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Name: Mohammad Zainal Abidin Bin Aziyuddin
Country: Malaysia

About Mohammad Zainal Abidin Bin Aziyuddin


With over 20 years of experience managing QHSE management systems, primarily in the Oil and Gas sector, I have accumulated a wealth of expertise. My extensive experience includes two years managing the QHSE Department in Saudi Arabia.
My journey began with a Diploma in Safety & Emergency Engineering from UPM in 2004, where I embarked on my first career, contributing to the largest Power Plant project. Later than, I earned a Master’s Degree in OSH Risk Management from OUM in 2022 and became certified as a Trainer, competent Safety & Health Officer, and Lead Auditor for OHSMS and QMS.


List the Safety and Health achievements/contributions you have achieved in 2023.


In the year 2023, under my leadership, a series of achievements were attained through mentoring, reinforcing, and coaching team members within the organisation to excel in HSE management systems and foster a generative HSE culture. Hence, I managed to attain the esteemed Gold Class 1 Award from MSOSH, symbolising company’s dedication and commitment to the highest OHS standards.
Furthermore, to achieve recognition by world-class standards, particularly in the Oil and Gas industry, I led the team in obtaining the prestigious API Q2 certification from the American Petroleum Institute. This certification holds significant meaning for me and represents a major milestone in my career, alongside the numerous leaderships awards I have received, notably from Petronas Carigali in 2019 and Samsung Engineering in 2015.
Besides that, in alignment with my achievements in developing digital platforms for HSE management systems, including online inspection and permit-to-work systems, I have been tasked with leveraging my expertise to enhance HSE operational efficiency for the esteemed Oil and Gas company in Saudi Arabia. This contribution not only underscores my commitment but also serves as a testament to the capability of Malaysians to meet international standards and contribute to the advancements in the field, elevating standards in Saudi Arabia.


Outline the Workplace Safety and Health initiatives that have been implemented by you in your workplace in 2023.


In the past year, I played a pivotal role in developing multiple digital platforms such as SharePoint & Powerapps aimed at enhancing operational efficiency in HSE for better improvement. These platforms encompass online HSE inspection, permit-to-work systems, training competency systems, internal audit management systems, hazard reporting, and asset maintenance systems.
Moreover, I rolled out DROPS and Hands and Finger Injury campaign to foster a culture of prevention and encourage employees to understand the risks as well.
Initiatives by improving the communication between top management and employees are regular HSE management walkabouts, monthly HSE awareness, and Hearts & Minds session. These platforms facilitated open dialogue, empowering employees to actively participate in shaping the generative culture.
Furthermore, my initiatives extended beyond physical safety to encompass holistic well-being such as Footsteps Challenge and quarterly health screenings addressed various facets of employee health, while the introduction of a Gamifying Wellness program prioritised mental well-being.
In tandem with these initiatives, rigorous HSE audits, inspections, and Contractor Audit Surveillance ensured adherence to stringent HSE standards at all levels of operation.
Lastly, to celebrate excellence in HSE practices, I instituted the HSE Best Practitioner Award, recognising individuals who exhibited exemplary dedication to maintaining a safe work environment.


Describe and support in detail on how your influencing capability has assisted in the successful implementation of these initiatives.


Engaging in one-on-one discussions with stakeholders, top management, department heads, and employees allowed me to understand their perspectives, concerns, and priorities, ensuring that the initiatives were tailored to meet their needs.
I actively sought collaboration from relevant industry experts, and universities, leveraging their knowledge and experience to bolster awareness of HSE practices within the organisation.
Presenting compelling data and case studies helped garner support and commitment, especially from top management and department heads. By aligning the initiatives with operational efficiency, cost reduction, and employee well-being, I ensured their buy-in and enthusiasm.
Empowering employees at all levels to take ownership of the initiatives was pivotal. I encouraged collaboration and teamwork, fostering a culture of collective responsibility for safety and health. I always empower my teammates to create and execute their ideas fosters ownership and commitment to their work. Then, I provide them coaching and guidance if there is mistake occurs and this will help them growth and learn.
Additionally, I provide series of one-on-one coaching sessions in ensuring employees could fully utilise digital tools. Utilising a variety of communication channels, including LinkedIn, MS Teams, Intranet, display posters, emails, and meetings, facilitated clear and concise communication throughout the implementation process.


Describe and provide support on how your initiative impacted the Safety and Health management and performance of your workplace/community/industry that was above and beyond.


Upon implementing my initiatives during discussion with top management, the company opted to replace standard office chairs with ergonomic ones, effectively addressing concerns regarding neck and back pain.
Years ago, incidents of hand and finger injuries occurred during power tong handling, including dropped objects during rig-up activities on the rig floor. Through various HSE awareness campaigns, including hearts and minds sessions, employees consistently review risk assessments to identify all steps and non-routine activities, along with necessary measures.
Regular inspections, particularly Pre-task Drops Inspections, have successfully mitigated dropped object and hand/finger injury incidents, resulting in zero recorded incidents.
The empowerment impact showed that hazards reporting has increased by 40% and a 100% completion rate for corrective actions. Also, team members have demonstrated increased independence with minimal direct supervision and enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Employees actively utilise SharePoint and PowerApps, recognising these technological tools’ significant contribution to improving HSE operations’ efficiency.
The attractive design of posters and bulletins has garnered praise from both employees and the LinkedIn community, lauding their commendable quality and improved comprehension.
Lastly, there are several organisations that I audited during MSOSH Award programme improved in terms of safe work practices culture when providing insightful recommendations.


In your opinion, what are the attributes of a safety influencer? Do share with us on how you have demonstrated these attributes in your daily work that will earn you the recognition of a WSHAsia Safety Influencer Award Winner in your workplace/community/industry.


As a proactive safety leader, I’ve not only identified and addressed safety gaps within organisations but also spearheaded transformative changes that have significantly enhanced safety outcomes. Through championing targeted safety campaigns, innovative training programmes, and technological advancements, I’ve empowered employees to make safety a priority in their daily activities.
Furthermore, my collaborative approach has allowed me to harness the collective expertise of industry partners, universities, and stakeholders, fostering innovation and driving the adoption of best practices. Together, we’ve implemented cutting-edge solutions and shared valuable insights, raising safety standards across various sectors.
In addition, I actively use this platform to amplify HSE message, sharing safe best practices and fostering meaningful dialogue, to inspire others to join a mission of cultivating safer workplaces and communities.
Moreover, I’ve actively engaged with the Malaysian Society of Occupational Safety & Health, collaborating closely to share insights and advance safety standards within the industry.
As a safety influencer, I believe in the power of collaboration and innovation to drive positive change. As Helen Keller once said, ‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much’. Let’s unite our efforts and inspire a culture of safety excellence that transcends boundaries and transforms lives.




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