JA Malaysia Young Enterprise (YE) Program 35 Years

JA Malaysia proudly marked a significant milestone during the Annual Showcase of the Young Achievers (YE) Program 2023 – celebrating an astounding 35 years of shaping young minds in entrepreneurship education. The roots of this remarkable journey trace back to 1989 when their founding sponsor, the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM), spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative. Alongside five corporate sponsors and six schools, this marked the inception of the Young Enterprise Program in the Klang Valley.

Expanding its reach to Penang in 1990, the YE Program has thrived in both regions ever since. Over the years, the program has evolved and grown, overcoming challenges, and transforming them into stepping stones. On 19 January, 2024, with the participation of numerous Corporate Sponsors and Schools, the YE family boasts an impactful journey. The visionary support of AMCHAM has been instrumental in shaping the success and impact of this entrepreneurial journey. From 1989 to 2023, the YE Program has impacted close to 29,400 students, thanks to the concerted efforts of AMCHAM.

To commemorate this extraordinary commitment, JA Malaysia presented an Appreciation Award to AMCHAM during the event, expressing deep gratitude for their pivotal and visionary support that has propelled the YE Program to its current heights. This award was also extended to Western Digital and Motorola Solutions, the two pioneering sponsors whose unwavering dedication has been a crucial element of the YE Program’s success.

Western Digital, started in 1989 with a sponsorship of SMK Raja Ali, and has been supporting YE since then. This year, and for a number of years, they have been a dedicated sponsor of SMK Perempuan Sri Aman. Western Digital also sponsored schools for a while in Penang through their subsidiary WD Media. The impact of Western Digital extends to 1260 students across 42 batches, marking a consistent commitment to the cause.

Motorola Solutions, another pioneering sponsor, made significant contributions, sponsoring schools like SMK Taman Tun Dr Ismail and co-sponsoring Victoria Institution. In 1993, Motorola joined the Penang YE sponsoring SMK (P) Sri Mutiara. From 1989 to 2023, Motorola has impacted 1890 students through 63 batches, showcasing unwavering support for the YE program.

This outstanding achievement gains even more significance as the majority of these sponsors, past and present, are esteemed members of AMCHAM. AIG, Avanade, Dell Technologies Malaysia, FedEx Express Services, GE Aerospace, Julie’s Manufacturing, MACROKIOSK, On Semiconductor, Safety Capital, SBM Offshore, Sensata, Start Disrupt, and SunPower – these members form the backbone of the YE Program, keeping the journey alive and thriving.

The YE 2023 Penang Annual Showcase took place on November 30th last year, with the generous support of Analog Devices, Dell Technologies Malaysia, FedEx Express Services, First Solar, Flex, Intel Technologies, Kiwanis Club of Penang Central, LAM Research, Micron, Motorola Solutions, AMS Osram, and Universiti Sains Malaysia. Their steadfast support has played a pivotal role in the success of the Penang YE program. As they look forward, the celebration of 35 years of YE Penang will be a highlight at the YE Penang Annual Showcase in 2024.

This rich history of partnerships and support underscores the enduring impact of the YE Program, emphasizing the pivotal role of sponsors and partners in shaping the entrepreneurial journey for thousands of students. JA Malaysia expresses heartfelt gratitude to each contributor for their commitment and dedication to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.