In the heart of Malaysia's electrical engineering industry, where men have historically dominated the scene, there exists a remarkable trailblazer with a vision for change. Liyana Syazwani Binti Abd Razak, the founder of RYB Resources Engineering Sdn Bhd, embarked on a journey in 2020 that transcended personal ambition, aiming to carve a niche for female engineers in a traditionally male-dominated field. In an exclusive interview with Liyana, we delve into her inspiring story, the challenges she faced, and the triumphant evolution of RYB Resources.
A Vision Beyond Ambition
Before creating RYB Resources, Liyana honed her craft with a decade of experience in electrical engineering under the mentorship of a valued leader. During our conversation, she fondly recalled her old boss as an inspiration. "My previous boss inspired me to create and build my own legacy," she shared. This encouragement became the catalyst for her entrepreneurial journey.
Launching RYB Resources was no easy feat. Liyana candidly described the initial hurdles, including the challenge of establishing credibility for a new company led by a woman in a male-dominated industry. To surmount this obstacle, she enlisted the expertise of a professional advisor for the critical first six months. "Starting from ground zero, we needed professional guidance," Liyana emphasized. Crafting a robust business model and plan was equally pivotal, providing the much-needed direction.
RYB Resources' unique selling point lies in its predominantly female team, challenging industry norms. Liyana proudly stated, "Our x-factor is creating an environment for women in engineering, where we design, produce, and deliver electrical engineering products and services as capably as men." This progressive approach extends to welcoming and nurturing female electrical engineering graduates, aiming to inspire and empower the next generation of women in the field.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
Liyana emphasized the importance of transparent communication within the team. "To remain competitive and innovative, trust and transparency are a must," she noted. At RYB Resources, all team members are encouraged to share their ideas, fostering a culture of inclusivity and creativity. A dedicated research and development team continually explores new technologies, ensuring the company stays at the forefront of the ever-evolving electrical engineering landscape.
A pivotal turning point for RYB Resources was winning the Bumiputera Business Excellence Award in 2022. This accolade not only validated the quality of their products and services but also bolstered the team's confidence, spurring them to excel further. Liyana emphasized the importance of a flexible business model that adapts to new technology and innovation.
"Trust the process and never stop working towards your goals," Liyana advised aspiring entrepreneurs. Seeking professional advice and staying open to opinions and ideas are crucial steps on the path to success. She underscored the company's commitment to innovation, especially in enveloping renewable energy in their products, as a contribution to a greener, more sustainable future.
When asked about leadership, Liyana differentiates between a boss and a leader. "A good boss gives you instructions, a good leader guides; employees tend to follow a good leader," she stated. For her, maintaining a work-life balance is a perpetual challenge, one met with the support of both the family at home and the work family. “Without one or the other, it’s impossible to achieve success.” she giggles. Effective time management is another key factor enabling her to contribute to both her personal life and work.
RYB Resources' future is steeped in a commitment to research and development, with plans to continue delivering
cutting-edge technology and products tailored to their clients' needs. Liyana envisions expanding the company's reach internationally and cultivating a specialist workforce to take on global projects.
In parting, Liyana left us with a powerful message: "Believe in your decisions and your ambitions, surround yourself with positivity, and never give up—even in the face of failure." RYB Resources has not only survived the challenges of the pandemic but also thrived, and Liyana's determination ensures that the company's future is filled with growth, expansion, and limitless potential.