The APU Actuarial Science Club’s Takaful Mastery industrial visit gave 32 students practical insights into Islamic finance, featuring a panel of top actuaries and a career skills session to prepare them for future careers.

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation’s (APU) Actuarial Science Club (ASC) recently held an insightful industrial visit titled ‘Takaful Mastery: Actuarial Insights into Islamic Finance’, giving students a unique glimpse into how actuarial concepts is applied within a Takaful insurance company. 

The event, held at the end of July 2025 at Malaysian National Reinsurance Berhad. (now known as MNRB Holdings Berhad.), was a remarkable visit. 

It aimed to provide a comprehensive look into the critical role actuaries play in the dynamic world of Islamic finance. 

Mr Nicholas Yong Jia Wei and Ms Anittah Charles both lecturer from School of Mathematics, Actuarial and Quantitative Studies (SoMAQS) accompanied the students from APU ASC on this insightful industrial visit.

The visit began with a warm welcome from Mr Wan Ahmad Najib Wan Ahmad Lotfi, President & Chief Executive Officer of Takaful IKHLAS Family Berhad. 

His speech set the stage for an engaging afternoon of learning and networking, which was followed by a token of appreciation and certificate presentation.

The heart of the event was a fascinating forum session featuring three esteemed actuarial professionals: Mr Nur Amin Nurazmi, Vice President and Head of Actuarial Pricing, Takaful IKHLAS General Berhad.; Mr Mohammad Nazmi Mohd Amin, Vice President of Actuarial Services, Takaful IKHLAS Family Berhad (TIFB); and Tuan Nina Shahirah Tuan Daud, Vice President and Head of Actuarial Services, Malaysian Reinsurance Berhad.

The panellists delved into various aspects of the actuarial profession, from the differences between conventional and Takaful insurance companies to the impact of artificial intelligence on the workforce.

They also shared valuable insights into the challenges and work environments within general insurance, life insurance, and reinsurance.

Following the forum, Mr Hasrizal Haron from MNRB Group’s Human Resources department conducted a practical session on interview tips. 

He shared strategies for crafting impactful CVs, enhancing LinkedIn profiles, and standing out in interviews. 

Participants learned to focus on demonstrating the impact of their skills rather than simply listing them. 

The session also covered the importance of building a strong personal brand, using the STAR method, and showcasing achievements through technical storytelling with tools like Excel, SQL, and Python.

The event concluded with a refreshment session hosted by the MNRB Group, which allowed the 32 student participants and two accompanying lecturers to network personally with the industry professionals — a truly valuable and enjoyable experience that fostered meaningful connections and provided mentorship opportunities.

This first-of-its-kind Takaful industrial visit by the APU ASC successfully empowered students with practical, real-world knowledge of Takaful, reinsurance, and actuarial career pathways. 

It also equipped them with career-ready skills and broadened their perspectives on alternative actuarial career options beyond traditional life insurance.

The feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive, with comments highlighting the clarity of the explanations, the smooth organisation, and the new perspectives gained. 

APU Actuarial Science Club (ASC) President, Peyton Ong explained that “This event truly broadened our knowledge and perspective.”

The APU ASC extends its heartfelt appreciation to the MNRB Group for their generous support, time, and insights, which made this event a great success. 

This visit successfully helped students understand the deeper differences between Takaful and conventional insurance, gain practical career advice, and connect with industry professionals, inspiring them to set ambitious goals for their actuarial careers.