Eur Ing Hong Wai Onn is a name synonymous with innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the palm oil and biotechnology industries. With nearly two decades of experience, he has established himself as a leading authority in making the palm oil sector greener and more efficient. His extensive career, marked by roles in production, engineering, project management, applied research, process safety, and leadership, is a testament to his dedication to advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) principles in practical, impactful ways.
A Solid Foundation in Engineering and Business
Hong Wai Onn’s academic credentials lay a robust foundation for his professional achievements. He holds an Executive MBA with Honours from the Quantic School of Business and Technology in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering with Honours from Universiti Malaysia Sabah. His career began with Genting Plantations, a subsidiary of Genting Berhad, which operates oil palm plantations in Malaysia and Indonesia and ventures into the manufacturing of downstream palm-based products. This early experience provided Hong with invaluable insights into the complexities and challenges of the palm oil industry.
Applying Technical Knowledge to Real-World Challenges
Hong’s expertise in STEM fields has been instrumental in driving significant advancements in the palm oil industry. He has utilized his technical knowledge, such as thermodynamics, mass balance, and fluid mechanics, to address real-world challenges, making the industry more efficient and environmentally friendly. One of his notable achievements includes increasing the oil extraction rate in palm oil mills, a critical factor in enhancing productivity.
Furthermore, Hong has led the way in converting waste oil into biodiesel, a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This innovation, which combines biotechnology and chemical processes, not only reduces environmental impact but also adds economic value to previously discarded waste. His work exemplifies how STEM principles can be used to develop practical solutions that benefit both the industry and society.
A Thought Leader in Sustainability and STEM
Hong Wai Onn is not just an engineer and innovator; he is also a thought leader who actively shares his insights to raise awareness about sustainable practices and STEM education. He frequently contributes to blog posts, newspaper columns, and technical magazine articles, making complex topics accessible to a broader audience. His ability to distil intricate concepts into understandable narratives has earned him recognition both locally and internationally.
Hong’s expertise is often sought after in interviews, where he shares his thoughts on industry trends, sustainability, and the importance of STEM. Through these platforms, he fosters a greater understanding of the vital role STEM plays in addressing global challenges, particularly in the palm oil industry.
Educating the Next Generation
A firm believer in the power of education, Hong Wai Onn regularly serves as a guest lecturer at public and private universities in Malaysia. He is passionate about nurturing the next generation of engineers, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights. His engaging lectures inspire students to pursue careers in STEM, equipping them with the skills needed to drive future innovations.
Moreover, Hong serves on several universities’ Industry Advisory Panels, where he provides strategic guidance to align academic programs with industry needs. His involvement ensures that curricula are relevant and that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the evolving job market.
Giving Back to the STEM Community
Hong Wai Onn’s commitment to the STEM community extends beyond his professional and academic endeavours. He has been actively giving back to the community since the early stages of his career, a contrast to the common belief that such contributions should come later in life. His roles include serving as a board member of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) in Malaysia and founding the IChemE Palm Oil Processing Special Interest Group.
The IChemE Palm Oil Processing Special Interest Group focuses on advancing the technical and professional aspects of palm oil processing, promoting best practices, and fostering innovation. As a member of the Learned Society Committee of IChemE, Hong provides strategic direction to IChemE’s technical priorities, guiding its activities as a learned society. He also participates in university engineering course accreditation panels, ensuring that educational programs meet the highest standards.
Hong’s dedication to mentoring students and young engineers further underscores his commitment to fostering the next generation of STEM professionals. By sharing his knowledge and experience, he helps young talents navigate their careers, encouraging them to pursue excellence and innovation.
A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership
Eur Ing Hong Wai Onn’s nearly two decades of experience in the palm oil and biotechnology industries have positioned him as a leading authority in STEM. His innovative applications of technical knowledge have driven significant advancements in making the palm oil industry greener and more efficient. Beyond his professional achievements, Hong’s thought leadership, educational contributions, and commitment to giving back to the STEM community highlight his holistic approach to fostering sustainability and innovation.
As the palm oil industry and the broader field of biotechnology continue to evolve, Hong Wai Onn’s contributions will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. His work serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of STEM professionals, demonstrating the profound impact that dedication, innovation, and leadership can achieve.
