KUALA LUMPUR: Twenty-five Malaysians from government, business and civil society have been selected for the inaugural ilmu Fellowship, a leadership programme aimed at nurturing a new generation of leaders committed to nation building.
Announced by YTL Foundation, the fully funded initiative brings together professionals from diverse backgrounds for a 10-month journey of learning, collaboration and personal development.
The 25 fellows were chosen from more than 800 applicants, with 54 reaching the final stage. The selection process involved 25 panelists from various sectors, who assessed candidates on their leadership qualities, contributions to their organisations and communities, and willingness to learn from different perspectives.
Developed in partnership with the University of Oxford's Blavatnik School of Government, Acumen Academy, Pemandu Associates and leadership coach Alvin Ung, the programme is designed to accommodate participants' existing professional commitments.
It combines immersive retreats, workshops, coaching, peer learning and practical leadership initiatives, culminating in a four-day residential programme at the University of Oxford. There, fellows will explore leadership, public policy, systems change and cross-sector collaboration, gaining insights they can apply to challenges back home.
Leon Jala, vice-chairman and group CEO of Pemandu Associates, said the diversity of the inaugural cohort was one of the programme's strengths.
"The ilmu Fellowship creates an environment for individuals with different experiences and perspectives to learn from one another, challenge their assumptions and develop a broader understanding of leadership," he said.
He added that exposure to different sectors would help participants navigate complex challenges and contribute beyond their own organisations.
YTL Foundation programme director Kathleen Chew said the fellowship would provide participants with the space and support to grow as leaders while building relationships that could lead to meaningful collaboration.
"We are excited to bring them together across sectors, where they can learn from one another, challenge their perspectives and build the relationships needed to work towards a shared purpose," she said.
Among the inaugural fellows is former world squash champion Nicol David, who now leads the Nicol David Organisation, which empowers communities through sport, education and wellbeing.
David said her transition from professional athlete to community advocate had introduced her to new challenges and opportunities for growth.
"My journey in squash has taught me the value of discipline, perseverance and a willingness to keep learning," she said.
"I see the ilmu Fellowship as an opportunity to learn from people with different experiences, challenge my own perspectives and grow in how I serve our communities."
Beyond the programme itself, YTL Foundation hopes to build a lasting network of leaders who can continue working together on issues affecting Malaysia.
With 25 fellows selected annually, the foundation aims to develop at least 250 values-driven leaders over the next decade, fostering greater integrity, trust and collaboration across sectors.
The initiative reflects YTL Foundation's wider commitment to education and leadership development, rooted in the belief that investing in people is essential to Malaysia's long-term progress.
For more information on the ilmu Fellowship, click here.