Muhammad Izzat Ghazali

Personal Financial Planning ; Prudent Budget Frugal Spending :  What would be your comments on the following scenarios : (1) As a former CEO of Petronas Plant, still driving Merc Benz C 200 2010 old model.  (2) As a former Senior GM of Petronas Plant, still driving Merc Benz E 200 Kompresor 2009 old model.  (3) As a resident of a medium low cost apartment in Klang Valley, but driving a luxury Vellfire.  (4) As a former Petronas Senior Manager of owning 22 condominiums in Klang Valley, but just driving Merc Benz C 200 2013 old model.  (5) As a Headmaster of a high school in Dungun, Terengganu, driving Merc Benz E 250  2014 old model.  (6) Former Petronas Technician owning 100 acres of palm oil plantation ( monthly gross earnings of RM 87,000 - palm oil sales volumes) ) , 10 acres of coconut farm, 4000 cattle, 1 acre of musang king durians farm.  (6) Obviously, Professionals have their own individual prerogatives about priorities in life.  (7) Brilliant Professionals are dextrous in comprehending liabilities, assets, net worth, priorities, financial freedom, status quo.  (8) Don't you think most Accountants, Chartered Accountants and Economists are really brilliant in financial such as building assets and investments?  (9) Living within our means against living lavishly in a rat race, paycheck to paycheck. 

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Key Budget 2025 With Malaysia's Budget 2025 just announced, here are some key takeaways that matter for middle-income earners 1. More Income Tax Relief: You’ll now get RM12,000 in tax relief (up from RM9,000), which means more savings in your pocket. 2. Help with Caring for Parents: The government is bringing back tax relief for those taking care of their parents. It’s a nice way to acknowledge the family support many of us provide. 3. RM400 Tax Rebate: If your chargeable income is under RM70,000, you get a RM400 rebate. Every bit helps! 4. Renters Get Relief Too: If you're renting a house, you can now claim up to RM4,000 in tax relief on your rental payments. Feel free to share your thoughts on how these budget might affect you. #budget2025

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“7 Major #Investment Strategies" from a Maybank Investment Bank Research report. It appears to be a list of investment #opportunities in Malaysia. 1) Big Three Sisters in Malaysia 2) Foreign Investment 3) Data Center Investment Boom 4) Renewable Energy Transformation 5) RON95 Subsidy Rationalization 6) Civil Servant Salary Increment 7) 50th Anniversary of Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relations • Specific businesses or industries that may benefit from the investment trend: > Big Three Sisters of Malaysia: This theme refers to the development of Johor, Penang and Sarawak under the National Industrial Policy for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (NIMP 4.0). Construction, property and other related companies are expected to benefit from this > Foreign Investments Benefiting from the US-China Trade War: This theme looks at companies that may benefit from the trade war, including construction, port logistics, data center, and wharf operations > Data Center Investment Boom: This theme highlights data centers as a growing sector in Malaysia, particularly in Johor. Beneficiaries include construction, electrical equipment, telecommunication, power and related. > Renewable Energy Transformation: This theme talks about renewable energy as an alternative and environment-friendly solution for data center power supply. It also mentions green investment opportunities in electric vehicle manufacturing. Solar, waste-to-energy, net grid holder, and plantation are expected to benefit from this theme > RON95 Subsidy Rationalization: This theme refers to the potential adjustment of RON95 petrol subsidy. It highlights consumer and pawnshop as possible beneficiaries > Civil Servant Salary Increment: This theme talks about the potential increase in civil servant salaries, which may boost disposable income. Beneficiary include non-bank financial, consumer, automotive, jewelry, and plantation > 50th Anniversary of Malaysia-China Diplomatic Relations: This theme focuses on the potential economic growth due to the anniversary. Beneficiary sectors include trade-related services, tourism, and plantation

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It was an honor to attend the annual event organized by SIRIM Berhad as a representative of Berjaya Food Berhad. It’s inspiring to witness more and more companies embracing ESG practices in their business strategies – a clear sign that we’re collectively moving toward a more responsible future. As the saying goes, “Everything in the universe is all within you; ask all from yourself.” This powerful reminder resonates deeply as we take responsibility not only for our goals but also for the positive impact we create. We are committed to build a business that balance profitability and sustainability, understanding that true success goes hand in hand with environmental and social responsibility. #ESG #Sustainability #BerjayaFoodBerhad

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How is a region that has historically generated most of its energy from oil and gas advancing towards more renewable energy generation? In this ebook, we look at how Malaysia is making great strides towards a cleaner energy future by focusing on hydropower and utility-scale #solarenergy.

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POMODORO TOMATO Work needs to have targets, KPIs. It all requires focus. Back in Kolej MARA, I was introduced to the Pomodoro Technique. My teacher, Mr. Lan, taught me. Pomodoro means tomato. It’s an Italian word, I guess. It’s simple, really; the gist is this: focus/work for 25 minutes, then take a ‘break’ for 5 minutes. During the focus time, no distractions at all. Don’t even touch your phone. FOCUS!!! During the break time, don’t overdo it. Then repeat. Initially, you’ll need a timer to practice. But after a while, you get used to it, no problem. Let’s try the Pomodoro Technique today 💪

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PETRONAS is reaching 50 years this year. 💚 To commemorate my 10 years' working anniversary with PETRONAS last February (2014-2024), here's 10 attributes that I strongly believe everyone (including me and especially to young talents & potential leaders out there) must have/embrace to excel in work and thrive in life, inshaAllah -> >>>[ 10 Must-Have Attributes ]<<< P.s. not in sequence 1. Good to Great Attitude: By hook or by crook, this is highly vital. Attitude matters! 🙂 2. Positive Thinking: Be +ve in every situation 3. Kindness + Firm: Be kind with people, plus be firm in decision-making 4. Take Action: Idea is merely an idea until you ACT on it 5. Willingness to Learn: Keep learning while be proactive in taking initiative(s) 6. Adaptability/Flexibility: Be agile in adapting to any changes 7. Growth Mindset: Google this further, avoid fixed mindset 8. Care & Empathy: Care and empathy to own self and others (physically, mentally & spiritually) 9. Commit to a cause/goal(s) & Communicate: Begin with end in mind, work smart (&hard; interchangeably), have a sense of purpose and articulate it clearly 10. High integrity: Be professional at all times Thank you for reading my personal impromptu sharing and hope you gain something from the above. ✨ Have a pleasant day and Eid Mubarak everyone! 😊

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Acquiring Technical Skills and Soft Skills in Petronas : (1) Eventhough you ain't a cream of the crop Petronas Scholar at UK or America Ivy League Universities, you still stand a chance to join Petronas.  (2) I've observed some new Petronas Recruits are from Government Agencies, other Oil & Gas Big Corporations, the Big 4 Audit Firms, Contractors & Consultants of Petronas.  (3) Some of the new Petronas Recruits are former Petronas Interns & former Petronas Protege GEES.  (4) Some of technical skills & soft skills that you need to equip yourself are : (4.1) Supervisory skill : For instance you're a Supervisor / Superintendent of a Refinery or a Petrochemical Plant in charge of operations/ production.  (4.2) English Communication Skill : All the correspondences, procedures and manuals are in English.  (4.3) Troubleshooting/ Analytical Thinking  skill : For instance you're a Technical Engineer / Technologist, Maintenance Engineer, Turnaround Engineer.  (4.4) Negotiation skill : For instance you're a Procurement Executive, a Project Engineer.  (4.5) IT / Computer Skill : For instance you're a Data Analyst, System Engineer, SAP Specialist, Internet CyberSecurity Expert.  (4.6) Business / Financial Skill : For instance you're an Accountant, Chartered Accountant, Marketing Executive, Sales Executive.  (4.7) Management Skill : For instance you're a Manager of Technical or Non Technical.  (4.8) Leadership Skill : For leadership roles especially of higher positions.  (4.9) Specialization Skill : For instance you're a Specialist of any trades. 

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2024-06-30 AsSalam... Hello everyone, Norzul here! Today, I had the privilege of spending time at Maahad Tahfiz Bustanul Quran (MTBQ) with 27 incredible young minds. This fulfilling experience during my "career break" has truly resonated with the PETRONAS infamous phrase of "Energy Receive Energy Return Aspiring People Everywhere." This profound phrase reminds us of our moral duty to give back to our community and planet. When we receive the boundless energy from "Mother Nature", it becomes our responsibility to return that energy through our actions. By investing our time, passion, and positivity into others and the environment, we create a harmonious cycle of growth and renewal. Our mission is to inspire the people surrounding us, igniting their potential and encouraging them to reach for greatness. By aspiring to inspire, we create a ripple effect that touches lives far beyond our immediate reach. This ripple effect fosters a community of motivated, energetic individuals who are driven to achieve remarkable things. When we invest our energy into others, we not only uplift them but also rejuvenate our own spirit. It's a beautiful cycle of mutual growth and encouragement, where giving becomes receiving. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, and every moment of shared passion contributes to this cycle, enriching both our lives and the lives of those around us. Let’s commit to this noble endeavor. Let’s harness the energy we receive and return it with an even greater force, inspiring people everywhere we go. Together, we can create a world filled with positivity, growth, and boundless potential. Finally, as you can see from the photo, the joy and enthusiasm of these students are a testament to the power of positive influence and the endless potential within each of us. Let’s continue to inspire and be inspired, creating a ripple effect of positivity and growth in our communities. ♻️ Don't forget to like, comment, and repost this message to inspire and uplift others. ♻️ Follow Noor Zulkifli Noor Ibrahim for more inspiring content and insights. #NorzulInspires #LeadershipMoment #CLIMPS #AspireToInspire #PositiveEnergy #CommunityImpact #InspirationDaily #FulfillmentInService #FutureLeaders #EnergyExchange

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I recently had the privilege of assessing post-SPM candidates for Petronas undergraduate scholarship opportunities. It's a nostalgic experience that takes me back 23 years when Petronas opened doors for me. Reflecting on the current generation, Gen Z, I've noticed some remarkable traits that set them apart from my time as a Gen Y/Millennial: 1. Digital Natives: Gen Z has seamlessly integrated technology and the internet into their lives, showcasing exceptional skills in awareness for digital tools and platforms. 2. Focus on Mental Health: Gen Z is more proactive in addressing mental health concerns, prioritizing their well-being and fostering open discussions around mental wellness. 3. Entrepreneurial Awareness: Unlike the conventional career-focused approach, Gen Z displays a keen interest in exploring non-traditional paths like startups, side hustles, and the gig economy. It's inspiring to witness the evolution of traits and values among the younger generation, paving the way for a dynamic and progressive future. #GenZ #FutureLeaders #ScholarshipOpportunities

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Budget 2025: A Sweet Deal for Malaysia? Get ready, folks. The government is dishing out a whopping RM403.7 billion for Budget 2025! That's like a giant slice of cake, divided between operating expenses (the icing) and development projects (the cherries on top). The good news? TA Securities is predicting a lower fiscal deficit, which means more money in the government's pocket. This is thanks to a booming economy and a healthy increase in tax revenue. But wait, there's more! The government plans to invest big in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development. Think: shiny new trains, faster internet, and greener cities. And to make things even sweeter, there might be some relief for your wallet. The government is considering increasing minimum wages and offering tax breaks, which could mean more money in your pocket. So, while we might have to pay a little more for sugary treats, the overall budget looks like a pretty sweet deal for Malaysia.

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Potential Surprises and Investment Opportunities in the Construction and Industrial Sectors Potential Surprises in the 2025 Budget: While there are no concrete guarantees, based on current economic trends and government priorities, the following surprises might be in store for the construction and industrial sectors: • Increased Allocation for Public Housing: Given the rising cost of living and the need for affordable housing, the government might allocate more funds to public housing projects. • Focus on Sustainable Construction: To align with global sustainability goals, the government could introduce incentives or regulations promoting sustainable construction practices. • Digital Transformation Initiatives: The budget might include measures to accelerate the digital transformation of the construction and industrial sectors, such as investments in technology and skills development. Potential Investment Opportunities: If these surprises materialize, the following sectors and companies could benefit significantly: • Public Housing Developers: Companies involved in building affordable housing projects could see increased demand and profitability. • Sustainable Construction Materials and Technology Companies: Firms specializing in eco-friendly building materials, energy-efficient solutions, and green technologies could experience growth. • Digital Construction Technology Providers: Companies offering Building Information Modeling (BIM), drones, and other digital tools for construction can capitalize on the industry's shift towards technology. • Industrial Automation and Robotics Companies: As the industrial sector continues to automate, companies providing automation solutions could see increased demand. • Renewable Energy Infrastructure Companies: If the government focuses on sustainable development, investments in solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects could be lucrative. Factors to Consider: • Economic Conditions: The overall economic climate will influence the construction and industrial sectors. A strong economy with low interest rates is generally favorable. • Government Policies: Changes in government policies, such as tax incentives or regulations, can significantly impact the attractiveness of these sectors. • Global Trends: Global factors like geopolitical tensions, trade wars, and supply chain disruptions can affect the construction and industrial industries.

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Crutial Decesion Making : (1) Internship or Protégé  : To choose between a small SME company nearby your home, or any Oil & Gas Big Corporations out of town?  (2) For Accountants, to choose amongst the Big 4 Audit Firms? Which is the best?  (3) To work with Petronas Proper or Subsidiaries?  (4) To work with Petronas Subsidiaries of 100 % Shares fully owned by Petronas or Petronas JV Subsidiaries?  (5) To hop job from Petronas to ExxonMobil or Shell or vice versa?  (6) To hop job from any of the Big 4 Audit Firms to Petronas?  (7) As a Fresh PHD Holder, to work as a Lecturer at any of Public Universities or Private Universities or to join any of Petronas Plants?  (8) Having worked for 15 - 20 years but your current basic monthly salary has been stucked at RM 8000- RM 10,000 only. What would be your strategies?  (9) As a Senior Engineer, you're just a superficial one, no way hosey you may pass assessment to become a Specialist. What would be your strategies?  (10) As a Manager, what kinda Managerial style as your personal brand?  Result driven?  Arrogant  Clown Inspiring Develop Leaders  Walk the talk  Resilience  Perseverent  Delegate jobs Integrity  Professionalism  Honest and upright  Focus execution  Business Sense  Sense of urgency  Team Player  Favoritism  Hipocrite  Autocratic 

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Malaysian Professionals among Lowest Paid in the Region Reported by NST, survey done by Mercer, Malaysia is second lowest paid professional in the region. This includes EVERYONE from junior executives to management level. Legal definition of Professional: 1. A person, who is a member of a professional body due to the education qualification and follows the prescribed moeal and prefessional code of conduct 2. A person who has mastered a high level of expertise in a subject, notion on field While Malaysians are among the most competent professionals workforce in the world, the salary band does not reflect this locally. What are the factors contributing to this? Share your thoughts

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Sarawak Poised for Banking Powerhouse Status: Affin Bank Acquisition on the Horizon? A new chapter unfolds for Sarawak on July 19th. The state government is poised to sign an acquisition agreement, potentially marking its official takeover of Affin Bank. This news comes courtesy of Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, who revealed plans for a significant stake acquisition in a yet-to-be-named bank. While details remain under wraps until the signing ceremony, speculation heavily points towards Affin Bank (AFFIN). "The Sarawak government will become a major shareholder in a bank," Premier Abang Johari declared at a recent press conference. This move, he emphasized, is crucial for boosting Sarawak's influence within the national banking landscape. "We will be controlling a major bank," he proudly stated. However, the Sarawak government's ambition requires the green light from Bank Negara Malaysia, the nation's central bank. Currently, Affin Bank, a government-linked institution, is majority-owned by the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) with a 28.88% stake. As of July 5th, Affin Bank closed at RM2.60 per share, boasting a market capitalization of RM6.24 billion. With the signing ceremony drawing closer, all eyes are on Sarawak as it potentially takes a giant leap towards becoming a dominant force in Malaysia's banking sector.

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Petronas Reports Decline in Profit Amid Market Volatility, Yet Upstream Business Thrives Insights: 1. Profit Decline: • Petronas reported a significant 19% drop in net profit for the first half of 2024, amounting to 32.4 billion ringgit ($7.5 billion) compared to 40.2 billion ringgit in the same period of 2023. This decline was primarily attributed to the deconsolidation of subsidiaries and increased taxation. 2. Revenue Growth: • Despite the profit decrease, Petronas experienced a slight revenue increase of 2%, reaching 171.7 billion ringgit, up from 169 billion ringgit year-on-year. This growth indicates resilience in revenue generation, albeit tempered by lower energy prices. 3. Impact of Energy Prices: • The company noted that lower energy prices, especially in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market, played a role in offsetting revenue gains. This reflects the ongoing challenges within the energy sector due to fluctuating market conditions. 4. Strong Upstream Performance: • Petronas’s upstream business showed positive results, with a 13% increase in net profit to 21.4 billion ringgit in the first half of the year. This segment’s performance highlights the potential for growth within exploration and production activities. 5. Market Conditions and Outlook: • The CEO, Tengku Muhammad Taufik, acknowledged the challenges posed by market volatility and a global economic slowdown but expressed confidence in Petronas’s ability to navigate these changes with a clear strategy and capital discipline. 6. Oil Price Predictions: • Taufik projected that oil prices are likely to stabilize in the $70 to $80 range unless unexpected downturns arise, particularly from economic developments in China. This outlook is crucial for planning and investment decisions. 7. Geopolitical and Economic Influences: • Petronas highlighted that prolonged geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic uncertainties are key factors contributing to market volatility. The company aims to remain agile and responsive to these dynamics to seize growth opportunities. 8. Commitment to Growth and Sustainability: • The corporation reiterated its commitment to monetizing upstream resources while also advancing efforts in renewable energy. This dual focus reflects a strategic approach to balancing traditional energy production with sustainable practices. While Petronas faced a decline in overall profits due to external pressures and market conditions, its upstream business remains a strong performer. The company’s proactive approach to navigating challenges and its commitment to both growth and sustainability position it well for the future in an evolving energy landscape.

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Working Abroad for Better Debt Management: An Option for Malaysian Graduates? The Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) has a suggestion for Malaysian graduates struggling with student debt: consider working abroad. Their report highlights the challenges faced by graduates: • #Stagnant Salaries: Starting salaries haven't significantly increased in a decade, with many graduates making RM2,000 or less. • High #Debt Burden: Many graduates, especially from lower-income families, struggle to repay PTPTN loans due to low salaries. • #Unemployment: The unemployment rate for fresh graduates remains high, at over 15%. Given these factors, KRI argues that working abroad can be a solution. Here's a breakdown of their recommendations — Working Abroad: Earning higher salaries overseas can help graduates manage their student debt more effectively. Alternatives to Consider: - Income-contingent Loans: This system would tie loan repayments to a graduate's income level, making it easier for those with lower income to manage their debt. - Promoting TVET: Technical and vocational education can provide valuable skills and lead to higher employment rates for graduates. The government's upcoming National TVET Policy aims to create more high-tech TVET programs. Is Working Abroad Right for You? This is a personal decision. Here are some things to consider: • Job Market: Research job opportunities and salaries in your field overseas. • Cost of Living: Factor in living expenses like housing, food, and transportation in your target country. • Language and Culture: Consider any language barriers or cultural adjustments you might face. Overall, the KRI report offers options for graduates facing financial challenges. Working abroad can be a way to earn more, but explore all your options before making a decision. *A #table to track the policy of encouraging graduates to work abroad for better student debt repayment:

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