Studying abroad is an adventure that challenges and reshapes individuals, and for Victor, a graduate of the University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM) and University of Southampton (UoS), it was a transformative experience. From adapting to new cultures to leveraging those lessons in the business world, their story is one of growth, resilience, and impact.
Arriving in the UK from Malaysia (2+2 student), Victor faced the initial challenges of cultural adaptation. "It was challenging at first, but the friendships I built here made the transition much smoother," he shared. Combining the support of new connections with the comfort of old ones, they navigated the complexities of a multicultural environment. This experience not only enriched their perspective but also prepared them for the global nature of their current role as a tech founder.
As the founder of a climate action company, Victor juggles diverse responsibilities daily. “Some days, I’m coding; other days, I’m in meetings to secure partnerships or refining marketing strategies,” he explained. Their company, headquartered in Singapore but operating remotely, reflects a culture of agility and innovation. “We aim to stay optimistic yet pragmatic about the impact we can create on society,” he emphasised.
The seeds of Victor’s entrepreneurial journey was sown during his time abroad. Witnessing the climate protests across Europe inspired him to envision a scalable solution for climate change. “Actions without tangible rewards don’t resonate with most people. I wanted to create a program that benefits both consumers and businesses while contributing to sustainability,” he recalled. The decision to fully commit to this mission came during the pandemic, as he reflected on his long-term aspirations.
Looking ahead, Victor’s company plans to launch a nationwide discount operation for climate action participants by 2025. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between providers and recipients of incentives, making sustainability a rewarding choice for everyone. While communicating the value of climate action remains a significant challenge, he see a unique opportunity: “No one has quite figured it out yet, which gives us the chance to lead the way.”
Reflecting on his time at UoSM, Victor summed it up in one word: Perspective. “It’s a UK university in Malaysia that welcomes students from around the globe. That environment forces you to open your mind to what’s possible,” he said. The MEng Mechanical Engineering degree provided the technical foundation that supports his entrepreneurial journey today. “Coding in Python was one of the most impactful skills I learned, as much of my company’s programmes are built on it. My specialisation in Sustainable Energy Systems during my UK semester gave me the domain knowledge to turn my ideas into reality,” he added.
One of the most significant decisions in Victor’s career was taking diverse internships and summer jobs. “I worked in sales, tech, engineering, and research across startups, academia, and corporate environments before graduating. These experiences, combined with timing and a bit of luck, gave me the push to follow my heart and start a climate action company,” he shared.
Victor’s journey is a testament to the power of combining technical skills, global perspectives, and a clear mission. For those looking to make a difference, he advises staying open to learning, seizing diverse opportunities, and cultivating relationships that support personal and professional growth.
His story is not just about individual success—it’s about inspiring others to believe in the possibility of a better future and working relentlessly to create it.