TAN HAK LEONG, KEITH
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Expected Year of Graduation: 2026)
HOW DID YOU COME ACROSS THIS INTERNSHIP AND WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE THIS INTERNSHIP?
I first came across this internship opportunity during one of CAO’s briefings on overseas internship programmes and was motivated to gain international exposure.
MET EV stood out as it closely aligned with my passion for sustainability and renewable energy. As a green mobility startup in Vietnam, the organisation offered an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the development of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure — an area I have always been curious about. I was excited by the prospect of working in a cross-cultural environment while gaining industry-relevant experience.
WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITES AS AN INTERN?
Beyond conducting market research on the technologies MET EV was focusing on, I managed the project team and led the Design Thinking process to explore youth adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Vietnam. I facilitated team discussions, synthesised user insights and guided our ideation process to develop feasible solutions. This initiative led to the creation of Prisma, a digital business concept, aimed at promoting green mobility through a centralised online platform. Working closely with both Vietnamese and Singaporean teammates, I aligned our efforts with market realities and sustainability goals, ensuring we delivered impactful outcomes within tight timelines.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE?
I appreciated the opportunity to work on a real sustainability challenge with a passionate and forward-thinking team. I was able to apply my engineering knowledge meaningfully while gaining insights into the business aspects of launching an EV product. Working in Vietnam exposed me to a different work culture, broadening my global perspective. This experience reaffirmed my interest in clean energy and highlighted the importance of being adaptable, curious and collaborative in a fast-paced startup. The exposure to the business side of product development also opened my mind and helped me chart a clearer direction for my future career.
WHAT WERE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACED AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
A key challenge was adapting to Vietnam’s work culture, which differed from Singapore’s, particularly in communication styles and decision-making processes. Initially, I found it difficult to express my ideas confidently during team meetings. To overcome this, I spent time observing how senior team members communicated and gradually adjusted my approach. I also sought feedback regularly and made an effort to build relationships with local colleagues through shared meals and casual conversations.
Another challenge was understanding the business side of a green mobility startup. As an engineering student, I was unfamiliar with concepts such as customer segmentation, value proposition design and the business model canvas. To bridge this gap, I actively participated in discussions with the business team, took notes during pitch reviews and studied startup case studies independently. These efforts enabled me to contribute meaningfully beyond the technical aspects of my role.
WHAT ARE YOUR KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS INTERNSHIP?
I gained hands-on exposure to EV systems, from battery swapping technologies to hub and overall EV bike systems. I also honed my research and analytical skills by studying consumer behaviour and EV adoption patterns across Southeast Asia, integrating technical knowledge with market insights.
Besides honing technical skills, I also strengthened my soft skills in time management, collaboration and problem-solving under pressure. I learned to embrace uncertainty, work with limited resources and still strive to deliver meaningful outcomes.
I also learned to communicate across cultural boundaries, lead meetings and coordinate project tasks with both Vietnamese and Singaporean teammates. Leading the Design Thinking process and co-developing Prisma challenged me to think beyond engineering and explore innovation, entrepreneurship and user centric design.
One of the key takeaways from this experience is the value of purpose-driven work. MET EV’s mission to empower youth and advance Vietnam’s clean transport transition reminded me why I chose engineering not just to build systems, but to create solutions that improve lives. This experience clarified my long-term aspiration to work in clean energy and sparked a passion for inspiring others. I now see my role not only as an engineer but as a bridge between innovation, sustainability and community impact.
HOW DID CAO HELP YOU IN PREPARING FOR YOUR FUTURE WORK?
I first learned about this internship opportunity in Vietnam through the Overseas Internship Programme briefing, which provided insights into the application process, living arrangements, internship expectations and cultural adaptation.
I also approached CAO’s Industry Relations Consultant for advice on networking and navigating the startup ecosystem. The consultant shared valuable guidance on making the most of my experience, particularly in entrepreneurship and professional branding. These insights proved invaluable when our team at MET EV began shaping Prisma. The mentorship I received encouraged me to think strategically about growing Prisma from a student initiative into a scalable business concept.
Overall, CAO’s events and personalised guidance equipped me with the mindset, tools and confidence to thrive during my internship and take initiative in driving innovation and collaboration. Their support continues to shape how I approach career planning and long-term aspirations.
SHARE ADVICE WITH YOUR PEERS.
Be proactive in exploring opportunities beyond the classroom. Do not wait until your final year to gain real-world experience. Step out of your comfort zone especially if it means going overseas or working in a startup environment. Make full use of the support and resources offered by CAO and do not hesitate to seek guidance when needed. The earlier you start, the more confident and prepared you will be when you enter the workforce.