Aiman Firdaus receives UMW Holdings Bhd. Excellence Award, proving Vocational College students can achieve greatness

GAMBANG, 26 October 2024 – Former Temerloh Vocational College (KVT) student, Aiman Firdaus Aziz, 25, has demonstrated that success is not limited to the diploma level. 

He now holds a Bachelor of Automotive Technology with Honours from the Faculty of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering Technology (FTKMA) and has been honoured with the UMW Holdings Bhd. Excellence Award at the 19th Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) Convocation Ceremony.

Despite UMPSA opening a new programme for students like him at the time, Aiman initially doubted whether he could continue his studies at the degree level.

His parents, Aziz Awang, 51, a Health Inspector at the Temerloh District Office, and Suziyanti Marjan, a Mathematics Teacher at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Seri Tualang, Temerloh, were his greatest sources of encouragement and support.

“I realise that support from parents is crucial in determining a child’s success and direction.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to them,” he said.

While undergoing Work-Based Learning (WBL) at MMC Manufacturing Malaysia, Aiman was awarded the Karakuri Kaizen Best Achievement Certificate for his final year project, Space Optimisation in Production Line at MMCMM Door Module.

“After completing the one-year WBL, I was absorbed as a Production Executive, where I learned how a factory operates.

“My ideas and suggestions were well received and implemented in the factory.

“In addition, I was entrusted with several projects and sent to participate in various courses to enhance my skills,” he said.

Passionate about repairing and selling cars, Aiman has turned his hobby into a secondary source of income.

“This hobby has provided me with valuable insights into running a business and understanding the car market.

“I have also become more adept at selecting car models suitable for target customers, ranging from local cars to foreign brands such as Toyota and Mercedes.

“I also manage several other businesses with my family, including homestay accommodations and food services.

“I believe that engaging in business helps me build resilience in facing current economic challenges,” he said.

Aiman commended UMPSA for its excellent facilities, including learning resources, accommodation, and transportation, which contribute to a conducive learning environment.

“This support has made it more comfortable for students to focus on their studies.

“Additionally, UMPSA emphasises relevant and industry-aligned subjects to ensure students are well-prepared for the workforce.

“Learning approaches such as industry visits provide students with early exposure to the working world, giving them an advantage when they step into their careers,” he said.

A consistent achiever, Aiman received the Dean’s Award every semester.

He added that he always ensures his free time is spent on productive activities to maximise its value.

“Discipline and a clear sense of direction are essential for achieving success,” he said.

Aiman has also been offered a fast-track opportunity to pursue a master’s degree at UMPSA, further proving that Vocational College students can excel and advance to higher levels of education.

By: Siti Nur Azwin Zulkapri, Centre for Corporate Communications

Translation by: Aminatul Nor Mohamed Said, UMPSA Career Centre (UMPSACC)