By Karen Bong
KUCHING, April 26: Pipeline engineer Chia Kah Soon has made history as the first Sarawakian and Malaysian to receive The John Tiratsoo Award for Young Achievement, awarded by Young Pipeliners International (YPI).
The prestigious accolade celebrates his outstanding personal and professional accomplishments to the engineering sector.
Currently serving as an integrity engineer and technical solutions specialist at ROSEN, a global leader in cutting-edge integrity solutions headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Chia who hails from Miri, brings his expertise to the forefront.
Additionally, he chairs the Young Pipeline Professionals Malaysia Chapter, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to fostering excellence in pipeline industries including oil and gas, water, sewerage, and more.
Following a recent meeting, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian lauded Chia’s achievement, highlighting its rarity as only two recipients are chosen annually.
“Chia is not the only Sarawakian to win the award but also the very few from Asia recognised for their innovation, contribution and potential leadership (in the sector).
“Chia never forgot about contributing to nation building of Sarawak. With that, he is aiming to organise the first Borneo Pipeline Conference in Miri and we look forward to supporting the conference in as many ways possible,” he said in a reel video shared on his social media yesterday (April 25).
According to his Linkedin profile, Chia has over 10 years of industrial experience with engineering consultants and EPIC Contractors as a project lead, pipelines and subsea engineer.
He was involved in various international and local projects ranging from Brownfield Integrity Services (FFS & ECDA), Pigging Feasibility Studies, concept design, Pre-FEED, FEED to Detailed Design and follow-on Engineering support. He has commercial experience leading and coordinating local and regional tender pursuits.
“I wish him all the best for his endeavour to organise the first Borneo Pipeline Conference in Miri. Well done,” Dr Sim commended.
The John Tiratsoo Award recognises the achievements of individuals under 36 years of age who have demonstrated a valuable and original contribution to the industry.
YPI serves as a global forum for young professionals, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among pipeline groups worldwide. — DayakDaily
