Yayasan Khazanah (YK) proudly reveals Max Han Kai Ding as the latest recipient of the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship for Malaysia. This scholarship, a collaboration between the Rhodes Trust and Yayasan Khazanah, will see Max joining other scholars at the University of Oxford in October 2024 to pursue postgraduate studies.
Max Han Kai Ding, a Kuala Lumpur native currently pursuing a BA (Hons) in Environmental Studies at Yale-NUS College, has been named the Rhodes Scholar Elect for Malaysia in 2024.
Max’s commitment to environmental action began in his teenage years, evolving into the co-founding of Youths United for Earth (YUFE), a grassroots non-profit mobilizing Malaysian youth for environmental causes.
YUFE has become a leading force in Malaysia, hosting the country’s largest annual environmental mentorship program and collaborating with influential stakeholders.
Max has also played a pivotal role in drafting Southeast Asia’s first Environmental Human Rights Framework with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). His dedication to amplifying voices from the Global South and his vision for a just and liveable world align with the Rhodes Scholarship’s ethos.
In his pursuit of postgraduate studies at Oxford, Max aims to earn two master’s degrees: a Master’s of Science in Environmental Change and Management, and a Master of Public Policy. With a passion for integrating environmental justice into climate policies, Max envisions contributing to movement-building and nation-building upon returning to Malaysia.
National Secretary for Malaysia at Rhodes Trust, Tan Sri Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, expressed confidence in Max, describing him as a catalyst for positive change and a young leader capable of inspiring solutions to post-pandemic challenges.
Meanwhile Chief Programme Officer at Yayasan Hasanah, Intan Zalila Mohd Yusof, highlighted Max’s determination and passion to address societal challenges in Malaysia.
“The Rhodes Scholarships are for young leaders of outstanding intellect and character who are motivated to engage with global challenges and are committed to the service of others. They show promise of becoming value-driven, principled leaders for the world’s future, wherever their careers might take them, and in any field. Max Han emerged as our 2024 Rhodes Trust Elect from Malaysia for his strong reflection of determination and passion to alleviate societal challenges in the country.” stated Intan Zalila.
This marks the 10th Rhodes Scholarship awarded to Malaysians since the program’s inception in 2016, reflecting Yayasan Khazanah’s commitment to nurturing public-spirited leaders for the nation’s future.
