How two Tec D changemakers are using the power of technology to empower underserved students in Malaysia.
In honor of Digital Inclusion Week which occurred earlier in October, this month’s Feel Good Friday highlights the incredible work of two dedicated Tec D co-workers from Malaysia—Sashana Krishnamuthu, an HR Business Partner, and Afiqah Abd Halim, Sr. Corporate Communications Specialist for APJ. Together, they’ve helped lead an initiative that’s making a meaningful difference in the lives of underprivileged students through the power of education and technology.
Over the past year, Sashana and Afiqah have worked alongside a newly formed CSR committee in Malaysia to partner with the Ajar Society, an organization committed to helping underserved Orang Asli children gain access to the resources they need to achieve their educational goals. While the initial plan was to simply donate refurbished laptops, the committee wanted to create a long-lasting impact by hosting a series of IT classes. These classes would teach crucial tech skills like basic Microsoft Office apps such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and covered topics such as managing documents, financial literacy, and even cybersecurity, all taught by passionate co-workers from various departments. The idea was that students would receive the laptops as a reward for completing the program, reinforcing their hard work and dedication.
For Sashana, volunteering is about helping people grow and succeed—a passion she brings into her HR role and beyond. During one of the PowerPoint classes, she was moved by how excited the students became when they learned to animate a Superman character in their presentations. “It was touching to see their curiosity and eagerness to learn something new,” she shared, underscoring that even the smallest moments can spark a passion for learning.
Afiqah, too, found the experience deeply rewarding. As someone who strongly believes that we all play a role in supporting our communities, she was especially moved when she interviewed students about how the program had impacted them. One student shared how happy she was to receive her very first laptop after having borrowed one for years to complete her schoolwork. “Hearing how grateful the students were reminded me of how powerful volunteering can be,” said Afiqah. “It’s not just about giving back, but about the personal growth and connections you make along the way.”
As the initiative continues to grow, Sashana and Afiqah are already planning for the future, with next year’s program in the works. Their work is a powerful reminder that small steps can make a big impact, and through their leadership, underserved communities in Malaysia are being empowered with the tools and knowledge they need for a brighter future and bigger dreams.
