Fintech and Regtech: Financial Technology Innovation Course

Dr. Esther Suria Kala is a highly accomplished ICT consultant and corporate trainer with nearly 30 years of extensive experience in information technology, project management, and organizational development. As the founder of Angel Software Solutions, she has established herself as a versatile and dedicated professional who delivers cutting-edge training solutions across Malaysia and internationally.

Her academic credentials are exceptional, including a PhD in Psychology with a focus on Human Behaviour and Human Resources, an MBA in Finance, and degrees in both Computer Science and Human Resources. Currently pursuing a second PhD in IT Information Security, Dr. Esther demonstrates an unwavering commitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of technological advancement. Her educational foundation is complemented by an impressive array of professional certifications, including Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), CISSP, ITIL, SAP Certified Associate, Certified Cyber Security Professional, Data Scientist, AI Engineering, and ECBA certifications.

Dr. Esther's technical expertise spans an extensive range of domains, from traditional programming languages like Java, C++, and PHP to modern technologies including Python, AI coding, machine learning, RPA, and IR 4.0 microservices. She is proficient in database management systems including Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle, web development frameworks, and enterprise solutions like SAP Crystal Reports and SharePoint Server. Her knowledge extends to cybersecurity, ethical hacking, network administration, and data analytics, making her uniquely qualified to address both technical and strategic business challenges.

As a trainer, Dr. Esther excels in bridging the gap between technical complexity and practical application. She delivers comprehensive training programs for both IT and non-IT professionals, covering everything from software development and cloud computing to soft skills such as digital marketing, business analysis, customer service, and project management. Her ability to communicate effectively in both English and Bahasa Malaysia enables her to connect with diverse audiences across different organizational levels.

Her impressive client portfolio includes leading organizations such as Maybank, Telekom Malaysia, Malaysian Airlines, Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Bank Negara, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and numerous multinational corporations. This extensive experience across banking, telecommunications, government, aviation, and technology sectors demonstrates her adaptability and deep understanding of varied industry requirements. Recognized with the Outstanding Achievement Award in Information Technology from University Malaya in 2013, Dr. Esther continues to empower organizations through innovative training solutions that drive digital transformation and professional excellence.

Tarun Sukhani is a distinguished IT and Finance Executive with over 25 years of comprehensive experience in leading enterprise software solutions, business intelligence, and digital transformation initiatives. As a seasoned professional with a multi-cultural background and international work experience spanning the United States, Malaysia, and beyond, he brings exceptional expertise in designing and delivering highly scalable, concurrent, and performant enterprise systems with budgets reaching $100 million.

With an impressive academic foundation that includes a Doctor of Business Administration (in progress), dual Master's degrees in Information Systems Management and Business Administration from Loyola University Chicago, and multiple Bachelor's degrees from prestigious institutions including the University of Chicago and University of Illinois, Tarun combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. His specialization in Business Intelligence, Data Warehousing, Data Mining, and emerging technologies such as Deep Learning, IoT, and Blockchain positions him at the forefront of technological innovation.

As a polyglot developer with programming experience in over 20 languages and technologies, Tarun demonstrates remarkable versatility across the full software development lifecycle. His technical competencies span from traditional enterprise technologies (.NET, Java, C++) to modern frameworks (Python, Ruby, JavaScript/TypeScript) and cutting-edge platforms including Big Data ecosystems (Hadoop, Spark), Machine Learning frameworks (TensorFlow, DeepLearning4J), and Blockchain technologies (Ethereum, Hyperledger). His expertise extends to cloud architectures, DevOps practices, mobile development, and enterprise application integration.

Currently serving as Project Manager and Scrum Master at TopTal, one of the world's most selective consultancies accepting only 3% of applicants, Tarun provides project oversight and hands-on development for Fortune 500 and FAANG companies. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident through his role as Founder and CTO of Abundent, where he leads digital transformation initiatives and develops innovative solutions in facial recognition, fraud detection, and fintech.

Tarun's extensive training and consulting portfolio includes partnerships with premier training providers across Malaysia, Singapore, Europe, and the United States. He holds numerous industry certifications including Certified Scrum Master, Certified Scrum Professional, ITIL, TOGAF, and specialized certifications in Deep Learning and Information Security. His pedagogical expertise, combined with his technical depth, makes him an exceptional educator capable of translating complex technical concepts into actionable knowledge for diverse audiences across government, academic, and corporate sectors.