Discover Norlaily Jazam’s journey through the MBA and Ph.D. pathways at the Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). From shaping her leadership style to informing policy through career-changing insights, she shares her learning experience and offers advice for women aspiring to leadership roles in the finance space.
Norlaily Jazam is an MBA alumna at the Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). She is currently studying for a Ph.D. at the university located in the picturesque forest town of Sintok, Malaysia.
In an industry typically populated by men, Norlaily has broken down barriers. In 2023, she became VP, Group Internal Audit at Boustead Holdings, one of Malaysia’s most prestigious corporations. With over 80 subsidiaries and associate companies, Boustead has a big influence on the Malaysian economy.
We find out how her time at UUM has stoked an intellectual curiosity and a passion for learning and leading.
After holding leadership roles for more than 10 years, Norlaily decided it was the right time to grow beyond her comfort zone. With its reputation for an MBA that combines academic rigor with real-world focus, UUM seemed an obvious choice.
“I chose to pursue my MBA at UUM… because I’ve always believed that learning is a lifelong journey,” she says. (0:31)
One of Malaysia’s top-ranked universities, UUM is set within a 1,061‑hectare forest campus in Sintok. Its serene, idyllic, and eco-friendly environment makes it the ideal backdrop to an intense learning experience.
Norlaily further explains why she felt motivated to pursue an MBA at UUM at that point in her career. “I was ready to move beyond a functional leadership role into a more strategic role,” explains Norlaily. “One that positions internal audit not just as a cultural mechanism, but as a driver of insight and value.” (1:36)
The UUM MBA gives students the space to reflect, engage with diverse perspectives, and develop greater self-awareness. It also helps recognize the importance of being a mentor. Norlaily discovered that leadership is not just about enforcing rules. It’s about learning to evolve.
“To me, evolving means adapting to change,” she expands. (2:20) It’s this ability to stay agile and navigate a rapidly changing business environment that makes for a valuable leader.
A firm believer in life-long learning, Noraily was inspired by the founder of Western philosophy. Socrates famously wrote, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” It’s an ethos that drives Norlaily’s passion for learning and evolving.
“The further I progressed in my career, the more I realized that there are always gaps in our knowledge,” says Norlaily. (4:00)
The passion for growth and change motivated Norlaily to pursue a Ph.D. in Accounting at UUM. She identified clear research gaps in her field and found that much of the existing literature was focused on effectiveness. However, less attention had been given to internal audit maturity as a structured and progressive concept. This was particularly true in Malaysia. This is where she thought her skills and experience could make a meaningful contribution.
As she explains, “The Ph.D. gave me a platform to advance this body of knowledge while at the same time offering insights that could support policy makers.” (5:04)
Norlaily’s leadership pathway demonstrates the value of an MBA and a Ph.D. Not only for personal growth, but to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Using research, she informs policy and makes a genuine impact on a wider scale.
Norlaily’s UUM education has been pivotal in shaping her corporate leadership style.
“At the MBA level, I learned to see beyond processes and develop a strategic mindset,” she says. “[I now see] internal auditing not just as a compliance function, but as a partner that adds value to the organization.” (6:17)
Her experience of the UUM MBA and Ph.D. also gave her the ability to have a profound influence on her team at Boustead.
“Using rigorous research methods, I learned to approach issues with critical thinking, providing evidence-based insights that influence decision-making at senior levels… Now I see my role not just in managing audits, but in mentoring my team and ensuring our function stays relevant.” Norlaily says. (6:39)
In the afterglow of her MBA and Ph.D., Norlaily’s newfound leadership style has helped foster a culture of continuous improvement at Boustead.
Norlaily’s experience at UUM has given her invaluable insights into her profession. And, fittingly, she has a few words of wisdom for budding MBA or Ph.D. candidates. Particularly, women looking to break into senior audit or governance roles.
“First, believe in yourself and the value you bring,” she says. (8:58) This conviction in her own qualities has been a driving force in her successful career. She now serves as the Vice President of Group Internal Audit in an industry that is traditionally male-dominated.
She expands, “Being in this position taught me that competence and confidence go hand in hand. Technical excellence builds credibility, and confidence ensures your voice is heard.” (9:13)
Norlaily believes that, to break gender barriers, women must continuously learn, think critically, and show how internal auditing contributes to organizational success. She’s also keen to highlight the importance of knowledge sharing.
“Surround yourself with mentors and networks and don’t forget to mentor others,” she says. (9:42)
Collaborative thinking has been a key component of Norlaily’s UUM education. She has discovered that the cycle of growth, support, guidance, and inspiration is the cornerstone of a successful organization.
Norlaily’s journey at Malaysia’s top-ranked MBA UUM highlights the importance of both academic grounding and continuous learning for executive leadership.
“True growth comes from a willingness to keep learning,” says Norlaily. (4:06) It’s this mindset that has enabled her to embrace new ideas and navigate challenges in her industry. And she’s keen to highlight the influence of her professors at UUM.
“They have shaped my academic journey,” she says. “By challenging my thinking, guiding my research, and inspiring me to strive for further academic and professional excellence.” (5:47) Ranked #23 in Asia in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, this academic excellence comes as no surprise.
Norlaily’s story is a testament to what is possible with hard work and the right mindset. She is proof that women can rise to the top and be an inspiration. And she will no doubt continue to inspire women leaders in Malaysia and beyond.
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