From a young age, Richard Ong, an IT expert and graduate from HELP IT, found his passion for computers, setting the stage for a journey into the ever-evolving world of information technology. Reflecting on his early days, Richard shares, “At that time, IT was a new industry that had the potential to change the way we work and live. Rightfully so it did, and I am glad to be part of it.”

Upon graduating, like many fresh graduates, Richard faced the daunting task of deciding the trajectory of his career. Fortunately, serendipity intervened, leading him to a job at IBM, a company that would shape the next thirteen years of his professional life. Richard’s career, however, took unexpected turns as he delved into the tech start-up community, guided by the connections he fostered along the way.

“Things happen over time, just have to go with the flow,” Richard wisely advises, capturing the essence of his career journey. This philosophy led him to become the CTO of WORQ, a successful start-up in Klang Valley, showcasing his fearless approach to trying new things and making them work.

Transitioning from two start-ups to the role of CTO at WORQ marked a pivotal moment for Richard. His mindset of curiosity and making things work compelled him into the vibrant start-up industry, where he found his stride. His career path further expanded, serving as the Director for Start Up Grind Kuala Lumpur and contributing to Petronas’s Corporate Innovation and Strategy department.

Today, Richard wears the hat of an Innovation Coach, supporting intrapreneurs within organizations and higher education institutions like HELP University. As he shapes co-curriculum studies for IT students, Richard emphasizes, “My professional commitments involve about 30% coaching and 70% business strategy.”

Richard Ong is a firm believer in the power of positive change through knowledge sharing. “I have naturally coached ever since I joined the start-up community. I don’t think that would change because I do love understanding people and seeing how they can contribute to value creation,” he shares passionately.

Peering into the future of information technology, Richard remains optimistic. He foresees an increased reliance on information creation and a merging of Fintech, Analytics, and Business Strategy trends, creating a multi-disciplinary network across industries. “I just go by the rule that you cannot improve what you cannot measure,” Richard points out, emphasizing the importance of purpose behind technological advancements.

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, Richard acknowledges the normalization of a symbiotic human-machine collaboration. He anticipates effective communication and a future where curiosity stimulates human awareness to explore trends and ideas together.

For aspiring IT enthusiasts aiming to venture into the start-up world, Richard offers sage advice, “Try it out when you are ready, and be ready to have an open mind, always seek to learn and understand, and note that you will fail often to learn the things that most before you don’t know. Just keep moving forward and see innovation and intrapreneurship as a way of life rather than a subject.”

He also add, “Stay updated with the latest trends in technology, innovation, and the humanities. Read as much as you can, listen to podcasts, and ensure your curiosity is always satisfied.”

In the realm of digital tech education, the Faculty of Computing and Digital Technology (FCDT) stands as an industry leader. With robust connections to industry partners and a track record of cultivating successful graduates, FCDT has earned the prestigious MDEC’s Premier Digital Tech Institution Award. Specializing in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software development, data science, and fintech, FCDT provides students with a comprehensive education, preparing them for real-world challenges in the digital landscape.

FCDT’s innovative 2U 1i work-based learning programs set it apart, allowing students to study and gain practical work experience concurrently. This unique approach not only enriches academic learning but also gives students a competitive edge, equipping them with hands-on experience that distinguishes them in the job market. As a beacon of excellence in digital tech education, FCDT continues to shape future technology leaders, ensuring they are well-equipped for the dynamic IT sector.