Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders Through Equitable Education

[6th from left] Ts. Lim Hui Yan, Executive Director, Gamuda Engineering and Head of Yayasan Gamuda with 2023 scholars, said the Gamuda Scholarship empowers students with financial aid, professional development, and career placement opportunities within Gamuda. 

The inflating cost of living and high tuition fees put a damper on the academic dreams of students, and those from lower-income families are being hit hardest. Recognising education as a cornerstone of progress and empowerment, the Gamuda Scholarship empowers students with financial aid, professional development, and career placements within Gamuda.

To date, Gamuda Scholarship has transformed the lives of 640 students, enabling them to pursue their dreams at top universities locally and abroad. Last year’s RM20 million investment supported students primarily from B40 and M40 families. This year, Gamuda increased that commitment to RM30 million, targeting to reach over 120 deserving students. 

Ts. Lim Hui Yan, Executive Director, Gamuda Engineering and Head of Yayasan Gamuda, a beneficiary of the scholarship in 2008, emphasises, “The Gamuda Scholarship aims to develop strong STEM capabilities and a digital-ready, AI-skilled workforce. It has always been part of Gamuda’s DNA to shape the next generation of leaders, who will make a positive impact on the company and ultimately the nation.” 

Pioneering change through education

[From left] Nurul Hikmah binti Rumaini, Joseph Majanil, and Fang Phei Wern are not only pursuing their academic passions but also driving positive change in their communities and beyond.

Education is a tool for societal transformation, as Gamuda’s incumbent scholars, Nurul Hikmah binti Rumaini, Joseph Majanil, and Fang Phei Wern have discovered. 

For Nurul, her dedication to empowering others stems from her experience of overcoming financial constraints to pursue a Bachelor of Mass Communications (Hons) at Universiti Teknologi MARA, “I want to champion equitable access to education so that no one is left behind. My journey as a Gamuda scholar is not just about personal success; it’s about using my talents and resources to uplift others around me and create positive change.”

Joseph said that receiving the Gamuda Scholarship has alleviated his burdens. “Instead of worrying about financial affordability, now I can focus on more meaningful personal growth and serving my community.” The scholar, who is undertaking a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours (Counselling Psychology) at Universiti Malaysia Sabah is actively involved in his Counseling and Psychology Club, which runs Disability Empowerment campaigns. “Being Kadazan, I’m also interested in the Orang Asli initiatives that Gamuda runs in Borneo,” he added.

Phei Wern’s pursuit of global communication and management at Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China, reflects her commitment to bridging the gap between complex technological concepts and the public. Her internships in venture capital firms have been an enriching experience. “I want to contribute to a higher representation of women in the investment space. One day, I hope to have the opportunity to manage a fund when I join the workforce.”

Transforming vision into reality

[From left] Raghu Bala Rajasekar, Pagie Lau Ting Ying, Grace Wong Qian Zhen and Tan Hong Keat are at the forefront of driving innovation and sustainability in the construction sector.

Raghu Bala Rajasekar, Pagie Lau Ting Ying, Grace Wong Qian Zhen and Tan Hong Keat exemplify the Gamuda Scholarship's transformative impact on working scholars.

Raghu’s journey from obtaining a degree in Civil Engineering at USCI University through the scholarship to being a Site Engineer, is a testament to the programme's incredible growth prospects. This includes the opportunity to work overseas as the Group expands regionally. “My late father was in the construction industry for 20 years. Fast-forward to today, I am currently working on the M1 Pacific Highway Extension project in Tarro, Australia.”

Providing more than just financial aid, the scholarship programme offers leadership training and a solid mentorship programme. Pagie, a mechanical engineering graduate of Universiti Malaysia Pahang, is thrilled to be a part of this: “Giving back is a privilege and responsibility, and I am dedicated to mentoring my juniors to ensure that they receive guidance on their professional journey.” The engineer who specialises in Gamuda’s Building Information Modelling (BIM) team also gives motivational talks at universities.

A fellow expert in BIM, Grace, shared how Gamuda leverages tech for efficiency and accuracy in its projects: “Engineering is different from what it was years ago. Digital transformation is crucial to the competitiveness and resilience of the country's construction sector.” The Senior Engineer, who has a background in Civil Engineering from INTI International University, related how being a Gamuda scholar has developed a digital-first mindset and constantly pushes the envelope on innovation.

As for Hong Keat, he will never forget his experience working on the MRT Putrajaya Line project. “I was not only able to contribute to an infrastructure of national significance, but also underwent a journey of self-discovery and professional advancement. The inclusive workplace promotes a culture of personal ownership and collective excellence.” The assistant manager at Gamuda Engineering received his scholarship in 2017 to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS.

Applications for the Gamuda Scholarship are still ongoing and will close on 30 April 2024. To apply, click here.