From Malaysia to Sweden, and back again: How growing up in Malaysia helped Umar become an automotive expert.

Just nine months ago, Umar Zakir Abdul Hamid had considered returning to his hometown, Malaysia. Today, he sits in one of the skyscrapers that glimmers among the clouds of Kuala Lumpur as he opens up about his journey back from Sweden.

At first, it was challenging to locate a position that could maintain his internationally acclaimed status in the self-driving vehicles industry. Yet, he saw a golden opportunity that would make his return to Malaysia seamless through our Returning Expert Programme (REP) – more about this at the end of the article.

We asked him about his views on working in Malaysia, and here are his quips about it:?

Technology is at the forefront of our future.?

The adoption of technology by Malaysians is on the rise. Mastercard’s survey revealed that we're championing the cashless society movement in the entire SEA. This glimpse of our potential to be a future-ready society convinced Umar to return and work with PROTON as their Senior Manager (Product Export and International Product Marketing). Soon, we could all drive smart and electrified cars for a more sustainable future.?

No country does diversity like us.?

Despite his extensive journey, every destination reminded him of how harmonious we are as a country. We’re gifted with an abundance of distinct cultures and communities. Because of this, it becomes natural for us to understand and embrace a culture that is different from our own. For Umar, this is a unique quality. He is proud to say that we’re a progressive society that continues to improve.

Believe in yourself, we’re all a talented bunch.?

Umar added that one of the incredible things about Malaysians is how adaptable and fluid we are, especially in a professional setting. Raised in an inherently multicultural and multiracial country, we can navigate our ways globally in our unique ways.

We’re also naturally gifted at being multilingual.

This is another valuable asset that employers cannot get enough of. Maybe once we see these advantages clearly – and not as a given since we’re Malaysians – we’ll have the confidence to grow in a more rewarding work environment.?

Sometimes, for Malaysians, it’s courtesy over communication.?

When it comes to getting our intentions and messages across, diplomacy tends to take the lead. Especially in a professional setting, the pressure of keeping your superiors happy can get tedious. Umar hopes that workplace communications will be streamlined for efficiency soon enough.?

So, what is the Returning Expert Programme (REP) and how can it benefit you??

Well, let’s take Umar’s journey as our case study. The Returning Expert Programme facilitated Umar’s relocation back to Malaysia, eased his transitional period, and rewarded him with benefits! What benefits? Read on to find out what expert returnees can enjoy!?

Flat Tax Rate – Successful returnees can enjoy a flat tax rate of 15% on their salaries for five consecutive years. It allows them to save more for the things that matter most.

Tax Exemptions on Cars – Exemptions on import duty and excise duty for the purchase of one (1) fully imported Complete Built Up (CBU) vehicle or excise duty exemption for the purchase of one (1) locally manufactured Complete Knocked Down (CKD) vehicle is also one of the benefits that many returnees can enjoy.

Tax Exemptions on Personal Effects – All the returnees' belongings and personal effects that are brought into Malaysia can be exempted from tax, making the move as seamless as possible.?

Family Benefits – Registration and annual fee waivers help returnees continue their children’s global education without bearing the full cost, whilst foreign spouses and children can enjoy fast-track applications for permanent residency.

And the best part, it doesn't stop there…?

Now, every Malaysian abroad can relocate back to Malaysia with ease through the MyHeart Portal. Benefits such as Employment Facilitation help returnees secure job opportunities with local industry leaders, while Education Facilitation allows parents to explore the finest international education for their children.

Need more information? Read up on the full details at MyHeart Portal here: www.myheart.my/returning-expert-programme/?