Founder Conversations
Practical stories and hard-won lessons for Malaysians building meaningful careers.
Each episode features leaders and builders sharing how they make decisions, navigate setbacks, and keep growing with intention.
Hi, I'm Derek.
I did not grow up in a business family. No one around me was an entrepreneur. I come from a normal middle-class home, and like many people, I chose the safe path.
I started my career in accounting and auditing. It was stable work. It looked good on paper. But inside, I felt unsure. I was busy every day, but I did not feel like I was moving forward. It felt like time was passing, and I was just standing there.
Later, I found recruitment. That changed a lot for me. I realised I enjoyed helping people find what they want in life. I liked seeing someone grow their career. It felt meaningful. For the first time, I felt that my work had purpose.
There is another part of my story too. When I was 11, back in the early 1990s, I was teaching myself how to code. I spent hours in front of the computer, trying things, making mistakes, and learning on my own. I did not know it then, but that interest in technology would come back to me many years later.
Today, these two parts of my life come together. I am building Hiredly, a recruitment platform that brings people and technology together. I want to help people build careers they feel proud of. I also want companies to find the right people, not just fill a position.
Through the Hello Mentor podcast, I hope to involve Malaysian leaders and entrepreneurs to help uplift other Malaysians to get what they want out of their career.
I am still learning. I am still growing. But now, I can see how every step, even the confusing ones, has shaped me.
Thank you for reading.
Building Hiredly
Hiredly is a leading Malaysian recruitment platform for Gen Y and Gen Z. We focus on Malaysian youth and their early careers.
I believe our early years of work shape the rest of our lives. The first few jobs matter a lot. They build our skills, habits, and confidence. Yet this is also the time when many young people get the least support. Most job portals treat CVs like numbers. Recruitment agencies often focus more on experienced candidates, because that is how they earn more.
But then I always ask myself, who will help our youth reach that “higher value” stage?
That is why I built Hiredly, as platform to help them make better early career decisions. And Hello Mentor, as a place for them to get ideas and inspiration on how to achieve more as Malaysians.
Check Out Hiredly
The Hello Mentor Podcast
Conversations about ambition, careers, and building in Malaysia.
Speaking Engagements
Over the years, I've shared my ideas across different stages and media platforms.
I've been featured in major media channels such as Astro, The Edge, Bernama, The Star, and BFM, and have taken part in a global debate moderated by the BBC.
My topics focus on Gen Y and Gen Z, AI, workplace culture, and the future of work. I speak about Malaysian youth, how technology is shaping our roles, and the evolution of Malaysian company culture.
I keep things simple and practical. I share real stories, clear ideas, and lessons people can use straight away.
If you're planning an event, I'm happy to connect.
Contact MeContact Me
For speaking invitations, partnerships, or founder conversations, email me directly.
derek@hiredly.com