Railway talk gets students on track with innovation in rail

The railway system, known for moving trains swiftly across diverse landscapes, remains one of the most significant engineering achievements. Beyond its often romanticised image, it plays a key role in the efficient movement of people and goods, supporting economic and infrastructure growth. In Malaysia, rail continues to be a vital link, enabling trade, easing daily commutes, and connecting remote regions. From the KTM Komuter in city centres to modern services like the ETS and the upcoming high-speed rail (HSR) project, rail transport is central to the country’s push for sustainable and inclusive development.

Bridging the gap between academia and industry — students gained valuable insights from Mr Ng (centre, right) during the career talk

Bridging the gap between academia and industry — students gained valuable insights from Mr Ng (centre, right) during the career talk

To inform and inspire the future generation of railway professionals, UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering Science (LKC FES) invited Ts Ng Yi Teng, Senior Solution Manager of Huawei Asia Pacific Transportation Sales Department, to deliver a talk titled Career Development in the Railway Industry on 12 March 2025 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus.

Aiming to provide students with valuable insights into career opportunities and industry trends in the railway sector, the talk attracted more than 50 students from UTAR who explored and discussed career prospects in the industry with Mr Ng.

Mr Ng sharing his decade of experience in the railway sector

Mr Ng sharing his decade of experience in the railway sector

Mr Ng shared his experience and knowledge pertaining to the railway during the talk, highlighting the contemporary trends in the industry. The topics discussed included advancements in railway technology, digital transformation, and smart transportation solutions.

As the world enters the AI era, various industries are making critical strides to adapt to the digital transformation, including the railway sector. As a result, novel career paths are integrated into the industry, complementing traditional roles. To better inform students of the career paths available in the railway sector, Mr Ng elucidated the diverse roles and career paths across the disciplines, ranging from engineering to project management and technology integration. Meanwhile, Mr Ng also elaborated on the required skills and qualifications, such as the essential technical and soft skills required for aspiring professionals entering the field.

Looking ahead, the railway sector is poised for significant growth as the world moves toward greener and smarter transportation solutions. In regard to its future outlook, Mr Ng shared his perspective on the potential challenges facing the industry, emphasising the evolving landscape of railway transportation and the crucial role of innovation and sustainability in driving progress.

Also present at the talk session were UTAR Centre for Railway Infrastructure and Engineering Chairperson Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat and Organising Committee members Ling Chay Khai, Samuel Hu You Ze, Tan Xian Yi, and Lim Zi Quan.

The talk provided an insightful platform for students to gain a deeper understanding of career opportunities in the railway sector. Through active exchanges with Mr Ng, students left the session with a clearer grasp of the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the evolving transportation sector, highlighting a future shaped by capable and well-prepared professionals.

As the session concluded, UTAR reaffirmed its commitment to bringing more industry-focused talks to its campuses, inspiring and guiding students in their respective career journeys.

Ling (left) presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Ng

Ling (left) presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Ng

All smiles for the bright future of the railway industry (from left): Samuel Hu, Mr Tan, Mr Ng, Dr Chua, and Lim

All smiles for the bright future of the railway industry (from left): Samuel Hu, Mr Tan, Mr Ng, Dr Chua, and Lim


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