Published by
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50450 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Tel: 03 2146 5647
Fax: 03 2145 7807
Email: info.malaysia@aei.gov.au
www.studyinaustralia.gov.au
October 2008
Information in this Guide was compiled with reference to different sources of information and
was accurate at the time of publishing. As information is subject to change without notice,
students are advised to check with Australian Education International (AEI).
© Commonwealth of Australia [2008]
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part
may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from the Commonwealth.
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Contents
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to AEI’s Guide to Internships and Studies in Malaysia
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STUDY, WORK, LIVE IN MALAYSIA
Selamat Datang! Welcome to Malaysia!
Working and studying in Malaysia
Living in Malaysia
Dining, entertainment and travel
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INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES IN MALAYSIA
Malaysia as an internship destination
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Organisation Profiles:
Ambank Group
BlueScope Lysaght (M) Sdn Bhd
CPA Australia
GHD Perunding Sdn Bhd
Leighton Contractors Malaysia
PetrominWork Sdn Bhd
Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM)
Sarawak General Hospital
Talent2 International Sdn Bhd
Thomas Philip
WTW Bovis Sdn Bhd
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Intern Profiles:
Hsin Wong • Austrade
Huah E Fay • Ernst & Young Malaysia
Tee Lip Zhun • GHD Perunding Sdn Bhd
Katharine Logan • Talent2 International Sdn Bhd
Sam Pathik • Australian International School, Malaysia
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Internship Feedback Form
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STUDENT MOBILITY
Student mobility program
Student-exchange awards
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Institution Profiles:
Curtin University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Malaysia
International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)
Monash University
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
University of Malaya (UM)
Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)
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Student Profiles:
Tim De Grussa • Curtin University of Technology, Sarawak
David Bowly • Monash University, Sunway
Alexandra Vasiliadis • Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak
Casey Hollway • Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
Nicole Moore • Universiti Sains Malaysia
Pustika Timsina • Universiti Teknologi Mara
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Fast Facts
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Introduction
Welcome to
AEI’s Guide to Internships
and Studies in Malaysia
G
oing to Malaysia for an internship
or student-exchange program
will open up new experiences for
you, as it has for other Australian university
students who made the decision to
explore working and learning in this
young nation.
Malaysia is known for her diversity of
cultures, natural beauty and close
proximity to Australia. Today, with her
cosmopolitan business environment and
workforce, Malaysia is a destination worth
considering for an overseas learning
experience.
Internships
Australia-Malaysia Internships Roundtable
2008
The inaugural internship Roundtable
organised by Australian Education
International Malaysia was held
in Kuala Lumpur on 15 May. This
Roundtable brought together about 30
representatives of Australian universities
and Malaysian businesses to explore
internship opportunities in Malaysia for
Australian university students (including
Malaysians studying in Australian
universities).
The Roundtable covered the benefits of
overseas internships, models of internships
which work, and also established a
platform for further engagement and
future models.
4
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
Introduction
The inaugural Australia-Malaysia Internships Roundtable 2008, organised by Australian
Education International Malaysia, was held in Kuala Lumpur on 15 May. The Roundtable brought
together about 30 representatives of Australian universities and Malaysian businesses to explore
internship opportunities in Malaysia for Australian university students (including Malaysians
studying in Australian universities).
Benefits of internships:
For students
• Gaining work experience
• Increasing employability
• Experiencing another culture
• Developing business contacts
• Appreciating different ways of
doing business
• Developing adaptability and a
heightened awareness of global
issues.
For universities
• Diversifying their student-mobility
options
• Developing reputation as universities
with international work experience
opportunities
• Acquiring a better understanding of
the job market, including the global
job market, which could in turn
help shape the content of degree
programs.
For employers
• Exposing their businesses to students
who may become future employees
(expanding their recruitment search)
• Fostering a cross-cultural experience
in the workplace (thus bringing more
diversity and innovation into their
organisations)
• Providing universities with a clearer
picture of the skills employers require
in the workforce in order to influence
the content of particular courses.
Ultimately, the benefits which universities
and employers gain will go back into the
improvement of programs of study for
students, who will then be even better
prepared for the world of work, thanks
to internships.
Models of internships
• Study and Internship
Students spend a semester at a
branch campus of one of the
Australian universities or with one
of the private providers in Malaysia
before continuing on to do a threemonth internship with a business
based in Malaysia
• Long Internship
Students spend six months with a
business based in Malaysia as part
of an overseas internship program
• Short Internship
Students spend between six weeks
and three months with an Australian
company in Malaysia as part of an
overseas internship program.
These are but a few models, and others
could also be developed to suit the
Australian-Malaysian context.
Australian Education International
(AEI) is the international arm of
the Department of Education,
Employment and Workplace
Relations (DEEWR). AEI carries out the
internationalisation of education in
Canberra and through a network of
offices around the world.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
5
Introduction
Student mobility exchange programs
The Australian Government strongly
supports the internationalisation of
education. Hence, it has helped finance
award programs for student mobility
to encourage university students to
go overseas to be exposed to other
cultures and education systems, and to
gain internationally relevant skills and
experiences.
This is highlighted by initiatives such as
the following:
• the provision of 25 internship
scholarships valued at AUD2,000
each for Australian students to
gain occupational and workrelated knowledge and skills in an
international setting
• the Australian Government
introduction of the OS-Help loan
scheme that allows students to
borrow funds against their HECS
contributions in order to fund
international education experience
• availability of outbound student
mobility grants through the
Endeavour Awards
• Australian Exchange Fair Circuit – a
collaboration between Australian
universities to promote overseas study
to Australian students
• National Forum on Outbound Mobility
roundtables – a series of roundtables
involving key stakeholders held during
2006 and 2007 to discuss major issues
in the mobility of Australian students
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
• benchmarking exercises undertaken
to determine the number and
demographics of Australian
universities students studying
overseas, and
• the launch of the Australian
Government’s Study Overseas web
portal.
Using this guide
This guide shows you the varied internship
and student-mobility opportunities
available in Malaysia. It also introduces
you to companies and institutions
which provide internships and studentexchange programs. Also featured
are Australian students who have
experienced Malaysia as a student or an
intern – they share their experiences in
their own words with you.
We also feature a section of articles
on life in Malaysia, covering a general
overview of the country, day-to-day living
matters, work culture, and travel and
entertainment.
We hope this guide will help you in going
on an internship or student-exchange
program in Malaysia. In an increasingly
borderless world, we believe that it will be
an enriching and beneficial experience
that will serve you well in your future work.
Study, Work, Live
in Malaysia
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
Selamat Datang!
Welcome to Malaysia!
In Malaysia, a visitor will observe how people of various ethnic, religious and cultural
backgrounds can live together in harmony.
Population and cultures: growing
harmoniously
Malaysia has a population of over 26
million. It consists of Peninsular Malaysia,
which has 11 states, and two other states,
Sabah and Sarawak in the east, on the
Island of Borneo. 80% of the population
lives in Peninsular Malaysia.
The following are the ethnic groups in
Malaysia:
• Malays
• Chinese
• Indians
• Eurasians
• About 50 different indigenous groups.
Malaysia also has numerous colourful
festivities and holidays. One of the largest
is the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri (Eid) which is
celebrated by the Muslims at the end
of the fasting month of Ramadhan. The
Chinese Lunar New Year is celebrated by
Chinese Malaysians. The Hindus celebrate
Deepavali, or the festival of lights which
highlights the triumph of good over evil.
A unique feature of Malaysia during
these festivities is the open house, where
friends, family and neighbours are all
welcomed into the homes of those who
are celebrating the particular festival, for
a meal and to enjoy the festivities with
their families.
History: from pre-history, to ancient
civilizations, colonial rule, and
independence
This interesting melting pot of cultures
emerged from hundreds of years of
history. The ancestors of the Malays
started arriving in Peninsular Malaysia
in the first millennium BC. The Indians
brought their Hindu and Buddhist heritage
to this region around 100 BC. In 1400, a
Sumatran prince named Parameswara
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
founded the Sultanate of Melaka
(Malacca) and built the foundation
of the country’s Muslim heritage with
his conversion to Islam. This sultanate
prospered and soon attracted the
Portuguese, who conquered Malacca in
1511. They were followed by the Dutch,
who overthrew them in 1641.
However, the British, who arrived in this
region in the form of the British East India
Company in the late 1700s, were even
more ambitious and wished to control the
peninsula’s rich resources, which at that
time was tin. Between the early 1800s and
early 1900s, all the states in the peninsula
gradually fell under British control and
became known as Malaya. Borneo
also became part of Malaya during the
second half of the 19th century.
As British rule expanded in the peninsula,
the population of Indians and Chinese
also grew from traders who returned
to their homeland after their trade, to
migrant workers who were brought in
and settled here while taking part in
the various economic activities, such as
working the rubber plantations and tin
mines. This process built the foundation
for the multiracial culture of today’s
Malaysia.
Self-rule and the legacy of various
prime ministers
Malaya was a British protectorate until 31
August 1957 when Tunku Abdul Rahman,
the nation’s first Prime Minister, declared
her independence. In September
1963, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah
(then known as North Borneo) joined
Malaya, whereupon the country’s name
was officially changed to Malaysia.
Ideological differences between Tunku
Abdul Rahman and the then-leader of
Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, saw the islandstate separate from Malaysia in August
1965.
When the third Prime Minister, Tun Hussein
Onn retired, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad
become the fourth and so far the
longest-serving prime minister. During
Tun Mahathir’s term, he modernised
a commodities-dependent economy
into a thriving industrial economy
producing electronic products and
even manufacturing Malaysia’s own
national car. Development of supporting
infrastructure was also at a fast pace
with the building of roads, ports, airports,
and iconic structures such as the Penang
Bridge and the Petronas Twin Towers.
Tun Mahathir retired in 2003 and Datuk
Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi took
over and has pursued an agenda of
greater transparency and a crackdown
on corruption, while continuing the
development agenda.
Malaysia’s charm lies in her
rich history, the welcoming
cultures of her people, as well
as the modern economy and
rule of law; all of which make
the country a destination
worth considering for your
internship or exchange
program.
Government structure and economy
Malaysia is a parliamentary democracy
with a prime minister as head of
government, and the Yang Di-Pertuan
Agong (Paramount Ruler) as the
ceremonial head of state. All Peninsular
Malaysian states have hereditary rulers
except Melaka and Pulau Pinang
(Penang); those two states, along with
Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia,
have chief ministers appointed by
the government, with powers of state
governments being limited by the
federal constitution.
The economy of Malaysia performed
above expectations during the first three
months of 2008 with a gross domestic
product (GDP) growing at 7.1%,
underpinned by positive expansion in all
sectors including services, manufacturing,
agriculture, mining and construction.
Domestic consumption was also
supportive with growth of more than 11%.
However, with skyrocketing oil prices,
Malaysia, like most of the world, has had
inflationary pressures. For the visitor or
worker from Australia, the exchange rate
of approximately MYR/RM3.00 to AUD1.00
makes Malaysia a very affordable place
to live and work in.
Celebrating Thaipusam
Climate and clothing
Malaysia’s climate
• Average year-round temperature
between 23oC and 33oC (and
15oC to 25oC in the highlands)
• Rainfall averaging between 2,000mm
to 2,500mm per year
• Sunny weather throughout the year.
Suitable clothing
Bring apparel that would be comfortable
for warm and humid weather:
• Linen, light cotton and cotton blends
for clothing
• Sandals for informal occasions
• Covered leather shoes for more
formal situations
• For men, lounge suits or shirts with a
jacket are perfect for occasions that
call for formality outside of work
• For women, modest dresses would
work well, and you will see our
traditional costumes worn in everyday
life, both at work, and after.
North, south, east, west, modern and
traditional – all here in Malaysia
Malaysia’s charm lies in her rich history,
the welcoming cultures of her people, as
well as the modern economy and rule
of law; all of which make the country a
destination worth considering for your
internship or exchange program.
For more general information on
Malaysia, visit www.tourism.gov.my/en/
about/facts.asp.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
9
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
Working and studying in Malaysia
You will gain international experiences and skills to work with diverse cultures during an
internship in Malaysia.
Job and internship opportunities
There are numerous job opportunities
in Malaysia in various sectors of
the economy. These include the
manufacturing, agriculture, financial
services, education, telecommunications,
and petrochemical industries, among
many others.
If you are looking to gain some work
experience in an interesting country, it
will be worthwhile to consider Malaysia.
Generally, citizens of most countries,
including Australia, are allowed to visit
Malaysia without a visa, but they need
to apply for a work permit to take up
employment. An interested candidate
should visit the nearest Malaysian
embassy or consulate, or the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs website at www.kln.gov.
my for more information on work-holiday
visas.
Studying in Malaysia
With approximately 50 private and public
institutions of higher learning, Malaysia
offers international exchange students
a wide array of choices.
Applying for a visa
Whether you are looking to do an
internship or to study in an institution
of higher learning in Malaysia, you are
required to apply for a visa from the
Department of Immigration Malaysia
(www.imi.gov.my).
The Home Ministry supports the efforts
of the Ministry of Education (MOE) and
Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) to
encourage international students to
study or intern with institutions of higher
learning and companies in Malaysia
respectively. Applicants will have to
meet minimum visa requirements and
will have to show evidence of the
ability to afford facilities and amenities
that facilitate a conducive working
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
or studying environment. Completed
applications received by the Ministry of
Home Affairs will be processed within
14 working days.
Australian students are allowed to
study in public or private educational
institutions which have been approved
by the Ministry of Home Affairs. A visa
application can be made through the
respective educational institution prior
to entry. Applicants are required to
send in two completed copies of Form
IMM.14 and include a letter of offer
from the educational institution with two
copies of passport/travel document
and two passport-sized photographs.
Once you have obtained an approval
to study or work through the respective
educational institution or organisation,
you will be allowed direct entry into
Malaysia. You will have to show your
approval letter upon arrival and will be
issued with a Special Pass. This Special
Pass has to be referred to the respective
State Immigration Departments where
your host institution or organisation is
located to allow you to obtain your
Student or Worker Pass. The fee for a
student pass is RM60.00 (AUD20) for a
year or part thereof. For working visas,
the fee is approximately RM100.00
(AUD33).
For further information, please contact
the Department of Immigration,
Malaysia at www.imi.gov.my. They can
also be reached at +603 8880 1000.
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
Working and studying in Malaysia can provide you with opportunities to learn many things such
as the social customs of various ethnicities and how to handle lifestyles, beliefs and worldviews
which may differ greatly from yours.
You can choose to experience one of
Malaysia’s twenty public universities
like the University of Malaya (UM), or
pick a more familiar environment in a
foreign-branch Australian university such
as Monash University, Sunway Campus,
Swinburne University of Technology,
Sarawak Campus, and Curtin University
of Technology, Sarawak Campus.
Whichever you pick, you will have an
enriching experience, developing greater
cultural awareness as well as picking up
life skills and being more independent as
you live away from home.
Diverse, cosmopolitan community
Malaysia is a multi-religious and
multicultural country. Malaysians
celebrate many festivals based on their
various religions and cultures, and the
government has set aside national and
state public holidays for all the major
ethnic groups.
There is also respect for cultural and
religious norms such as dress codes: it is
not unusual to see Malaysians in various
styles of their cultural attire in the office
and at institutions of higher learning. All
these are modest and welcomed even
in professional circles.
You will also hear an interesting variety
of tongues, including English; Malay (in
different dialects); Chinese languages
primarily Cantonese, Mandarin, Hokkien,
Hakka, and Teochew; Indian languages
such as Tamil, Hindi, and Bengali; and
other native tongues.
‘Puan’, and so forth (the latter two
being Malay terms for ‘Mr’ and ‘Mrs’),
instead of just calling them by their
personal names.
• Exchange business cards when
meeting new business associates for
the first time.
• With many Malaysians, it is important
to use the right hand in accepting or
giving things.
A learning experience
If the locals go into their own languages
out of familiarity, do not feel embarrassed
to ask for a translation – they will quickly
switch to English to accommodate you.
The Malaysian work culture
The internationally accepted business
cultures of punctuality, modest
corporate attire, loyalty to organisation,
teamwork, and working harmoniously
with co-workers, are also the norm in the
Malaysian work culture.
Some customs to observe:
• Address colleagues and clients using
titles such as ‘Mr’, ‘Miss’, ‘Encik’,
Working and studying in Malaysia can
provide you with opportunities to learn
many things such as the social customs
of various ethnicities and how to handle
lifestyles, beliefs and worldviews which
may differ greatly from yours. This could
help to broaden your outlook and
understanding, which is important for
both personal growth and business
purposes.
Work hours
Office hours:
Mondays to Fridays
8.00am or 9.00am to 5.00pm or 6.00pm
Saturdays (some private businesses)
8.00am or 9.00am to noon
Banking hours:
Mondays to Thursdays
9.15am to 4.00pm or 4.30pm
(varies from bank to bank)
Fridays
9.15am to 4.00pm
Saturdays
Only branches of certain banks open
on Saturday mornings, and provide
limited services. Please check
with the respective banks for their
opening hours on Saturdays.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
11
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
Living in Malaysia
Being away from home on an internship or student exchange in a foreign country can
be a daunting experience. Here is essential information which can help make your stay
a comfortable one while you are in Malaysia.
Accommodation
Types of accommodation and rental
rates (all rates are monthly rates unless
specified)
Bedroom in an apartment or house in
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor:
• From RM300 (AUD105)
• Partially/fully furnished – bed,
cupboard, desk, chair
• Often with shared bathroom
• More expensive if with own bathroom
• Enquire if use of kitchen is allowed.
YMCA Hostel in Kuala Lumpur:
• Single/double room: RM80 per night
(AUD28)
• Monthly rates: RM1,800 (AUD635) for
single-occupancy room; RM2,100
(AUD740)for double occupancy room
• Daily room-cleaning services
• Breakfast included, all rooms are
air-conditioned, free drink-making
facilities
• Use of other YMCA facilities such as
volleyball, basketball, tennis courts,
table-tennis.
Studio apartment in Kuala Lumpur:
• From RM1,500 (AUD480)
• Partially/fully furnished
• Cleaning services included
• Facilities such as swimming pool,
tennis courts, gym.
3 or 4-bedroom apartments/
condominiums in Kuala Lumpur:
• From RM2,500 (AUD880)
• Unfurnished/furnished
• Facilities such as swimming pool,
tennis courts, gym.
3 or 4-bedroom apartments/
condominiums in Selangor:
• From RM1,500 (AUD530)
• Unfurnished/furnished
• Facilities such as swimming pool,
tennis courts, gym.
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
3 or 4-bedroom apartments in family
neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur and
Selangor:
• From RM550 (AUD195)
• Unfurnished/furnished.
Rates in other states tend to be lower
than in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
Other things to note:
• Hot water is not a standard feature
in all Malaysian homes. Please check
if your rental accommodation is
equipped with a water heater.
• Rented properties may not have a
washing machine. You may send your
dirty laundry to the neighbourhood
laundromat. For greater savings, you
can opt to do your laundry by hand.
Drying clothes is easy. Just hang them
out on the clothesline provided and
the hot Malaysian weather will dry it
out in no time.
• Tap water is not safe for drinking.
It is best to have it boiled before
consumption.
The company which brings you in on
an internship could also provide you
with accommodation. Check with them
regarding this matter.
Financial matters
Malaysia has an internationally linked
banking and financial-services sector,
including Islamic banking services. There
are ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines)
at all banks in Malaysia from which you
can withdraw money using your credit
cards, or ATM cards which have PLUS and
Cirrus affiliation. All major shopping malls
and large restaurants in Malaysia accept
credit cards like VISA and MasterCard,
with some also accepting American
Express and Diners Club cards.
If your internship offers an allowance
or stipend, you can either make
There are ATMs (Automatic
Teller Machines) at all banks
in Malaysia from which you
can withdraw money using
your credit cards, or ATM
cards which have PLUS and
Cirrus affiliation.
arrangements to have the payment
deposited directly into your account
back home, or have it paid to you in
cash. Check with the company you will
be doing the internship with regarding
this matter.
Some international banks in
Malaysia:
• HSBC
• OCBC
• Citibank
• Standard Chartered
• JP Morgan Chase
• UOB
Medical facilities
There are usually one or two private
general-practitioner clinics within most
neighbourhoods, which offer outpatient
services:
• About RM30 to RM40 (AUD10 to
AUD13) per consultation.
• Price includes medication, so you
do not need to get a prescription
from your doctor to get them from a
pharmacy.
• Almost all Malaysian doctors and
pharmacists speak English.
Should you wish to seek medical
treatment at a hospital, you may choose
to go to either a private hospital, or a
government one. Generally, both are
available to foreigners and can be found
in every town.
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
You need a licence to drive cars and ride motorbikes in
Malaysia. The Australian driver’s licence and also international
driver licence are accepted for use in Malaysia for three
months.
Non-citizens pay a higher rate at
government hospitals, but that still tends
to be lower than in a private hospital.
It is also wise to keep the following
information handy in case of emergencies:
• For a government-hospital
ambulance, call 999, or dial 112 on
your mobile phone.
For more information on looking after
your health in the tropics (mosquito
bites, sunburn, diarrhoea, and heat
exhaustion), visit www.tourism.gov.my/
en/about/essentials_health.asp.
and also international driver licence are
accepted for use in Malaysia for three
months. For those wishing to have a
Malaysian license, you can convert your
Australian one quite easily. To find out
how, please visit www.malaysia.embassy.
gov.au/klpr/cons_dr.html.
Public transportation
Public transportation in Malaysia is widely
available. If you stay in a small town or rural
area, relying on a car or motorbike is still the
best option, followed by bus services.
Here are some quick facts on the public
transportation available in Malaysia:
Travel and medical insurance
Before you depart, it is strongly
recommended that you take out a
comprehensive travel insurance that
will cover any overseas medical costs.
Confirm that your insurance covers
you for the whole time that you are
away and check for the circumstances
and activities not included in your
policy. It is important to remember that
regardless of how healthy and fit you
are, if you are unable to afford travel
insurance, you cannot afford to travel.
For more information, please visit http://
smarttraveller.gov.au.
Getting out and about
Driving
If you prefer to drive, street directories
can be purchased from major book
shops and some petrol stations. Also
check out www.streetdirectory.com.my
for online maps for Kuala Lumpur and
Melaka town. Cars can be easily rented
from car rental companies.
Similar to Australia, Malaysians drive on
the left side of the road, and virtually all
cars are right-hand drive. You need a
licence to drive cars and ride motorbikes
in Malaysia. The Australian driver’s licence
Taxis
• Can be flagged down at the side of
the road in most places.
• In most cities, there are also many
dial-a-taxi companies that are easily
reached by a phone call.
• For taxi services from midnight to
6.00am, there is usually a surcharge
that could amount to 50% of the fare,
so be sure to check how much it is
when you call or before you board.
• In Kuala Lumpur, most taxis come with
meters. Insist on the driver using the
meter. If there is no meter in the taxi,
make sure to agree on a price before
your trip so there are no unpleasant
surprises later on. Ask the locals or
other experienced visitors what
reasonable fares should be for
where you need to go.
City and town buses
• Bus services are inexpensive and
available in many areas.
• Rapid KL (www.putralrt.com.my) is
the main bus service provider in
Kuala Lumpur.
• Other bus services do not always
publish their schedules, so the best
way to find out what goes where is to
ask people who are waiting for buses.
You could also check with your new
colleagues and friends who use bus
services.
Monorail and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Trains
• Within the city of Kuala Lumpur, there
is a network of monorail and light-rail
transit trains (Star and Putra LRT).
• Check out this link for prices
and maps of their routes. (www.
ytlcommunity.com/mytransport/lrt.
asp).
Inter-city train services
• These services are offered by Keretapi
Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB)
(www.ktmb.com.my).
• There are dining carriages providing
hot meals and take-away snacks.
• Services to Singapore and Thailand
are available.
• Sleeping berths and private rooms are
available for overnight trips.
Inter-city bus services
• Numerous bus companies (www.
myexpressbus.com) have services
between most cities and towns in
Malaysia.
• Almost all these buses are airconditioned.
• Always buy your tickets from the
counters in a bus station.
• Buses to neighbouring countries
Singapore and Thailand are available.
Malaysians are a friendly bunch, so be
sure to make friends with the locals. They
will be happy to show you around and
make you feel more at home during your
stay here in Malaysia.
Selamat Datang! Welcome to Malaysia!
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
13
Study, Work, Live in Malaysia
Dining, entertainment and travel
Here are some ideas and recommendations for you to consider when planning what
to do and where to go in Malaysia.
Shopping
Shopping in Malaysia offers a wide range
of choices: from Western-style malls
and boutique shops carrying the latest
electronic goods, household items, and
fashion labels to the local neigbourhood
night markets with a marvellous variety
of goods, including fresh foods, clothing,
toys, tools and furnishings. Prices are
usually considerably lower in the night
markets than in the malls and shops.
Ask your local friends to bring you there
for a night out.
These eating places feature a large
variety of foods such as satay (meat
on coconut skewers grilled over a
charcoal fire) served with peanut sauce,
compressed rice packets, and fresh
cucumber and onions, ais kacang (or
‘ABC’ – a dessert comprising shaved ice
topped with a sweet syrup and a variety
of toppings), mee goreng mamak (spicy
Indian fried noodles), yong tau fu (a large
selection of fresh vegetables stuffed with
meat and fish), and the list goes on.
You can find cuisine from many parts of
the world available, be it Malay, Indian,
Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Mexican,
Middle-Eastern or Western. Whether you
live in an urban or rural area, you will be
able to walk out and get food at any
time of the day or night.
Travel and adventure
Satay
Famous open-air food courts:
• Gurney Drive in Penang
• Imbi Road in Kuala Lumpur
• Chinatown on Petaling Street in
Kuala Lumpur.
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
Malaysia’s holiday destinations
Malaysia has many getaway places to
cater to a variety of tastes and budgets.
Thousand-year-old rainforests, islands,
white-sand beaches, waterfalls, caves,
mountains, and lakes are usually not
more than an hour or two from any city.
Some popular destinations in Malaysia:
• Cameron Highlands, Pahang
• Mulu Caves, Sarawak
• Islands on the west coast – Pangkor,
Langkawi, Penang
• Islands on the east coast – Perhentian,
Redang, Kapas, Tioman
• Kuala Terengganu
• Malacca.
International fast-food joints like KFC and
McDonald’s are also found in all major
cities and most towns, even small towns.
Most popular amongst the locals are the
open-air hawker stalls and food courts.
You can find these food courts (or glutton
squares as Malaysians also call them) in
every town in the country.
A vibrant and cosmopolitan nightlife is
the hallmark of most major cities, and
KL is no exception, regularly featuring
international acts. The scenes in Penang,
Ipoh, and Johor Bahru feature mostly
local acts, with occasional international
acts. Small towns and rural areas are
generally quiet come nightfall, but you
will find numerous local food outlets still
open and patronised by locals.
For more information on dining and
nightlife in Malaysia, check out the
lifestyle pages of the local newspapers
and the following publications:
www.klue.com.my and www.expatkl.
com/v3_index2.php.
Fresh cooking ingredients are easily
obtainable from supermarkets, fresh
markets and your local grocery store,
or mini markets and sundry shops, as
Malaysians call them. Ingredients for
virtually any cuisine in the world are
imported and stocked by some
shops, especially in major cities like
Kuala Lumpur (KL) and Penang.
Dining
Nightlife
Nasi lemak or coconut rice
A meal consisting of a main dish, dessert
and a drink would cost about RM7 to
RM10 (AUD2.50 to AUD3.50).
For restaurants in your area, simply ask
your local friends for recommendations.
Cameron Highlands hill resort
Internship
Opportunities
in Malaysia
Internship Opportunities in
Malaysia
Malaysia as an internship
destination
If you have never thought of Malaysia as an internship destination, think again.
Y
ou are in the middle of your college
or university course, or are almost
done with your studies. Perhaps you
have just graduated and are thinking of
what to do next.
Why not consider an internship in
Malaysia?
What are internships and how do
they work?
Internships are introductory and
temporary work placements within
organisations – whether they be
corporations, educational institutions,
government bodies or non-profit
organisations – where the interns get to
experience the day-to-day workings of
the particular organisation to which they
are attached.
Internships are a great way to integrate
study and work-readiness while exposing
interns to a different culture in an
international setting. The high value
placed on a skilled workforce and
productive economy in Australia makes
well-equipped, highly trained, flexible
graduates with relevant experience
the most sought-after graduates upon
completion of their studies. This makes
doing an internship an attractive option
for a student.
Internships also enhance work-ready skills
in a structured way that complements
and enhances traditional studies. Being
able to undertake a structured workbased learning in the industry while
studying may prove be one of the most
rewarding experiences in a student’s life.
Why an internship in Malaysia?
Diversity
Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage is
the basis of its innovative workforce,
16
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
Although many languages are spoken in Malaysia, English
is the predominant language of commerce, which enables
people of many races and nations to communicate in and
out of the workplace.
one which has evolved due to the
necessity and advantages of working
with people of different ethnicities,
religions and lifestyles. The local Malays,
Chinese, Indians, Eurasians and various
native peoples have lived and worked
together harmoniously to bring Malaysia
to where she is today – a stable economy
with good infrastructure, established
institutions of learning, and a standard
of living which approaches that of
developed nations.
the following:
• Agriculture
• Forestry
• Development
• Education
• Engineering
• IT
• Manufacturing
• Publishing
• Telecommunications
• Hospitality
• Finance.
With many multinational corporations
(MNCs) in the country, you will also
have a choice of both local and global
companies.
Beyond work
All types of internship opportunities
Internship opportunities in Malaysia are
found in many types of organisations,
ranging from small and medium
enterprises (SMEs) to large multinational
corporations (MNCs), and also
governmental and non-governmental
(NGO) bodies. Enquire at your university
regarding these opportunities.
There are many industries you can
choose from in Malaysia, including
Although your main purpose for being
in an internship program is to gain work
experience, there is much more beyond
the walls of work from which you can
gain experiences.
After work, get together with your new
colleagues to sample life in Malaysia.
See our ‘Study, Work, Live in Malaysia’
section on pages 8 to 14 to read about
Malaysia’s history, economy, climate, job
scene, housing and other living topics,
as well as shopping, entertainment and
travel adventures that can be found in
and around Malaysia.
Australia – Malaysia trade relations
Malaysia is Australia’s third-largest
trading partner within the ASEAN
group of countries. It is also
Australia’s eleventh largest partner
internationally.
Major merchandise exports from
Australia to Malaysia include
copper, aluminium, coal, ferrous
waste and scrap, milk and cream,
medicaments (including veterinary
ones), zinc, food, live animals,
chemicals and related products, and
refined petroleum. Apart from these,
Australia is also a major provider of
education services to Malaysia.
From Malaysia to Australia, major
exports include crude petroleum,
computers, telecommunications
equipment, integrated circuits,
furniture, gold, refined petroleum,
computer parts, radio receivers and
electrical machinery and appliances.
Malaysian’s foreign direct investment
in Australia was AUD3.99 billion in
2006 which made Malaysia the
twelfth-largest investor in Australia.
Australian companies continue to
pursue opportunities in Malaysia and
on 7 April 2005, a bilateral Free Trade
Agreement (FTA) negotiation started
between Australia and Malaysia.
Some recent trade successes
include the 19.1% stake acquired by
ANZ Bank in Malaysia’s fifth largest
financial institution, AMMB Holdings
(AmBank Group) in May 2007, the
opening of a BHP Billiton office as
a base for gas explorations off the
coast of Sabah in August 2007,
and a MOU signed in December
2007 between Qantas and MAS
Aerospace Engineering.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
17
The Malaysia Australia Business Council (MABC) is proud to support internship opportunities for
Australian and Malaysian students studying at Australian universities through the provision of one
FREE RETURN FLIGHT
from Australia to Malaysia
For application details, please contact the MABC at mabc@mabc.org.my or visit
www.malaysia.embassy.gov.au/klpr/study.html
The successful recipient will be required to undertake an internship in Malaysia and provide a written
report on their experience.
The Malaysia Australia Business Council (MABC) was established in 1986 as a private, non profit organisation
to provide a forum for discussion and exchange of views on bilateral business conditions. The MABC Education
and Training Sub-Committee promotes close relations between Australia and Malaysia through its support in
enhancing the bilateral education and training relationship.
www.mabc.org.my
Fancy a break? You’re in Luck!
University graduates and students will soon be able to broaden their horizons by combining work and play on
the new Work and Holiday program with Malaysia.
Australia and Malaysia have recently agreed to introduce a reciprocal Work and Holiday visa arrangement.
University-educated Australian and Malaysian travellers who are aged between 18 and 30 will soon be able to
work and holiday in each other’s country for up to 12 months.
The program will enable 100 university graduates or students from each country to spend 12 months in either
Australia or Malaysia, if they have completed two years of their course. These Work and Holiday visa holders
will also be able do temporary or casual work for up to six months with any one employer.
Visa applicants for the program must have the support of their government, meet health and character
requirements and must not be accompanied by dependent children.
The Work and Holiday program aims to promote international understanding through helping young people
experience the culture and different lifestyle of another country, especially through people-to-people contacts, and
to subsidise their travel by working. The program is expected to start in early 2009.
Australia also has reciprocal work and holiday arrangements with Thailand, Chile, Indonesia, Turkey and
the USA.
More information will be published at www.malaysia.org.au
Organisation &
Intern Profiles
Organisation Profiles:
21
23
25
29
31
33
35
37
39
41
43
Intern Profiles:
20
26
28
38
45
Intern Profile
Intern Profile
alaysian
Hsin Wong, M
de
ustralian Tra
Interned at A
)
e
d
tra
(Aus
Commission
rnational
Master of Inte
n
tio
a
c
Qualifi
rsity of
ensland Unive
Business, Que
2006
Technology,
What drives me to succeed
at my internship
The opportunity to create
a credible impression of
myself amongst working
professionals and to
receive a good testimonial
to enhance my future
employability.
Everyone should know this
An internship should be
taken seriously. Show that
you are a serious contributor
who is willing to take on
responsibilities, and be
receptive to new challenges.
Do not be selective in doing
tasks, and embrace a
learning spirit, finding value
in everything you do.
Choosing my internship
It was great timing to have entered Austrade prior to my
final semester of my postgraduate degree in international
business. Since the agency exists to serve international trade,
it was a perfect match to my area of interest. I got to apply
my learning from university and also gained insight into how
international operations function intimately. Also, it was so
easy to decide on interning with Austrade since working for
an embassy is a role which is highly regarded.
My favourite parts
Working with Australians in Malaysia and enjoying the crosscultural dynamics. It felt like I was going in to work in a foreign
land every day even though I was in my home country.
Internship life
I thoroughly enjoyed my internship at Austrade. People
treated me with respect and it was great that they made me
feel like family. You would think that nobody expects an intern
to speak at weekly meetings, but the Trade Commissioner
ensured my contribution in all the meetings. Aside from that,
I took pride in representing Austrade at external settings
meeting clients, partners, etc.
My most memorable moment was my farewell breakfast
party. I was really touched that my colleagues had not only
gone through the trouble of throwing me a party, but also
gotten me farewell gifts.
20
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
The best thing about being
an intern
Being in real work settings
and given responsibilities
which relate to operations.
Three things I will never leave
home without
Mobile phone, lip moisturiser,
wallet
I thoroughly enjoyed
my internship at
Austrade. People
treated me with
respect and it was
great that they made
me feel like family.
Some changes
Transitioning from being a student to a working person, I learnt
that it was important to be professional at work.
Hobbies and other activities
I love reading and baking. I also volunteer at church as a
Sunday School teacher as I enjoy being with kids. Apart
from that, I love the thrill that outdoor activities provide, for
example the flying fox, kayaking, parasailing, etc. I aim to do
scuba diving and sky diving before I turn 30!
Looking ahead
I would love to be part of an intercultural global organisation.
My advice
Choose an internship which is highly relevant to your field of
studies or interest. Go for established organisations as they
tend to have proper training processes put in place to take
care of the welfare of interns.
Organisation Profile
AmBank Group
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
Established in August 1975, AmBank
Group is the fifth largest financial services
group* in Malaysia and comprises AMMB
Holdings Berhad and its subsidiaries
AmInvestment Group Berhad, AmBank
(M) Berhad, and AmAssurance Berhad.
The Group provides a wide range
of investment banking, commercial
banking, retail banking and related
financial services, which also include
Islamic banking, underwriting of general
and life insurance, stock, share and
futures broking, investment advisory
as well as asset, property and unit trust
management.
AmBank Group’s core philosophy
incorporates a deep-seated commitment
to the satisfaction of its wide range of
customers, with numerous customerdriven initiatives woven into all forms of
communication and interaction with all
customer groups. The Group is committed
to providing new and innovative
products and services to its customers,
and its partnership with the Australia
and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ),
one of Australia’s leading banking
groups, provides the powerful synergy of
combined expertise and experience.
AmBank Group’s track record is firmly
established with many important industry
awards and accolades covering its entire
range of core businesses. Its merchant
banking business was the first to be listed
on Bursa Malaysia, and it was the first
to list both bond and equity exchange
traded funds in Malaysia while also
listing the world’s first Syariah-compliant
healthcare REIT. It was the first to offer a
prepaid MasterCard, and one of the first
to offer both conventional and Islamic
banking services. Issuing the first Islamic
credit card in the region was another
notable achievement.
*By assets, as of 31 March 2008
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
21
Organisation Profile
Let Us Make You Smile
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
HR Department
Address to which applications
should be made
AmInvestment Bank Berhad
Human Resources Department
Level 12, AmBank Group
Leadership Centre
Lot 1153 Jalan Punchak
Off Jalan P Ramlee
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone +(603) 2032 3969
Fax +(603) 2032 5652
AmBank (M) Berhad
(Retail Banking)
Human Resources Department
Level 42, Menara Ambank
No 8, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone +(603) 2167 3000
Fax +(603) 2162 2240
AmBank (M) Berhad
(Business Banking)
Human Resources Department
Level 18, Menara Dion
Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone +(603) 2026 3939
Fax +(603) 2026 6855
AmAssurance Berhad
Human Resources Department
7th Floor, Bangunan AmAssurance
No 1, Jalan Lumut
50400 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone +(603) 4047 8000
Fax +(603) 4043 8680
Website
www.ambg.com.my
E-mail for enquiries
amcareers@ambg.com.my
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
AmBank Group’s brands cover all the
major sectors of banking and finance,
and are widely recognised by peers,
clients and competitors – AmBank,
AmIslamic, AmInvestment Bank Group,
and AmAssurance.
The Group’s objectives in relation to
its biggest asset, human capital, focus
on developing a performance-driven,
talented and motivated workforce,
innovative, agile and realising
shared values.
In tandem with its business growth
and expansion plans, the Group holds
regular recruitment exercises to meet its
increasing workforce and talent needs.
The AmBank Group offers occupational
mobility along technical as well as
managerial tracks, with far-reaching
opportunities for learning, development
and exposure. A career with the AmBank
Group equals unleashing your truest
potential.
Employees receive formal and
experiential training development
through job rotation and transfer
opportunities, with exceptional
performers being fast-tracked for
advancement.
Internship opportunities at AmBank Group
are available for undergraduates. We
recruit undergraduates from local and
overseas universities to take up internships
with us.
An intern with the AmBank Group will
receive mentorship and supervision which
will assist him or her to explore potential
careers within the financial services
industry.
The internship with AmBank Group will
be for a period of between three and six
months. Interns will be paid an attractive
allowance and the exposure will provide
them with insights into the prerequisites
for future employment in the financial
services sector. Interns will experience a
real working-life environment and at the
same time improve their soft skills such
as communication, public speaking and
teamwork.
Interns are selected with consideration
given to their potential to be our future
employees. Based on their field of study
at university, they will be employed in one
of our core business areas i.e. investment
banking, conventional banking, Islamic
banking or insurance. The interns will
be assigned to a diverse range of
departments including Risk Management,
Treasury, Finance, Corporate Finance,
Operations, Credit Operations, Business
Development or Actuarial.
For more information on the AmBank
Group, please visit www.ambg.com.my.
Organisation Profile
BlueScope Lysaght (M) Sdn Bhd
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
Building Materials Distributors Association
(BMDAM), Malaysian Structural Steel
Association (MSSA), Malaysia Iron &
Steel Federation (MISIF), Federation of
Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), Master
Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM),
Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) and
the Institution of Surveyors Malaysia.
BlueScope Lysaght Malaysia is a
majority-owned subsidiary of BlueScope
Steel Limited, the largest steel group in
Australia and Asia. Established since 1968,
BlueScope Lysaght Malaysia was the first
to introduce long-length, cut-to-order
roofing products in what was then
a market dominated by asbestos
sheeting and cheap zinc-coated
corrugated sheet. As a manufacturer
and a supply-and-installation provider,
BlueScope Lysaght Malaysia offers a
broad range of roofing, wall cladding
and structural products made
from ZINCALUME® steel and Clean
COLORBOND® steel. The company is the
first roll former in Malaysia and has since
expanded to the east coast, Sabah and
Sarawak.
Training and Development
We provide the following training to
develop talent and to retain them. Our
intentions are for internal employees to
grow with the company and to establish
a long and meaningful career.
Trainings Provided
• Essential for Managers
(Corporate program)
• Essential for Leaders
(Corporate program)
• Professional Selling Skill
(Corporate program)
• Safety, Environmental & Health –
compulsory for all employees.
Our LYSAGHT® range of roofing and
walling profiles are subjected to
stringent quality and performance
tests in accordance with international
building standards, making LYSAGHT®
the preferred brand of architects and
specifiers, especially for buildings with
intricate or complex architecture.
We provide complete supply and install
services upon request and our unique rollon-site service allows even longer roofing
profiles which can create a smooth
flat roof or an extreme roof curvature
to bring the architecture to life, further
enhancing the beauty and essence of
the architects’ design.
Our Products & Solutions
• Roofing & Walling
• Pre Engineered Buildings
• Framing & Trusses
• Purlins & Girts
• Structural Decking
• Louvres
Career Development Programs
• Motivational and Team Building
Programs
• Profession and Technical Programs.
The Company looks at Succession
Planning seriously especially with a global
presence in the industry. Training is an
integral part of our business plan and
developing potential employees into
future leaders is a norm in the company.
• Guttering & Downpipes
• Ceiling & Partitions.
BlueScope Lysaght Malaysia is also
associated and recognized by the
Malaysia Australia Business Council
(MABC), Malaysian International
Chamber of Industries (MICCI),
LOCATIONS
Main location
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Additional locations worldwide
Asia Pacific, Europe, China, Singapore,
Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, India, USA
and Australia.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
23
Organisation Profile
There is no
Equivalent
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Achievement – Berjaya Air Hangar,
Malaysia
Project – Esplanade, Singapore
Project – Hospital of Taiwan University,
Taiwan
Project – Parkview Square, Hong Kong
Name of person
Sheila Annamary
Address to which applications
should be made
No.6 Persiaran Kemajuan
Section 16, 42000 Shah Alam
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Telephone
+(603) 5579 2000 ext 600
Fax
+(603) 5510 5428
Website
www.bluescopesteel.com.my
E-mail for enquiries
Sheila.Lourdsamy@
bluescopesteel.com
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
We have been working with local
colleges and have had practical trainees
in the field of Civil, Structural, Sales and
Marketing.
The students work with us on a daily basis
for three months and since there are only
a small number of Steel Structure design
companies, we educate students in the
business and the knowledge they gain is
scarce in the marketplace.
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
Final or third year students in Civil
Structural Engineering, Marketing.
Other skills, personality, attitudes, and
experiences needed
An attitude to learn and an innovative
mind.
Organisation Profile
CPA Australia
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
CPA Australia’s reputation for its
contribution to the accounting profession
and the development of accounting
education in Malaysia is widely
recognised. Currently, there are 8,000
CPA Australia members in Malaysia.
A briefing was conducted for the internship students at CPA Australia office prior to
the internship
International recognition
Studying for a qualification in Australia
is an excellent start to ensuring your
competitive edge in business. But what
happens when you complete your
qualifications and decide to return
home? You will need a professional body
that can provide you with the credibility
and versatility to take advantage of
career opportunities that come your way,
anywhere in the world.
As a CPA Australia, you will be
internationally recognised as a leader
in finance, accounting and business
by a number of accounting bodies
worldwide including the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants,
The Chartered Institute of Public Finance
and Accountancy in the UK, Hong Kong
Institute of Certified Public Accountants,
Institute of Certified Public Accountants in
Singapore and the Malaysian Institute of
Accountants.
Malaysia’s business environment
There are over 25,000 chartered
accountants in Malaysia of which 15%
are CPA Australia members. Despite the
less favourable external environment
which has held a moderating effect
on Malaysia’s export growth, strong
domestic demand has sustained the
growth of the Malaysian economy.
Employment opportunities
Throughout the year, career and
recruitment fairs are often held. There
is a need for CPAs in a wide range of
fields including commerce and industry,
public sector, public practice, banking,
finance and capital markets, insurance,
financial services, consultancy, education
and information technology. Having
good grades is not everything. Being a
leader, good aptitude, making the right
decisions, good networking and having
people skills will give you the edge to be
employed.
Employment trend and graduate programs
Many companies in Malaysia offer
accounting-related jobs for recent
graduates throughout the year. The
major recruitment period for Australian
graduates will be in January and
February. Employers generally assess
graduates through a number of
criteria including assessment
exercises and manager interviews.
Join CPA Australia as an Associate
member before you return home. This
will impress employers and be an extra
credential on your CV.
Skills and specialities in demand
Skills currently in demand include:
forensic accounting, business advisory,
IT consultation, Islamic monetary affairs,
Islamic accounting standards, banking,
professional practice, industry and
commerce, banking and finance services
and business process outsourcing.
The workplace is vastly different from
what it was ten years ago. Today,
computer skills, multiple languages and
a well-rounded skill set is more important
than a graduate with excellent grades.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
25
Intern Profile
Intern Profile
Malaysian
Huah E Fay,
Malaysia
nst & Young
Er
t
a
d
e
rn
te
In
in Business
Pursuing BA
versity,
), Victoria Uni
g
(Accountin
Final year
What drives me to succeed
at my internship
Better prospects of getting
a job after graduation; my
future career.
The best thing about being
an intern
The working experience as
an accountant.
Everyone should know this
Working experience is very
important.
When you are
assigned tasks,
you will be held
responsible, so
complete them to the
best of your ability
as your superior
will have high
expectations of you.
Three things I will never leave
home without
Mobile phone, purse, MP3
player
Choosing my internship
I know that work experience is a ‘must’. Therefore, I applied
for the CPA Australia Asian Internship Program. This internship
is a stepping-stone for my career. I am lucky as I had the
opportunity to work in Ernst & Young. The company has a
good reputation in the accounting industry, and I gained
much working experience during my time there. My senior
manager constantly gave me advice and encouragement;
I admire her dedication to her job.
My favourite parts
I enjoyed working with my senior manager. She gave me
challenging tasks to complete, and her guidance was great.
I learnt a lot from her, and she gave me many learning
opportunities during my internship.
Internship life
Do not expect to go home right after office hours, especially
when working for a major accounting company. When you
are assigned tasks, you will be held responsible, so complete
them to the best of your ability as your superior will have high
expectations of you. There may be other colleagues who will
give you other tasks at the same time; it is thus vital to prioritise
your tasks and organise your time properly. The satisfaction
of tasks well done within the timeframe given makes it all
worthwhile.
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
An important skill
I would say communication skills are important. You will have
to cooperate with your colleagues on work issues. Since you
are an intern, you will have to seek advice from them to
complete your tasks.
Hobbies and other activities
I was the Sunway University College CPA Australia Student
Charter committee member when I was in my second year at
university. After I came to Melbourne, I was a volunteer for the
2008 Buddha’s Day Multicultural Festival event.
Looking ahead
After completing the internship, I decided to work part-time
in Australia as an accountant to gain additional working
experience. Therefore, I took the Work Integrated Learning
Program as my elective subject. I am currently working in
Cbus Superannuation Company as an account assistant
and am responsible for accounts payable/receivable.
The internship experience, which I listed in my résumé,
definitely played a vital role in the Cbus candidate-selection
procedure, and during my interview with them. It definitely
brought me closer to another phase of my career.
My advice
When choosing an internship placement, you should think of
which department you would like to work in, and your area
of interest. That is because different companies specialise
in different services in the industry. If possible, talk to the
employees before making a decision.
Organisation Profile
Students were placed in various organisations throughout Malaysia for the internship
period from December 2007 to February 2008
Your
professional
pathway to a
successful career
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Michelle Hew/Leong Pui Kuan
Asian Internship Program
• About the program
The internship program is designed
to provide students with hands-on
practical experience in finance,
accounting and business. This work
experience program offers students
a rare opportunity to apply their
technical skills and experience the
transition from study to full-time
work and gives you access to some
of Australia’s best finance and
accounting students from universities
across Australia and Malaysia.
• Who is eligible?
You must be a CPA Passport student
who is in the second or third year of
study undertaking a CPA-accredited
course and be a citizen of Malaysia.
• How much does it cost?
It is FREE to register for this program,
but you must be a CPA Passport
student.
• What kind of placements are
available?
The placement period is between
December and February. During
this time, placements are available
in a range of industries. In 2007,
46 candidates were successfully
placed in various organisations. The
organisations include BDO Binder,
DiGi telecommunications, Ernst &
Young, Ferrier Hodgson MH, Folks DFK,
Hii & Lee, HSBS, IBM, Intel Penang,
KPMG, Moores Rowland, PwC and
Shamsir Jasani GT.
• Will I receive payment?
Students will be paid a one-off
allowance of RM200 by CPA Australia
and a minimum monthly salary of
RM500 by the employer.
• When do I register?
Registrations are open between
August and September. To
register, go to www.cpacareers.
com.au/passport/workexp. For
further enquiries, please email
asianinternship@cpaaustralia.com.au,
call 03 2267 3388 or fax 03 2287 3030.
Monash – CPA Australia Professional
Placement Program
This program is aimed at providing
students pursuing the second year of
their Bachelor of Business and Commerce
degree at Monash University Australia
the opportunity to undertake a semester
of study (two to four units) at Monash
University Sunway Campus, followed by
a period of work experience in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia.
Address to which applications
should be made
Suite 10.01, Level 10
The Gardens South Tower
Mid Valley City
Lingkaran Syed Putra
59200 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 2267 3388
Fax
+(603) 2287 3030
Website
www.cpaaustralia.com.au
E-mail for enquiries
asianinternshipmy@cpaaustralia.
com.au
The Work Placement Program (WPP) is
designed to function as a partnership.
The benefits of the program flow to the
participating business and the student.
For further information, please email
studymalaysia@monash.edu.my.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
27
Intern Profile
Intern Profile
, Malaysian
Tee Lip Zhun
g Sdn Bhd
HD Perundin
Interned at G
eering,
in Civil Engin
Pursuing BEng
year
niversity, Third
Melbourne U
What drives me to succeed
at my internship
To bring myself closer to
the real world of my future
profession.
The best thing about being
an intern
To be a step closer to
working life, and to fully
understand and plan my
career path according to
my exposure to the industry.
Choosing my internship
GHD is a well-established international company with an
organised structure, which ensures that every employee is its
greatest asset.
My favourite part
My favourite part will have to be being able to participate
alongside senior engineers in engineering projects, giving
me a sense of accomplishment as I get to learn as much as
possible from them.
Internship life
Life as an intern was somewhat boring at the start. However,
things started to change as my relationships with colleagues
and senior engineers improved. As a result, they are now
more willing to share their knowledge and experience with
me, as well as to entrust me with minor work responsibilities.
An important skill
I have learned to take more initiative in terms of approaching
other people (colleagues), offering myself for any jobs that
they are willing to share.
Hobbies and other activities
Football and surfing the Internet.
28
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
Everyone should know this
It is not up to the employer
to approach you for work
or to teach you. It should
be the other way around
where the trainee should
initiate and establish good
relationships with colleagues
and the employer to be able
to learn and be useful in the
company.
Three things I will never leave
home without
Pen, mobile, wallet
I have learned to take more initiative
in terms of approaching other people
(colleagues), offering myself for any jobs
that they are willing to share.
Looking ahead
I am looking forward to becoming a chartered professional
civil engineer or project manager who is able to undertake
and ensure the success of any given world-class project.
My advice
Be open and take more initiative to approach your
colleagues and employer.
Organisation Profile
GHD Perunding Sdn Bhd
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
GHD is an international professional
services company. Our people deliver
innovative solutions by combining
technical skills and experience with an
understanding of our clients’ objectives
and aspirations.
We employ over 6,500 people in an
integrated network of 100 offices
throughout Australia, New Zealand,
Asia, the Middle East, the Americas
and Europe, serving the global market
sectors of Infrastructure, Mining & Industry,
Defence, Transport, Property & Buildings
and Environment sectors.
At the heart of our business are talented
engineers, drafters, planners, architects
and scientists who share a passion for
realising opportunities for our clients
through outstanding performance since
our inception in 1928.
Exceeding AUD673 million annual
revenue in 2007, GHD continues to
succeed and is ranked in the world’s
top 30 engineering and architecture
companies.
Values
GHD embraces the values that have
sustained the company since inception –
Teamwork, Respect and Integrity.
Our values guide how we think, act
and feel. They define the professional
and personal standards that can be
expected of GHD. They direct our
business strategy and are the pillars
of our culture.
GHD Urban Development
Progress continues on one of the Iconic Palm Islands in Dubai
Photo: Nicholas Haig, Dubai Photography
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
29
Organisation Profile
Clients,
People,
Performance
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Fawzia Abdul Salam
Address to which applications
should be made
22nd Floor, The Mall Putra Place
100 Jalan Putra
50350 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Telephone
+(603) 2332 3967
Fax
+(603) 2332 3900
Website
www.ghd.com.au
E-mail for enquiries
shirley.soosay@ghd.com.au
Raha Beach Building View
Culture
Culture is the subtle attitude and thinking
that guides our people’s achievement.
GHD’s culture encourages integrity, the
realisation of personal potential and
the ability to have fun in the course
of our work. GHD also recognises the
importance of cultural diversity in
developing a global company.
Our people and the culture they
embrace are the cornerstones of
our success.
Strategy
Strategy – Realising Opportunities is GHD’s
five-year strategic plan. It builds on our
track record and market positioning,
and defines our goals. It identifies how
the company continues to succeed and
capitalise on opportunities.
If you aspire to work for a company
which truly does value its people and
where your career progression is limited
only by your desire to succeed, then we
would welcome your application.
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
LOCATIONS
Other skills, personality, attitudes, and
experiences needed
You will be committed to your career
growth coupled with enthusiasm to
learn. Your well-developed problemsolving and analytical skills, excellent
time management and your keen
eye for detail will be critical to your
success at GHD, as will your excellent
communication skills and the ability to
build and maintain strong relationships
with internal and external clients.
Additional locations worldwide
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Asia
• Middle East
• Americas
• Europe.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
We are seeking enthusiastic graduates
to join our multi-disciplinary teams. You
will have excellent communication skills
and enjoy working in a collaborative
team environment, while applying your
education and newly acquired skills,
working with a diverse range of clients
and projects.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
At GHD, we appreciate the positive
changes that can be brought about
by introducing fresh and innovative
perspectives and ideas from new people.
As such, our Malaysia Operating Centres
are looking for enthusiastic internship
students to join the team.
The focal points of our strategy are
Clients, People, Performance – these
guide us in our business decisions and
operational management.
Main location
Kuala Lumpur
30
At the heart of our business, we employ
graduates and welcome interns in the
following disciplines:
• Civil & Structural Engineering
• Water & Wastewater Engineering
• Mechanical & Electrical Engineering
• Environmental.
Minimum academic requirements
Bachelor’s Degree
Organisation Profile
Leighton Contractors Malaysia
Manjung Power Station
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
Leighton Contractors Malaysia is one
of the region’s leading contractors and
project developers. With more than 30
years experience, the company has
successfully completed a wide range of
projects across Malaysia.
Part of Leighton International, a subsidiary
of the Leighton Group – Australia’s largest
project development and contracting
group – Leighton Contractors Malaysia
has been operating from its Kuala Lumpur
office since 1982.
In that time, Leighton International’s
involvement in Asia has encompassed a
wide range of construction projects and
the company has established offices in a
number of countries within the region.
Leighton International prides itself on
adopting a selective approach to
providing construction input, focusing
on projects that require specialist skills
and expertise. This approach to doing
business respects the capabilities of the
local construction industry, while allowing
our clients to take advantage of the
latest industry innovations to successfully
complete their projects.
Leighton International boasts a talented
multi-disciplined management team
and a highly qualified and professional
workforce.
Leighton International has the ability to
successfully undertake a diverse range of
projects including:
• Commercial and Residential Buildings
• Hotels, Resorts and Leisure
Developments
• Specialist Building Works
• Highways and Bridges
• Railways and Transit Systems
• Ports and Marine Works
• Foundations and Groundwork
• Power Generation and Transmission
Projects
Rawang-Ipoh Railway
• Water Treatment and Waste
Management Facilities
• Offshore pipeline and facilities
• Processing and Manufacturing
Facilities
• Mining
• Airport Construction
• Earthworks, Reclamation and Land
Formation
• Tunneling and Underground Caverns
• Hospitals and Healthcare
• Telecommunications Installations.
Recognising the unique nature of each
project, Leighton International adopts a
flexible approach to each project and
tailors its input to best serve the objectives
of the client. This approach is particularly
relevant for multi-faceted, high-tech
projects, where specialist input needs
to be integrated within a larger project
scope.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
31
Organisation Profile
Local
Knowledge,
International
Experience
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Jessica Kaur
Address to which applications
should be made
Leighton Contractors Malaysia
13/F Menara Multi Purpose
No 8 Jalan Munshi Abdullah
50100 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 2035 1688
Fax
+(603) 2693 4388
Website
www.leightonint.com
E-mail for enquiries
general.lu@leighton.com.my
Leighton International is committed to
maintaining and supporting the highest
possible safety standards in each and
every project it undertakes and adopts
proven quality management systems.
International during the final year of their
academic program. The duration of
work placement is flexible in order to suit
Leighton International and the student’s
academic commitments.
Our training program
Leighton International is currently
experiencing rapid growth, particularly
in its key regions of the Middle East,
South-East Asia and India. In the face
of this growth, the challenge now is to
resource the steady pipeline of projects
coming on line.
The Leighton University Initiative covers
nine themes and is normally delivered
during the third and fourth year of
undergraduate study as an “add-on” to
the undergraduate degree. It is a threesemester program with 180 hours
of classroom delivery.
As part of this challenge, Leighton
International has launched the Leighton
University Initiative, a training program
aimed at producing professionals
and skilled workers who are trained in
Leighton-specific systems and methods.
This approach allows students to gain
the practical technical skills to work as
design engineers, quantity surveyors or
in other construction-related positions
immediately upon graduation.
Leighton International uses its own
professional managers to deliver the
Leighton-specific modules in subjects
such as design management, planning,
construction methods and health and
safety.
Students in their third and fourth year of
construction-related degree programs,
such as civil engineers and quantity
surveyors, are eligible. They are also
guaranteed internships within Leighton
During the work placements, students
are familiarised with the organisation
and Leighton International’s systems and
methods.
Interns are given the opportunity to
learn about the Leighton International
culture, workplace environment, policies
and practices. This further enhances
understanding of the content and
knowledge gained from course materials
as it is applied in Leighton International
workplaces. Interns also complete tasks
which are designed to provide practical
experience to complement their
course materials and upon graduation,
successful students are guaranteed an
employment offer with a competitive
salary package.
Students with a desire to gain some
workplace experience as a professional
in their construction-related area of
specialty, such as engineers or quantity
surveyors, are encouraged to apply.
Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya Highway
32
Guide to Internships and
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Organisation Profile
PetrominWork Sdn Bhd
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
PetrominWork Sdn Bhd is a Recruitment
Consultancy Solutions Company
providing a wide range of services
to the Oil & Gas industry. Through
perseverance, dedication, commitment
and a unique ability to truly understand
the needs of our clients and applicants,
PetrominWork is rapidly establishing itself
as a sustainable leader in the specialized
recruitment industry throughout the Asia
Pacific region.
Our acceptance to continuously
challenge our business activities ensures
our ability to stay ahead of the industry
and bring value to both our clients and
applicants.
Industries we serve
• Oil & Gas
• Mining & Minerals
• Energy & Resources
• Petrochemicals & Chemicals.
Overview of operations
• HR Consultancy – Application
Processing – CV Review & Shortlisting,
Meet & greet orientation, Salary
survey, JD Writing, Behavioural
• Recruitment – Confidential &
executive search, Manpower supply/
payrolling, E-recruitment
• Event Organization, Execution &
Management – Roadshows, Oil
Career Centre
• Career Development – Training – “Oil
& Gas @ a Glance”, The Graduate
Initiative Program, Career Counseling
• Extended Consultancy Services –
Effective Communication Skills, FDP
Writing.
Corporate culture and values
• Client Focus
• Frank and Honest Openness
• People Development
• Industry Awareness
• Hands-on execution.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
33
Organisation Profile
Your recruitment
gateway to the
Asia Pacific
Region
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Shakila Subiah
Business Development Executive
Address to which applications
should be made
PetrominWork Sdn Bhd
8th Floor, Wisma Sin Heap Lee
346 Jalan Tun Razak
50400 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 2166 4493
Fax
+(603) 2166 2297
Website
www.petrominwork.com
E-mail for enquiries
info@petrominwork.com
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Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
Reputation: Proud to have served
• BHP Billiton
• Mustang
• Shell
• Foster Wheeler
• Murphy
• Ranhill Worley
• Talisman Energy
• Hess Oil
• BW Offshore
• APL
• Petrofac
• Aker Solutions.
Business achievements
• We have successfully placed 300
candidates in 30 companies since
2004.
• We have organized successful
international road shows and
awareness campaigns in the Middle
East, attracting more than 1,000 CVs
in 2007.
• We have a proven strategy and
methodology in creating positive
exposure for global clients establishing
themselves locally as demonstrated
in a strategic event organized by
PetrominWork that attracted 400
candidates in January 2008.
LOCATIONS
Main locations
• Kuala Lumpur
• Singapore
• Miri (Sarawak)
• Perth (Australia).
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
The Graduate Initiative (TGI) was
developed as a strategic initiative with
the goal of transforming the energy
resources industry through identifying
and developing fresh new talent.
PetrominWork assists young individuals
look for internship opportunities via its
wide network. Training and development
seminars are also provided to help these
individuals excel in their careers.
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
Bachelor’s Degree
Organisation Profile
Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM)
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) is a leading
engineering, sciences and project
delivery firm. Its purpose is to deliver a
positive and enduring impact on the
world. In support of this goal, we have
offices across Australia, New Zealand,
Europe, the Middle East, South America
and Asia. We work in close partnership
with key clients in the public and private
sectors, providing independent technical,
strategic and commercial advice to
deliver a wide range of projects in the
communities in which we live.
Our global workforce has been growing
steadily and we now employ 6,500
people in 47 offices around the world.
They come from a diverse range of
disciplines including engineers, planners,
architects, economists, scientists,
project managers, technicians and
administrative staff.
Our staff work across seven broad
markets: Buildings & Property; Defence;
Power & Industry; International
Development Assistance; Transport
Infrastructure; Mining & Metals; and Water
& Environment. We continuously strive to
help our people reach their full potential,
engaging them in challenging and
inspiring projects that shape industries
and build nations.
Putrajaya Convention Centre
Wholly employee-owned, SKM is an
organisation with a proud history and we
embrace shared values and an open
culture. We have a commitment to
service and quality, with high standards
of safety and business ethics, along with
a leading-edge approach to delivering
a sustainable future.
For more information about our company
culture, and training and development,
please visit us at:
• www.skmconsulting.com/about/
Values.htm
• www.skmconsulting.com/careers/
graduates.htm
Read more about us at www.
skmconsulting.com/about.
LOCATIONS
Type of business
Sinclair Knight Merz is a multi-market,
multi-disciplinary consultancy. It offers
services to clients in the following broad
market areas:
• Aid
• Buildings and Property
• Defence
• Industrial
• Indigenous Services
• Infrastructure
• IT & Communications
• Local Government
• Mining & Metals
• Power
• Security Services
• Spatial
• Strategic Consulting
• Water & Environmental.
Main locations
In Asia:
• Bangkok • Hong Kong
• Jakarta
• Johor Bahru
• Kuala Lumpur
• Pakistan
• Manila
• Singapore
• India.
Additional locations worldwide
• Australia
• Europe
• Fiji
• Middle East
• New Zealand
• South America.
Find out more at www.skmconsulting.
com/Markets/Markets.htm.
Perlis Power Plant
Marc Building
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
35
Organisation Profile
Achieve
Outstanding
Client Success
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Eric Tran
Address to which applications
should be made
www.skmconsulting.com/
careers/Vacation_Application.
htm
Telephone
+(612) 9928 2362
Website
www.skmconsulting.com
E-mail for enquiries
lmzoh@skmconsulting.com.my
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Are you eager to gain some hands-on
experience in a global project delivery
consulting firm? Keen to get the ball
rolling in your engineering career?
We have opportunities available for
students (preferably in their penultimate
year) currently studying a Science or
Engineering degree to work for SKM over
the Summer Vacation Break.
At SKM, our philosophy is very simple.
We want our people to be inspired – by
our projects, by our people, and by the
opportunities that are in front of them.
We want the dreamers, the thinkers,
and the people who are not afraid to
stand up and take on a challenge. We
want students to come into our vacation
program looking for reasons to do more
and go further. We want to take your
talent and turn it into a great career
– starting with the chance to join our
Graduate Program in the following year.
Please check our website to find out
when vacation student applications
open. Our discipline intake includes
the following:
• Mechanical
Tanjung Bin – Fly-Ash Jetty
36
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Chemical
Environmental GIS & Surveying
Planning
Structural
Electrical
Geotechnical
Sciences.
You will have a chance to experience
what it means to work at SKM, enjoying
our community and our culture, while
doing real work with some of the
industry’s best and brightest.
Visit our website for more information:
www.skmconsulting.com/careers/
Vacation_Application.htm.
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
Preferably in their penultimate year
currently studying a Science or
Engineering degree.
Other skills, personality, attitudes, and
experiences needed
We want the dreamers, the thinkers, and
the people who are not afraid to stand
up and take on a challenge.
Albury Highway
Organisation Profile
Sarawak General Hospital
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
The cardiac centre at Sarawak General
Hospital was the third cardiac centre
of Ministry of Health Malaysia, officially
declared open on 25 September 2001 by
YAB Tan Sri Datuk Patinggi Taib Mahmud,
Chief Minister of Sarawak. It is the only
public cardiac centre on the island of
Borneo.
The cardiac centre at Sarawak General
Hospital:
• Provides a comprehensive
cardiovascular service using the
latest state-of-the-art diagnostic and
therapeutic tools (3D Echo, Cardiac
CT, Cardiac MRI, Percutaneous
Coronary Intervention, Open Heart
Cardiac Surgery).
• Provides opportunities for partnership
in the training of cardiovascular
health care providers.
• Participates in cardiovascular
research in collaboration with other
centres of excellence.
Please visit our website for more
information at www.cardiacsgh.health.
gov.my.
LOCATIONS
Main location
Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Medical Students are welcome for
attachment of variable duration
throughout the year. Any mutually
accepted pre-arranged research
projects are welcome.
Speak less, do
more. Prove
your sincerity
by action.
Name of person
Prof Dr SIM Kui Hian MBBS(Monash), FRACP
Address to which applications
should be made
Department of Cardiology
Sarawak General Hospital
Jalan Hospital, Kuching 93586
Sarawak, Malaysia
Medical students will have firsthand
experience of a tertiary cardiac service
in Malaysia. During the attachment,
students will have exposure to both
inpatient and outpatient services as well
as all the various cardiac investigations.
Students are welcome to interact with
the local medical students attached to
the hospital.
Students are advised to have their
immunisations up to date as well as their
own medical insurance. All the costs of
accommodation and daily expenditure
are to be borne by the students.
Telephone
+(6082) 27 6666
Fax
+(6082) 27 8308
Website
www.cardiacsgh.health.gov.my
E-mail for enquiries
Sim.kui.hian@health.gov.my
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
Students enrolled in any registered
Medical Schools.
Other skills, personality, attitudes, and
experiences needed
Students are expected to abide by the
rules and standard operation procedure
of the hospital at all times.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
37
Intern Profile
Intern Profile
n
gan, Australia
Katharine Lo
tional
a
rn
te
In
2
lent
Interned at Ta
Sdn Bhd
d
ster of Applie
Pursuing Ma
elbourne
M
),
g
tin
e
rk
(Ma
Commerce
cond year
University, Se
What drives me to succeed
at my internship
The opportunity to work on
a project with a level of
involvement which I would
not otherwise have.
The best thing about being
an intern
The level and detail of
marketing exposure I was
given. I was given extensive
information about marketing
and they allowed me to
ask as many questions as I
wanted to (without making
me feel stupid!) about the
company and the work itself.
Choosing my internship
I chose the Global Mobility Program as I wished to experience
what it would be like working in another country. While the
company was chosen for me, I got to choose to work on a
marketing project to gain industry experience as well as a
global perspective on how marketing varies depending on
cultural context. The fact that I was able to work for a highly
reputable company, with offices in various countries, was
really beneficial in terms of the company structure I observed
and the impact it will have on my résumé.
My favourite parts
While direction was given, I also felt that the freedom of
creativity I was given, allowed me to use my initiative in the
work I undertook.
Internship life
I enjoyed being warmly welcomed into the office. At the
same time, it was hard getting used to a new working
environment and getting a handle on the work, as the
internship was only two weeks.
An important skill
There was a lot of information given at the beginning of
the internship, which was a tad daunting. The process of
comprehending this information and being able to utilise it
effectively was challenging, but my skills in this area have
improved as a result.
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Guide to Internships and
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Everyone should know this
While you may not be paid,
it is an invaluable experience
as you are able to ‘test
out’ the career you wish to
pursue, finding out the pros
and cons and what you wish
to specialise in.
Three things I will never leave
home without
Mobile, iPod, walking shoes!
The fact that I was able to work for a highly
reputable company, with offices in various
countries, was really beneficial in terms of
the company structure I observed and the
impact it will have on my résumé.
Hobbies and other activities
I volunteer at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (an
organisation which assists asylum seekers in Australia who are
given extremely limited rights). I enjoy taking part in university
life as an events coordinator on the committee of the
University of Melbourne’s Graduate School of Management
Student Group. In my spare time I enjoy staying fit through
Pilates, running and working out at the gym.
Looking ahead
I anticipate pursuing a role in marketing. Various areas of
marketing, such as strategy, brand management and fashion
marketing, interest me.
My advice
If possible, find an internship which will challenge you, so that
you have the opportunity to realise your potential and feel
satisfied about being able to perform successfully.
Organisation Profile
Talent2 International Sdn Bhd
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
Talent2 is the first human resources (HR)
company in the Asia-Pacific region to
offer a complete range of outsourcing
services, including executive search
and recruitment, Human Resources
Information System (HRIS), payroll,
consulting and learning.
Talent2 is about talent management for
the future. Our aim is to help companies
with their staffing needs and assist
them to achieve their resourcing goals.
We provide a full range of integrated
services that cover the talent lifecycle.
From planning and selection, hiring and
on-boarding, to payroll and learning,
we help our clients source the best
employees for the job, manage them
and get the best out of them.
Listed on the Australian Stock Exchange
(ASX:TWO), Talent2 is one of the fastestgrowing companies in the services sector.
We have a blue-chip client base that
boasts many of Australia’s leading
companies. Among them are Coles
Group Ltd, Foster’s, Johnson & Johnson
Pacific, Unisys, QBE Insurance and Telstra,
as well as many Australian universities and
government departments.
Duration of internship
One week or more
LOCATIONS
What interns can gain from your
company’s internship
The interns can gain a broader
experience from an Australian-owned HR
company operating in the Asia-Pacific
region. Blue-chip clients based both in
Australia and Malaysia.
Main location
Malaysia
Additional locations worldwide
Asia-Pacific
Closing dates for applications
To coordinate the time with Talent2
schedule
Internship allowance, if any
No allowance given
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
The recent project that we had was
with the students from the University
of Melbourne. The students looked at
Talent2’s current marketing material,
adapted it to make it relevant to the
region, and produced a four-page
brochure for the company.
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
Degree holders
passion >
affinity >
innovation >
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
39
Organisation Profile
It’s who you
know
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Leigh Howard
Address to which applications
should be made
Suite 23.01, Level 23
Menara Standard Chartered
No. 30 Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 2783 8555
Fax
+(603) 2783 8550
Website
www.talent2.com
E-mail for enquiries
leigh.howard@talent2.com
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Organisation Profile
Thomas Philip
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
THOMAS PHILIP is a Kuala Lumpurbased law firm focusing exclusively on
commercial and civil litigation services.
At THOMAS PHILIP we realise that each
and every one of our clients is unique and
has different needs.
We aim to provide all our clients with
individual attention by providing services
in a manner that is designed to achieve
the best possible results. We pride
ourselves on the depth of knowledge and
the commitment of our professional staff
to deliver these results.
Our vision is to be the foremost dispute
resolution firm in Malaysia for individuals,
small and medium sized businesses. To
achieve this, we will:
• Find, nurture and build a community
of talented people;
• Help our people discover and
contribute their own unique strengths;
• Build mutually beneficial relationships
with clients;
• Deliver client focused solutions;
• Create and maintain world class
internal processes;
• Contribute to our society, country and
the world;
• Have a meaningful journey, guided
always by our core values of integrity,
commitment and results.
At THOMAS PHILIP we stand by our three
core values of INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT &
RESULTS.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
41
Organisation Profile
Integrity,
Commitment,
Results
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Name of person
Yusnizah
Address to which applications
should be made
5-1 Jalan 22A/70A Wisma CKL
Desa Sri Hartamas
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 6201 5678
Fax
+(603) 6203 5678
Website
www.thomasphilip.com.my
E-mail for enquiries
careers@thomasphilip.com.my
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Practice areas:
• Bankruptcy
• Companies
• Commercial Contractual Dispute
• Confidential Information
• Contentious Probate Claims
• Corporate Dispute
• Defamation
• Debt Recovery
• Employee & Employer
• Dispute Resolution
• Fraud & Misrepresentation
• Family Law
• Fraud
• Guarantee
• Injunctions
• Insurance
• Insolvency
• Judicial Review Actions
• Labour Law
• Landlord & Tenancy
• Land Law
• Medical Negligence
• Partnership
• Personal Injury
• Professional Negligence
• Road Traffic Accidents
• Sale of Goods
• Public Interests Litigation
• Tort
• Wills & Probate.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Internship
The Thomas Philip Litigation Internship
Program is a PRACTICAL program open
to law students interested in litigation or
dispute resolution who have completed
an attachment with us. The program
can be tailored to fit the schedule of law
students who must spend at least one (1)
day a week in the firm working with us.
The program focuses on core litigation
skills; interviewing, ethics, communication,
independence, research, drafting
and advocacy. All law students work
with lawyers in the practice who will
provide support in all aspects of the
work during the internship. Put what
you are learning or have learned in law
school into practice – experience the
practical aspects of the legal profession
in a practice that focuses exclusively on
litigation, and give yourself a head start
for a litigation career after law school.
If you share our passion for litigation, we
invite you to join us. We are a team of
individuals who love what we do and
are willing to share our experience,
knowledge, effort and fun.
LOCATIONS
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Main location
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Minimum academic requirements
First year law studies.
Organisation Profile
WTW Bovis Sdn Bhd
International and local projects managed by Bovis Lend Lease
ORGANISATION INFORMATION
The Bovis Lend Lease business in Malaysia
draws its beginnings from 1979 and
is the industry leader in project and
construction management services.
The business has a proven track record,
having completed over 100 projects
across a multitude of sectors over
the years. Our global resources and
infrastructure, combined with our local
experience in complex projects, enable
the business to deliver projects such as
the Kuala Lumpur City Centre comprising
the Petronas Twin Towers, Suria KLCC and
Philharmonic Hall, the Malaysia Airlines
ground support and catering facilities at
Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Mid
Valley Mega Mall, The MNI Twins, BPB
Plasterboard, Pharmaniaga Life Sciences
and Dumex Milk packaging facility.
Currently, our portfolio includes projects
for SP Setia Berhad Group, Sime Darby
Berhad, the Australian High Commission,
Public Mutual, a Clubhouse in the
Iskandar Development Region, among
others. Bovis Lend Lease has a strong
understanding of the processes and
systems operating in Malaysia and
can therefore safeguard our clients’
interests. Combining our local expertise
with access to international expertise
throughout the group, our clients are
assured the best real estate solutions for
projects of varied complexities. Bovis
Lend Lease continues to be the leader
in Environment Health and Safety and is
committed to an injury- and incident-free
work site.
The business has been awarded the
“MSOSH Occupational Safety and Health
Gold Award Winner” by the Malaysian
Society for Occupational Safety &
Health (MSOSH) under the category for
Engineering and Construction Sector
for our high standards in Environment
Health and Safety on the 26-storey Gred
A Menara Perak and the Australian High
Commission development.
Our Service Offerings comprises of:
• Project Management
• Construction Management
• Design & Construction
• Managing Contractor
• Design Management
• Retail Consulting.
Guide to Internships and
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43
Organisation Profile
Imagine
Create
(This reflects our ability to
articulate a clear vision for
a concept and successfully
deliver it)
LOCATIONS
CONTACT INFORMATION/
APPLY TO
Main location
Malaysia
Name of person
Dinesh Nambiar
Additional locations worldwide
• Asia Pacific
• Europe
• Middle East.
Address to which applications
should be made
WTW Bovis Sdn Bhd
Level 11, Etiqa Twins (formerly
known as MNI Twins)
Tower 1, 11 Jalan Pinang
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone
+(603) 2163 4511
Fax
+(603) 2161 5421
Website
www.bovislendlease.com
E-mail for enquiries
hrmalaysia@ap.bovislendlease.
com
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Guide to Internships and
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INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Interns will be attached to the company
for a period of about eight weeks.
All interns will go through a full-day
orientation program to understand
the values, culture and business of the
company.
Then each intern will be assigned to a
Mentor either on-site or in the head office
who will give a short-term project to
complete during the intern’s stay with
the company.
The Mentor and intern will work closely to
ensure the project outcome meets the
company’s requirements and the intern’s
developmental needs.
At the end of the internship, the group
of interns will make a presentation to
senior management on what they have
learned in the internship.
An allowance will be provided during the
internship.
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE
INTERNSHIPS
Minimum academic requirements
University undergraduate in their
third year of study (one year before
graduation, preferably in the engineering
and design disciplines).
Other skills, personality, attitudes, and
experiences needed
Outgoing personality with an inquisitive
mind to learn, together with an attitude
to contribute, and energy to follow
through on the assigned work to achieve
high-quality completion.
Intern Profile
Intern Profile
Sam Pathik,
Australian
Interned at A
ustralian Inte
rnational
School, Mala
ysia (AISM)
Pursuing Bac
helor of Teac
hing in
Secondary Ed
ucation, Unive
rsity of
Technology
Sydney (UTS
), Final year
Internship driver
International teaching
experience in a secondary
school setting
Three things I will never leave
home without
Camera, lip balm, a good
pair of thongs
Best thing about this
internship
A simulated overseas
teaching experience with
the opportunity to travel
within the region.
The opportunity to
travel within the region
is also another highlight
of my teaching
practicum in Malaysia.
Choosing my internship
As part of my Bachelor of Teaching degree, I am expected
to undertake two teaching practicum. Each practicum is
five weeks long. I completed my first teaching practicum
in Sydney at the Meridian International School in Surry Hills,
New South Wales (NSW). This was a good local international
school experience. Therefore, I felt it would be interesting to
compare my experience at the Meridian International School
with an overseas teaching experience.
With this mind, I emailed the NSW Board of Studies to enquire
if there were any schools in Asia which delivered the NSW
Board of Studies curriculum. Within a few days, I received
a list of international schools in the Asia-Pacific region, one
of which was the Australian International School Malaysia
(AISM).
As soon as I received this list, I emailed each international
school and the first school to email me back was the AISM. I
also received offers to undertake my teaching practicum at
the Australian International Schools in Singapore, Hong Kong,
Tonga and Jakarta. However, preferring minimal hassles, I
accepted the offer from the AISM and began to arrange my
accommodation in Kuala Lumpur, which also appeared to be
very straightforward and inexpensive.
My favourite parts
Apart from the strong support and guidance from my
supervising co-ordinator and the friendliness of the teaching
and non-teaching staff, the most enjoyable part of this
internship is the ability to immerse myself into a foreign
culture and experience the lifestyle of a typical expatriate
in Malaysia. This includes eating local Malaysian food,
negotiating with local taxi drivers and travelling on weekends
to other neighbouring countries, such Hong Kong, Phuket and
Singapore.
Internship life
The teaching at AISM is very structured and the students are
very well behaved and respectful of their teachers. This is
very different from my experience at my previous practicum
school, where students lacked structure and discipline within
themselves, often resulting in poorer academic performance.
An important skill
One particular teaching technique that has proved to be
very successful during my teaching practicum is setting group
tasks and then moving around the classroom to assist different
groups on the task. This teaching technique allows me to build
a personal rapport with the students and generate greater
interest in the subject area for the students.
Looking ahead
Upon completion of my degree in November this year, I plan
to apply for teaching jobs within the Asia-Pacific region. If
the opportunity becomes available, I would like to return to
Malaysia to teach in an international school.
My advice
In general, students thinking of undertaking an internship
should make sure that they do some research on the place(s)
they want to go. This will prepare you both mentally and
physically for an overseas internship.
Guide to Internships and
Studies in Malaysia
45
Internship Feedback Form
We value your views and appreciate your time in providing feedback on the value of internships. Stand a chance
to win one of 5 Australian Education International (AEI) USB drives, in exchange for your valuable opinion! Fax your
completed form to +603 2145 7807. You can also e-mail it to info.malaysia@aei.gov.au.
If you would like to complete an electronic copy, please visit www.malaysia.embassy.gov.au/klpr/study.html
Name:
Email:
Institution:
Year of study:
m
First year
m
Second year
m
Third year
1. Area of study:
mAdvertising, Marketing, PR, Media and Publishing
mAgriculture, Aquaculture, Horticulture and Food Science
mArts, Humanities and Social Science
mBuilding and Planning
mBusiness, Management and Administration
mEngineering and Manufacturing
mFinance and Financial Services (eg accountancy, banking, finance, economics etc)
mHospitality, Sports, Leisure and Tourism
mHuman Resources, Recruitment and Training
mInformation Technology and Telecommunications
mLanguages and Culture
mLaw, Legal Services and Law Enforcement
mLibrary and Information Services
mMedicine and Health Care
mNatural Resources and Environment (eg Geology)
mEducation
mPerforming and Creative Arts
mRetailing, Sales and Customer Services
mScience and Mathematics
mSocial, Community and Youth
mTransport and Logistics
2. Which THREE of the following factors would be most
influential in your choice of internship? In order of
preference, please rank them 1, 2, and 3.
4. If you were considering an internship outside of
Australia, which countries would you consider doing
an internship in and why?
Location:
1. ..........................................................................................................
2. ..........................................................................................................
3. ..........................................................................................................
5. What would you expect your overseas internship
allowance to be?
mI do not expect any allowance
mAny amount – I am interested in gaining experience
mAUD200 – AUD300 a month
mAUD301 – AUD400 a month
mAUD401 – AUD500 a month
mAUD501 and above a month
6. Please rank in order of importance, the value of doing
an internship overseas? (where 1 is the most valuable)
mGaining international work experience
mDeveloping employability skills
mA chance to experience another culture
mDeveloping network of business contacts
mGaining appreciation of different ways of doing business
mOther: ................................................................. (please specify)
mReputation of the company
mOpportunity to apply what I have learnt
mStipend/allowance provided by the company
mLocation or proximity to home
mOpportunity to work overseas
mRecommendation from career advisor, lecturer or friends
mOthers: ............................................................... (please specify)
7. What information would you consider useful
in deciding on an internship destination (e.g.:
accommodation, local culture, travel advisory, salary
levels etc)? Please specify.
3. How long would you consider doing an internship
overseas for?
8. Did you consider Malaysia as an internship destination
prior to reading this publication?
................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................
m4 weeks
mYes
m No
m2 months
m6 months / one semester
9. Do you consider Malaysia an attractive internship
m1 year / two semesters
mOther: ................................................................. (please specify) destination? Why?
................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................
................................................................................................................
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Guide to Internships and
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