Ahmad Zikri Bin Zainudin
Risk Management, PETRONAS, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering
The practical nature of the mechanical engineering programme was one of the highlights for him, says Ahmad Zikri Bin Zainudin who came to AUT as an international student from Malaysia.
“I appreciated that the AUT learning experience wasn’t limited to lectures – we were encouraged to apply engineering concepts to real design, simulation and problem-solving activities. This helped me understand how theory connects with practical engineering applications. One memory I’ll never forget was when we had to build model cars that could move using weight as the driving force. Every group then competed to see which car could travel the furthest. It was a simple but very meaningful project because it taught us how engineering principles such as force, motion, energy transfer, friction and design optimisation could directly influence performance.
“My final-year industry-based research project was especially valuable because it gave me the opportunity to work on a complex engineering challenge over a full academic year, under the guidance of experienced academic supervisors. It also gave me valuable opportunities to meet industry experts and gain hands-on exposure at their sites, where I could see real machines, equipment and engineering systems in operation. This experience helped me connect classroom learning with actual industry practice. These practical opportunities helped bridge the gap between university learning and professional engineering practice. They strengthened my analytical thinking, technical communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, which became very important in my career.”
Another memorable highlight for him was studying in New Zealand as an international student.
“One achievement I value from my time at AUT was completing the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering as an international student. Studying overseas required discipline, independence and resilience, especially while adapting to a new learning environment and culture. Being part of the AUT student community gave me the opportunity to meet people from different countries and cultures, including many Kiwi friends. Nearly 20 years later, I keep in contact with some of them, which shows how meaningful those friendships have been. These experiences helped me grow not only academically, but also personally and professionally.”
Protecting PETRONAS’ critical assets
After graduating from AUT in 2010, Ahmad Zikri returned to Malaysia, where he has built a successful engineering career, working in risk management for global energy company PETRONAS.
“I enjoy my current role because it allows me to combine engineering knowledge with risk management, assurance, insurance and business decision-making. My work involves coordinating risk engineering, producing technical risk reports, supporting asset valuation activities and engaging with different operating units, brokers, insurers and risk engineers. What I find meaningful is that the role contributes to protecting critical company assets, improving risk awareness and supporting business continuity. It also gives me the opportunity to continuously learn from technical specialists across various engineering disciplines and industries.
“I’m proud of building a career that combines mechanical engineering, risk engineering and insurance within PETRONAS. I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to risk engineering, asset valuation exercises, loss prevention initiatives and technical reports across various PETRONAS assets, not only in Malaysia but also internationally. I’m also proud to have achieved Chartered Engineer (CEng) status through the UK Engineering Council. This was meaningful because it recognised my professional engineering competence and reflected my commitment to continuous learning and professional development. In addition, I’ve received several recognitions from PETRONAS for my efforts and contributions to the company. As part of my continuous professional development, I’ll also be taking the Professional Engineer (PEng) certification and examination at the end of this year.”
He says his time at AUT prepared him to think beyond calculations and technical theory.
“My studies taught me how to approach problems logically, communicate technical ideas clearly and work with people from different backgrounds. I didn’t fully anticipate how important these skills would become in my professional career, especially when dealing with multidisciplinary teams, management stakeholders and external parties.”
Advice for other students
Ahmad Zikri has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“Make the most of every practical project, laboratory session and opportunity to ask questions. Engineering isn’t only about memorising formulas; it’s about understanding the principles behind them and learning how to apply them to real problems. Be curious, disciplined and open to learning from your lecturers, classmates and industry.”
He also has some guidance related to a career in mechanical engineering.
“Build a strong technical foundation, but also develop communication, teamwork and business awareness. In engineering, your ability to explain technical matters clearly and work with different stakeholders is just as important as your technical knowledge. Stay adaptable, keep learning and be willing to explore career paths that may combine engineering with other areas such as risk, operations, management or business.”
