IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Get to know Ir. Khusairy Ahmad, a Project Manager & Senior Drainage Engineer whose leadership blends discipline, adaptability, and collaboration to inspire teams and drive innovative, sustainable solutions. In this interview, we delve into the mindset and approach that empower him to navigate challenges, foster teamwork, and achieve impactful results.

In the Spotlight

Interview with Ir. Khusairy Ahmad, Project Manager & Senior Drainage Engineer

1. What does your typical workday look like at Asia Infrastructure Solutions (AIS)?

My day typically starts with reviewing project progress reports and addressing any urgent issues raised by the team and our clients. I work closely with designers and engineers to ensure every task is aligned with client requirements. A big part of my role is balancing timelines, budgets, and quality, so I dedicate time to planning ahead, conducting technical reviews, and keeping management updated on progress.

2. Before joining the company, what was the most interesting or unusual role you held?

One of the most unusual roles I held was in Japan as a Line Production Supervisor. It was a completely different environment from engineering, but it taught me discipline, precision, and efficiency—principles that remain central to how I manage engineering projects today.

3. What challenges have you experienced and how have you overcome them?

Large infrastructure projects always present challenges—whether it’s unexpected site conditions, utility relocations, or managing multiple stakeholders. I’ve learned to overcome these by breaking problems into smaller, manageable steps and encouraging open communication within the team. Staying calm and solutions-oriented has been my key strategy.

4. What do you enjoy most about the working culture at AIS?

I enjoy the strong sense of teamwork and knowledge sharing. Colleagues are approachable and supportive, and there’s a genuine commitment to delivering quality work. This positive culture makes even the most demanding projects feel rewarding.

5. What do you find unique about working here compared to other companies you’ve encountered?

What stands out is AIS’s integrated approach. Different disciplines—design, engineering, project management—work together seamlessly. Compared to my past experiences, the cross-department collaboration here is much stronger, which makes project delivery smoother and more effective.

6. Could you share one or two of the most exciting projects you’ve contributed to here?

The Mat Daling Road Project in Jerantut, Pahang, has been one of the most exciting projects of my career. I was involved from the conceptual design stage, and the project is now nearly 90% complete. Watching it grow from drawings to a real road that will soon connect remote communities has been truly rewarding. I believe this project will also be one of AIS’s key milestones, showcasing our ability to deliver complex rural infrastructure projects from start to finish.

Ir. Khusairy Ahmad and Mat Daling Road Project’s team, together with the Project Director from Public Works Department during a productive site visit.

7. How has your career developed since you joined the company?

Since joining AIS, I’ve evolved from a focus on drainage design to leading full project delivery as a Project Manager. I now oversee multidisciplinary teams, manage client relationships, and take greater responsibility for contracts and delivery outcomes. It has strengthened my leadership as well as my technical expertise.

8. Are there any professional learning opportunities you’re particularly pursuing at the moment?

I’m keen to expand my knowledge in sustainable infrastructure and climate-resilient design. As environmental considerations become increasingly crucial in infrastructure, I want to learn how to integrate greener solutions into road and highway projects.

9. Can you share who inspires or motivates you the most within AIS?

I’m inspired by colleagues who combine technical excellence with strong leadership. Observing senior leaders navigate complex negotiations and lead teams motivates me to continue improving, while also mentoring younger engineers in their professional development.

10. What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies or interests?

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling with my family, exploring new destinations, and trying new foods. I’m also a football fan and try to catch matches when I can. Family time and sports help me recharge after a demanding week.

11. What is something about you that most of your colleagues probably don’t know?

Many colleagues may not know that I began my career more than 20 years ago on the East Coast Expressway Phase 1. Starting at the grassroots level of highway hydrology and drainage gave me a strong foundation that has guided me throughout my career.

12. How do you balance your work responsibilities with personal life?

For me, balance comes from careful planning and setting priorities. I aim to complete critical tasks during working hours so that evenings can be spent with family. Of course, project demands can extend beyond office hours, but I remind myself that being well-rested and present with family makes me more effective at work.

13. Have there been any memorable moments during your time at AIS that stand out to you?

One memorable moment was successfully completing a tender submission under a very tight deadline. The teamwork, long hours, and final sense of achievement when we delivered a strong proposal highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines AIS.

14. What advice would you give someone who is considering joining AIS?

I would say AIS is an excellent place to grow your career if you’re passionate about infrastructure. Be open to learning, ready to collaborate, and willing to take on challenges. You’ll find supportive colleagues and opportunities to work on impactful projects.

15. What’s your approach to staying motivated in your role?

I stay motivated by focusing on the bigger picture—the positive impact infrastructure has on communities. Every milestone we achieve brings us closer to providing safer, better connections for people. That sense of purpose keeps me driven even during challenging moments.

16. How do you collaborate with team members from different departments?

Collaboration begins with respect and clear communication. I make an effort to understand each department’s perspective—whether it’s design, site supervision, or commercial—so we can align on shared goals. Regular coordination and openness to feedback are key.

17. What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned while working at AIS?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability. No two projects are alike, and challenges often arise unexpectedly. By staying flexible and solutions-focused, I’ve seen how teams can turn obstacles into opportunities for improvement.

Large infrastructure projects always present challenges. The key to overcoming these is by breaking problems into smaller, manageable steps and encouraging open communication within the team. Staying calm and solutions-oriented has been my key strategy.
Khusairy_Ahmad
Ir. Khusairy Ahmad is a Project Manager and Senior Drainage Engineer at Asia Infrastructure Solutions. Based in Kuala Lumpur, he is a Certified Professional Engineer with vast experience in civil engineering especially in road, highway, drainage, and utilities relocation works. Khusairy has operated within diversified domain projects in road and highway ranging from small to large scale industries.

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