Uthman bin Mohd Haneef, management executive, risk and resilience at PLUS Malaysia Berhad, wins the Penang edition of the Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge, run by the Pan-Asia Risk and Insurance Management Association (PARIMA). The challenge is a speaking competition for emerging risk professionals, staged at PARIMA masterclass and Mumbai conference stops. The Penang edition was held during the association’s Penang Masterclass 2026 on 6 and 7 August. Risk professionals from a range of industries applied to take part, with three finalists selected. Each was given 15 minutes to present, followed by a live question and answer session taking questions from the audience and the judging panel. PARIMA says the format tested knowledge of risk management alongside the ability to communicate ideas with clarity, confidence and critical thinking under pressure. The other two finalists were Anina D. Seachon, environmental and social risk officer at Bank of the Philippine Islands, and Mark Jonathan Samuel Inbaraj, manager in risk intelligence at Tenaga Nasional Berhad. Uthman says: “I think it is important that those in senior positions recognise that young professionals are also capable of driving change in the field of risk management. I hope that by taking part in this challenge, I am able to send that message to others.” Uthman adds: “Regardless of whether I won, I was very happy to have the opportunity to share my ideas and gain insights from participants across different organisations and backgrounds. That was my biggest takeaway from the competition.” Annacel A. Natividad, president of PARIMA, says: “It is inspiring to see emerging risk professionals in Penang demonstrate such strong analytical thinking and fresh perspectives. Through the challenge, we are proud to support and empower the next generation of risk leaders across the region.” QBE Insurance is title sponsor of the challenge. Jef Tio, chief executive officer, Malaysia at QBE Asia, says: “The calibre of talent showcased at the Next-Gen Risk Takers Challenge is testament to the growing strength of the risk management profession in Malaysia and across Asia. At QBE Insurance, we are committed to empowering emerging professionals with opportunities to learn, share ideas, and develop their leadership capabilities.” The challenge concludes its regional programme in Beijing on 17 September 2026. Winners from each stop receive a subsidised trip to the inaugural grand final on 14 October 2026, held during the PARIMA Singapore Masterclass Day. PARIMA is a not-for-profit organisation supporting the risk management profession across Asia Pacific, with more than 2,600 members representing more than 1,300 companies and 32 partners.
