• Surprise in the midst of monotony

July 9, 2004

It was one of those normal Thursdays, whereby the stress of the week was beginning to make its presence known, while the weekend seemed like an eternity away. I was in the midst of my day-to-day work, trying to meet deadlines and complete the tasks given to me. As much as I value my job, Encik Halim Rahman’s call to inform me that I had been selected was indeed a surprise in the midst of monotony.

I did not shout for joy the first moment I heard that I was chosen. Oh, yes, I wanted so badly to be part of the expedition, and I know that I would have felt disappointed if I had not been selected. Yet, strangely when I was told that I was selected I did not exhibit any form of emotion. It was only after a few moments that the message finally sank in. The expedition to North Africa which was once a distant dream has now become a tangible reality. Compared to the sudden burst of joy, I must say, that it was a wonderful feeling to savour the lingering delight on being chosen. I still find myself smiling each time I think of the call. I am tempted to believe alongside Napoleon Hill who once said, “Whatever you ardently desire, vividly imagine, and enthusiastically act upon, must inevitably come to pass.”

It is indeed my privilege to work with a progressive multinational company that boasts remarkable growth and impressive financial performance. However, what makes this experience unique and special is the emphasis on PETRONAS’ brand essence that states ‘Energy Receive, Energy Return, Aspiring People Everywhere’, as well as the value PETRONAS places on each employee. The 4x4 Adventure Team would indeed be an excellent avenue to showcase PETRONAS’ brand essence for where the PETRONAS brand is displayed, there its values and aspirations are on show. It would truly be my privilege to be part of the team that would strive to inspire and influence the people around us and spur them towards greater heights.

I believe that the expedition to North Africa would indeed be an experience to treasure, yet I believe that greater still would be the privilege of being able to bring hopes and smiles to little children as well as the people we meet along the journey. For this journey would not be about personal gains, rather it would be a journey to infuse passion and enrichment in the lives of the people we meet, for by touching a life, we hope to sow the seed of hope for future generations. To me, this is what PETRONAS stands for, and I want to be part of this vision.

Simba’s paw note: Thank you, PETRONAS, and PETRONAS Adventure Team!