“Keep your dreams alive.
Understand to achieve anything
requires faith and belief in
yourself, vision, hard work,
determination, and dedication.
Remember all things are
possible for those who believe.”
― Gail Devers
Dedication
This biography is lovingly dedicated to the pillars of my life, those whose unwavering support,
quiet sacrifices, and steadfast belief shaped the man I have become.
To my beloved parents and daughter, whose love and guidance are the foundation of every step I take. Your sacrifices gave me opportunities beyond what our humble beginnings in Sabah could ever promise. In moments of struggle and uncertainty, it was your encouragement that gave me strength. You taught me the values of integrity, hard work, and faith, values that have guided me from the classroom to the construction site, from business meetings to oil refineries. I carry your teachings with me in every decision I make, every challenge I face, and every success I achieve.
To my family, my silent strength, my constant companions, thank you for walking this journey with me. Your faith in my dreams, your patience during my countless long hours, and your sacrifices when I had nothing but vision to offer, are the true reasons behind every milestone I’ve reached. You stood by me when times were uncertain, when the road ahead was unclear, and when I needed both encouragement and reassurance the most. This journey is not mine alone; it is ours.
To my industry, the oil and gas sector of Sabah, that has given me not just a livelihood, but a purpose. This field has challenged me, tested my resilience, and inspired my ambition. It has allowed me to contribute to Sabah’s economic future and to create opportunities for my fellow Sabahans. I dedicate this story to every entrepreneur, engineer, and worker in our industry who dreams of building something greater than themselves. May our efforts continue to fuel not only our engines but the aspirations of future generations.
To Sabah, my homeland, whose vast potential and rich natural resources inspired my greatest dreams. I dedicate this to the spirit of our people, resilient, hardworking, and full of promise. I hope my journey stands as a testament to what a Sabahan can achieve with determination and perseverance.
And lastly, to every young dreamer standing where I once stood, wondering if your vision can become reality, this story is for you. Let it remind you that your beginnings do not limit your future. That faith, courage, and hard work can build something from nothing. And that no challenge is too great if you believe in your purpose and refuse to give up.
Dr. Mohd Sham
Phase 1: The Birth of a Leader
“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”― Marie Curie
Dr. Mohd Sham was born on 28 February 1972 in the picturesque state of Sabah, Malaysia, and grew up in a family whose unwavering support played a central role in shaping his dreams and ambitions. Raised in a household that valued education, resilience, and hard work, he was nurtured with the values of perseverance and integrity from an early age. His parents, understanding the challenges and opportunities of the changing times, encouraged him to pursue education and inspired him to build a meaningful life not only for himself but also for his community. Their emotional and financial support would later become the foundation upon which he built his entire career.
Growing up in Sabah, a region rich with natural resources yet in constant need of development, Dr. Mohd Sham was naturally drawn to fields that could contribute to the infrastructure and economic growth of his homeland. His academic journey began in the local schools of Sabah, where he displayed a keen interest in science, mathematics, and technical studies. A diligent and curious student, he excelled in his studies, earning the respect of both teachers and peers. His passion for engineering became evident early on, as he sought to understand how things worked, how structures were built, and how solutions could be engineered to solve real-world problems.
After completing his schooling, Dr. Mohd Sham took his first step into the world of engineering by enrolling in a Civil Engineering program. This marked the beginning of his journey into the technical world of construction and infrastructure. Through his studies, he gained critical knowledge in structural design, construction methods, and project management. The rigorous academic training and practical exposure prepared him well to face the challenges of the industry.
However, his ambitions did not end with his first degree. Always seeking to expand his knowledge and diversify his skills, he later pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Balancing academic demands with his growing business interests, he demonstrated remarkable dedication and time management. His decision to study mechanical engineering stemmed from his desire to broaden his technical expertise and equip himself for the evolving industrial opportunities in Sabah and beyond. This additional qualification enabled him to understand the mechanical operations behind large industrial projects, including oil and gas, which would later become a major part of his career.
It was during his mechanical engineering studies that Dr. Mohd Sham was introduced to the oil and gas sector, a field that piqued his interest due to its significance to Sabah’s economy and its immense growth potential. This interest soon transformed into active participation when a close friend invited him to join a venture in the oil and gas business. Never one to shy away from new opportunities, he joined his friend upon completing his degree, marking his first steps into the industry.
But even before stepping fully into oil and gas, Dr. Mohd Sham had already demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit. About five years prior, he founded his own construction business, with his civil engineering background serving as the perfect foundation for this venture. Under his leadership, the company successfully undertook various infrastructure projects, contributing to local development and building his reputation as a competent and trustworthy entrepreneur. His construction business gave him valuable practical experience in project execution, team management, and client relations, preparing him for larger industrial challenges.
Throughout this early phase of his life, his family remained his pillar of strength. Whether he was pursuing new qualifications or starting a new business venture, they supported him emotionally during difficult times and financially when resources were limited. Their belief in his vision never wavered, giving him the confidence and motivation to chase his ambitions despite the hurdles along the way.
Dr. Mohd Sham’s early qualifications in civil and mechanical engineering, combined with his entrepreneurial ventures, laid a robust foundation for a distinguished career. These years of learning and exploration shaped not only his technical competencies but also his leadership qualities, resilience, and vision for contributing to Sabah’s industrial growth. Little did he know that these formative experiences would prepare him to one day lead some of the most significant oil and gas infrastructure developments in the region—turning ideas from scratch into reality.
Phase 2: The First Steps into Industry
“Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” ― Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart
After completing his academic pursuits, Dr. Mohd Sham did not wait for opportunities to come knocking, he sought them out with determination and purpose. Equipped with his civil engineering qualifications, and later a degree in mechanical engineering, he embarked on his professional journey by establishing himself in the construction industry. The foundation of his career was not merely built on technical knowledge but on courage, ambition, and a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to his home state of Sabah.
In the initial years of his career, Dr. Mohd Sham ventured into the world of construction, setting up his own company. For five years, he successfully ran a business that specialized in infrastructure development and civil engineering projects. His projects were diverse, ranging from housing developments to public infrastructure works. It was here that he honed his skills in managing teams, overseeing operations, and executing complex projects within tight deadlines and stringent budgets. He cultivated a reputation for delivering quality work and meeting his commitments, earning the trust of clients and partners alike.
As his vision for Sabah’s industrial progress became clearer, Dr. Mohd Sham transitioned from being an entrepreneur with a dream to an industry leader taking concrete action. His career moved from small and medium-scale projects to large, complex ventures that would impact the state’s economy and provide employment and industrial advancement for the region.
One of his most notable career milestones was his appointment as Director of Jalur Setia Sdn Bhd, a company that initially functioned as a property developer. Under Dr. Mohd Sham’s leadership, the company boldly shifted its focus to the oil and gas sector, with a specific ambition to develop an oil storage terminal and refinery at the Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (SOGIP). This was a challenging and visionary step, as the company had no prior experience in such a highly specialized field. However, Dr. Mohd Sham’s leadership and technical expertise gave the company the direction it needed to embark on this transformative journey.
In his role, Dr. Mohd Sham successfully secured the crucial Soil Investigation (SI) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approvals, essential prerequisites for any heavy industrial development. These achievements were no small feat, as they required not only technical precision but also extensive engagement with government bodies, consultants, and environmental agencies. Through his perseverance, Jalur Setia Sdn Bhd progressed significantly under his guidance, laying down the first stones for what would be Sabah’s future oil and gas infrastructure.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. Despite successfully navigating the preliminary stages of the project, circumstances beyond his control caused the company to change its business direction. Instead of allowing this setback to define the end of his ambitions, Dr. Mohd Sham chose to see it as a temporary detour. His resilience became evident as he refused to abandon the vision he had fought so hard to build. Believing deeply in the potential of Sabah’s oil and gas sector, he decided to form his own company to continue pursuing the project he had already invested so much in.
Dr. Mohd Sham was not one to remain within his comfort zone. His encounter with a friend who was involved in the oil and gas business opened a new chapter in his career. The oil and gas sector fascinated him, not just because of its economic potential, but because of its strategic importance to Sabah’s industrial growth. Seeing an opportunity to contribute to this vital industry, Dr. Mohd Sham along with his friend stepped into this new arena.
Balancing his studies in mechanical engineering at the time, he managed to complete his degree while learning the ropes of the oil and gas industry. This period of his life was marked by tireless workdays, where his time was divided between attending classes, running his construction company, and gaining practical exposure in oil and gas operations. These early experiences gave him valuable insight into the workings of the industry, from upstream and downstream operations to regulatory frameworks and market dynamics.
The turning point came when Dr. Mohd Sham decided to chart his own path in the oil and gas industry. He recognized that Sabah had tremendous untapped potential in this field but lacked local entrepreneurs who could drive significant projects from within the state. Instead of following the conventional route of working under established corporations, he dared to propose his own oil and gas project to the Sabah government. This marked the beginning of a long, challenging, and ultimately transformative journey.
Convincing the state government to support his vision was no easy task. Dr. Mohd Sham spent countless hours preparing detailed proposals, conducting market research, and meeting with stakeholders. He had to prove not only the technical and economic viability of his proposed oil and gas terminal but also demonstrate his personal capability to lead such a monumental project. In every presentation, he emphasized his deep roots in Sabah and his commitment to ensuring that the project would benefit the local economy, create jobs, and strengthen the region’s industrial base.
Alongside these efforts, Dr. Mohd Sham continuously worked to build his personal qualifications and credentials in the oil and gas industry. He pursued and completed several professional certifications, including the Executive Master in Business Management majoring in Construction Management, a Core Certificate in Oil and Gas Industry Operations and Markets, and a Certificate in Economics and International Business from the International Business Management Institute in Germany. These qualifications enriched his understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the industry and positioned him as a credible figure among industry leaders and government officials.
Phase 3: Actions Driving the Industrial Growth
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
Petroventure Energy Sdn Bhd was born on 13 September 2019. As the founder and driving force behind the company, Dr. Mohd Sham set a new course for the oil storage and refinery terminal project. With Petroventure Energy, he reignited his mission, gathering a new team of skilled professionals who shared his vision. This time, he took full ownership of the project, guiding every aspect from planning to execution.
Under his leadership, Petroventure Energy Sdn Bhd undertook extensive groundwork to make the Petroleum Oil Storage and Refinery Plant in SOGIP a reality. He personally led the discussions with key government bodies, including the Chief Minister of Sabah, the Sabah Ministry of Industrial Development, Sabah Oil and Gas Development Corporation (SOGDC), and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). These discussions required not just technical know-how but also diplomatic skill and strategic foresight.
Dr. Mohd Sham successfully implemented several critical phases of the project. These included commissioning certified consultants to complete the Environmental Impact Report, engaging surveyors to study the 400-acre land at SOGIP, and conducting a full Business Feasibility Study and Feed Design in collaboration with a Chinese government-accredited institute. These steps laid a solid technical and regulatory foundation for the project’s success.
He further secured a Petroleum Import/Export License and a Manufacturing License from MIDA, and most importantly, finalized a 260-acre land sublease agreement with SOGDC to house the refinery and storage facility. This milestone was crucial, as it gave Petroventure Energy the official rights and space to develop the project.
As a leader, Dr. Mohd Sham was not content to stop at planning. He moved swiftly into action, overseeing the site preparation, which involved site clearing, hill cutting, and ensuring compliance with the environmental and structural standards set by the Sipitang District Council. His efforts culminated in the company receiving approval for the Interim Development Plan and the official permission to hold a Groundbreaking Ceremony for the refinery project. The ceremony, a symbolic moment in Sabah’s industrial development, was officiated by the Chief Minister of Sabah, YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Bin Haji Noor, marking the state government’s recognition and support for the project.
Dr. Mohd Sham’s leadership was marked by his ability to build strong partnerships across local and international fronts. His visit to China, where he signed an MoU to learn from and collaborate with Chinese refinery experts, was just one example of his commitment to bringing global expertise to Sabah. He ensured that Petroventure Energy was aligned with international best practices while also fulfilling local economic aspirations.
His leadership style combined hands-on involvement with strategic delegation, allowing him to empower his team while personally navigating the project’s most critical negotiations and regulatory processes. With over 20 years of experience in the construction, infrastructure, and oil and gas sectors, Dr. Mohd Sham became known not only for his technical knowledge but for his resilience and ability to turn visionary plans into tangible achievements.
Throughout this stage of his career, Dr. Mohd Sham demonstrated what it meant to lead by example. Whether managing teams, negotiating with government agencies, or building partnerships abroad, he maintained his focus on the bigger picture: developing Sabah’s oil and gas infrastructure to create jobs, boost economic growth, and elevate the region’s industrial profile. His contributions to the industry were no longer just business achievements, they were stepping stones in Sabah’s economic transformation.