At just 30 years old, Ir Yuganesh K Gopala Krishnan is already steering the course of some of Malaysia’s most important engineering undertakings. As a Project Manager in the Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) Department at MMC Engineering Sdn Bhd, he is living proof that leadership is not dictated by age, but by capability, discipline, and vision.
Many engineers spend years working under the wings of senior leaders before they get the opportunity to helm a major project. For Yuganesh, that opportunity came early — and he embraced it with determination. His current assignment, the 11 MLD Water Treatment Plant at KLIA, is not just another engineering project. It is a key component in supporting Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad’s (MAHB) sustainability goals, ensuring that one of the region’s busiest airports has a modern, eco-friendly, and reliable water supply for years to come.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
Yuganesh’s role goes far beyond simply managing day-to-day tasks. The project, scheduled for completion in just 12 months, includes not only construction but also rigorous testing and commissioning phases.
From the earliest planning meetings to the final delivery, Yuganesh is there reviewing technical drawings, coordinating with suppliers and inspecting materials.
The water treatment plant itself is a feat of engineering innovation. Designed with a vertical layout, it occupies 50% less land compared to traditional designs, a critical consideration in a high-value area like KLIA. Using advanced purification technology, the plant is capable of treating up to 10 million litres of water daily. This ensures that KLIA not only meets its operational needs but also aligns with environmental stewardship practices.
“Leading such an important project so early in my career has been exciting and humbling,” Yuganesh shared. “It has taught me the value of teamwork, the need to anticipate challenges before they happen, and the importance of staying focused, even during tough times.”
His leadership style is rooted in communication and collaboration. He works closely with suppliers, contractors, consultants, and government agencies, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned. Weekly progress meetings, transparent reporting, and swift decision-making are some of the tools he uses to keep the project moving forward.
THE JOURNEY TO LEADERSHIP
While this water treatment project is a highlight of his career, Yuganesh’s rise has been built on years of dedication and hands-on experience. Before his current role, he served as a Site Engineer at the Graphite Project in Terengganu, where he faced one of his most demanding assignments: the shutdown and re-commissioning of a 33 km, 36-inch pipeline for Petronas Gas Berhad.
This was no small task. Shutdowns in the oil and gas industry are tightly scheduled, and every extra hour can result in significant operational costs. Yuganesh and his team not only met the shutdown deadline but completed it ahead of schedule.
He was also instrumental in achieving the critical “Gas In” milestone, where the pipeline is pressurised and operational once again. This required meticulous manpower management, strict adherence to safety protocols, and precise coordination of equipment and logistics.
“There were some high-pressure moments,” he recalled. “But those situations taught me to stay calm under stress, trust my team, and focus on finding solutions instead of getting caught up in the problem.”
His career foundation was laid even earlier, as a recipient of the MMC Scholarship. This opportunity not only funded his education but also connected him to a network of industry professionals and mentors who guided him along the way.
A MINDSET OF CONTINUOUS LEARNING
For Yuganesh, the journey does not end with completing a project. He firmly believes that learning never stops. Whether it’s keeping up with the latest engineering technologies, acquiring professional certifications, or studying new project management methodologies, he treats every day as a chance to improve.
“Every day is a chance to do better than the day before,” he said. “In engineering, technology changes quickly, and so do the challenges we face. Staying curious and adaptable is key.”
To strengthen his expertise, Yuganesh is now certified as both a Professional Engineer (Ir) and a Project Management Professional (PMP) credential that testifies to his technical knowledge and ability to lead complex projects successfully.
LIFE BEYOND THE WORKSITE
While engineering may be his profession, Yuganesh knows the importance of balance. Away from construction sites and project meetings, he turns to hobbies that sharpen his mind and recharge his spirit.
One of his favourite pastimes is playing chess, a game that mirrors the strategic thinking required in project management. Every move on the chessboard involves assessing risks, anticipating the opponent’s next move, and positioning for long-term success — much like managing an engineering project.
AN INSPIRATION FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
He is also an avid sports enthusiast, passionately supporting Arsenal FC in football and Scuderia Ferrari in Formula 1. The energy, strategy, and team coordination in sports resonate with his own approach to work.
Travel is another passion. Visiting new places and experiencing different cultures gives him fresh perspectives that he brings back to his professional life. “Taking a break helps me recharge. Whether it’s a chess game, a football match, or exploring a new city, it gives me the energy and creativity to tackle new challenges at work,” he shared.
For many young engineers, the path to leadership can seem long and uncertain. Yuganesh’s journey is proof that passion, discipline, and a growth mindset can accelerate that path. His story resonates especially with those starting out in the engineering field, showing that opportunities often come to those who are prepared to seize them.
More than just a manager, Yuganesh embodies the qualities of a modern engineer — a thinker, a leader, and a lifelong learner. His success serves as a reminder that great engineering is not only about building structures but also about building relationships, solving problems, and creating solutions that benefit communities.
Looking ahead, Yuganesh is determined to keep contributing to projects that make a difference. “It’s not just about completing the job. It’s about leaving something valuable behind — infrastructure that will serve people for decades, and doing it in a way that’s safe, sustainable, and innovative,” he said
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