving chance for me to evaluate the company by myself and see if that is the place I might

wish to work. Lastly, I can say that my industrial training gave me the best experience ever.

54 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

9.3 Constraints While Undergoing the Practicum Training and How I Cope

In my opinion, internship is very important to a student in preparing to a real world because it

really helps a lot. Studies in University only is not enough to prepare for working in future. Along

the internship period, student will realize and get knowledge in all aspect such as work culture,

work environment, knowledge of product or services, manner, self-confidence and improve our

communication skill. Almost 17 weeks of industrial training at Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn.

Bhd, I faced a few problems in the beginning which are:

i. Fear Of Communicating With Employees In The Office

As I am new to the company and my colleagues are way older than me, I always fear to

communicate with the employees. I fear that they might not respond to me if I communicate

with them because I am just an internship student. However, I solved this constraint by

making myself brave to interact with them more often and with polite manner. By this, they

feel so comfortable with me. They became close to me and friendly as well.

ii. Difficulties In Learning New Things

Internship period taught a lot of new things and knowledge. For an example, I myself from

Bachelor of Business Administration background but I learned a lot on Sales and Marketing.

I learned a lot regarding sales such as replying the customers via email which asking about

product images and description, quotation about the products and much more. But I have

difficulties on learning such things as I don’t have any practical or theory understanding on

that field. At first, I felt hard to learn such things but now I am proud of myself as I know the

whole process of sales and marketing. However, I practice myself to ask my supervisor’s

opinion and advice to learn more new things. As day goes, I can understand how those

things working and adapting is importance to be a fast learner even it is hard.

55 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

10.0 Conclusion

As a conclusion, it is clearly known that practicum program is a crucial part of university

student’s life by enhancing the employable skills of graduates. This program prepares work-

ready students for industries. An exposure to industry practice is important for the students in

order to acquire employability skills through industrial experience. This program is a chance for

every student to put what they have learned at university to work in the kind of real life situations

when they start their career. It also gives students a great experience during their

undergraduate studies. From this practicum program, some of them are well-performed

students have also even received conditional job offers from the same company employers. The

students have been offered job upon the completion of their studies. Thus, it can be said that

the practicum program can be a powerful component to increase the student’s employability

capability. Apart from that, this program helps the students to be aware of what the present

society holds for them.

In addition, I felt happy and lucky to have my industrial training in Emery Oleochemicals

(M) Sdn. Bhd. because I am able to apply the knowledge and skills that I have learnt from the

curriculum. Apart from that, I really appreciate that Emery gave me the chance to expose to the

real workplace and gained a lot of knowledge and skills that cannot be learned from textbooks.

All the colleagues in Emery was patience and always give me a helping hand to deal with the

problem that I have faced during the industrial training. In addition, I have built up my confident

to accept the challenge or task that never seen before during the industrial training. With four

month placement, it has provided me the opportunities to develop and improve my soft and

functional skills. All of this valuable experience and knowledge that I have gained were not only

acquired through the direct involvement in the task given, but also through other aspect of the

56 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

training such as work observation, interaction with colleagues, superior, and other third party

related to the company.

Certainly, the skills like teamwork, ability to identify and solve problems, the effective

communication skills as well as help each other are very essential and can be developed during

the industrial training period. Last but not least, I would highly appreciate for the cooperation,

guidance and knowledge as well as the great experiences that had been shared with me along

the industrial training period. Those experiences and knowledge gained will last me a lifetime

and of course these would be a valuable asset for me as a fresh graduate which will be hunted

for a job soon. Last but not least, I will use all the experience that I gained from Emery in my

future prospect.

57 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

11.0 References

Company Overview of Emery Oleochemicals Group. (n.d.). Retrieved June 13, 2019, from

https://www.bloomberg.com/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=5644158

Emery Oleochemicals. (n.d.). Retrieved June 13, 2019, from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emery_Oleochemicals

Emery Oleochemicals (M) Sdn. Bhd. | Member. (n.d.). Retrieved June 13, 2019, from

https://rspo.org/members/1135/Emery-Oleochemicals-M-Sdn.-Bhd

Emery Oleochemicals | Natural-Based, Specialty Chemicals. (n.d.). Retrieved June 13, 2019,

from https://www.emeryoleo.com/

58 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

12.0 Appendices

Appendix A: Malaysia

Plastic Addtiives & Bio-Lubricant Plant


(2012)

Co-surfactants Plant
(2016)

Sulphonation Plant
(2015)

P&AD Lab, Telok Panglima Garang

Appendix B: Germany

Esterification (2013)
59 | P a g e
Beading Tower (2014)

BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Technical Development
Center (2013)

TDC, Loxstedt

Appendix C: United States

60 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

Renewable & Recycled Content Polyol Plant


(2015)

TDC, Cincinnati

Appendix D: Samples of Chemicals

61 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

62 | P a g e
BPBX4908 PRACTICUM

63 | P a g e

You might also like