All you need to do is change your mentality to succeed, says Asyraf Khalid

SHAH ALAM - "Everyone needs to change their mentality to succeed."

These were the words of local entrepreneur Asyraf Khalid, who believes that achieving personal and professional growth begins with adopting the right mindset.

Speaking on Sinar Daily’s Wacana English Edition, he said success is often hindered not by external obstacles but by internal limitations.

He emphasised that background and resources are secondary to the way a person thinks.

"One thing that is lacking, especially in our region, is the right mindset. That’s why I use my podcast as a platform to share real stories," he said.

Asyraf, the son of prominent businessman Datuk Khalid Mohamad Jiwa, commonly known as Datuk K, has dedicated himself to shifting perspectives among Malaysians through his podcast.

"I understand the importance of mindset because I’ve studied it. I’ve attended countless classes, and now, I use my platform to share real stories of individuals who’ve risen from humble beginnings," he said.

In the past year alone, Asyraf has interviewed over 50 inspiring personalities to showcase their journeys.

"When people see me, they think, ‘Oh, he comes from a rich family.’ But I want to show them that success is attainable for anyone, regardless of their background, if they cultivate the right mindset,” he said.

Addressing misconceptions about his privileged upbringing, Asyraf admitted that being labelled 'Datuk K’s son' was initially frustrating.

"At the start of my business, everyone assumed my success was handed to me. But it’s not like my dad gave me RM1 million to start. I had to work hard to prove myself," he said.

Despite his family’s safety net, Asyraf strives for a fulfilling life driven by purpose and impact.

"God is the ultimate safety net for everyone. If you trust in Him, why be scared? Take the leap and work hard," he said.

He also believes in a merit-based system, both in his personal and professional life.

"It’s not about lineage, it’s about merit. I always choose people based on their ability to deliver results. Transparency and fairness are crucial to developing talent and driving success,” he said.

Asyraf also spoke about what he described as a 'virus mindset' that holds many people back.

"There’s this belief that people from wealthy backgrounds are successful because of their privilege. But actually, it’s their mindset that gives them an edge,” he said.

He pointed out that access to education and information today levels the playing field for most Malaysians.

"With the internet, books and other resources, almost everyone has the tools to learn and grow. It’s about whether you want to do it or not,” he said.

However, he acknowledged that some communities, such as the Orang Asli, still face significant challenges due to limited access.

Asyraf also touched on perceptions of nepotism in politics, citing the example of former US President Donald Trump.

“In the US, Trump surrounded himself with family, and Americans accepted it because they believed he was protecting their interests. But here, when Nurul Izzah, the daughter of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is given a role, people questioned it,” he said.