From Code to Cloud: Angel’s Journey of Curiosity, Courage, and Community

yap yi rou angel

 Yap Yi Rou, fondly known as Angel, graduated with a Bachelor's in Computer Science (Hons) from the August 2021 intake. She now thrives as a Solution Architect at Huawei Cloud through Sparkoo Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., under Persolkelly Workforce Solutions Malaysia. Her journey reflects innovation, resilience, and ambition.

Angel’s journey into Computer Science began with curiosity and a desire for challenge. “I wanted a field that would not only expand my technical knowledge but also push me to think critically and creatively,” she shares. That decision laid the foundation for a career that now bridges cutting-edge cloud solutions and global innovation.

Her academic experience at 㽶Ƶprovided a strong foundation in computing, from hardware and operating systems to artificial intelligence and programming. This broad exposure proved invaluable as she transitioned into the fast-paced world of cloud computing. “It wasn’t a path I initially planned for,” Angel admits, “but I embraced the challenge and grew to love it.” Today, she contributes to global cloud projects, applying her knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Beyond the classroom, Angel’s time at Sunway was marked by transformative leadership experiences. As a student leader for the ICT Pilot Project for Rural Areas (Category I and II) in Sarawak, Malaysia, funded by the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Japan Grant and supported by the Research Centre for Human-Machine Collaboration (HUMAC), she led a two-year research initiative. Collaborating with international experts, she honed her leadership, communication, and confidence. “It pushed me beyond my comfort zone,” she reflects.

Her passion extended beyond tech and leadership - music played a vital role in her university life. As Vice President of the revived Sunway Music Society, Angel helped rebuild the club from the ground up. She organised workshops, busking sessions, and themed concerts like Musica and Sunway Za Rocku. “It gave me a lasting sense of belonging,” she says.

Angel was awarded both the Jeffrey Cheah Entrance Scholarship and the ACE Scholarship. These recognitions not only eased her financial burden but also empowered her to fully embrace her academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Her philosophy is rooted in creating technology that serves people. Through her programme, she developed teamwork, decision-making, and problem-solving skills that she now applies in her career and daily life. “These lessons continue to guide me,” she says.

Outside of work, Angel finds joy in playing the piano - a lifelong passion. She also cherishes simple moments with friends, especially the late-night mamak sessions after music society events. “Laughter, reflection, and friendship - those memories stay with me.”

To young people, Angel emphasises the importance of adaptability and resilience. Her advice to future Sunwayians?
“Stay grounded, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to fail.”

Her favourite quote?
“You don't follow your passion, your passion follows you.” – Terri Trespicio

Angel’s story is a reminder that passion, when paired with perseverance, can lead to extraordinary paths, even the ones we didn’t plan for. 

Associate Professor Ts. Dr Lee Yun Li
School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence
Email: @email