LEAP Cohort Stories

Mohamed Zhairy

Finding Belonging Through Leadership

Kong Yong Sin

From Nomination to Finding a Family

Samson Clayobas

Discovering Growth Beyond the Classroom

Carshief Darius Ambar

A Leader Shaped by Opportunity

Theophilus Jathan Hii

Learning Through Well-Organized Leadership

Arash Aqasha

Embracing Leadership and New Experiences

Muhammad Qawiem Athif

Finding a Second Family

Lim Eashe

Leadership Through Empathy and Trust

Jovie Lau Zhe Shan

Recognition of Hard Work

Tuah Bin Nur Azman

A Journey Fueled by Curiosity

Liow Jie Yu

From Curiosity to Confidence

Mohamed Zhairy

Finding Belonging Through Leadership

For Mohamed Zhairy from Johor Bahru, Johor, his journey to the Tun Razak Leadership Programme began with encouragement from those who believed in his potential. A student of Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar (English College), Zhairy was strongly urged by his teachers to apply. At the time, he knew very little about the programme and even found it difficult to gather information online. However, a senior’s advice stayed with him: “This programme will benefit you in networking and support your leadership journey.” Motivated by this, he decided to take the opportunity and apply.

When Zhairy later learned that only 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, he was both surprised and uncertain. The exclusivity of the programme made him question what to expect and whether he would truly fit in. Despite these initial doubts, he stepped into the experience with an open mind.

Those uncertainties quickly disappeared once he joined the programme. Over the two weeks, Zhairy found himself surrounded by students from across Malaysia, all sharing similar aspirations. The experience became more than just a leadership programme — it was a space for connection, growth, and meaningful interactions.

Reflecting on his journey, Zhairy described it as a privilege. He valued the opportunity to build friendships and spend time learning alongside others, even wishing the programme had lasted longer. Beyond leadership skills, he gained a strong network, lasting memories, and a renewed sense of purpose.

For Zhairy, what started as a simple recommendation from his teachers turned into a defining and transformative chapter in his leadership journey.

Kong Yong Sin

From Nomination to Finding a Family

For Kong Yong Sin, her journey to the Tun Razak Leadership Programme began in an unexpected yet meaningful way. A graduate of SMK Tinggi Kluang, she was nominated by her school counselor, who saw her potential and encouraged her to apply. Interestingly, she was also asked to nominate a friend to join her, although her friend ultimately did not attend the interview.

Prior to applying, Yong had already heard about the programme through social media and testimonials from her seniors. These stories portrayed it as something almost “mythical” — a rare and transformative opportunity. Inspired by these accounts, she decided to take a leap of faith and apply, hoping to experience it for herself.

When she later discovered that only 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, she felt both honoured and surprised. She had not been fully confident in her interview performance and did not expect to be accepted. Receiving the offer was therefore an incredibly joyful and memorable moment for her.

Once in the programme, Yong immersed herself fully. She actively participated in discussions, activities, and leadership sessions, connecting with peers from all over Malaysia. Her enthusiasm and commitment stood out, earning her a special opportunity to travel to London for further exposure and learning.

Reflecting on her experience, Yong shared that she found more than just knowledge — she found a sense of belonging. To her, the programme is not just an initiative, but a life-changing journey of growth, connection, and discovery.

Samson Clayobas

Discovering Growth Beyond the Classroom

For Samson Clayobas, his journey to the Tun Razak Leadership Programme began with the encouragement of a senior who believed in his potential. A student of SMK La Salle PJ, Samson was introduced to the programme by an older student who not only encouraged him to apply but also guided him through the process, from preparing his résumé to understanding what to expect during the interview. This mentorship played a key role in motivating him to take the opportunity seriously.

When Samson later discovered that only 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, the opportunity felt both exciting and significant. After completing his interview, he confidently shared with his family and friends that he believed it had gone well. Their support further strengthened his optimism, and soon enough, that hope turned into reality when he was selected for the programme.

Before joining, Samson had only a basic idea of what the programme would offer. He expected to meet students with similar interests, but the experience proved to be far more transformative. Surrounded by talented individuals from across Malaysia, he was exposed to diverse perspectives, strengths, and personalities.

Reflecting on his journey, Samson shared a powerful realization: he once felt like a “big fish in a small pond,” but the programme showed him he was part of something much bigger. This humbling experience became a turning point in his growth.

For Samson, the programme was more than leadership training — it was a space for learning, collaboration, and self-discovery, where growth was shaped through shared ambition and meaningful connections.

Carshief Darius Ambar

A Leader Shaped by Opportunity

For Carshief Darius Ambar Bin Saiful Ambar, the opportunity to join the Tun Razak Leadership Programme began with the encouragement of a teacher who recognised his dedication and leadership potential.

A student of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar, Darius had already been actively involved in leadership roles during his school years. He served as a Malay language debater and was appointed Deputy Head Prefect of Academic Affairs, demonstrating both academic commitment and strong communication skills.

Recognising his efforts and active participation in school, one of his teachers suggested his name to participate in the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme.

When Darius learned that only 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, the opportunity felt both rare and meaningful. He felt proud, happy, and deeply privileged to be considered among students from across Malaysia.

After successfully being selected, Darius joined the programme with curiosity and anticipation. At the time, he had limited information about what to expect. What he knew came mainly from a senior who had participated in the programme the year before.

Despite the uncertainty, he believed the programme would open new doors.

As Darius reflected:

“This programme will bring many benefits to me and allow me to connect with students from different backgrounds.”

Through the programme, Darius looked forward to expanding his leadership journey, building meaningful connections, and learning alongside young leaders from across the country.

Theophilus Jathan Hii

Learning Through Well-Organized Leadership

For Theophilus Jathan Hii Chin Ann, the opportunity to join the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme began with a simple yet meaningful nomination. A student from Lodge National Secondary School, he was encouraged to apply by his biology teacher, who recognised his potential and personally invited him to participate. As someone passionate about personal growth and leadership development, Theophilus immediately embraced the opportunity.

When he later learned that only around 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, he felt both surprised and excited. The programme’s competitiveness became clear, especially knowing that thousands of students apply each year. This realization made him even more eager to be part of it, as he saw it as a chance to learn alongside some of the most talented students across Malaysia.

Before joining, Theophilus attempted to find more information online to better understand what to expect, but found very little. Despite this uncertainty, he remained optimistic after completing the interview, and was thrilled when he received his acceptance.

As the programme progressed, his appreciation for the experience grew. By the seventh day, he was particularly impressed by how smoothly everything was organized. He admired the effort of the foundation and the Urusetia in managing a complex schedule within a tight timeline.

For Theophilus, the programme offered more than leadership development. It provided insight into the power of teamwork, planning, and coordination — showing how a well-executed vision can create a meaningful and impactful experience for everyone involved.

Arash Aqasha Bin Zairulnizam

Embracing Leadership and New Experiences

For Arash Aqasha Bin Zairulnizam, the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme represented an opportunity to grow into a stronger leader.

A student of SM Sains Sultan Mahmud, Arash was motivated to apply because he wanted to improve both his leadership and communication skills. The idea of spending two weeks learning and living together with around 70 students from across Malaysia made the experience feel unique and meaningful.

When Arash discovered that only 60 to 70 students would be selected nationwide, he felt both nervous and uncertain about his chances. After completing the interview, he worried that he might not have performed well enough to be chosen.

However, when he eventually received the news that he had been accepted into the programme, his feelings quickly changed to excitement and pride.

Curious about what the experience would be like, Arash spoke with one of his seniors who had participated in the programme the previous year. His senior was happy for him and shared some advice and encouragement. Interestingly, he also suggested that Arash should avoid learning too much about the programme beforehand so that he could fully enjoy every challenge, activity, and moment during the journey.

Taking that advice to heart, Arash entered the programme ready to embrace every new experience that came his way.

Muhammad Qawiem Athif Bin Yuzaidi

Finding a Second Family

Muhammad Qawiem Athif Bin Yuzaidi’s journey to the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme began through the stories shared by seniors in his school.

A student of The Malay College Kuala Kangsar, Qawiem first heard about the programme from seniors who had previously participated. Their experiences sparked his curiosity and inspired him to learn more about the opportunity.

Recognising his dedication and potential, his school and teachers nominated him to take part in the programme. During the interview process, Qawiem asked how many students had applied nationwide. When he discovered that more than 600 students had applied while only around 70 would be selected, he realised how competitive the opportunity truly was.

Knowing this made the programme feel even more meaningful.

When he later received the acceptance email, Qawiem felt extremely happy and proud. He immediately shared the good news with his family, whose encouragement and support made the moment even more special.

Throughout the programme, the friendships he built became one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

Reflecting on the journey, Qawiem shared a simple but powerful thought:

“I have made my second family in this programme.”

Lim Eashe

Leadership Through Empathy and Trust

For Lim Eashe, joining the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme was both an exciting opportunity and a personal challenge.

A student of SMK Infant Jesus Convent, Eashe was selected by her school to participate in the programme. Feeling honored by the opportunity, she decided to step outside her comfort zone and embrace a new and unfamiliar experience.

Knowing that only around 60 to 70 students are selected nationwide made the opportunity feel even more significant. For Eashe, being part of the programme meant more than simply attending activities —it meant carrying the responsibility of becoming a future leader who could contribute positively to society.

As she explained:

“Joining the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme means that we need to have the responsibility to become future leaders who can contribute to society and the nation.”

Before joining the programme, most of the information she had came from seniors who had previously participated. Their stories gave her some idea of what to expect, but the true impact of the programme only became clear once she experienced it herself.

Reflecting on her journey after completing TRF LEAP, Eashe emphasised the values she gained throughout the experience.

“This programme taught me empathy, resilience, and trust.”

The friendships she built during the programme also became one of its most meaningful outcomes.

“I made friends that I can trust and rely on for the rest of my life.”

Jovie Lau Zhe Shan

Recognition of Hard Work

Jovie Lau Zhe Shan’s journey to the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme began when she was nominated by her school’s Deputy Principal.

A student from Lodge National Secondary School, Jovie felt excited about the opportunity and looked forward to meeting new people, making friends, and gaining new experiences through the programme.

When she learned that only around 60 to 70 students would be selected nationwide, the opportunity felt even more meaningful. However, the waiting period after the interview made her feel slightly worried about whether she would be chosen.

Eventually, she received the official acceptance letter — a moment she remembers clearly.

“This letter shows that my hard work and my effort really paid off.”

Before joining the programme, Jovie attempted to learn more about it by searching online. However, she could only find a few photos from previous years, which left her curious about what the full experience would be like.

Once she joined TRF LEAP, the programme quickly exceeded her expectations. She met students from different backgrounds, formed meaningful friendships, and gained valuable leadership experiences.

Reflecting on her journey, Jovie described the programme as:

“A place where you build character, confidence, and learn to become a better leader while working well with others.”

Tuah Bin Nur Azman

A Journey Fueled by Curiosity

For Tuah Bin Nur Azman, the opportunity to join the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme began with a nomination from one of his teachers.

A student from Kolej Yayasan Saad in Melaka, Tuah felt excited when he learned that he had been selected to attend the programme’s interview stage. The nomination sparked his curiosity and motivated him to learn more about the opportunity ahead.

When Tuah discovered that only around 70 students from across Malaysia would be selected to participate, he felt both nervous and excited. The competitive nature of the programme made him realise how valuable the opportunity truly was.

Curious to learn more, Tuah began searching for information about the programme. While details online were limited, he was able to learn more from seniors in his school who had previously participated.

Their experiences helped him understand what to expect and made him even more motivated to join the programme.

Liow Jie Yu

From Curiosity to Confidence

For Liow Jie Yu, her motivation to join the Tun Razak Foundation Leadership Programme was rooted in her interest in the legacy of Tun Abdul Razak. A student from Penang Chinese Girls’ High School, she was inspired by his leadership and vision, which encouraged her to seek opportunities beyond the classroom to grow and develop her own leadership skills.

She also believed the programme would allow her to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and better understand different cultures and perspectives across Malaysia. This desire for growth motivated her to apply.

When Liow discovered that only around 60 to 70 students were selected nationwide, she felt uncertain about her chances, especially since she was not confident in her interview performance. Despite her doubts, she was both surprised and grateful when she received the acceptance letter, seeing it as a meaningful recognition of her potential.

Before joining, Liow had limited knowledge of what the programme would involve. On the first day, meeting many new people felt overwhelming, particularly as someone who was naturally introverted.

However, as the programme progressed, she gradually became more confident. She started to speak up, share her ideas, and engage actively with others.

Reflecting on her journey, Liow described it as a personal transformation. She grew from being reserved to more outgoing, gaining confidence and a new perspective. For her, the programme was a life-changing experience that pushed her beyond her comfort zone.