Starpicks- Higher Education Supplement

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 HIGHER EDUCATION

A platform to appreciate culture

HERITAGE – both tangible and STePs opened with a performance of silat, a form of Malay martial art. The Uzbek Warrior Dance, which was created during World War 2.
intangible, natural or cultural,
characterises identity. Recognised MSU Clubs and Associations perfor- For Malaysian Studies 2, Syahira MSU include the Performing Arts MSU prioritises student develop-
for its value across history, society mances. Mohd Abdul Nasir came out tops and Cultural Club, Chinese Cultural ment to enhance graduate employ-
and anthropology, it is considered with Tok Gajah. In second place Society, Indian Cultural Association, ability. With 98.7% of its graduates
an enabler of sustainable develop- A fusion of Malaysian and Uzbek was Ranesh Kumar Muniandy with MSU De’ Voice Club, MSU Music successfully securing employment
ment, appearing most prominently dances, performed in each other’s Hj Abdul Rahman Limbong while Club, Korean Cultural Association within six months of graduation,
in Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities traditional costumes by the Ng Xin Yi with Tg Kudin placed and Kelab Teater Ceritera. MSU is ranked by the Ministry of
and Communities, and more Uzbekistan dance troupe, made the third. Higher Education (MOHE) as
implicitly, in SDGs 4 (Education), 8 finale. Blending technical vocational Malaysia’s No.1 for graduate
(Work and Economic Growth), and The afternoon show concluded education and training (TVET) with employability.
12 (Consumption and Production). Prizes were given away for the with a flash mob fusion of traditional academic curricula, ■ For further information, contact
Malay Warriors Poster competi- Malaysian and Uzbek dances. MSU enhances competencies with the Engagement and Enrolment
Management and Science tions. The winner for Malaysian industry internship, community Department at 03-5521 6868.
University (MSU) takes up the Studies 1 was Wan Amirul Adam MSU clubs and associations are and creative entrepreneurship, Additional information can also
challenge of conserving the Wan Helmi with Rentap. In second meant to provide a platform for as well as global exposure – be obtained by logging on to
non-renewable resource for place was Lakshae Jaya Sangkar instilling students with an interest empowering MSU graduates with www.msu.edu.my
current and future generations. with Datuk Maharajalela and in both academia and professional the well-roundedness desired and
coming in third was Navean Nair fields. sought after by employers.
In conjunction with the MSU Kumaran with Tok Janggut.
International Cultural Festival The cultural and arts clubs at
2022, the university through its
School of Hospitality and Creative
Arts (SHCA) and Centre for
Fundamental Studies (CFS),
presented a Showcase of Talents
and Performing Arts (STePs).

Held at U-Plaza in front of an
audience of over 500, STePs opened
with a performance of the Malay
martial art, silat. Next was an
Uzbek Warrior Dance, which was
created during World War 2, and
duets retelling Uzbek folklore.

A gendang performance by
SHCA students ensued followed by

2 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022

A global medical education Keeping up
your energy
AS recent high school graduates NUMed is an international branch campus of Newcastle University, UK, compassionate academic commu- while studying
consider the options available for that provides medical and biomedical sciences degree programmes nity in which students may learn
their subsequent educational and alongside foundation and postgraduate opportunities on Malaysian soil. from experts and receive the ARE you too tired to take in an
professional pathways, many may credentials needed to improve afternoon lecture? Collapsing into
be overwhelmed by the multitude globally acclaimed medical educa- pared for the global health their learning experience and bed, totally flaked out by the end of
of opportunities available to them. tion programmes that are respon- economy of the 21st century. academic success. every day? If you’re doing too
sive to the evolving needs of the much, then you have to examine
Choosing an institution with a Malaysian healthcare sector, and to Additionally, NUMed’s curricu- Students can participate in a your class schedule again. But if
clear path to your desired career retain national and international lum is designed to complement supportive, encouraging and you’re tired without good reason,
will help you avoid decision students of the highest academic independent self-study students inspiring environment. and every day is a struggle, then
fatigue. If you’re looking for a uni- excellence. and develop habits that are check out these tips and put some
versity to help you get a solid start beneficial in lifelong learning. Developing positive relationships energy back into your day.
in the medical field, Newcastle In accordance with this, the with the community, such as with Work your body
University Medicine Malaysia university cultivates an academic The university also provides healthcare professionals and
(NUMed) may be your best choice, culture and environment that students with ample research other employers, ensures that Being physically fit means that
and here’s why: will support the recruitment and opportunities in a variety of areas students have the knowledge, your body can stream oxygen and
The best of both worlds retention of high-calibre faculty throughout their studies. understanding, skills, competen- nutrients to your brain – the less fit
and staff, as well as empowering A multi-focus perspective to cies, and professional attitudes you are, the less efficient your
With a strong presence in them in the pursuit of scholarship, student life necessary for future professional body-brain system will be. Make
Malaysia for over a decade, the high-quality teaching, and the pro- practice. space every day for a brisk 15
international branch campus duction of excellent graduates pre- On top of excellent facilities and minute walk (make sure it’s brisk
draws on the legacy of Newcastle a vibrant student life, NUMed has a Besides, NUMed students can and not loitering) or do something
University in the UK, which was benefit from the plethora of clubs fun at least three times a week like
established in 1834 as a medical and organisations that are provid- tennis or paintball.
school, and has always been at the ed under the Student Association, Understanding your brain on
forefront of research and teaching, which will undoubtedly allow sugar
with its reputation externally con- them to discover their interest as
firmed to be of the highest interna- well as engaging with a diverse Our brains run on glucose but
tional quality. community regionally and our bodies can’t store it. If you
globally. don’t eat often enough, your glu-
The establishment of NUMed cose or blood sugar levels drop, and
here in Malaysia means that NUMed offers a pre-undergradu- your brain drops out of gear too.
students within the country and ate programme – Foundation in
the region have the advantage of Biological and Biomedical Sciences But if you overeat, the body can’t
getting the best of both worlds – – and two undergraduate pro- cope and the excess sugar is stored
quality UK medical education right grammes: Bachelor of Medicine, as fat – this is not good for you at
at their doorstep at an affordable Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and all. So the trick to keeping your
price. BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences brain fuelled is to make sure that
(BMS). you have a constant flow of blood
What’s more, the programmes of ■ For more details on how to sugar. Do this by eating four or five
study lead to the award of the kick-start your medical journey small meals throughout the day
same degrees as those who go to with NUMed, email admissions@ rather than a few snacks and one
the parent campus in the UK. newcastle.edu.my, call 07-555 3800, big meal.
Globally acclaimed programmes WhatsApp 011-1231 5411 /
012-7849456, or visit the NUMed
NUMed aspires to provide website at www.ncl.ac.uk/numed

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 3

4 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022

Staff at the Warming stripes for Malaysia.
Malaysia
campus with In celebration
their ‘Show of sustainability
Your Stripes’
badges.

Warming stripes on the Palmer Building on the Reading UK campus.

ON June 21, the University of The latest award is the fifth for the Prof Wing Lam, provost and
Reading celebrated “Show Your University of Reading, having also chief executive officer at
Stripes” day to raise awareness of been awarded a Prize in 1998, 2006, the Malaysia campus, said,
global warming. 2009 and 2012. “Sustainability is no longer a
nice-to-have project, it’s now a
Known as the Warming Stripes, Both the UK campus of the univer- permanent shift in how organisa-
the compelling graphic vividly illus- sity and its international branch tions need to operate”.
trates the rise in global temperature campus in Malaysia, located in
from 1850 to 2021, and was created EduCity Iskandar, jointly celebrated As a part of its outreach initiative,
by Professor Ed Hawkins, a climate “Show Your Stripes” day. the Malaysia campus also offers
scientist at the university. workshops on climate change to
At the Malaysia campus, staff local schools.
The Warming Stripes, and the members received their “Show Your
hashtag #ShowYourStripes, have Stripes” badges. More information about the
since been used in various places, university’s work on sustainability
including as the cover for The The campus has, for several years, can be found on the University’s
Climate Book by activist Greta adopted a number of sustainability Partnering for the Planet website at
Thunberg. measures such as reducing plastic, https://www.reading.ac.uk/planet/
recycling and favouring digital over which includes a number of free
The Warming Stripes, including printed course materials. resources.
versions for over 200 individual
countries, can be downloaded at With the university’s commitment The university is encouraging the
https://showyourstripes.info/s/globe to become Net Zero Carbon by 2030, development of research partner-
international business travel has ships with local institutions in
The university’s ongoing work on also been significantly reduced, with Malaysia to address climate-related
climate change was recently hon- virtual meetings becoming the challenges in the region such as
oured with a Queen’s Anniversary default. flooding and deforestation.
Prize in the UK. ■ More information about the
The Malaysia campus has also University’s Malaysia campus can
The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes permanently adopted a flexible, be found at www.reading.edu.my
are granted every two years and work-from-home policy in an effort
considered the highest national hon- to reduce emissions and enhance
our in higher and further education. staff well-being.

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 Higher Education 5

A programme
that opens
many doors

Izura, who aspires to be a TV host or newscaster in the future, finds
the programme useful in preparing her for her future career.

THE importance of English can about the programme at TAR UC
never be underestimated, being was that it entails Business
the language of business and Communication, which hones
communication worldwide. our interpersonal communica-
Knowing English increases one’s tion skills for the corporate
chances of getting a good job in a workplace. On top of that,
multinational company locally English Literature is part of the
or in finding work abroad. syllabus. These two subjects
make a great practical combina-
Combining the versatility of tion in honing my skills for my
English as a vital language with future job and career.”
education, the Bachelor of Arts
(Hons) English with Education She hopes to be a newscaster
conducted by Tunku Abdul or TV host in the future. She
Rahman University College’s added that the programme pre-
(TAR UC) Faculty of Social pares her well, saying, “It teach-
Science and Humanities (FSSH) es me subjects that matter in a
since 2019 aims to fill the need practical manner. For instance,
for graduates who are proficient Phonetics and Phonology helps
in the English language and me speak English more fluently
equip potential teachers with and Curriculum and Syllabus
innovative pedagogical Design helps me better under-
approaches. stand the target audience and
vision of Malaysia’s curriculum
Not only does it offer vast design. This is helpful as my
exposure to knowledge-based second ambition is to become a
learning and hands-on student- school teacher,” she said.
centred teaching methodology,
the programme also prepares This three-year Bachelor
prospective English teachers degree programme incorporates
with the knowledge and skills an internship element in the
essential to provide effective final year – a teaching practicum
English instruction. over a 14-week long semester
that students are required to
In general, it targets to pre- undertake at a school.
pare all-round graduates who
can perform effectively in any Students will undergo an
English language related work- interview process for this, like
place setting, producing highly applying for a job.
employable graduates equipped
with critical thinking skills that Career prospects for graduates
will empower them to under- include English language teach-
stand the ever-changing media ers/lecturers, writers, editors,
as well as forms of communica- content writers/producers for
tion and to function effectively online and print media, copy-
in any professional setting writers, news reporters and
where they need to clearly and social media managers and
persuasively express their ideas more.
in writing and verbal communi-
cation. The October and November
intakes are currently in pro-
Graduates are also expected gress. Prospective students can
to possess entrepreneurial submit their application online
competencies and willingness to at www.tarc.edu.my
develop themselves by engaging ■ For more details about
in lifelong learning as well as Bachelor of Arts (Hons) English
strong professional ethical with Education or other pro-
values at the workplace. grammes offered by FSSH,
intakes or general enquiries
Izura Nurlina is currently about TAR UC, visit www.tarc.
undertaking the Bachelor of Arts edu.my.
(Hons) English with Education.
Attractive scholarships are
She shares, “I found many available based on academic
options from different universi- merit and there is sibling
ties that offered an English discount for qualified students.
major, but what I found unique

6 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022

Future-proof programmes Understanding
how your
NOT all business programmes are equal. merely the traditional business skills or Dr Leong: ‘We brain works
Many are still using the conventional competencies,” Dr Leong added. need to include
approach, focusing mostly on the theoretical the latest YOU are in the middle of your college educa-
aspects of a business. While the theory is Just to illustrate an example of the many business tion, well on the way to becoming a working
crucial to a certain extent, business today is ongoing “technology-infused” curriculum thinking into adult, yet you find yourself on a roller-coast-
fast-paced, increasingly global and constant- initiatives by FBHC, business students at First the curriculum er when it comes to planning, motivation
ly evolving. City UC are now trained concurrently to be a and infuse and even managing your temper.
user of SQL cloud accounting software while technology into
Graduates today need to be prepared for they are still pursuing their academic pro- the programme Guess what? It’s not your fault. It’s the way
an increasingly disruptive employment grammes at FBHC. In an exclusive partner- contents to your brain is working. Or rather, how it’s
market and also an increasingly complicated ship forged between First City UC and SQL, make the not.
business landscape. The programmes they students will be certified as SQL users as programmes
enrol in must be future-proof. Not only that, part of their learning outcomes and this cer- future-proof.’ In the past, we used to think that people
the graduates themselves need to be future- tification is certainly a good micro-credential matured at the age of 18. But thanks to MRIs
proof. for them when they are out there in the Accounting and Finance, Business and other tools, we now know that the
employment market. SQL software is now Administration, Business Management and human brain doesn’t fully develop until
Newly appointed Faculty of Business, used by more than 250,000 companies. Marketing. All programmes are fully accred- we’re about 24 – and sometimes, even later.
Hospitality and Communication (FBHC) dean ited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency
at First City University College (First City UC), FBHC offers business programmes in (MQA) and also relevant professional bodies. If you’re a student, this is important to
Assistant Prof Dr Lewis Leong was quick to acknowledge as the pre-frontal cortex
add, “To make our programmes future-proof, First City UC’s September and October behind your forehead is involved in impulse
we need to include the latest business think- intakes are now in progress. Visit during control, complex planning, attention and
ing into the curriculum. We also need to Open Day on Aug 20 and 21 and join the decision-making.
infuse technology into the programme Student Experience and Engagement ses-
contents and at the same time embrace sions and host of other activities. Meet the Impulse control is important as it means
technology in the delivery of all our pro- academics and student advisors for person- young adults aren’t as good at self-discipline
grammes. This will put our business pro- alised guidance on academic programmes as older adults.
grammes on the cutting edge.” and scholarships/financial assistance.
■ For details, call 03-7735 2088 or WhatsApp In terms of decision-making, this part is
Dr Leong added that while theory will 016-301 8166 or 016-302 8166 or log on to where your organised thinking, risk assess-
always have its place in the curriculum, new www.firstcity.edu.my ment and logical thinking come into play.
business models and different approaches You might have trouble arranging facts,
are developing all the time in today’s busi- taking risk into consideration and making
ness landscape. For instance, we barely decisions based on fact rather than emotion.
heard of ‘social entrepreneurship’ and ‘digital
marketing’ 20 to 30 years ago, but now they In some ways, this is good: young adults
are huge fields with significant influence. can make great entrepreneurs as they take
chances older adults shy away from. But you
New technologies are also transforming might also make some bad decisions.
industries every day. Nobody knows or could
predict what’s next, so graduates need to be Scientists suggest training your brain by
in tune with emerging trends and the tech- staying physically healthy. This means eating
nologies involved. and sleeping properly and staying off drugs.

“We must also look at how to make our You can also challenge yourself in cogni-
graduates future-proof by ensuring they are tive terms with a rich learning environment.
in tune with emerging trends in the current
business landscape. We need to look at how For good mental health, keep in mind that
to equip them with diverse skill sets, and not while you may be legally an adult, you can’t
expect to have a mature brain in a young
body. So, if you make some errors of
judgment that seem silly with hindsight,
forgive yourself.

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 Higher Education 7

A group of Foundation in Arts (FIA) students posing for a photo. The one-year programme
enables students to experience a wide array of elective subjects, ranging from business,
accounting, finance communication and information technology studies.

What’s next after SPM?
A COMMON dilemma among fresh high School of Arts and Design (Sand) in Sunway
school-leavers is choosing the right course to College Ipoh (SCI) to be one step ahead in the
study and the right path in life to walk. industry by offering a well-developed and
comprehensive curriculum through profes-
To students and parents alike, the process sional coaching and guidance by qualified
can be daunting, especially when there are academics.
countless degree programmes and universi- Professional Accounting (ACCA)
ties out there to choose from.
Sunway College Ipoh in partnership with
What’s more, with the Covid-19 pandemic, the Association of Chartered Certified
changes in the economy, daily lifestyles of Accountants (ACCA) has been generating
people and education environment have the highest quality accounting graduates
taken root. through the ACCA Foundation in
Accountancy and ACCA qualifications since
Sunway College Ipoh is ready to adapt to its inception in 2004.
the “new normal” of teaching and learning
in order to deliver the best quality education The ACCA qualification is a globally recog-
to future graduates as well as to pave their nised qualification that will secure students
way to world-renowned universities. with the professional employment opportu-
Foundation in Arts (FIA) nities in accountancy.

This one-year Foundation in Arts pro- This qualification equips students with
gramme will enable students to experience both applied and professional skills that are
an ideal programme that encompasses a crucial in navigating through the corporate
wide array of elective subjects, ranging from life which are highly demanded by the Big
business, accounting, finance communica- Four accounting firms.
tion and information technology studies.
Sunway College Ipoh’s close liaison with
These elective subjects will equip students these firms has opened up countless doors
with the fundamental knowledge and com- for employment among graduates.
petency in their respective fields prior to
embarking on the degree programme of As an ACCA Platinum Approved Learning
their choice later at Sunway University Partner for eight consecutive years, Sunway
or any other universities of their choice. College Ipoh has stayed true to its adage of
Certificate in Business Studies (CBS) “First Class Student Support, World Class
Results”. Throughout the years, the pro-
This programme serves to provide an gramme has remained committed and stead-
opportunity for SPM leavers with two credits fast in maintaining the standards of the
and below to pursue quality tertiary educa- ACCA Global Pass rate and producing
tion. well-rounded graduates that are versatile
and highly competent in their trade.
This programme also provides fundamen- Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Actuarial
tal knowledge and understanding in general Studies
business principles and practices.
Sunway College Ipoh (SCI) is launching a
It also equips students with administrative new three-year twinning programme in col-
and organisational skills that are relevant to laboration with Sunway University, offering
business management contexts as well as a QS 5-STAR rating for programme strength
practical business skills that can be applied. category.

Another new programme that was This new twinning degree programme will
launched early this year is the Certificate in commence its first intake in October 2022
Art and Design (CAD) programme. with an inaugural bursary of up to
RM10,000*.
This programme provides a learning envi-
ronment that prepares students with all the This collaboration will enable students to
basic knowledge, skills and appreciation of ease into the first year of their studies in
art and design they need to progress. Sunway College Ipoh and subsequently
Diploma in Business (and other related continue their second and third year of stud-
programmes) ies in Sunway University.

Offered by the School of Business, there The course also offers each first intake stu-
are several programmes for students to dent an inaugural bursary of RM10,000 tui-
choose from: Diploma In Business tion fee waivers and scholarships as well for
Administration, Diploma In Marketing, eligible students who meet the requirements.
Diploma In Business Information System
and Diploma In Entrepreneurship. All SPM leavers and O-Levels students are
most welcome to chat with its education
All these diploma programmes provide counsellors as well as academics who are
students with a broad understanding of always ready to assist students in finding the
general business principles and practices right pathway for their future.
that include Marketing, Basic Accounting,
Entrepreneurship, Communication and Enrolment is in progress now for the
many more. September 2022 intake.
Diploma In Art and Design programmes
Join Sunway College Ipoh Open Day
For students who have an interest in arts, happening Aug 13, 14, 20 and 21 from 10am
design, drawing and interior design, Sunway to 4pm. Lots of exciting talks and activities
College Ipoh’s School of Art & Design has just await you to explore and unleash your
the right programmes for them, which are potential.
Diploma In Graphic Design and Diploma In
Interior Design. Sunway College Ipoh is also extending the
counselling and enrolment session from
Contrary to popular beliefs in regards to Monday to Friday (8.30am to 5.30pm),
the discipline of arts, a very significant num- Saturday and Sunday (10am to 4pm) except
ber of graduates from these programmes Public Holiday.
have secured job placements in numerous ■ For more information, visit www.sunway.
designing firms all over Malaysia. edu.my/ipoh or WhatsApp 019-3681096.

This is the testament to the promise of

8 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022

Immersive storytelling experience
THE Virtual International Design pushing next generation story-
and Creative Masterclass organ- telling to new levels and plat- Panaia is the senior creative director of the One of Panaia’s work for the Nike House of Innovation in New York
ised by The One Academy made forms to create Nike-only experi- Nike Global Brand Experience + Innovation City.
a successful return for the fourth ences. Studio.
time.
Through a live video confer-
Spanning over the course of ence from Portland, Oregon –
two weeks, secondary school home to the Nike headquarters,
students as well as The One he took the audience through his
Academy students had a lot to personal journey and some of
learn from global creative the philosophies behind the
experts in the fields of digital work he does at Nike, where he
animation, advertising, interior has been leading and building
design, visual effects and digital brand experience for the past
media design. eight years.

Presenting for the digital He began his talk titled
media design segment was “Experiential Design &
Bryon Panaia, senior creative Immersive Storytelling” with a
director of the Nike Global Brand quote from Walt Disney, “If you
Experience and Innovation can visualise it, if you can dream
Studio. it, there’s some way to do it.”

With over 20 years of diverse An innovator and a dreamer,
personal and professional expe- Walt Disney has always been
rience, he leads the future-for- a massive inspiration to him
ward multidisciplinary creative personally, and the quote sums
group to explore new frontiers up Panaia’s view of creativity.
in technology and innovation,
He tries to live by that quote

through the work that he is a and performance-based, there’s
part of and leads. always some fun. I think it’s
important because it makes it
He brings rich narratives to more human and approachable,
life through immersive experi- and working on it becomes a
ences that weave the physical joyful experience itself,” he said
and virtual worlds together, about the makings of a good
through projects and campaigns story.
for the Nike House of Innovation
in New York City, Shanghai and He highly encourages people
Paris, NikeLab X Riccardo Tisci – who are interested in the field of
Victorious Minotaurs, Air Max augmented reality (AR), virtual
97, Lebron 17 “Air Unrivalled”, reality (VR) and extended reality
Air Force 1, NBA Basketball and (XR) to actively pursue it because
games like NIKELAND on it is going to be a discipline that
Roblox. grows in the future and explodes
in the next 20 years.
He shares his creative process
that goes from strategy (creative He advised students who are
concepts) to design (creative passionate in the digital media
development) to execution space to start building their own
(creative delivery). website and work on personal
projects to encourage themselves
“I think it’s really important towards their goal.
for everyone as creatives to try
to be good at all three of these It might be a lot of work, but it
things, because if you only focus definitely pays off as recruiters
on the design aspect, you might and hirers do look through
get a brief that you might not them.
understand the ‘why’.
Lastly, he left the audience
“The strategy is really the with another quote by Walt
‘why’, and the design is answer- Disney, “All our dreams can
ing that question and execution come true, if we have the
is bringing that to life for peo- courage to pursue them.”
ple.”
The One Academy is commit-
He also explained brand ted to providing the best art edu-
experience, defining it as “any cation programmes and contin-
human experience that creates ues to nurture its students pas-
an emotional connection sionately through its “Masters
between a brand and an Train Masters” coaching philoso-
individual.” phy, which has been practised
for over 30 years, by providing
He quoted Edgar Dale’s theory diploma and degree courses in
of The Cone of Experience, “We Advertising & Graphic Design,
remember 10% of what we read, Digital Animation, Digital Media
30% of what we see and 80% of Design, Film Visual Effects,
what we experience,” explaining Interior Architecture & Design,
that we are more likely to Illustration, Fine Arts, Paris
remember an experience than Fashion Design & Pattern
just reading something from a Making, Computer Science,
book. Game Design and Computer
Science in Real-Time Interactive
That is the power of experien- Simulation.
tial design, which is taking a ■ For more information on The
story and bringing it to life for One Academy, visit www.toa.edu.
people. my or call 03-7875 5510 or
e-mail your enquiries to
“There’s always a sense of [email protected].
playfulness, humour or a little
twist in my works even if we’re
talking about something super
innovative, intense, hardcore

Panaia (right) during the live video conference with (from left) host
Chen Yuin Lin and Cheang Lin Yew, The One Academy’s Digital
Media Design Course Director.

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 Higher Education 9

Dr Goh (right) receiving a token of special recognition and compliments from the
Secretariat General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf GCC Patent
Office.

A new paradigm
for the shrimp
farming industry

SHRIMP farming is an important engine of shrimps in their natural habitats.
growth and among the major contributors to The exploration of the idea is funded by
our country’s gross domestic product GDP.
Besides sustaining the local needs, Malaysia the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme
is renowned as the ninth largest shrimp from the Ministry of Education Malaysia.
exporter globally.
“A unique ecosystem that serves as the
The main challenge of boosting shrimp nursery site for many aquatic species, the
production scale resides with the risk of mangrove ground’s fluctuating, complex and
disease transmission. The control of disease competitive ecology shapes the flourishing of
becomes a priority if shrimp farming is to be a unique blend of the versatile microbial
economically and ecologically sustainable. communities in the soil environment.

Many farmers have resorted to antibiotics “It was hypothesised that there exists a
as preventive measures. However, indis- symbiotic relationship between the soil
criminate use contributes to antimicrobial microbiome and the animal. This microbial
resistance development. community plays a critical role in supporting
the animal’s early development,” he stated.
The United States Food and Drug
Administration (USFDA) had banned, and Introducing the mangrove-derived
red-listed several Malaysian exporters due to Streptomyces sp. as probiotics for farming
the detection of unapproved antibiotics in may potentially replicate the protective
the shrimp supplied. This demands a con- effect on shrimp larvae during cultivation.
certed effort to avoid giving a negative per-
ception of Malaysia’s aquaculture industry. The findings so far revealed promising
prospects. The probiotics demonstrated
Bioprospecting is the search for plant and remarkable effect in inhibiting the growth of
animal species from which medicinal drugs, pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus, the caus-
biochemicals and other commercially valua- ative agent for AHPND (Acute hepatopancre-
ble materials can be obtained. There has atic necrosis disease).
been an increasing interest in bioprospecting
for aquaculture use in recent years. The pilot study also revealed the
significant growth-promoting effects
“In the context of aquaculture, natural of the probiotics in shrimps.
products can be introduced directly into the
rearing water, integrated as a functional The second innovation involves the devel-
additive into the animal feed, or injected opment of Malaysian folklore medicine –
intramuscularly into the shrimps. Skyfruit or generally known as Tunjuk
Langit by Malaysians.
“They were applied primarily to alleviate
water quality, relieve stress, enhance resist- The limonoids enriched extract has been
ance to diseases, stimulate appetite, and pro- scientifically shown to enhance neurohor-
mote animal growth,” said Assoc Prof Ts Dr mone regulation and leads to an improve-
Goh Bey Hing, Biofunctional Molecule ment in sperm production in animals. The
Exploratory Research Group (BMEX) leader findings are now being repurposed and tri-
at Monash University Malaysia School of alled for their application in promoting the
Pharmacy. shrimp hatchery process.

Researchers from the Jeffrey Cheah School “Fostering the translational application of
of Medicine and Health Sciences and the natural agents in shrimp farming in the local
School of Pharmacy at Monash University context is of primal importance at this junc-
Malaysia are currently working on a novel ture of time. Intensifying the shrimp farming
“homegrown” probiotic product for local industry can help reduce our dependence on
aquaculture applications. the natural supply of shrimps and prawns,
safeguarding sustainable food production
The team endeavours to transform a and security,” shared Dr Goh.
potential probiotic strain isolated from the
mangrove forest into a readily applicable Further research endeavours and
biocontrol agent for shrimp farming. The industrial collaborations are warranted
probiotic strain selected is Streptomyces sp., to reinvigorate the quest for suitable and
a genus the team had years of experience effective natural products tailored to propel
working with. the local shrimp farming enterprise.
■ For more details on Monash University
According to Dr Goh, this innovation is Malaysia, look out for the advertisement in
inspired by observing the lack of disease in this StarSpecial.

10 Higher Education THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022

The right education to take on the future

FOR the first time ever, a Malaysian teacher STEM learning prepares future generations STEM education provides learners the An education in STEM helps us solve the
was named the global winner of the recent to be 21st century innovators. mindset and skills valued in any profession. challenges the world faces today and
2022 Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards. media and technology literacy, productivity, Computer Science and Game Design, and nurtures the next generation of innovators.
social skills, communication, decision-mak- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in
Khalifa Affnan from the Keningau ing, leadership, entrepreneurship and initia- Real-Time Interactive Simulation. Students interested in pursuing an educa-
Vocational College in Sabah beat 7,000 nomi- tive. Regardless of the future career path tion in the fields mentioned are invited to get
nations from 113 countries to win the title. considered by students, these skill sets will These courses will be taught by a team of in touch with The One Academy to find out
The Dedicated Teacher Awards is a global go a long way to help them succeed in any professional educators from DigiPen’s inter- more about these exciting new programmes.
competition that recognises and celebrates field. national campuses and mirror their syllabus,
the efforts of educators around the world. ensuring each student is honed by industry The One Academy is committed to provid-
Recognising the importance of this need in experts with years of applied team project ing the best art education programmes and
He was awarded for his initiative in a our education, The One Academy has part- experience. continues to nurture its students passionate-
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and nered with DigiPen Institute of Technology, ly through its “Masters Train Masters” coach-
Mathematics) project where he trains stu- USA, to bring five cutting-edge Computer These programmes train students by utilis- ing philosophy, which has been practised for
dents in robotics, drones, coding and other Science and Game Design programmes to ing game design as a teaching medium to not over 30 years, by providing diploma and
technology-based disciplines. our shores. only make learning fun and interesting, but degree courses in Advertising and Graphic
also facilitate the knowledge of cutting-edge Design, Digital Animation, Digital Media
This monumental achievement has made DigiPen is a pioneer in computer science computer science technology and the right Design, Film Visual Effects, Interior
Malaysia famous on the world stage and and game education, being the first school in skills for them to thrive in the real world. Architecture and Design, Illustration, Fine
speaks volumes on the quality of teachers the world to offer a bachelor’s degree in Arts, Paris Fashion Design and Pattern
and education in our country. video game development. It has also ranked Upon graduating, students can pursue Making, Computer Science, Game Design and
in the top five of The Princeton Review’s Top careers in not only computer science and Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive
STEM is important because it exists in Game Design Schools for the last 13 years. game design, but even develop their own Simulation.
every part of our lives – science is every- games, businesses and take on innovative ■ For more information on The One
where around us, and technology is continu- The courses offered at DigiPen The One tech trends such as the metaverse, artificial Academy, visit www.toa.edu.my or call
ously expanding into every aspect of our Academy are Diploma in Game Design, intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), 03-7875 5510 or email your enquiries to
lives. Engineering is the foundation to Diploma in Computer Science, Bachelor of blockchain, big data, cloud computing and [email protected]
designing and building, while mathematics is Arts in Game Design, Bachelor of Science in more.
in every occupation and activity we do.
Merging all of that, an education in STEM
helps us solve the challenges the world faces
today and nurtures the next generation of
innovators.

As the world we live in keeps changing,
we must keep pace with it. Nowadays, most
careers require some amount of knowledge
in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics.

Putting emphasis on preparing future
generations to be successful in their
careers in this 21st century, STEM education
provides learners the mindset and skills
valued in any profession.

The focus on hands-on learning with real-
world applications helps develop a variety of
skill sets, including creativity, critical think-
ing, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability,

Learning about sustainable construction management

LIVING on a planet stressed by climate The Master of Sustainable Construction Management programme under FEGT at UTAR processes are important because the con-
change and diminishing natural resources, enables postgraduate students to further understand the idea of sustainability and its struction industry is concerned about the
sustainability is increasingly becoming a benefits when applied in construction management. health and safety of its workers, as well as of
requirement to encourage good and sustain- those living and working in the buildings.
able development of infrastructure. environment and society, because sustaina- mance. Emphasis is also placed on providing
bility must also be practised in the planning, postgraduate students high awareness on The decisions they make during project
It is no longer considered as merely an construction and operations processes. safety issues during construction and legal development and construction largely affects
aesthetic feature that motivates consumers’ principles in the construction industry. the quality of the indoor environment,
purchasing intention of buying their first “Therefore, the programme will offer an because the focus is to make the environ-
private homes or for investment purposes. application framework which integrates the This ensures that learners are competent ment ergonomic and allergy-free.
Much emphasis is also given on improving construction practices with sustainable ele- in practising sustainable development, and
the quality of construction and the quality of ments in the project, which is meant to safe- are able to perform well in relevant areas A healthy indoor environment is also
materials used, which offers a healthier guard our environment, manage and ensure such as managerial, economics and sustaina- believed to improve employee health and
indoor environment and reduces cost. resources efficiency, provide liveable envi- bility issues for lifelong learning, research productivity.
ronment to community, and reduce opera- and career.
A sector with high carbon and water foot- tion costs,” explained Head of Master of Therefore, the theoretical teaching and
print, the sustainability in the construction Sustainable Construction Management Apart from the opportunity to participate practical aspects of the Master of Sustainable
industry aims to reduce the footprints such Programme ChM Ts Dr Tan Kok Weng. in design, development and implementation Construction Management not only equip
as minimising enormous amounts of waste of a construction project, individuals work- the future leaders of the construction indus-
produced by using materials efficiently, The programme is designed to nurture ing in the construction industry will also be try with the right mindset on sustainability,
recycling raw materials and etcetera. postgraduate students with the ability to adopting the best practice towards achieving but they also understand that their sustaina-
solve problems in sustainable ways by sustainable development. bility is required throughout the entire oper-
Besides, sustainable construction enables applying knowledge, principles, and skills in ation.
sound economic development, job creation sustainable construction management. They will be making accurate decisions
and safety, enhances quality of life, protects and resolving problems through scientific Other postgraduate programmes offered
natural resources and environment, and It also offers learners thorough under- and social science research methodology, by UTAR FEGT include Doctor of Philosophy
promotes efficient use of financial resources. standing on construction requirements and and evaluating the feasibility of various (Engineering), Master of Engineering
limitations, along with nurturing their ability technologies and resources to resolve Science, Master of Environmental
In the university’s own effort to promote to plan and manage relevant resources and problems during construction. Technology, and Master of Engineering
and encourage sustainability among post- knowledge to enhance organisational perfor- (Electronic Systems).
graduate students, the Master of Sustainable These decision-making and evaluation
Construction Management programme UTAR offers undergraduate and post-
under Faculty of Engineering and Green graduate programmes in areas including
Technology (FEGT), offered in Universiti Accountancy, Actuarial Science, Applied
Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), enables post- Mathematics, Arts, Chinese Studies, Business
graduate students to further understand the and Economics, Biotechnology, Engineering
idea of sustainability and its benefits when and Built Environment, Information and
applied in construction management. Communication Technology, Life and
Physical Sciences, Medicine and Health
The programme allows candidates from Sciences, Media and Journalism, Education
the industry to advance their knowledge in and General Studies, and Agriculture and
construction and project management for Food Science.
sustainable development, and enhances
their continuous learning. The university also engages in the provi-
sion and conduct of research, consultation,
Meanwhile, fresh graduates will obtain management and leadership training, and
in-depth knowledge and capabilities in the other related educational services at its
field of construction management within the Sungai Long and Kampar campuses in
context of sustainability, thereby providing Malaysia.
them better career prospects as a project ■ For more information, visit www.utar.edu.
manager. my or call 05-468 8888 (Kampar Campus),
03-9086 0288 (Sungai Long Campus). UTAR
“Sustainable construction is not only about will be conducting Postgraduate and APEL
constructing an environmentally friendly Open Day on Aug 12-13 at its Sungai Long
building. That understanding is important Campus in Bandar Sungai from 9am to 5pm.
and postgraduate students must be aware of
the adverse impacts of construction to the

THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022 Higher Education 11

Engineering a bright future

HOW far can engineering take Dr Ang emphasised that the Poh, an alumnus from UCSI University and a top Students are exposed to state-of-the-art technology at
you? How about the world over. Mechatronics Engineering field chemical engineering Star Trek student, was selected UCSI University’s mechatronics laboratory.
That’s what many UCSI requires adequate knowledge in for a research programme at the Imperial College,
University students would say Industry 4.0. London.
and that’s even before they project that modernised all of
graduate. UCSI’s engineering labs.

Gary Poh Kwor Xiang, a UCSI The first phase of the endeav-
alumnus who read chemical our alone involved RM28mil,
engineering, can certainly testify. equipping each lab with state-of-
the-art facilities and smart tech-
Selected by Imperial College nology such as facial recognition,
London for a high-impact motion sensing and other IR4.0
research programme, he went features.
on to contribute to an ongoing
research project in nanorobotics While each lab is impressive
– an emerging field that will on its own, the mechatronics
revolutionise science. engineering lab is a strong draw
with its bionic equipment, smart
“Nanotechnology allows us to robotics, automated assembly
manipulate and control materi- lines and monitoring systems.
als at the atomic and molecular
level,” says Poh, who was the Featuring the latest technology
valedictorian of the class of in the industry from Kuka,
2018. Siemens and Mitsubishi, among
other leading brands, the lab
“We’re talking about creating was specially designed to foster
robots whose components are at an immersive learning experi-
the scale of a nanometre (1×10-9 ence for students.
metres). After being injected into
the body, these robots will seek “Mechatronics is a very
out cancer cells, unload their popular choice of study as it
drug loads and leave healthy integrates computer software,
cells largely unharmed.” electrical hardware and mechan-
ical systems. Interest in mecha-
Poh contributed to the exten- tronics has picked up with the
sive project through his work on increasing focus on Industry 4.0.
silicon nanoparticles. Things are changing rapidly and
we do our part to ensure that
Manipulating various condi- our students are familiar with
tions like temperature, chemical the latest equipment and
additives and stirring rate, he trends,” says Dr Ang.
sought to determine the size of
nanoparticles in a bid to fit more He adds that by investing in
of them on a fixed surface area. the future, UCSI is empowering
students with platforms to push
This was crucial as it would the frontiers of cutting-edge
improve the drug loads nanoro- science.
bots could carry, enhancing the
delivery of precision medicine. Dr Ang also champions the
scientific imperative, encourag-
Not stopping there, he also ing students to pursue further
worked to reduce process times studies in science, technology,
and production yield in the engineering and mathematics
pharmaceutical industry (STEM).
through heterogenous protein
crystallisation research. “It is a well-known fact that
many countries in the world,
Standard process times would Malaysia included, are facing
normally take an hour but he a shortage of talent in STEM-
managed to reduce the entire related fields.
process by 20 to 30 minutes.
“We want to do our part to
Poh’s immersive experience address this critical need. At
at Imperial was facilitated by UCSI, we know that the study of
UCSI’s Star Trek programme – an engineering can be exhilarating
initiative that sees the world’s and fun.
best universities selecting UCSI
students for high-impact “Our graduates have gone on
research. to do well and we want to pre-
pare the next generation of
For engineering, these univer- industry leaders in the engineer-
sities include Imperial College ing field,” he adds.
London, Tsinghua University, the
University of Queensland and UCSI is Malaysia’s top private
other leading universities in university in the QS World
China and Japan. University Rankings 2023.
Ranked 284, UCSI is classified in
Today, Poh works at Exxon- the top 0.9% of the world’s uni-
Mobil as a process engineer, versities. It is the only university
supporting the development of in the world to receive the QS
life cycle assessments for low Recognition for Improvement
carbon initiatives and global Award.
process engineering support. ■ To view UCSI’s engineering
labs first-hand, visit the
He is also responsible for University’s Open Days on Aug
mentoring new engineers, 13-14. For more information,
onboarding initiatives and com- visit openday.ucsiuniversity.edu.
petency development. my or contact 03-9101 8882/
011-3591 5021.
Looking back, Poh is quick to
credit UCSI for equipping him
with the aptitude and attitude to
excel.

“Many of my UCSI professors
motivated me constantly. The
university went out of its way
to prepare me for cutting-edge
science in London.

“I’m proud to say that my UCSI
education equipped me with the
skills and mindset to excel. It
challenged me to raise my aspi-
rations and engineer the future.”

His accomplishments are not
lost on Assoc Prof Dr Ang Chun
Kit, the dean of UCSI’s Faculty
of Engineering, Technology and
Built Environment.

A keen believer in investing
in the future, Dr Ang is on the
verge of completing a two-year

12 THE STAR, THURSDAY 11 AUGUST 2022