Hello everyone, my name is Harold, a Senior Consultant in our Brussels office, and I have been with Roland Berger for just over three years. This year, I had the opportunity to join our Social Fellowship program. Throughout this program, I spent three months on Tioman Island in Malaysia, collaborating with Cintai Tioman, while receiving financial support from Roland Berger. Cintai Tioman, the local branch of the NGO Reef Check Malaysia, is a community-based organization focused on creating a positive impact on both the island’s environment and its local community.

Why was there a need for a project?

Over recent years, Tioman has developed into a popular tourist destination, welcoming more than 250,000 visitors annually across nearly 100 resorts. While this growth has brought economic opportunities, it has also created significant logistical and environmental challenges – particularly related to water management. The island’s existing infrastructure is increasingly under pressure, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of both freshwater supply and wastewater treatment systems.

So, what was the project about?

In line with the challenges, the project I did aimed to improve the water management situation (both freshwater and wastewater) on the island.

There were three main elements to my role:

• Gaining a clear understanding of the current situation by conducting a detailed assessment of water management practices on the island.
• Identifying feasible and high-impact improvement measures to address the key challenges.
• Initiating discussions with local stakeholders to explore potential pilot projects.

This work involved daily interactions with a wide range of local stakeholders, including residents, public representatives, and water operators, with additional support from Roland Berger experts.

How did I land upon this project for my Social Fellowship?

What motivated me most about this project was the opportunity to contribute to tangible and meaningful impact. Working with Cintai Tioman offered a unique chance to do so, through close collaboration with a dedicated and ambitious local organization. I was also fortunate enough to receive ongoing support from Roland Berger Partners, who provided regular strategic input based on their deep expertise in the water sector, helping to strengthen the project’s direction and relevance.

Reflections

The three months I spent on Tioman were among the most enriching experiences I have had. Beyond working in a completely new environment, I was fortunate enough to receive a very warm welcome and to meet inspiring, committed people who are deeply invested in improving their community and protecting their environment. I am very grateful to Roland Berger for making this experience possible and for supporting initiatives that go beyond our day-to-day work. I would also like to warmly thank the entire Cintai Tioman team for their dedication and for the hospitality they showed me throughout my stay.