In 2016, the United Nations declared 11 February as International Day of Women and Girls in Science. The main reason for this declaration was to encourage more girls and women to take up jobs in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (also known as the STEM subjects). Figures show that although there is no significant difference in ability between boys and girls in maths and science, less than 35 per cent of graduates in STEM subjects worldwide are women and there are even fewer in engineering and information technology.
As part of Women in Rail Malaysia’s outreach to the young, every year we also celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science and this year we hosted an exciting knowledge sharing session with students from Nexus International School Malaysia in Putrajaya.
This initiative aimed to inspire and empower young minds by introducing them to exciting yet lesser-known careers in STEM. The session, titled “Exciting STEM Careers You’ve Never Heard Of!”, featured two remarkable speakers, Ami Soerrayah Aminza, Sustainability Manager at Prasarana Malaysia Berhad and Dr. Hashim bin Abdullah, Head of Department Signalling and PSD Expert at Nippon Koei Mobility Sdn. Bhd.
With 60 Year 12 students in attendance, the session was filled with insightful discussions about the realities of STEM careers, the challenges, opportunities and skills needed to thrive in these industries. Both speakers shared their personal experiences, career journeys and valuable advice to help students consider STEM pathways they might never have thought about before.
Ami shared insights into her career in the sustainability field and highlighted how this area is still relatively new in the industry. She spoke about the growing importance of sustainability in infrastructure and transportation and how her work at Prasarana Malaysia Berhad involves engaging communities, driving creative initiatives and implementing social action programs to create a more sustainable future.
Dr. Hashim, who has over 10 years of experience in railway signalling, shared his journey in the industry, from his early days at SBS Transit Singapore to his current role at Nippon Koei Mobility Sdn. Bhd. He spoke about the various projects he has worked on, including major railway extensions and system developments and the challenges that come with maintaining and upgrading complex signalling systems.
Beyond sharing their technical expertise, both of the speakers also gave valuable advice to the younger generation and encouraged them to explore opportunities in STEM fields.
It was truly an eye-opening and inspiring session and we hope the students walked away feeling motivated to explore the endless possibilities in STEM. Here’s to more young minds breaking barriers and shaping the future!
