PIDM scholarship programme – making a difference to deserving Malaysians

Kuala Lumpur, 20 September 2016: Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PIDM) recently awarded 20 scholarships to deserving Malaysians under its 2016 Undergraduate Scholarship Programme. The Programme is an avenue for talented students who are in need of financial aid to obtain tertiary education.

“The PIDM Scholarship Programme is a long-term commitment that the Corporation undertook in contributing towards the development of human capital in the country. The programme which is now in its seventh year has benefitted 58 recipients, with 20 new scholarships awarded this year,” said PIDM Chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Abdul Samad Haji Alias.

“We started off with five students in 2010, and in the last five years we have made available 10 scholarships per year. We have been deeply encouraged by the success of the programme, and this year onwards the number of scholarships has been doubled to 20. We hope that the financial support as well as the developmental skills that we provide for these deserving students will open doors leading to abounding opportunities for the future generations,” he added.

To date, 35 scholars have graduated, and secured positions in reputable companies, contributing towards the country’s human capital development.

For Farah Afiza Salmanfarsi, 26, Senior Associate, Assurance at one of the big four accounting firms, the PIDM scholarship gave her the opportunity to pursue her dreams. “The internship programme as well as guidance from my mentor has helped me tremendously in my communications skills – not only has my English improved, but I also feel more confident to speak up and approach people, whereas before I used to be very reserved. I can say that the PIDM scholarship has changed me for the better,” said this lass from Alor Star, Kedah.

Chai Duwei, 25, a Bachelor of Law (Hons) graduate from Universiti Malaya (UM), is grateful to PIDM for the financial support which eased the burden for his family. “Without having to worry about my fees and living expenses, I was able to focus on my studies. I am grateful to my mentors for their guidance who motivated me to do well in my studies. I was also awarded the Global UGRAD Scholarship by the U.S. State Department in 2013 where I had the opportunity to study Political Science for one semester at the Augustana University in South Dakota. The PIDM scholarship made a difference and opened up these possibilities for me,” said Duwei.

Meanwhile, Ooi Xin Kenn, 25, who graduated in Bachelor of Economics from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), is now a Risk Analyst.

“The PIDM scholarship has made a difference to not only me but my whole family. It gave me the opportunity to go to university and get a good job, and now I am able to contribute towards my family’s financial wellbeing. My mentors were very helpful and taught me crucial skills which allowed me to prepare for the corporate world. I also found the soft skills training to be very useful. I have improved my English and presentation skills, and was more prepared for job interviews. I am looking forward to furthering my studies to achieve my full potential,” said Ooi.

The PIDM scholarship comes without bonding and provides for funding of tuition fees and living expenses as well as books and equipment. Selection is based on academic and extracurricular achievements, communication skills, maturity and potential leadership qualities, as well as access to financial support. The scholarship recipients are pursuing programmes in a wide spectrum of disciplines including Accounting, Actuarial Science, Business Management and Law.