MANJUNG, May 27 – Vale in Malaysia has launched the second edition of its Teluk Rubiah Scholarship Programme (“TRSP”) today, following the successful rollout of the programme last year. For the programme, Vale is investing RM4 million across three years starting from 2023.   

TRSP is aimed at providing top scorers in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations a platform to further their studies at an internationally-recognized university where they can enhance their knowledge, develop skills, build on their potential and hone competencies needed for a future global career in the mining industry.  

The scholarship programme is open to students who are Manjung born and bred as part of Vale’s inclusive development agenda which strives to help elevate Manjung’s youth through creating educational opportunities pivotal to their personal and professional growth.  

Leonardo Paiva, CEO of Vale in Malaysia said, “The Manjung community occupies a special place in our hearts and minds since Vale started our operations here a decade ago. It’s encouraging that the values of perseverance, resilience and dedication feature strongly in its youth. As they represent Manjung’s next generation leaders, we recognize their pivotal role in shaping the future. We are committed towards supporting their goals and aspirations, from academic excellence to kickstarting their career pathway. TRSP is one of the key measures under Vale’s long-term Youth Empowerment Plan (YEP@Vale) to offer and expand inclusive educational opportunities for the district’s youth.” 

This year, Vale is providing opportunities for up to three students to receive a full sponsorship to study Mechanical Engineering or Accounting/Finance. Apart from tuition fees, Vale will cover living expenses, accommodation, related IT equipment and learning resources. Upon successful completion of their tertiary studies, they will also be assessed for employment at Vale. 

“There is such promising talent in Manjung. Seeing the first batch scholars progressing well in their studies provides us the impetus to continue our efforts in developing a robust, skilled talent pool in Perak that will power the economy. This commitment is reflected in our workforce of 380 employees in Malaysia of which 90% are Perakians. We’re optimistic that these scholars will be able to contribute to Manjung’s growth story,” Leonardo added. 

The first edition of TRSP saw Vale awarding scholarships to two students, Al Syaier An Nur Fielzah Shah binti Affendi and Sivanatan A/L Kalidass, who are currently pursuing their foundation programme before embarking on Bachelor’s Degree courses in Accounting/Finance and Mechanical Engineering respectively at a university selected by Vale in early 2025. 

Al Syaier shared, “I’m honoured to be selected as one of TRSP’s first scholars. Applying for the programme allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and be braver to pursue my educational goals. I hope this will inspire other students to seize opportunities that will be beneficial to their personal and professional growth journey.”  

Sivanatan remarked, “Being a Mechanical Engineer has always been a dream of mine. Since young, I’ve enjoyed creating at home and in school projects and staying up to date on remarkable innovations around the globe. With TRSP, I’m a step closer in realising my aspirations and hope to one day give back as a leading engineer in my hometown of Manjung.” 

Applications are now open until 11.59pm on 5th June 2024. Students can submit their entries here on Vale’s website.