From Survival to Strength: A Relentless Journey
Since childhood, life was never easy for me. I was not the kind of student people admired—my academic results were far from outstanding. Even in matriculation, I had to repeat. University was no different; I struggled, failed twice, and came dangerously close to being expelled.
But I held on.
By the grace of God, I finally graduated—though it required an extra semester, and my final CGPA stood at 2.18. To many, that number might seem small. To me, it was a symbol of resilience.
I knew one thing clearly:
If I wasn’t naturally gifted, I had to outwork everyone else.
So I did.
The Decision to Work Harder Than Everyone Else
Right after graduation, I didn’t wait. I stepped straight into the workforce—starting in a steel factory, then moving through several industries. I was fully aware of my limitations. My results were average, but my determination had to be extraordinary.
I pushed harder.
Harder in finding opportunities
Harder in learning
Harder in proving myself at work
Eventually, I entered the palm oil industry—a path that would demand everything from me.
And I gave it everything.
The Sacrifices No One Sees
While others sought salary increments, I chose a different path.
I invested in myself.
Every extra ringgit I had went into learning:
Steam Engineer certification
Internal Combustion Engine certification
DIPOM
MBA
Communication training through Toastmasters
And countless other competencies
I sacrificed time.
I sacrificed comfort.
I sacrificed many things people take for granted.
I told myself:
“It’s not my time to demand yet. It’s my time to build.”
The Breakthrough
In less than three years, something unexpected happened.
I was entrusted to become a Plant Manager.
Not because I was the smartest.
But because I was prepared.
From 2006 until today—2026—I have been managing large organizations. Leading people. Making decisions. Carrying responsibilities many never see.
A 20-Year Promise Fulfilled
One goal remained unfinished for a long time: becoming a Professional Engineer.
It stayed in my bucket list for years—delayed, postponed, set aside.
But this year, after 20 years, I finally achieved it.
Am I Successful Now?
Am I wealthy?
Am I living a life of luxury?
No.
I am still in survival mode.
Still fighting. Still pushing forward.
But when I look back…
I smile.
Because I made it through everything that once felt impossible.
And the Journey Continues
This is not a story about instant success.
This is a story about endurance.
About showing up when it’s hard.
About choosing growth over comfort.
About believing in yourself—when there is no evidence yet.
I am still climbing.
And I will keep climbing.
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