Adj. Prof. Ir. Dr. M. Arkam C. Munaaim is a multi-award-winning engineer, educator, and visionary leader who has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between practical skills and formal recognition in the construction and engineering industries. As the Founder and CEO of Mega Jati Academy, he champions workforce progression through nationally and internationally certified programs focused on construction and facility management. With accolades such as ‘Building Engineer of the Year’ (CABE UK) and ‘SME CEO of the Year’ (Malaysia), Dr. Arkam’s impact spans from energy conservation research to transformative leadership in education. His mission is clear: to empower a skilled, competent, and future-ready workforce across Malaysia and beyond.
Pioneering Skills Development
We started the interview by asking, “What inspired you to establish Mega Jati Academy, and how does it address the needs of Malaysia’s construction workforce?”
Arkam C. Munaaim replied, “The inspiration came from a clear gap I saw in our industry many skilled construction professionals had real expertise but lacked formal recognition or structured growth opportunities. I wanted to create an academy that values both practical experience and academic learning. At Mega Jati Academy, we provide certification and progression pathways, recognized by both Malaysian authorities and international bodies. We offer CPD programs tailored to real-world needs, and ensure our training helps workers grow from entry-level roles to leadership positions. Our mission is to build a competent, certified local workforce so we’re less reliant on foreign talent and more focused on homegrown excellence. We also work with various agencies to align with national productivity goals. For me, it’s about empowering individuals, helping them see their career as a journey, not a job and making sure they get the recognition and opportunity they truly deserve.”
Celebrating Milestones
The Worlds Times: You’ve received multiple honors, including ‘Building Engineer of the Year’ and ‘SME CEO of the Year.’ How do you view these achievements?
Arkam C. Munaaim replied, “I’m incredibly humbled by these recognitions. Awards like ‘Building Engineer of the Year’ from CABE UK and ‘SME CEO of the Year’ from the Bumiputera Business Excellence Awards are milestones that validate years of hard work not just mine, but the entire team behind me. Personally, they reaffirm my belief in purpose-driven leadership and continuous innovation. Professionally, they reflect the impact that Mega Jati Academy and our initiatives have made in education, engineering, and workforce development. These achievements motivate me to go further and serve more people. At the core, I believe leadership is not about titles or trophies it’s about creating value and empowering others. I see these awards as symbols of responsibility, a reminder to keep pushing forward and uplifting others in the process. It’s about impact, legacy, and creating meaningful change in the industries we serve.”
Pioneering Green Engineering in Southeast Asia
The Worlds Times: With your background in energy conservation and sustainable design, how do you see the future of green engineering in Southeast Asia?
Arkam C. Munaaim replied, “Southeast Asia is experiencing rapid urban growth, and sustainability is no longer a luxury it’s a necessity. With my research in fibre optic daylighting and energy conservation, I see great potential for integrating sustainable design into tropical architecture. Our region has rich natural resources and sunlight, yet we still rely heavily on inefficient energy systems. I believe green engineering must become the foundation of future infrastructure, blending local wisdom with modern technology. Training engineers in environmental ethics, renewable energy, and climate-responsive design is key. At Mega Jati Academy, we emphasize sustainable practices in our certifications and courses, helping professionals adapt to global environmental standards. The goal is to shape engineers who don’t just build for today, but for the generations to come. If we combine innovation, policy support, and public awareness, Southeast Asia can lead in sustainable development not follow.”
Overcoming Industry Challenges
The Worlds Times: What are some of the biggest challenges in professionalizing the construction industry, and how is your academy solving them?
Arkam C. Munaaim replied, “One major challenge is that many workers enter the construction field without formal education but gain extensive experience over time. Unfortunately, they often lack the certification needed for career growth. Another issue is the limited access to structured, practical, and flexible learning pathways. At Mega Jati Academy, we tackle this by offering nationally and internationally recognized certification programs, tailored to different career stages. Our CPD courses are available both publicly and through custom in-house formats, ensuring flexibility. We assess prior learning and on-the-job experience to help individuals get certified and move forward professionally. We also collaborate with key organizations like CIDB, HRD Corp, and MBOT to ensure our content meets industry needs. Our aim is to professionalize the industry from within recognizing skills, validating expertise, and offering a clear progression ladder for all, from laborers to project managers. We believe every skilled worker deserves recognition and a chance to grow.”
Advice for Aspiring Engineers
Lastly we asked, “Reflecting on your journey from engineer to academic and CEO, what advice would you offer young engineers starting out today?”
“My journey has taught me that success in engineering isn’t just about technical skills it’s about persistence, adaptability, and the willingness to keep learning. To young engineers, I’d say: never underestimate the value of hands-on experience. Get involved in projects, stay curious, and take ownership of your work. Education gives you tools, but real growth happens when you apply those tools in real-world situations. Don’t be afraid to fail; treat each challenge as a learning opportunity. Also, keep building your professional network mentors, peers, and industry connections are invaluable. Stay updated with emerging trends like sustainability, digital construction, and energy efficiency. Most importantly, lead with integrity. Your reputation is your strongest asset. Whether you’re designing a building or managing a team, always ask yourself: how can I add value and make a difference? Engineering is more than a career it’s a way to serve society with purpose.” M. Arkam C. Munaaim concluded
Connect with M. Arkam C. Munaaim on LinkedIn
Visit Mega Jati Academy Sdn Bhd to learn more
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