Haziq’s journey is a story of growth, self-discovery and a deep commitment to fostering international relations between his homeland and Japan. After graduating high school, Haziq, like many high achievers, secured a scholarship to pursue tertiary education abroad. Upon completing his Examination for the Japanese University (EJU) papers over the course of 2 years, he enrolled at Utsunomiya University in 2018 where he studied mechanical engineering.
This was the turning point that made a profound impact on the trajectory of his life. Keep reading to find out how after 8 years, he is making significant moves as the key person in ensuring the success of the Malaysia Fair Tokyo.
Mechanical Engineering to Business Development
When asked why mechanical engineering, Haziq explained that he has always had a deep interest in understanding how mechanical systems work. “I loved dismantling things and understanding the inner workings of machines,” he shares.
While academic excellence is an integral part of university life, these formative years are a journey of self-discovery where one discovers hidden interests and strengths. Extra-curricular activities such as volunteering and being an active member of student associations are platforms for personal growth and honing of soft skills beyond the classroom. “I started volunteering at the Malaysia Fair back in 2018,” Haziq recalled. This experience broadened his horizons and eventually led him to a role in Business Development (BD) at Figurative Japan after graduating university. Figurative Japan is a Malaysian-founded company, established in 2018, that offers consulting services, focusing on bridging business and cultural relations between Japan and Malaysia.
As a BD representative, his primary role is to promote business relations between the two countries and facilitating opportunities for Malaysian companies to engage with Japanese businesses. “Our company helps Malaysian businesses navigate the Japanese market, find partners and establish themselves here,” Haziq explained. “We also assist Malaysian delegations with matters involving logistics and translation services.”
While Haziq may not have chosen to pursue a career in engineering, his technical background has proven invaluable in his current role as it has allowed him to face challenges with a systematic and logical mindset. “Engineering teaches you how to think critically and solve problems,” he noted. “These skills have helped me in business development, where I often need to find creative solutions for cross-cultural challenges.”
Malaysia Fair Tokyo 2024
The Malaysia Fair Tokyo is an annual event that has been around since 2018. This event brings together all aspects of Malaysia, allowing visitors to enjoy Malaysian cuisine, be entertained by folk dances and immerse themselves in Malaysian traditions—all in the heart of Tokyo.
In 2023, Haziq participated in the event as a MyHeart volunteer where he supported the team in building awareness about MyHeart among the Malaysians in Japan – encouraging them to be part of the community and leveraging on the different initiatives available.
After resuming his role as a BD representative in 2024, Haziq took on a more significant role in organising the fair. “I was responsible for engaging with Malaysian ministries, agencies and companies to become exhibitors and strategic partners,” he shared. “We wanted to showcase the best of Malaysia and introduce to the Japanese audience our culture, business, and tourism.”
Hand-in-hand with his team of 20 staff members, they worked diligently for 10 months to ensure the success of the event. Coordinating close to 40 booths and a dozen food trucks by Malaysian companies was an entirely new experience for Haziq. From ensuring logistical arrangements are in order, to welcoming Malaysian companies in person at the event, it was a steep but enriching learning curve indeed.
Overcoming Challenges in Cross-Cultural Communication
One of the challenges Haziq typically faces in his role is bridging the cultural gap between Malaysia and Japan. “Japan and Malaysia have different ways of thinking and doing business,” Haziq explained. “Sometimes, direct communication doesn’t work, and I had to figure out how to relay information in a way that both sides could understand.”
Haziq’s role often requires him to act as a mediator, finding solutions to problems that may stem from cultural differences. “My engineering background helps me approach these challenges analytically, which makes it easier to find solutions,” he said.
Giving Back to Malaysia
Despite living and working in Japan, Haziq remains deeply committed to giving back to Malaysia not only through his professional career, but also by being part of the Malaysian community in Tokyo.
Haziq often shares his experience of working in Japan and navigating the cultural differences between Malaysia and Japan. “I talk to students about how to balance their identity and career when living abroad,” he explained. “It’s important for them to stay curious, embrace their identity and be proactive in seeking opportunities.”
When touching on the importance of staying connected to home, Haziq’s advice to incoming students was that “It’s easy to get caught up in life in another country, but it’s important to remember where you come from. Stay in touch with your family, friends, and fellow Malaysians, and always represent Malaysia positively.”
Get connected with Malaysians abroad and be part of the global Malaysian community by registering on MyHeart today!
