BNC and Universiti Malaya Launch the “Be Your Own Boss” (BYOB) Programme 2024
We are thrilled to announce that the Business Networking Club (BNC) has proudly joined hands with the Centre for Integral Learning (CITRA), Universiti Malaya (UM) to officially launch the Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) Programme 2024. This collaboration is a remarkable step toward empowering aspiring entrepreneurs from UM, equipping them with essential knowledge and real-world experience.
Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
The BYOB Programme 2024, launched on October 18, 2024, marks a new chapter in fostering entrepreneurship at UM. This initiative aligns with Malaysia’s National Entrepreneurship Policy (NEP), which envisions creating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem by 2030. Through this program, UM and BNC aim to shape a community of future business leaders equipped with the tools to innovate, thrive, and lead.
According to Professor Dr. Yvonne Lim Ai Lian, Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), “The BYOB Programme will not only foster creativity but also advance the entrepreneurial skills of UM students, aligning with UM’s strategic initiatives to ‘Communitize and Industrialize Universiti Malaya.’”
A Hands-On Learning Experience
The program offers a holistic two-and-a-half-month journey, blending six expert-led workshops with one-to-one mentorship sessions. These curated workshops cover essential areas such as Sales, Marketing, Operations, Finance, Innovation, and Branding—the building blocks of any successful venture.
This year, Dr. Coco Wong, Chairperson of BNC’s Women Division, the program has expanded its reach to ensure inclusive participation from all entrepreneurs within BNC. The diversity of mentors ensures that students benefit from multiple perspectives, gaining insights that will help them prepare for the challenges of launching and managing their ventures.
“The beauty of the BYOB Programme,” said Dr. Serrene Leong, Director of CITRA’s Professional Development and Industry Network remarked, “The uniqueness of the programme lies in the students being guided step-by-step by seasoned BNC entrepreneurs in every major components of running a business, futher elevating their entrepreneurial skills and business ideas to the next level.
Building a Legacy of Leadership
Mr. Nelson Liew, President of BNC, emphasized that BYOB is more than just a program—it is a legacy. “At BNC, we don’t plant seeds and walk away. We nurture them. Through this program, we’re not just building businesses; we’re building leaders and game-changers who will contribute to Malaysia’s economic growth,” he explained.
The BYOB programme’s vision aligns with UM’s core values by integrating entrepreneurship with community-building efforts. UM students will learn directly from
entrepreneurs who have navigated the ups and downs of building successful businesses, gaining firsthand knowledge and invaluable mentorship.
A Unique Opportunity for UM Students
The collaboration between UM, CITRA, and BNC provides UM students with unparalleled access to business leaders and mentors. Dato’ James Foo, Chairman of the Authority Institute, highlighted the importance of learning from failures. “In entrepreneurship, the key is to fail fast, fail cheap, and learn fast,” he shared during the opening ceremony.
Through this initiative, students will acquire skills that go beyond textbooks, helping them not only launch businesses but also thrive in a dynamic, competitive landscape. “This is an opportunity to learn, grow, and shape the future,” Dr. Serrene encouraged students.
Enabling Sustainable Growth and Innovation
The BYOB Programme embodies the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering decent work, economic growth, and entrepreneurship. Through this initiative, students not only learn to build sustainable businesses but also create value for society and contribute to Malaysia’s prosperity.
Join the Journey
This partnership reflects our commitment to developing an entrepreneurial society that will shape the future of Malaysia. The BYOB Programme is set to be a game-changer, and we look forward to seeing the innovative ideas and future leaders that emerge from this initiative.
The BNC and Universiti Malaya invite all aspiring entrepreneurs to make the most of this opportunity—an opportunity to be your own boss and transform ideas into impact. As Nelson Liew concluded, “The journey has begun, and I cannot wait to see the incredible destinations it leads us to.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all the distinguished guests, mentors, and students who joined us at the opening ceremony. Special thanks to Professor Dr. Yvonne Lim, Professor Dr. Norintan Ab Murat, Dr. Serrene Leong, Dr. Faridah Che Hussain, Dato’ James Foo, Dr. Coco Wong, Mr. Sze Kok Hoong, and all other members of the BNC and CITRA community for making this launch a memorable success.
Together, let’s continue to cultivate greatness, one leader at a time. The future belongs to those bold enough to create it—let’s begin the journey today!
Together, let’s cultivate greatness.