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Evan Ng has been living abroad for most of the past decade. From his years of studying petroleum engineering in the United States (US) to flying across the Atlantic Ocean to study Energy Systems in the United Kingdom (UK), he is always on the lookout for exciting new opportunities to explore his interest in the energy sector.
Currently a strategy consultant at Baringa's London office, Evan is passionate about finding ways to contribute back to Malaysia, even if he is 10,000 km away from home. His work not only allows him to explore the energy transition themes in the UK, working with both the private and public sectors on various renewable and low carbon energy solution strategies, but also to work closely with the team in Singapore to explore the energy transition journey in Malaysia and the surrounding region.
“The energy market is a very niche area. In Malaysia, we arrange the energy market very differently from how the UK or the US do it.”
Bridging the lack of representation in the energy transition sector.
Due to the talent gap in the renewable and low carbon solution industry, Evan strives to find ways to share his experiences and knowledge abroad with people back home. He is a regular contributor to various newspapers in Malaysia, such as The Star and The Edge, where he shares commentaries and insights on energy transition-related topics in his column articles.
Evan takes things a step further by consistently scheduling weekly coffee chats with students and professionals who are interested in exploring opportunities within the energy transition sector. He works alongside student associations such as the UK Malaysian Association of Postgraduates and Professionals (MAPP), Higher Education Malaysia Association (HEYA), and International Council of Malaysian Scholars (ICMS), and also through the connections he made personally.
For him, if he can help support one person to pursue their goal, that would be his way to pay it forward.
“Nothing sounds closer to the heart than contributing to people who are similar to me (Malaysians).”
Climbing to the highest peaks during his free time.
As an outdoor person, he enjoys everything from cycling to camping to rock climbing. During his time in the US, he has visited over 20 national parks. He has also been to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Everest Base Camp, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Machu Pichu.
“I’ll be back in Malaysia at the end of the year and will be climbing up Mount Kinabalu with some friends!”
He is also starting to pick up Malaysian fiction, such as books by Tasha Aw and Hanna Alkaf.
Navigating the clash in identity.
For a lot of Malaysians who moved abroad, whether to study or to work, they always faced the same dilemma. Do I stay within my Malaysian community and focus on my roots, or do I mix in with the locals and learn how to blend in with the local community?
However, Evan believes there is always a way to navigate the journey. “It’s not always one or the other – both can co-exist simultaneously.”
“When I was in Oxford, I like to take the train down to London for Malaysian food. I used to sit in the corner of the shop just to listen to the Malaysian accents.”
Evan finds the UK to be more comforting than the US, and it’s not just because of the abundance of good Malaysian food or the Malaysian community in general. The relatively smaller size of London means that it is easier to engage and connect with different people.
Connecting with Malaysians from all over the globe.
When asked about his opinions of the MyHeart platform, Evan talks about how important and beneficial it can be to Malaysians all over the world to be able to connect and network with one another, especially for those who are in a much smaller Malaysian community.
“And it’s so much more than just an opportunity to network and talk about careers – but to collaborate on actual projects and initiatives that can bring value to Malaysia and her people.”
To connect with Evan and other Malaysians abroad, join the MyHeart community today.
Growing up in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, Mohd Firdaus Kamaruddin, affectionately known as Firdaus, would not have predicted the international journey ahead of him. Reflecting on his origins, he says, “I was raised by my grandparents and lived with them for the first 12 years of my life, which shaped my core fundamentals. I then moved to Kuala Kangsar to attend boarding school, and from there, my academic path led me to accounting, with the backing of a local scholarship from PETRONAS.”
The Global Experience at GE
With credentials in hand and fire in his belly, Firdaus joined GE's ‘Financial Management Program’ after a short 2-year stint with PETRONAS. The programme, which he proudly shares, was over a century old and presented him with a golden ticket to a whirlwind of global experiences. The programme's constant rotation took him from Malaysia to Singapore, Hong Kong, and back, eventually leading him to GE's Corporate Audit Staff, a well-established finance career accelerator in the company.
"I spent most of that time in the US, being sent on assignments from Mexico to Shanghai, Bristol, Abu Dhabi, and several US cities, among others." But it wasn't just about work for Firdaus; it was a cultural immersion. "Every country has its unique culture," he emphasises. The experience honed his adaptability, teaching him to "assimilate but also remain true to oneself."
He recalls the biggest culture shock came during his time in the US, where the fierce "Type A" Americans challenged his introverted nature. "I felt insecure about my accent and English skills," he confesses. But, determined as always, he took to heart the advice of supportive colleagues: emphasise effort over perfection.
“My experience with GE took me around the world. It was intense but enriching for my career and personal development.”
Middle Eastern Adventures
Qatar was a brief but crucial chapter as a springboard to his Dubai stint in 2014. His work with GE, especially his involvement after the Alstom acquisition, saw him tackling roles of increasing responsibility.
“Starting as the Middle East region’s Financial Planning and Analysis leader, I eventually oversaw the entire Middle East Africa as the Finance Leader,” Firdaus explains. He described his role: "Nothing is ever the same in my role because I run a region, so I learn something new every day."
Firdaus's heart lies not just in numbers but also in discovering the stories of places. "I appreciate history," he says. In Dubai, he takes solace in long walks, whether inside malls to escape the heat or outside to marvel at the Emirati architecture. On weekends, he dives into books, explores investments, and embarks on travel adventures, relishing art, museums, and historical sites.
A Strong Malaysian Connection
No matter where his journey took him, the flavours and stories of Malaysia remained close to his heart. “Food is my tether to Malaysia. I have a small group of Malaysian friends wherever I go. We'd gather, discuss home, and indulge in Malaysian delicacies,” he reminisces. “Whenever I find myself in a new place, I search for Malaysians or at least a hint of Malaysian cuisine.”
Berlin Beckons
Having recently accepted the Finance Leader role for Grid Systems Integration Central Europe at GE Grid Solutions, Firdaus is embarking on new adventures in Berlin. “The European focus on renewable energy is captivating, and we're at the forefront with several mega projects. It's an opportunity to merge my experiences from the Middle East with the challenges of Central Europe,” he shares.
Lessons and Reflections
When asked about advice for Malaysians considering an overseas move, Firdaus emphasises the importance of adaptability. "You can't expect to stay with a Malaysian mentality without assimilating," he advises, highlighting the need to research local nuances and customs.
However, his love for his homeland remains unwavering. "I love Malaysia as my home. Malaysia has its strengths and flaws, but it's still my home, and I wouldn't trade it for anything," he declares with pride.
Looking to the Future with TalentCorp's Initiatives
Firdaus appreciates platforms like the MyHeart portal. “It's a fantastic start,” he observes, “The challenge is to keep the momentum and use this platform to strengthen connections among Malaysians and optimise our global relations.”
As he continues his international journey in Berlin, he leaves us with a resonating thought, “Success isn’t tied to a place, it’s a journey. It's about aligning with your visions and goals, wherever you may be.”
If you’re a Malaysian residing abroad like Firdaus, join MyHeart to be part of a global community with Malaysians at its heart.
At a young age, growing up in Klang, Lam Ka Jhun was captivated by the world of environmental science, a fascination fuelled by witnessing the adverse impacts of palm oil issues in Indonesia.
"That experience sparked my interest in the subject," he recalls.
Following his passion, Ka Jhun navigated a challenging journey from Malaysia to Australia, transforming from a budding scholar studying environmental science and corporate sustainability into a sustainability consultant who guides companies in developing climate strategies. Today, he holds a pivotal role at Visy, a Melbourne-based company, where he spearheads recycling and carbon reduction initiatives.
The Melbourne Experience
Adapting to a new home was challenging. From adjusting to the chilly climate to pining for the genuine tastes of Malaysian cuisine, Ka Jhun confronted these hurdles with determination, drawing strength from his tight-knit community of friends and family he had in Australia. Despite the initial shock of culture change, he discovered a harmonious fusion of Malaysian warmth and the Australian emphasis on well-being and happiness.
"I appreciate not needing to drive everywhere; I often walk or take the tram, which saves me money," he shares, emphasising Australia's well-structured public transport system.
While many would find solace in hobbies or activities, Ka Jhun finds his in the simplest pleasures. “Although it may sound old-fashioned, I genuinely enjoy grocery shopping. On weekends, I love to take walks and sometimes grab a hot chocolate on my way back,” he admits.
Work-Life Balance: A Tale of Two Cultures
Although Ka Jhun's professional journey in Australia was rewarding, it was not without its challenges. Transitioning from Malaysia's intertwined work-life communication methods to Australia's distinct separation was a learning curve.
"In Malaysia, personal and work communications often mix on platforms like WhatsApp. But in Australia, there's a distinct separation," he explained.
Ka Jhun appreciated Australia's emphasis on a healthy work-life balance, reflecting, "The work culture here emphasises a family-first approach, and employees aim to return home to their families as soon as their workday concludes."
He also pointed out that cultural nuances were something he encountered at work and personal interactions. "Simple things like accents, jokes, references, and conversational topics differ," Ka Jhun observed. Adapting his accent and understanding Australian humour took time. Still, he emphasised the importance of engaging in conversations based on local topics without losing one's identity.
A Conscious Embrace of Home
As he built his life in Melbourne, Ka Jhun has maintained a strong and unwavering connection to his Malaysian roots. He adeptly balances his media consumption to stay informed about developments in his homeland, all the while keeping close and constant contact with his cherished family and friends.
"Technology has been a blessing in that regard," he confesses, valuing the virtual reunions during important family events he cannot attend in person. Ka Jhun adds a hint of Malaysia into his Australian life, even recommending his favourite Malaysian delicacies to friends curious about his homeland.
Despite the distance, Ka Jhun never lets himself become a stranger to Malaysia. He returns at least once a year, making it a point to attend family events and significant celebrations.
"My parents and siblings are in Kuala Lumpur. I come back often for gatherings, especially during Chinese New Year or Christmas time," he explained. The pandemic presented a challenge, but technology bridged the gap, enabling him to stay connected.
Guiding Future Trailblazers
For Ka Jhun, open-mindedness is paramount for Malaysians contemplating moving abroad. He encourages embracing the opportunities to learn from individuals around the globe while staying true to one's roots. He shares, "One of the biggest privileges for me, being based overseas in a cosmopolitan city like Melbourne, is the chance to speak and learn from people across different parts of the world."
Reflecting and Giving Back
Living in Melbourne has provided Ka Jhun with a broadened perspective. He explains, "Being overseas has broadened my perspective. Every country and system are unique, but I've learned to appreciate Malaysia more, especially its peace, food, and diversity."
His sentiments align with his appreciation for the MyHeart platform, an initiative fostering connections between overseas Malaysians. "Many Malaysians overseas still want to contribute back to the country, and I'm glad to be one of them," he asserts.
For those considering moving abroad, Ka Jhun has advice from his own journey. “I think it's really about being open-minded because it helps us become more globalised,” he reflects. Living abroad has not only shaped his perspective but has also ignited a deeper appreciation for his homeland.
He concludes, “Cultural norms and values may be different, but kindness and competence are universal.”
To connect with Ka Jhun and other Malaysians abroad, join the MyHeart community today.
A true pioneer in the world of innovation, Jo Ann Lim has crafted an extraordinary career at the forefront of cutting-edge technology. She embarked on her journey at Maxis Berhad, starting as a management graduate and ascending to the position of department head. Along the way, she led diverse projects, from overseeing the 2G-3G transition in India to collaborating on the launch of new smartphones with Samsung in Korea and London.
Now, at Meta, Jo Ann has been instrumental in forging and nurturing partnerships that have transformed the WhatsApp Business Platform in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) market. She has also taken on a new role where she stands at the vanguard of assisting corporations in envisioning the future of virtual reality for work and bringing the Metaverse vision to life.
"I've always been involved with the latest technologies, adapting to the rapid changes in the field," Jo Ann shares, underscoring her lifelong passion for product management and technological advancement in the industry.
Discovering Home from Afar
The fertile lands of Malaysia served as Jo Ann’s initial stepping stone, but her career propelled her to diverse corners of the world, providing her with a comprehensive perspective on the realities of life abroad. "Some people move to escape various issues and then realise that living abroad comes with challenges," she observes.
Her international stints, especially in India, Korea, and the UK, deepened her appreciation for Malaysia. "What surprised me most is realising how good we have it in Malaysia," she recalls, citing Malaysia's efficient services. Yet, her time abroad made her reflect on her quality of life, especially when considering her child's future.
Dispelling Overseas Myths
“Moving overseas doesn't automatically offer a better life,” Jo Ann emphasises, breaking the myth that greener pastures await abroad. Living abroad comes with unique hurdles, from steep heating bills in winter to high taxation. Despite a fruitful career, Jo Ann acknowledges that she makes less money after taxes than her peers in Malaysia, providing a down-to-earth viewpoint for those who may be tempted by the idea of living abroad.
Jo Ann is quick to clarify, "Living abroad is undoubtedly enriching, but it's not without its challenges. Every country has its unique set of hurdles." She praises Malaysia's healthcare system, drawing comparisons with her experiences in the UK.
Despite her global adventures, Jo Ann reserves a special place in her heart for Malaysia. "I have a deep love for Malaysia, and I've always envisioned retiring there," she confesses.
The Joys and Challenges of Raising a Family Abroad
Her experiences have shaped her perspective on nurturing a family, gravitating towards Malaysia's balanced lifestyle, a place where quality of life isn't compromised by intense competition.
“When thinking about raising children, the lifestyle in Malaysia seems more balanced,” she explains, cherishing the more moderate demands placed on children in her homeland.
Nurturing Roots in Foreign Soil
Despite her extensive international career, Jo Ann finds solace in the familiar. She and her husband have cultivated a cherished pastime of cooking spicy meals and experimenting with new recipes.
"Here in the UK, even if you have the means, many places close early," she notes, underscoring the delight she finds in infusing her UK kitchen with a touch of Malaysia.
Cooking has evolved from a routine household chore into a journey of exploration and a means of nurturing her connection with her Malaysian heritage. Preparing spicy dishes at least once a week has become a treasured ritual. "My husband and I have taken to exploring new recipes," she enthuses. "Conversations about Malaysia and its cuisine are commonplace."
This shared passion for Malaysian cuisine with a community of Malaysians in London serves as a comforting reminder of home, a shared joy that transcends geographical boundaries. While London offers a plethora of culinary options, Jo Ann openly admits to missing certain Malaysian delicacies, underscoring how food remains an enduring link to her Malaysian roots.
The Heartbeat of Connection
Despite the distance between Malaysia and the UK, Jo Ann diligently nurtures bonds with her family through regular visits and technology, especially through WhatsApp.
"I visit Malaysia at least once yearly, typically during festive seasons like Chinese New Year. I maintain close contact with my family through apps like WhatsApp," she reveals. Through tradition and technology, Jo Ann ensures that distance doesn't dilute her connections.
As Jo Ann reflects on her journey, she emphasises the importance of adaptability. "It means accepting things differently from what you know. It might push you to learn a new language or customs.” Jo Ann's story offers insight into her world and a lesson on embracing change, resilience, and cherishing home's familiar comforts.
Jo Ann's perspective on MyHeart carried out by TalentCorp adds another layer of insight to her story, “I support the MyHeart platform and believe in the importance of building a network of relationships among Malaysians, both domestically and abroad.”
“This is a valuable initiative that connects Malaysians worldwide. It offers numerous benefits, particularly for Malaysians seeking to connect with others, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration,” she adds.
If you’re a Malaysian residing abroad like Jo Ann, join MyHeart to be part of a global community with Malaysians at its heart.
For some people, especially the younger generation, staying at one company for more than five years sounds like a very long time. For Mi Mi, who spent over 20 years of her professional life at Intel Malaysia in Penang, having the opportunity to move across the straits to Singapore was the right next step for her personal and professional development.
“It was really time to move on and try on a new challenge,” she said.
Mi Mi now works with Micron Technology in Singapore as a Senior Director, Global Executive HR Business Partner for Global Operations, where she supports the Executive Vice President in driving and directing the organisation’s talent strategies and initiatives for 30,000 employees around the world.
According to Mi Mi, it was not a drastic difference when it came to work.
“Both Intel and Micron are big US corporations, so the work culture and environment are pretty similar. This made it easier to transition, especially after spending over two decades in the same organisation!”
Not all is sunshine and rainbows
When one is considering a move abroad to a new country, we often look at the pros of the opportunity, for example, for better salary, better weather, new challenges, and even just because it is a new place. People often jump at the first opportunity to move abroad due to the promises of a new start.
However, the reality can be quite different. Couple that with making the transition during the COVID-19 pandemic, when lockdowns were in place and cross-border movements were limited, the move abroad was not as easy as it sounded. The experience of going through the transition as a family is fulfilling. This rewarding adventure (the goods and the challenges) has given Mi Mi and her family a new level of exposure and appreciation of differences.
“There are always pros and cons in every decision you make. You and your family must always be aware of it so you can be better prepared for the changes in your life.”
For instance, Mi Mi and her family had to move out of their landed property in Penang and into a smaller condominium in Singapore. She has one comment on food in Singapore, “I still can’t find a good enough nasi lemak here – the sambal is never spicy enough for me!”
Exploring the hidden gems
Singapore has plenty to offer, from the bustling city life to the peaceful nature and parks.
“People think that Singapore is a crowded and fast-paced country, but I think it is still reasonably OK. Everything is well-planned across the country, where the malls and schools are well-distributed. So, you won’t see a lot of people crowding the same place all the time.”
Mi Mi also likes to spend her Sundays exploring new places in Singapore with her family, which includes hiking or exploring the scenic parks and bridges.
“People always tend to compare Malaysia to Singapore, and how Singapore is better than Malaysia. I find this to be true to some extent, but not always.”
For instance, Mi Mi finds that the services industry in Malaysia is more customer-oriented and flexible. The Malaysian Hospitality, according to her, feels closer to heart and friendly.
“But in terms of public transportation, yes, Singapore wins!”
Challenging yourself for your future growth.
There will always be ups and downs in every decision, but one has to learn to step out of one's comfort zone and try something new.
“Sure, it can be a bit uncomfortable and strange at the beginning, but you’ll learn a lot from the experience.”
Mi Mi and her family moved abroad to gain new experiences through her career progression. While it may not be a perfect decision, they are making the most out of the challenge and reaping as much benefits as they can get.
If you’re a Malaysian residing abroad like Mi Mi, join MyHeart to be part of a global community with Malaysians at its heart.
If you are looking to tap into the South Australian market, look no further. The Australia Malaysia Business Council (South Australia chapter) or AMBCSA can help you to make that first connection.
According to Dr. Evelyn Yap, who holds the position of president at AMBCSA, the organisation serves as a bridge for fostering collaboration and establishing connections between businesses from Malaysia and South Australia.
“We try to run 4 events a year with one event each quarter,” said Dr. Evelyn. “These events, ranging from networking events, industry seminars, our annual Merdeka Gala Dinner and Merdeka Awards are a great opportunity and touch points for our members to connect and collaborate.”
AMBCSA operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers who contribute their time and efforts, led by individuals such as Dr. Evelyn, business owners, industry experts, consultants, and young graduates. This level of commitment is truly commendable.
Providing opportunities to students and future professionals.
At each AMBCSA Merdeka Gala Dinner, Malaysian undergraduates studying in South Australia are invited to submit applications for the prestigious Merdeka Awards. The Merdeka Awards is presented to students who have shown exemplary academic achievements and community engagement within their local community in South Australia. The students should also be able to showcase evidence of their efforts in supporting the ties between South Australia and Malaysia, in line with AMBCSA’s mission.
Students and graduates are also invited to join AMBCSA, either as volunteers or as a committee member. This can help provide opportunities to the students to sharpen their business acumen, as well as network with local businesses and organisations in South Australia.
More than just connecting the dots for businesses.
At AMBCSA, their goal is to provide opportunities for businesses to network and grow. This includes helping business owners and professionals to connect with counterparts in Malaysia and/or South Australia, as well as with the relevant ministries such as MATRADE and MIDA.
“For example, Gelista is an Adelaide-based premium gelato ice-cream business. Peter Cox, the founder of Gelista, connected with various Malaysians through AMBCSA, and they are now shipping their first shipment of ice-cream to Malaysia to test the Malaysian market.”
According to Dr Evelyn, there are plenty of opportunities for bilateral relationships between businesses in Malaysia and South Australia, especially in agriculture, renewable energy, education, and biotechnology.
“The more you talk to people, the more opportunities will open for you to exchange ideas that can bring value to either Malaysia or South Australia, or both. But until you start that conversation, you’re not going to know. And that’s where the AMBCSA comes in,” she said.
Leveraging the MyHeart platform to share the words out.
Through the MyHeart platform, AMBCSA hopes to reach out to more like-minded individuals around the world.
“We hope that people who would like to know more about us would reach out and see where there are opportunities for us to collaborate. This can be Malaysian businesses back home who may want to explore opportunities with businesses in Adelaide, or even Malaysians living in Adelaide or Australia who might want to expand their network locally in South Australia.”
Malaysian undergraduates in South Australia who may be interested to conduct case studies or research projects with local Australian businesses may also reach out to AMBCSA for help in reaching out to potential organisations.
To explore and connect with AMBCSA or other Malaysian associations abroad, join the MyHeart community today.
Are you leading a Malaysian association abroad and interested to feature it on MyHeart? Register here to be part of the MyHeart community.
Umar Zakir Abdul Hamid, a Malaysian at heart but a global visionary by profession, has marked his footprint in the ever-evolving world of future mobility. As the senior lead strategy for China Europe Vehicle Technology AB (CEVT AB), a centrum part of ZEEKR (GEELY Electric Vehicles) in the European Union since September 2021, Umar's role includes “leading the strategy for Zeekr's digital and software-related products in the European Union market.” His journey began in Kuala Lumpur and quickly expanded, allowing him to represent Malaysia and Southeast Asia globally.
Life in the Nordics
Umar's transition from Malaysia to Finland before moving to Sweden, where he currently resides, was transformative. He recalls the most significant shift being "the level of trust in a professional environment”. This newfound environment instilled confidence in Umar. When presenting technology ideas for the first time abroad, he was pleasantly surprised by the respect and attention his expertise received.
"Not everyone has the same expertise," he asserts, emphasising that Malaysians must recognise and harness their unique strengths.
Life in the Nordics also introduced Umar to a different work-life balance, where he could maintain a healthy equilibrium between his personal and professional life. He experienced the benefits of a culture that values individual growth and quality of life. Umar's professional journey led him to work in a European automotive conglomerate, leveraging his international experience to contribute to the industry significantly.
Overcoming the Inferiority Complex
According to Umar, a significant challenge that many Malaysians experience is an inferiority complex. He believes this could result from cultural norms that encourage caution in communication. Living abroad, particularly in Finland, opened Umar's eyes to the value of directness and transparency in communication.
"Transparent and honest feedback enhances communication," he explains, emphasising the importance of such candid exchanges in business.
His experiences abroad taught him the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and confidently expressing his ideas, regardless of cultural differences.
Roots and Recognition
Although Umar has lived abroad for over ten years, he has never lost his connection to his Malaysian heritage. He has introduced the diligent and tireless work ethic of Malaysians to his community in Sweden. He has taught his children about the Malay language and culture using textbooks from Malaysia. Despite being far away, Umar's efforts have helped his family stay connected to their home country.
"I take pride in representing Malaysia on the global stage," he shares. Through his speeches, where he mentions iconic symbols like the Petronas Twin Towers or teaching his children about their Malaysian heritage, Umar's love for his homeland shines through.
This pride was further cemented when he received the Young Industry Leadership Award from Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), a significant recognition in the automotive industry. "This award is a significant achievement as it highlights the success of someone from Southeast Asia working in Europe’s automotive industry. It also puts me on par with industry leaders," he beams.
Addressing the Brain Drain
Umar's success abroad sheds light on a significant issue: the brain drain in Malaysia. While he acknowledges the country's potential to nurture world-class talent, many leave for various reasons. "It's not because people want to leave, but certain factors need to be addressed to improve the situation," he opines.
To address this issue, Umar believes that companies need to offer appropriate measures for talent retention and collaborate with the government to create an environment conducive to growth.
As Umar balances his professional pursuits abroad, he remains committed to preserving his Malaysian identity. His experiences offer valuable lessons for aspiring talents, emphasising the importance of collaboration, transparency, and unwavering belief in Malaysia's potential. Umar eloquently says, "We need more Malaysians abroad with the mindset of eventually returning. This is a path to becoming a developed nation." With Umar's journey as inspiration, the legacy of the Malaysian diaspora continues to flourish, igniting a brighter future for all.
Editor’s note:
As of October 2023, Umar has returned to Malaysia under the Returning Expert Programme (REP). “I’ve been thinking about returning to Malaysia since late 2022, but I have been waiting for the right opportunity that can allow me to still maintain that international presence and growth while also being local in Malaysia.”
Umar is now the Senior Program Manager for Product Export and International Product Marketing at PROTON, a role that allows him to stay within the GEELY ecosystem but contributing something back to Malaysia. He believes that the exposure and experience he gained from his journey abroad has allowed him to build up his confidence and broaden his horizons.
To connect with Umar and other global Malaysians, join the MyHeart community today.
The general perception of Singapore and Singaporeans among Malaysians is that Singaporeans are very competitive in nature, especially when it comes to work and professional life. Intrigued by this and the possibilities that the future has to offer, Ryan Ng decided to move to Singapore in 2015 to seek out new challenges.
“Because Singapore is a city state, it has to be competitive by nature,” he mused. “This seeps through to the culture and the people living here, as evidenced by the fast pace of life and work in the country. But for them, efficiency is key. You do not only want to work fast, but you want to work efficiently.”
Ryan is currently based at LinkedIn, where he managed the Malaysian market before transitioning to be part of the Singaporean team. In his earlier role, he was able to fly back to Malaysia every month as part of his work. Now, he visits his hometown in Klang every few months or during big occasions such as the Chinese New Year.
Getting adjusted to the public transportation
One of Ryan’s biggest adjustments is getting used to public transportation, which is key to travelling efficiently across Singapore.
“You’d need to know which routes and combination of bus and MRT to take, but they’re very efficient, which helps you to plan your travel ahead of time.”
In his free time, Ryan loves to explore what Singapore has to offer. From the wonderful skylines (such as the Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Bay skyline) to the amazing nature, there are plentiful activities and places to do and experience.
As a foodie, he also enjoys exploring new hipster cafes and restaurants. According to Ryan, the best comfort food would be minced meat noodles and, in a close second, Singaporean laksa and chicken rice.
Building your support system
Understanding your objective and purpose while living and working abroad is key. Knowing why you moved there in the first place can help you to focus on getting the most out of your time as a diaspora.
“The easiest way to build connections is organically through your work colleagues.”
With an abundance of Malaysians working in Singapore, it is easy to get connected through mutual friends and networks.
Supporting the nation, one step at a time
At LinkedIn, Ryan had the opportunity to work with the Malaysian government and public sector to help with the rising issue of unemployment, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through constant engagements and collaboration, LinkedIn signed MOUs with both HRD Corporation and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) to help in upskilling Malaysians, and also shared insights to assist the government in making better-informed decisions when it comes to creating more economic opportunities for Malaysians.
Ryan believes that it is important to acknowledge the distinctive qualities that Malaysians have and to help empower the people to drive the country to greater heights.
“We need to start talking about Malaysia – to share the stories about Malaysia and Malaysian talents to other people and help to shape people’s perceptions. This can potentially help in the talent pipeline.”
This is in line with TalentCorp’s MyHeart, which aims to provide an inclusive platform for Malaysians around the world to share their stories, showcasing the best of Malaysians everywhere.
We are all anak Malaysia
Moving to Singapore has helped Ryan to understand and realise what he misses about being home in Malaysia. Ryan strives to have regular phone calls with his parents and extended families in Malaysia to ensure that his son, who was born in Singapore, can grow up knowing that he has family back home.
His hope for Malaysia is for us to be a more inclusive society, where we build each other up instead of tearing each other down.
“We need to see beyond the lens of races or religions,” he emphasised.
“When I go abroad and look back on my country, I feel a sense of belonging. The people, the culture, the food. It’s je se sais quoi. We are all anak Malaysia, and this is a feeling of community, closeness, and warmth.”
To connect with Ryan and other Malaysians abroad, join the MyHeart community today.
For most people, living and working in the United States sounds like a farfetched dream. However, for Logesh Kumaar, a Malaysian living in San Francisco, California, it is a dream come true. It has been more than a decade since he moved to The Golden City, and there is still a lot for him to explore and see.
“A big misconception people tend to have about working in the United States is the amount you earn. Yes, you can earn a lot, but you also have to pay a lot of taxes! And the US IRS tax is not an easy thing to understand!” he laughed.
During the day, Logesh works for a marketing agency in business operations, where he supports the marketing operations and works on project management.
But, outside of his official 9-5 job, he dedicates his time to his passion project alongside his American wife and two adorable sons.
Sharing their stories, one video at a time.
Chances are that if you are glued to social media, you would have probably stumbled upon one of their many funny but utterly relatable videos. That is because Logesh and his family are quite well-known on social media, where they share snippets of their life with the public through their own brand, the Kumaar Family.
“It started during the pandemic when we suddenly had a lot of time on our hands, and I told my wife, ‘Hey, I want to start shooting some videos.’”, he said.
Three years later, that decision led to more than 500,000 subscribers on YouTube and nearly 200,000 followers on TikTok.
The Kumaar Family’s videos have two main purposes: to put Malaysia on the map and to bridge the gap between people from different cultures, backgrounds, and ethnicities.
“I’ve always loved cooking Malaysian food and sharing about Malaysian culture with my friends here, and doing these videos can help us share our stories and cultures with the rest of the world.” he shared.
Logesh’s two sons, Zayden and Kyren, are 2.5 and 4 years old, respectively. Despite growing up in the US, Logesh also wants them to be able to experience their Malaysian roots. In their small Californian household, they try to incorporate little Malaysian cultures, such as sharing home-cooked food with their community.
“In the US, when people cook food and they have leftovers, they share the leftovers with their neighbours. But for Malaysians, we share the food first before we eat, because we want to share the best with other people.”
“And, of course, the no-shoes rule in the house is a must!” Logesh added with a laugh.
Embrace the challenges and get out of your comfort zone.
One of the best things that has happened to Logesh since he moved to the US (aside from marrying Rachel, of course), is the shift in his mindset about life.
“My definition of a successful life is one where you can find contentment and joy in what you do. Growing up in Malaysia, we are born with a certain mindset. We go to school, graduate from university, find a good job, buy a house or car, find a spouse, have a family.”
“But what he learned in the US was that it is all right to chase one’s passions.
“You don’t have to follow what the world tells you to do, and that’s OK. You can try something, and even if you fail, you still learn something new.”
“I’m a through and through Malaysian.”
When he first moved out of Malaysia to come to the United States, Logesh thought that he was bidding farewell to Malaysia forever.
“I thought that was it, like goodbye Malaysia, I’m going to embrace this new lifestyle, the new place to live.”
But, as the old saying goes. You can take the Malaysian out of Malaysia, but you can never take Malaysia out of the Malaysian.
“I realised that I’m a through and through Malaysian. There are so many things about Malaysia that we take for granted, and you start to appreciate it more when you’re away.”
Share your expertise, one story at a time.
TalentCorp’s MyHeart aims to provide a platform for Malaysians living abroad to share their stories and achievements, as well as to provide opportunities for skills and knowledge exchange among the Malaysian diaspora communities around the world.
When asked about what he feels about MyHeart and any advice he has for Malaysian diaspora, Logesh only had one thing to say.
“I encourage Malaysians to think about how we can be a part of the next generation and how we can help it grow.”
If you’re a Malaysian residing abroad like Logesh, join MyHeart to be part of a global community with Malaysians at its heart.
