Scholars who overcame challenges now thriving abroad
Two Malaysians are making their mark in medicine and finance in the bustling cities of Australia and Singapore, thanks to their resilience, determination, and life-changing scholarships from a varsity here.
Growing up in households where financial decisions were carefully weighed and luxuries were scarce, both young men learnt early on the value of education and the importance of creating a better life for themselves and their families.
Dr Lay’s maternal grandparents raised him after losing his mother at the tender age of two. His father, who remarried and focused on a new family, was a distant figure in his life.
His grandmother became his pillar of strength, instilling in him the values of hard work and discipline despite her limited education.
“My grandmother only had one year of primary school but she taught me important skills, manners and discipline. She believed in the meritocratic ideal that hard work leads to success and upward mobility,” Dr Lay shared.
Vishaan
Similarly, Vishaan’s early life revolved around the ebb and flow of his family’s small-scale business.
“Our household conversations were often centred around global economic news, financial matters, and budgeting.
“These discussions weren’t just background noise; they were integral to our daily life,” said Vishaan.
Little did the young Vishaan know that these dinner table talks would ignite a passion that would shape his future.
Against all odds
For Dr Lay, it wasn’t until his exceptional performance in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) that he realised he had a gift for studying.
“Wanting to put my talent to use in service of the community, and combined with my altruistic drive, medicine was the obvious choice,” said Dr Lay.
Vishaan, on the other hand, found his passion ignited by the financial discussions that permeated his childhood.
“Listening to my parents navigate the complexities of financial planning and global markets sparked a keen interest in numbers and the financial side of business for me,” he said.
However, the path to higher education was far from smooth for the duo until Dr Lay secured the Monash University Malaysia MBBS Equity Scholarship and Vishaan received a full scholarship from the institution.
Upon graduating, Dr Lay began his career in Australia, while Vishaan secured a position at EY in Singapore.
As a junior doctor in Brisbane, Dr Lay now finds himself entrusted with significant responsibilities.
“Being the sole doctor on night shifts and looking after patients in the intensive care unit and coronary care unit is incredibly rewarding as it demonstrates my capability,” he said.
Dr Lay
Vishaan, as an audit manager, juggles multiple engagements and communicates with diverse teams and clients across the globe.
“I regularly engage with C-suite executives and professionals from diverse backgrounds around the world.
“These interactions have provided me with valuable insights into the business contexts of my audit clients and have enriched my understanding of various industries,” he said.
Both Dr Lay and Vishaan credit their backgrounds for shaping their approach to their professions.
“Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes.
“During each patient encounter, I view it as an opportunity to explain the treatment plan and progress to them in a way that they can understand and clarify any queries they might have,” said Dr Lay.
Vishaan said his family’s financial struggles influenced his professional life, as these experiences instilled in him a strong sense of determination and a positive mindset.
“Facing financial difficulties growing up taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of maintaining a forward-looking attitude, even in the face of adversity,” he said.
To infinity and beyond
Looking ahead, both men are committed to continuous learning and growth.
Dr Lay has been accepted into an anaesthesia training programme, a field that excites him due to its diverse patient demographics and intricate physiology.
He considers cardiac anaesthesia and paediatric cardiac anaesthesia as areas for subspecialty training, where he can expand his medical knowledge.
While balancing his demanding job, Vishaan has obtained multiple professional certificates and completed a master’s degree.
He is planning to actively seek professional development opportunities, such as advanced certifications and specialised training, to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.
Road to success
Reflecting on their journeys, both men reinforced the importance of resilience and a positive mindset.
Dr Lay advised students to stay ambitious and hopeful.
“Things will work out eventually, even if they may not be as you foresee.
“The world is kinder than you think, so don’t be afraid to ask for advice and guidance. Successful people are usually happy to help others. You just need to be ready when opportunities arise,” he said.
“Don’t be afraid of making mistakes; instead, view them as valuable learning experiences. Each mistake is an opportunity to grow and improve,” Vishaan added.
Monash University Malaysia offers various scholarships, including the Outstanding Achiever Award (UEC) for high-performing UEC graduates and the Monash Equity Scholarship, which supports financially deserving students.
For details, visit Monash University Malaysia Scholarships and Financial Assistance.
