A case of taking risks for a cause – Nik Nazmi, an MCKK, KYUEM alumnus transitioned from
stability to political dynamism, taking a daring challenge that catapulted him into a pivotal
ministerial role, shaping Malaysia’s future.
In the early evening of December 2nd, 2022, Nik Nazmi found himself on a pivotal call with the Prime Minister. Each word exchanged resonated with the weight of destiny, shaping the course of his future. When the call finally concluded, he stood in profound silence, the gravity of his newfound responsibility settling upon him like a cloak.
At precisely 8:30 PM on December 2nd, 2022, a seismic announcement reverberated across Malaysia. Anwar Ibrahim, the 10th Prime Minister, unveiled his new cabinet, thrusting Nik Nazmi into the limelight as the appointed full minister for environment and climate change.
The magnitude of this new role, coupled with a surge of exhilaration, began to dawn on him, heralding the start of a challenging yet deeply fulfilling chapter in his life’s journey.
Nik Nazmi’s journey into the heart of Malaysian politics was nothing less than a saga of audacity and conviction. Opting for a road laden with risk and significant financial stakes, he embraced a destiny far removed from the ordinary.
The tale traces back to his educational roots – from the hallowed halls of Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) and Kolej Yayasan UEM (KYUEM) to the prestigious corridors of King’s College London. As a scholar under PNB’s wing, he returned to Malaysia poised for a flourishing career within the financial giant’s embrace. Yet, destiny, with its own designs, steered him towards a crossroad.
Anwar Ibrahim, the voice of opposition turned Prime Minister, extended an invitation that would alter Nik Nazmi’s life trajectory forever. This was not just a job offer; it was a call to enter the political arena as Anwar’s private secretary, a summons to the front lines of change.
Embracing this call, Nik Nazmi stepped away from a path well-trodden, venturing into the unpredictable whirlwinds of politics. His decision to follow Anwar Ibrahim, to leave behind a secure future in corporate for the uncertain tides of political engagement, was a testament to his unyielding spirit and unwavering commitment to a cause.
This was the beginning of an extraordinary odyssey, one that would etch Nik Nazmi’s name into Malaysia’s political history.
The decision to pivot was profound because it demanded a commitment to a greater cause. Repaying the education bond was a step towards a new kind of service, a testament to his readiness to invest in a future he believed in.
The political terrain at the time was daunting. With the Barisan Nasional government holding a formidable two-thirds majority in parliament and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Nik Nazmi’s party, holding a single seat, the prospect of a flourishing political career seemed distant.
Yet, where others saw insurmountable barriers, Nik Nazmi saw a challenge to embrace. Fueled by a mixture of idealism and ambition, he chose to step into the arena.
The 2008 general elections were a turning point. Contesting for the Seri Setia state seat in Selangor, Nik Nazmi stood against political giants. It was more than a contest; it was a declaration of the arrival of a new generation in politics.
Against all odds, he won, becoming one of Malaysia’s youngest elected officials at age 26, and proving that youth and vision could indeed make a mark in the political landscape.
Nik Nazmi’s ascent from there was meteoric. 14 years later, he had become a full minister, entrusted with shaping the nation’s future.
His journey from a determined young professional at Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) to a pivotal figure in government underscores the power of resilience, the importance of staying true to one’s principles, and the impact of daring to dream big.
Becoming minister
As the world rapidly advances towards a more sustainable future, Malaysia must not fall behind. As the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi finds himself in a pivotal role, crucial for steering Malaysia’s green initiatives.
He shares that his drive to transform Malaysia into a more sustainable environment is inspired by his son. “Whenever my son witnesses a ‘bukit botak’ (a deforested hill) or sees the landscape losing its greenery, he turns to me and asks, ‘Abah, what are you going to do about it?” This question haunts Nik Nazmi daily, fueling his commitment to finding solutions.
He vows to address these challenges not just for his son, but for all young Malaysians.
Nik Nazmi’s position on environmental issues is unequivocal. “Our children deserve a future where they can breathe clean air, drink pure water, and inhabit a healthy planet. It is our duty to take action now to safeguard their future,” he stated in an interview with GetThere.
He has been instrumental in advocating for the Climate Change Act 2022, which establishes ambitious goals for cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Building a solid foundation in MCKK
Nik Nazmi’s educational journey commenced at La Salle Petaling Jaya, marking the beginning of his formative years before moving on to Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK). It was in this institution, amidst its rich traditions and strong sense of brotherhood, that Nik Nazmi started to forge his path.
Renowned for cultivating some of the nation’s most influential leaders, MCKK boasts alumni including two Prime Ministers of Malaysia, Razak Hussein and Anwar Ibrahim, as well as Hassan Merican, the former CEO of Petronas.
The distinction of being an MCKK alumnus brings with it not only prestige but also access to a vast network of prominent figures in various fields within Malaysia and internationally.
This elite network extends beyond the camaraderie of school days into enduring professional and personal relationships, underscored by the school’s legacy of leadership and innovation.
His dedication and involvement at MCKK caught the attention of PNB, leading to a prestigious scholarship to continue his studies at Kolej Yayasan UEM (KYUEM), marking the next significant step in his academic and personal growth.
KYUEM, a launchpad
Nestled in the serene town of Lembah Beringin, surrounded by lush greenery, Nik Nazmi found himself in a vastly different environment at KYUEM.
He sets foot at KYUEM with a new goal: to surpass his achievements from MCKK. “I wanted to challenge myself,” he recalls, reflecting on his aspirations upon his arrival.
KYUEM fostered a holistic educational philosophy, one that equipped students with the skills for life beyond academics. In this nurturing environment, Nik Nazmi rose to the challenges, eventually becoming the President of the Student Council.
He recognises the crucial role the leadership experience played in his personal growth. They cultivated in him a readiness to take risks and embrace the diverse challenges he faced as a student.
In addition to his time in the student council, Nik Nazmi also credits KYUEM with nurturing his love for history, economics, and politics.
“We were taught to think differently, to think outside the box,” says Nik Nazmi. Learning history and economics enhances critical thinking, as students are taught to evaluate multiple sources, engage in debate, and present arguments.
At A Levels, one studies the complexities of the French Revolution, the Cold War, Hitler’s Germany, and many others.
It is in these subjects that one learns about the dynamics of politics, human behavior, and economics. Combining that with his experience serving as student council president, he was set for a future in politics.
All the lessons he learnt at KYUEM, whether in the classroom or beyond, are something he carries with him to this day. “I really enjoyed my time at KYUEM; It gave me the confidence to go to a top world university.”
With the immense support and strong educational foundation provided by KYUEM, Nik Nazmi continued his educational journey to London, where he began his studies at King’s College.
Getting into the world of politics
Carrying the lessons he learnt in the classrooms and the confidence gained during his time at KYUEM, Nik Nazmi advanced to King’s College London. There, his political aspirations deepened alongside his legal studies.
At King’s College London, he pursued a law degree and engaged in numerous extracurricular activities, particularly those involving student politics and Malaysian organisations.
When asked what drove him to become a politician and what brought him to this point, he replies, “I was inspired by the book ‘The Autobiography of Malcolm X,’ about how a Muslim American responded to racism with a more inclusive approach,” which is what he emulates in his political career.
He also credits a friend, a senior peer from his MCKK days, with nurturing his interest in politics. “He reached out and got me involved in politics in 1998,” he continued, “So for someone who’s a political geek, it was something interesting, fun, and thrilling as well.”
Today, as a Minister, Nik Nazmi reflects on his journey, “I never envisioned at the age of 26 that I would contest, but it happened, and I won,” he says with a smile, “That was how it started.”
Well-connected alumni network
Nik Nazmi occasionally revisits KYUEM to participate in leadership camps and mentor students, offering them valuable insights into leadership.
This engagement is part of a broader tradition where many alumni return to share their experiences, providing students with a unique opportunity to learn from leaders in both the government and private sectors.
This connection gives KYUEM students a distinctive edge, allowing them access to guidance and inspiration from figures like Nik Nazmi.
Creating ones own blooming path
Reflecting on his path, it is evident that the seeds of Nik Nazmi’s political aspirations were planted and nurtured through his experiences at KYUEM, the challenges he faced at King’s College, and an early realisation that taking calculated risks can yield considerable achievements.
