KUCHING: State scholar, Aaron Nagai, has done Sarawak proud with his selection to represent Malaysia at the Spring 2023 Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) academic fellowship programme earlier this year.
Aaron is pursuing his Bachelor of Business (International Business) at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus here.
He said the university’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals resonates with the fellowship’s investigation of subjects such as climate change, sustainable development, renewable energy and water management.
“These themes collectively underscore a mutual focus on fostering innovation,” he added.
YSEALI is a programme initiated by the United States government to strengthen leadership development and networking among youths from Southeast Asia, promoting cross-border cooperation to solve regional and global challenges.
“The programme brings undergraduates or recently graduated students between the ages of 18 and 25 to the United States for a five-week programme held on the campus of a United States college or university,” the university said on Wednesday.
“The programme is renowned for its highly selective nature ranging from 1 per cent to 2 per cent.”
Aaron, a Bidayuh student from Serian, meanwhile credited Swinburne with nurturing his abilities in communication, collaboration, critical thinking and practical problem-solving.
“This has provided me with the fundamental skills to actively participate in the YSEALI programme,” he said.
As for his plans after he graduates, he is determined to play a role in bringing positive changes to the way business is conducted in Sarawak.
“I aspire to work closely with the Sarawak government and private sector so as to drive sustainable business practices by prioritising environmental conversation and social economic growth,” said Aaron.
