Medan-based skilled mechanic Robert Simanulang has declared his readiness to compete in the prestigious World Technician Grand Prix (WTGP), an international competition set to take place in Japan this September.
This high-profile contest will bring together the best automotive technicians from various countries to showcase their expertise in assembly, maintenance, and engine technology innovation.
Robert, a technician from Yamaha Alfa Scorpii Tanjung Morawa, sees this event as both a challenge and a great opportunity to represent his region and Indonesia on the global stage.
“I’ve undergone extensive preparations, including intensive technical training and improving my foreign language skills. My goal isn’t just to participate, but to bring honor to my country,” Robert stated during an interview at his workshop.
Robert secured his spot in the World Technician Grand Prix (WTGP) after emerging as the champion of ITGP 2025. He claimed first place through fierce competition against dozens of top technicians from across Indonesia.
“I’m truly grateful for this victory after competing three times at the regional level. The support from my team, mentors, and colleagues at Yamaha Alfa Scorpii played a crucial role,” Robert explained.
As Indonesia’s representative at WTGP, Robert is now preparing to face world-class technical challenges. Beyond technical skills, he’s also working on his mental preparation, English proficiency, and physical fitness to perform optimally in the international competition.
The national ITGP competition brought together 26 technicians from Yamaha Training Centers and 24 students from the Yamaha Special Class program. Participants were tested on various technical aspects reflecting real-world challenges.
The event series began with the Vocational School Skill Contest on Wednesday, followed by the ITGP finals on Thursday, and concluded with an appreciation awards night.
Competitors faced numerous technical challenges including routine maintenance, fault analysis using Yamaha Diagnostic Tools (YDT), precision measurement, and customer service simulations (CS Manner) and trade-in scenarios.
Yamaha’s latest motorcycle models such as the NMAX TURBO, R15, R25, WR155, and GEAR ULTIMA served as the primary testing subjects. Robert admitted the most challenging parts were troubleshooting and direct customer interactions.
“The NMAX TURBO proved particularly challenging for me. But through this process, I gained deeper knowledge about technology and effective customer communication,” he said.
Following his national victory, Robert is now preparing for the global stage at the World Technician Grand Prix. He’s focusing not only on technical skills but also on English proficiency, competitive mindset, and physical health.
“I’m returning to the classroom and workshop while strengthening my mental preparation and communication skills to compete with the world’s best technicians,” Robert affirmed optimistically.
The after-sales service manager of PT Alfa Scorpii expressed appreciation for Robert Simanulang’s achievement. He shared valuable experience and motivation with Robert before the competition.
He highlighted three key factors for ITGP success: concentration, continuous practice, and maintaining good health. “Robert shouldn’t feel intimidated by competitors from other regions. This should motivate him to demonstrate the true quality of Yamaha technicians from Medan,” he encouraged.
Yamaha ITGP is held biennially to improve technician quality and motivation, enabling them to meet market demands for superior service, repair, and maintenance as motorcycle technology advances.
The ITGP also serves as proof that Yamaha technicians are skilled professionals certified through Yamaha’s global-standard Regular Training programs. The event has become highly anticipated among Yamaha technicians as it demonstrates the capabilities of technicians from workshops across Indonesia.
