KUALA LUMPUR: Not too long ago, Liang Kok Hui had no idea what he wanted to do after sitting for his Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
Today, the 22-year-old is graduating as the top student of his cohort and is already laying the groundwork to run his own electrical services company one day.
“It was really a shot in the dark because I had no idea what I was signing up for,” said Liang, who was named the best student in VTAR Institute’s 3-Phase Electrical Installation and Maintenance programme.
“My family is involved in the furniture business and lorry foreman work, and they have always been very supportive of my choices.
“The lecturers were also excellent mentors who went above and beyond to make sure we understood the lessons. I am just very happy to have made them proud. I never imagined I would continue studying after SPM,” he said.
Liang, who is currently undergoing an internship, has set his sights on obtaining a PW4 licence from the Energy Commission, a qualification that would allow him to establish his own company.
“Many large companies are looking for people with the right licences and experience, and we fit those requirements very well. The opportunities are abundant,” he said.
Liang was among 320 students who graduated from VTAR Institute yesterday.
For Ronald Joseph Martin, 24, the journey began with uncertainty and a strong push from his parents.
“After SPM, I felt lost and did not know what direction to take,” he said.
“I doubted myself too, but the lecturers here inspired me to realise my potential.”
Ronald, who also graduated from the 3-Phase Electrical Installation and Maintenance programme, is currently pursuing his PW4 qualification.
“Once I obtain it, I hope to apply for a chargeman job,” he said.
For Jaymee Tah Chi Yan, 20, her proudest moment came when she spotted her parents in the crowd as she walked across the stage to receive her scroll.
“I knew how proud they would be. I have been living away from home for the past year, so being reunited with them on my graduation day made the moment even more special,” said Tah, who is from Pahang.
She graduated with a UK Highfield Qualification Diploma in Hairdressing and was named the best student in her programme.
Tah hopes to work as a stylist before eventually opening her own business.
“I came here knowing absolutely nothing about hairdressing. To graduate as the best student is a huge confidence boost.
“My father runs his own business, and I hope to follow in his footsteps one day,” she said.
