alumni-magazine-2015

Taylor’s

August 2015

Deft fingers at work

Story of Hearing-impaired Yun Loi

Deans programmed into designing

Prof. Dr. Hiew Pang Leang &
Mr Tony Liew

Malaysia's Woman Olympic Swimmer

Khoo Cai Lin

LEAVING A
LASTING LEGACY

The Omnipresent Oei brothers - Pattern of success achieved by the Oei siblings, high achievers in
service and hospitality industry, organic waste management and making the impossible possible.

Taylor’s August 2015

Warmest greetings from the Taylor's Alumni Relations Office! Editor
2014 has been a year of great fulfilment for the alumni community. Grace Ong Su Yin
From the inspiring Alumni Returns to Share Insights on Life Success on Designer and Printing Company
Taylor's College Open Day, to the unforgettable reunions for various CoAd Enterprise
Schools, it has been a year dedicated to bringing you, our alumni, Publisher
home to Taylor's. Taylor's University Sdn. Bhd. (formerly known as Taylor's
As we continue to engage the Taylor's alumni community, the focus University College Sdn. Bhd. (149634-D)
last year was to bring more of our alumni home to campus, to build a The ALUMNINEWS Magazine is published once a year,
common sense of pride amongst alumni, and to inspire each and in August.The views and opinions expressed are those
every one of you, our alumni, to feel that you are an important part of of the authors and do not necessarily represent the
the Taylor's community. views of Taylor's Alumni Relations Office, Taylor's
Today, Taylor's is highly respected around the world. Our diverse University or Taylor's College. Alumni who would like to
accomplishments, including being the only college in Malaysia to be contribute articles and stories are advised to email
awarded the prestigious ‘6-Star: Outstanding’ Rating by the Ministry of them to [email protected]. Taylor's Alumni
Education (MOE) in the College-Based Rating category 2012/2013. Relations Office reserves the right to edit articles for
In this issue, we celebrate the remarkable achievement of nine length, clarity and style.
outstanding alumni. Our cover story is about the Oei siblings, John-Ian, All rights reserved @ 2015 Taylor's Education Group
John-son and John-hans, three remarkable siblings who had Taylor's Alumni Relations Office
distinguished themselves in various fields of human endeavor. They Taylor's Lakeside Campus, Block A, Level 3,
exemplify the best of Taylor's and their defining qualities serve as a No. 1, Jalan Taylor's, 47500 Subang Jaya,
beacon of inspiration for all of us. Read on as the three larger-than-life Selangor Darul Ehsan
brothers divulged secrets to being contented, healthy lifestyle and Tel: +603-5629 5000
good looks! Email: [email protected]
Like always, as an esteemed member of Taylor's Alumni Community, This publication may contain information and materials
our alumni get to enjoy great benefits, such as dining and obtained from and/or belonging to third parties
accommodation discounts! All you have to do is to get in touch with us ('Information and Materials'). Taylor's Alumni Relations
and let us take it from there. Office has no right, title or interest in such Information
With this, we will leave you with a big thank you! Our events and and Materials or with respect to any transaction related
reunions would not have been possible without you. thereto.Taylor's Alumni Relations Office has relied solely
Even if you may have already graduated, there are plenty of fun galore on the information provided by the relevant third parties,
that await you, as here at Taylor's, and laughter are what reunions are has not conducted any due diligence, shall not be
all about! Your active participation in sharing your ideas, experience, obligated to conduct any due diligence and has not
energy and talent will greatly enhance Taylor's reputation as a verified the accuracy of any information or documents
widely-respected institution of global standing.Together, we can foster provided by such third parties.Taylor's Alumni Relations
a strong alumni spirit, an essential trait to Taylor's future success. Office expressly disclaims any representation and
From all of us here at warranty regarding the title to, accuracy, validity, scope,
Taylor's Alumni Relations Office enforceability, value, reliability and quality of the
relevant Information and Materials or the veracity of any
third party's statements, express or implied regarding
any of such Information and Materials. Taylor's Alumni
Relations Office also makes no representations or
warranties whatsoever regarding the current status of
any relevant Information and Materials and the content
of this publication.

2

13

TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP | 4
46 years an Educator - and going stronger

THE COMMUNITY | 8
Engaging Alumni, Engaging Faculties, Engaging Students

GO BEYOND | 10 36
World’s Best Results for South Australian Matriculation / SACE International 28
Food for Kelantan flood victims
Youths speaking code at Taylor’s University
Australian Government Funds Taylor's University for International Tourism Development
COVER STORY | 13
The Oei brothers - Leaving a Lasting Legacy
GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES… | 17

FEATURE ALUMNI | 25
Budding Head Pastry Chef Yun Loi, a living gusto
John Leong - Leveraging on his Orange-factor
Yenni Law - Launching a feast on the senses
Meet Lau Yin May, a strong advocate of 'YOLO’ – Never be Afraid in Stepping Out
of Your Paradigm

ALUMNI MATTERS | 30 CONTENTS
What top achievers share in common?
Education will bring you far. Passion makes you soar further 27
Buoyant brothers and far-sighted PhD student on choosing Taylor's
MOVERS AND SHAKERS | 32
Man of many hats - Professor Dr. Hiew Pang Leang, Dean of Taylor's
School of Computing & IT
Building dreams with the Dean of Taylor's School of Architecture,
Building & Design - Mr Tony Liew

TAYLOR'S CENTRE FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION (CPE) | 34
Did you know that local workers are more willing to give up higher pay
and career growth to have greater work-life balance?

MUSINGS BY ALUMNI ABROAD | 36

INSPIRING PEOPLE | 37 41
A PERSONIFYING PERSONALITY, Khoo Cai Lin,
Malaysian National Swimmer & Record Holder
- "Back then, I didn't like swimming"

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL | 40
Alicia Ooi - Just when I almost gave up on hope, hope reinvented itself

SAVE THE DATE | 41

ALUMNI BENEFITS | 42

32 - 33 3

TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP

46 YEARS AN EDUCATOR -
AND GOING STRONGER

Taylor’s College was founded in 1969 by Mr George Archibald
Taylor and Mr George Leighton Taylor for a student population of
345. The College started off by offering the Victorian High School
Certificate (VHSC), the first Pre-University programme to secondary
school graduates in Malaysia.
From the first campus in Jalan Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Taylor’s
College moves to into a second campus in PJ New Town in 1985.
With the growing number of students, Taylor’s College expanded
their base to 380,707sqft facility in Subang Jaya.

4 | TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP

1982 - Pioneered the South Australian Matriculation Programme in Malaysia
1983 - Offered the first Canadian Pre-University Programme in the country
1985 - Taylor’s College moves to into a second campus in PJ New Town from first campus in Jalan Pantai, Kuala Lumpur
1989 - Taylor’s College moved to Subang Jaya campus
1991 - Established Cambridge A-Levels programme in Malaysia
2006 - Taylor’s College was granted “University College” status by Ministry of Education
2008 - Taylor’s College Sri Hartamas was introduced to accommodate more students
2010 - Taylor’s College focuses on pre-university programmes - Cambridge A-Levels, South Australian Matriculation / SACE

International, Canadian Pre-University and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
2010 - Taylor’s University College recognized as a full-fletched University and moved into the new Lakeside campus which hosts

the foundation, American Degree transfers, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Taylor's College remained at Subang Jaya campus
2013 - Taylor’s College Subang Jaya campus upgrades learning space for students’ collaborative Learning
2014 - Taylor's College integrates new learning approaches and skills-based methodology into the delivery of the pre-university
programmes to guide students towards success in life

TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP | 5

TAYLOR’S UNIVERSITY,
A WORLD-CLASS LEADER
IN EDUCATION

A hopeful dream and a bold vision.

This was what transformed a neglected wasteland into a state-of-the-art university campus. Malaysia’s first modern tropical campus,
the integrated purpose built campus sets on tropical greeneries and surrounds a 5.5-a.cre man-made lake that provide a rich and
stimulating natural environment.

6 | TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP

The plans to build Taylor's University's RM450 million flagship campus were unveiled in 2007, in
response to the nation's ever pressing need for knowledgeable human capital. This modern
tropical university campus is located on a 27-acre site which houses all existing tertiary
programmes that were located within Taylor's campuses in Subang Jaya and Petaling Jaya.
Taylor's Lakeside Campus marks yet another milestone for Taylor's in attaining full-fledged
university status, already renowned for its teaching excellence and distinctive quality of graduates.
Taylor's Lakeside Campus welcome the first batch of students in January 2010 and has been the
talk of the town ever since.

THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE,
YEAR AFTER YEAR

TAYLOR'S EDUCATION GROUP | 7

THE COMMUNITY

ENGAGING ALUMNI,
ENGAGING FACULTIES,
ENGAGING STUDENTS

The Taylor's Alumni Relations Office (TARO) unveiled Alumni leaders are tasked to keeping their cohort informed
exciting key initiatives to engage the Taylor's community in of the latest University news, support alumni events by
the coming years. keeping the ball rolling and inviting fellow alumni to
1. Facilitating Reunions - Reconnecting Cohorts reacquaint with each other.
The alumni's attachment to the University is forged through "As our company is appointed to manage the Taylor's
friendships and bonds they built while on campus. Hence, Alumni Community Facebook fanpage, it means both Su
reuniting with friends is an integral part of motivating Zhen and I are always staying on top of the game in terms
alumni to stay involved and committed to their alma mater. of the latest alumni events and news announcement. It
Reunions and gatherings are key engagement events in means we see ourselves staying closely connected with
the cultivation of lasting inter-alumni and alma mater ties. Taylor's many years down the road. With this in mind, we
Besides reunions organised by TARO, appointed alumni have been tagging other alumni and encouraging them to
leaders are pivotal to keeping alumni closely connected attend the alumni activities, there's a core group of us who
with their alma mater. They are the "connectors", working are regularly in touch."
closely with the Alumni Office to reach out to more alumni
as well as keep the friendship alive. Taylor's World Class Scholars,Taylor's Business
School 2010 alumni and Directors of Mainstream

Online Buzz, Jolene Sim and Tan Su Zhen

8 | THE COMMUNITY

2. Engaging Faculties - Fostering Campus Collaboration 3. Cultivating Students - Nurturing Future Alumni
Taylor’s Schools and its facilities are core features in Students are our potential advocates and ambassadors of
students who spend their formative years studying and good alumni relations. TARO cultivate students from the
living on campus. Students and alumni also have a greater time they enter Taylor's University to the day they graduate,
affinity for the institution. by building ties early on and giving them a positive and
For this, TARO engage with Deans and lecturers of the memorable experience on campus.
different Schools to effectively reach out to students and Some examples of this include: a student-run initiative
alumni in order to cultivate meaningful, long-lasting called “Supper Run”, where free nasi lemak and Milo drinks
relationships with them. Through exchanging information were distributed on campus to students preparing for their
and sharing insights on alumni engagement, as well as exams; TARO took part for the second time in the yearly
riding on their closer teacher-student relationship, they are Clubs and Societies Day at the Grand Hall to promote its
the bridge through which Taylor's connects with a wider services to freshmen. They was also involved in a
base of its current and future alumni. joint-initiative with Taylor's Accounting Club to visit a
“It has indeed been a pleasure working with TARO during logistics company and a pineapple farm tour.
the Law School Reunion Dinner in January 2015. I look
forward to doing so again soon. We should hit the iron
when it is hot and I could tell that the alumni who were
present on Saturday night had a good time and are
looking forward for more events."

Mr Lai Mun Onn, Associate Dean (Learning & Quality)
Senior Lecturer,Taylor's Law School

THE COMMUNITY | 9

BEYOND

World’s Best Results for
South Australian Matriculation/SACE International

2015 marked another year of excellence for Taylor’s Lim Tou Boon, President of Taylor’s College, was pleased to
College after its South Australian Matriculation (SAM)/SACE see such outstanding results from the 2014 SAM
International students achieved record-breaking results at graduates. “At Taylor’s College, our goal is to equip our
a global level. Competing with SAM/SACE International students to achieve their university and career goals
students worldwide,Taylor’s College students made Malaysia through acquiring the right learning skills, life skills, as well
proud by attaining the most number of achievement awards as leadership skills.The result has definitely demonstrated
presented by the SACE Board of South Australia. that the students have acquired the much-needed skills
A total of 690 students from Taylor’s College Subang Jaya that will enable them to be life-long learners.”
and Sri Hartamas campuses successfully completed the The SAM/SACE International programme comprises 70 per
South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) in December cent college-based assessment and 30 per cent final
2014. 185 of them attained an Australian Tertiary Admission examination marked in Australia. It is the most popular
Rank (ATAR) of 90 and above while 10 of them are recipients Australian-based Pre-University programme in Malaysia,
of Highest SAM/SACE International Subject Achievement opening doors for its students to enter top universities
Award for achieving the highest score in a subject. around the world including Australia, Singapore, Hong
Lim Shir Ling who achieved an impressive ATAR score of Kong, India, New Zealand, the UK and the US. Since the
99.90 and awarded the Highest SAM/SACE International inception of the programme in 1982, Taylor’s has
Student Achievement Award in the world was grateful that maintained the position of the largest centre in Malaysia,
her efforts paid off.“I didn't expect anything, actually. This consistently producing outstanding results that prepare
success would not have been possible without the help of students on their path to succeed in university and beyond.
my lecturers who were very supportive and patient in
assisting every student wholeheartedly,” said Lim.

10 | GO BEYOND

Extending a helping
hand for the Kelantan
flood victims

In early 2015, the Vice-Chancellor & President of
Taylor’s University, Professor Dato’ Dr. Hassan Said
extended a helping hand to aid flood-victims in his
hometown,Kelantan.Prof. Hassan delivered provisions
to 200 primary-school students from four schools in
Kuala Krai and Manik Urai, with: school uniforms,
bread, water bottles, books, essential stationery items;
as well as delivering 300 bags from Bank Rakyat, 14
boxes of books from Institut Terjemahan Buku Negara
and 5 laptops from Taylor’s University to the schools.
The trip was one of the many contributions by the
institution to support the effort to return the affected
East Coast states to normalcy.

GO BEYOND | 11

Youths learn to speak code at Taylor's University

Taylor’s University was the flagship destination for Microsoft Malaysia’s
nationwide launch of the 2015 YouthSpark #WeSpeakCode campaign
in March.The campaign, also known as “Code for Malaysia”, is a global,
company-wide initiative by Microsoft to provide access to technology
skills and for youths to realise their true potential in computer science.
The week-long programme, also in its second year aimed for youths to
hone their coding skills and inspired the largest number of students
within Klang Valley.
Professor Dr. Hiew Pang Leang, Dean of Taylor’s School of Computing &
IT expressed that IT has become as pervasive as Mathematics, required
in a variety of industries such as: medical profession, engineering and
accountancy. With the aid of Microsoft’s initiative, it is a step closer
towards garnering coding into a profession.

Global News
Australian Government FundsTaylor's University for International
Tourism Development Project in EastTimor

The School of Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary Arts (TCHT) engaged
an international grant for Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building
in Timor Leste. The project was funded, after a competitive tender
process, by the development wing of the Federal Government of
Australia. A team from TCHT recently returned from their second
visit, having spent 3-weeks in East Timor conducting the initial
training in two new hotel properties. This initiative will support the
development of tourism in the country, as it looks to become a
member of ASEAN. TCHT has also already taken the initiative to
create ATRA (the ASEAN Tourism Research Association) network.

12 | GO BEYOND

COVER STORY

Discover the secrets of three high-achieving brothers juggle tight
schedules and still accomplish much of what life has to offer.

LEAVING A LASTING LEGACY

Do not let the stern look, muscular and tall presence of the Oei siblings fool you into believing that they are intimidating . Behind the serious
persona are the three charming, witty and down-to-earth brothers; John-ian, John-son and John-hans Oei .

COVER STORY | 13

John-Hans interview with the CEO, he asked me about my
dream. At the time I was 19 and knew that when I
"Had I not been bold enough in the interview to share graduate at 21 years old, I would want to be a hotel
my dream with the CEO of becoming a hotel manager in ten years, at 31 years old. I proceeded to
manager by 31 years old, I would not have been ask how old he was when he became a CEO and he
where I am today." - John-Hans. said “at 29 years old”. My initial reaction was:“if you
The first five minutes into conversation with Hans can do it, I can too”.The next day, I received a call
already had this writer making up her mind that he is saying I received a scholarship.”
what he preaches. John-Hans's energetic and After his last stint as a Hotel Manager for a
cheerful voice exuded such warmth, so much so that 5-star hotel in Bangkok, he decided to take
it can't seem to go wrong for a person who describes the leap and pursue his vision of starting a
himself as:“a huge people person and love being company together with his mother and
around people. I like making friends and after a week, brothers. In 2013, he started the Centenary
you are under my good friend list.” Million Group which currently runs a hotel in
At age 22,a time when others were still at a crossroad Ampang - D'Olive Hotel.
contemplating their career options, John-Hans was Commenting on his vision, "I always
already chalking up a brilliantly impressive job knew I wanted to be in the hospitality
accomplishment and steadily climbing up the industry. I took Diploma in Hotel &
hospitality career ladder. Hans had undergone Tourism Management and subsequently
various management trainee stints with top Degree in Hospitality Management.
international resorts and later became the youngest At this juncture, I was particularly
Hotel Manager under the Compass Management grateful to my lecturers – Mr Tay
Group. He is deeply humbled by the fact that at such Boon, Mr Patrick Daya, Ms Hema,
a young age, he has been given an opportunity to be Ms Jasmine Chen, Dr Ann and
in charge of thousands and millions in terms of many more who guided me in
budget and also the opportunity to work directly with each step I took throughout
owners and CEOs of the company. the four years that I was in
Hans was a scholarship recipient for Compass Taylor’s University.
Hospitality Management, which provided him the
opportunity to finish his degree. "To be honest, I only
prepared for the Compass Hospitality Group
interview two days before being informed of it.
Initially, I had no plans to attend it as I did not have
funds to continue higher education. During the

John-Hans loves to keep in shape and by
lifting, throwing or pulling heavy weights.
"Being healthy gives me the energy to get
out and run around to accomplish the
things that are needed for work,” he said.

Recipient of Taylor's Culinary Arts, Hospitality and Tourism (TCHT)
Outstanding Young Alumni Award 2013
Group CEO, Centenary Million Group

Alumni of Diploma in Hotel Management,
Hospitality Management,Taylor's College
Alumni of Higher Diploma in Hotel Management,
Hospitality Management,Taylor's University

Year of Graduation: 2010

14 | COVER STORY

In 2010, a "crazy idea" arose to a fellow Taylorian One of the teams which participated in one of the home
and entrepreneur, John-Son Oei, who at a tender building project was also from Taylor's Education Group.
age of 22 decided to act upon his dream to help the Staff from across the TEG, led by Dato' Loy Teik Ngan,
underprivileged indigenous people of Malaysia. undertook to take on the challenge of building an entire
home in just one weekend.
John-Son explains that EPIC (Extraordinary A graduate of Mass Communication & Media
Management, John-Son strives to go beyond
People Impacting Community), is an initiative which the ordinary to play his part and help make the
focused on building not just houses, but homes for world a better place. Ever the dreamer,
underprivileged Malaysians. It all started with a John-Son has also become the implementer
dinner conversation, where John-Son and his of dreams for others and himself, and is
friends discussed the possibility of solving local often found sharing ideas and
issues through community work. Having built 14 experience with individuals and
homes to date, they’ve made great headway in their organisations alike.
mission to provide every Orang Asli in Malaysia with
a safe home within 5 years - that’s approximately a
whopping 12, 322 houses.

“During one of our trips, we discovered a man living
in a dilapidated shack and no amount of paint
could make the house better. What was even more
shocking was that he has been staying in that
house for almost 2 years.That really affected us, so
we started devising a plan to help him build a
home,” said John-Son.

People always say to be realistic.
Whatever you’re passionate about, it’s
not good enough. I’m still nding out
how I’m supposed to earn money
from what I’m doing. But I survive,
and I’m happy.”

John-son Oei

John-Son Oei
Founder and CEO of EPIC Collaborative

Alumni of Canadian Pre-University,
Taylor's College

Communications & Media Management
Taylor's University

Year of Graduation: 2009

COVER STORY | 15

John-Ian “Not only did I choose to work in an environment which was beyond
unfavourable, but I always felt empowered because I am saving the environment
16 | COVER STORY - was I nuts?” thought John-Ian
The Oei brothers, as we have journeyed through their life so far, will leave no stone
unturned when it comes to working hard in achieving their goals and beliefs.
Microbs is another inspiring story - launched by John-Ian and John-Hans. With
John-Ian's experience in the oil & gas and real estate industries and John-Hans'
portfolio in the hospitality industry, the brothers encountered similar problems in waste
management for commercial buildings. Since its establishment, Microbs has
successfully provided a total waste management solution for a vast range of industries
like restaurants, shopping malls, commercial development, hotels & resorts, meat and
poultry processing plants, animal farms. Now, two years down the line, their business
has expended to Singapore.
Naturally, the TARO could not resist asking the best and challenging parts of Ian's job,
since it lies in helping people and companies solve their waste problems.
"Let's start with the challenges. My work environment is always smelly, dirty, and
rodent-filled.Sometimes they are the most challenging thing to face.You do not want to
be caught passing out in front of a client or running away from a flying cockroach.
However,the best parts are seeing the smile on the faces of my clients when I help solve
their problems.What motivates me is I am earning money and saving the environment",
grinned Ian, as we continued to dig further on his motivation to step into this industry,
which had to deal with grease traps in restaurants and commercial buildings; i.e.
shopping malls and toilets, resulting in odour discomfort and health hazards.
“Honestly, there are many memorable moments when your job involves cockroaches,
rats and foul smell. Recently, I had to survey a site which was filled with flying
cockroaches.I just stood outside the room looking at the person in charge smiling at me
asking me to go in, I did what anyone would do... I got my colleague to go in while I
stood outside looking in!” quipped Ian.
Recently forming a notable partnership with one of Malaysia's leading integrated
infrastructure conglomerates, serving their commercial buildings for organic waste
management, Ian's advice to students; "find a job that you are passionate about and it
won’t be just a job. Paper qualifications are important to a certain extent but the right
attitude, passion and desire is what defines you.These qualities are integral".

For this three well-groomed
brothers, Peik See, is their
pillar of strength, and said Ian,
"My mother is the STRONGEST
person I have known"

Co-Founder of Microbs (M) Sdn.Bhd.
Alumni of Diploma,Canadian Pre-University,
Taylor's College
Year of Graduation:2004

GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES…

Indonesian Alumni Dinner and Gathering NOV 2014

15

It was a night to remember as 110 Indonesian Alumni gathered at the
'Indonesia Chapter Alumni Gathering’ at Pullman Jakarta Central Park Hotel.
The objective of the event was to meet Taylor’s Alumni in Jakarta and the
nearby cities to strengthen the University’s alumni relation.
Also present at the event was Vice-Chancellor and President of Taylor’s University
Professor Dato’ Dr Hassan Said; His Excellency Dato’ Seri Zahrain Mohamed
Hashim, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of
Malaysia; Michel Vivier, Vice President, Upscale & Midscale Hotels,
Malaysia-Indonesia-Singapore; Graeme Ham,Vice President of Human Resources
Malaysia-Indonesia-Singapore at ACCOR HOTELS; Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavan,
Dean, Taylor’s University School of Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary Arts; and
Professor Jean-Pierre Poulain Dean, University of Toulouse Jean-Jaures.

GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES… | 17

SBS Graduation Dinner NOV 2014

21

The night before graduation, dedicated lecturers of School of Biosciences (SBS)
gathered the first ever graduating Class of 2014 cohorts for a graduating dinner
at Taylor’s University. The event was made even more successful when industry
representatives came to congratulate the graduating students. The
representatives were Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan (Executive director, MABIC); Dr
Tan Do Yew (Technical and Regulatory Manager, Zoetis); Mr Kelvin and Stuart Soo
(Managing director, Furley Bioextract) and Ms Peng Li Vern (Assistant Manager,
Research & Development, InQPharm).
Besides serving as a networking session for students, the dinner also aimed at
engaging students to complete the University’s Graduate Tracer Study as well as
to create an active School of Biosciences Alumni Community.
At the dinner, Cheng Wai Kit (Bachelor of Biotechnology) and Chin Ying Yee
(Bachelor of Science, Food Science with Nutrition) were awarded with the ‘Best
Student Award’.They received RM150 cash each.

18 | GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES…

The Alumni NOV 2014
Welcome Party
22

The Alumni Welcome Party, which was held at the Grand Hall at
Taylor's University, took place after the University's 9th
Convocation and gave graduates an unforgettable and
enjoyable graduation memory.
That night, everyone turned on the party mood! The party was
hyped up by performances by our very own students from Taylor's
Dance Club,Taylor's Music Club and DJ Michael from School of
Communications.The attendees' jubilation was further increased
when the sound system and lighting were in sync with the
performances, therefore setting an exhilarating mood among the
crowd. Attendees also stood a chance to win lucky draw prizes.

GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES… | 19

Supper Run DEC 2014 DEC 2014 DEC 2014

As former students ourselves, the people in the Taylor’s Alumni Relations Office know 2 4 9
exams can be really stressful, especially when you have to study on an empty stomach,
with no access to food nearby! Introducing the Supper Run!
This initiative by the Taylor’s Alumni Relations Office is to provide food and drinks at various
checkpoints at the Lakeside Campus for students who are preparing for their exams.
This initiative, conducted over three days in early December, certainly did increase the
awareness of Taylor's Alumni Relations Office amongst current students at Lakeside and
due to its overwhelming success, will be one of the Alumni Office's annual signature
events during the exam period.
"At 11pm,just when I was complaining how hungry I was to my friends,I saw food outside
the 24/7 room. I was delighted when we were all invited to fill our bellies," said Ajeeta
Ramakrishnan,a first-year degree student from Taylor’s Business School."My friends and
I were glad that the Taylor’s Alumni Relations Office had chosen to do this initiative and
support us in our studies as we prepare for our exams."

20 | GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES…

13Alumni 2014 Year DEC2014

End Gathering

It was a night filled with cheer and laughter when the
Taylor's Alumni Gathering took place on 13th
December 2014 at Modesto's, Publika. The event was
a platform for alumni from year 2000 till 2012 to
come together and have a great time.
"I would like to thank the Taylor’s Alumni Relation Office
for hosting a fun and informal gathering, allowing us the
opportunity to reminisce while creating and maintaining
a good relationship with the Alumni community," said
Ririne Chu, a graduate of Taylor’s School of Hospitality,
Tourism & Culinary Arts. She also liked the fact that
Alumni Gatherings, previously open to graduates from
individual Schools, have now been opened to all alumni
of Taylor’s University, giving all participants a fun platform
to network and form new friendships while being able to
share about their background.
The attendees had an amazing time, especially during
the highlight of the evening when they were invited to
arm wrestle with one another.

GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES… | 21

Taylor's Law School Reunion JAN 2015

17

For Taylor’s Law School alumni, the reunion at La Cocina Spanish Restaurant in Subang Jaya was a night filled with emotion and a
walk down memory lane.
The alumni, now largely associates and legal practitioners at leading firms, jumped at the chance to reconnect with their
classmates in this intimate affair. The evening was made more merry with the presence of Associate Dean (Learning and Quality),
Lai Mun Onn, who had taught each of them at some point of their education. Mun Onn was not only instrumental in bringing them
together but his participation in the dinner allowed for the group to reminisce, true to the adage 'A good teacher can inspire hope,
ignite the imagination and instill a love of learning'.
Mun Onn has nothing but positive words for the event, which was enhanced by the live performance by Taylor’s Music Club.
"I personally felt it was a successful effort and I enjoyed it myself too. It has indeed been a pleasure working with Taylor's Alumni
Relations Office and I look forward to doing so again soon."

22 | GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES…

APR 2015

Alumni Movie Gathering 25

It was a night of superhero proportions as Taylor’s Alumni Relations Office
hosted alumni from both Taylor’s College and Taylor’s University to catch the
biggest superhero movie of the year at GSC Paradigm Mall.
To quote Chris Hemsworth, "Unlike the first movie which felt like the first day
of school, this time round the cast members said they felt like they were in
more familiar territory, it was like a high school reunion," the Taylor's Alumni
Movie Gathering saw many alumni reconnecting with familiar faces.
Enjoyment and anticipation were clearly visible as Taylor’s moviegoers
gushed about their favorite superhero characters and the movie.

GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES… | 23

MAY 2015

SBS Graduating Networking Session 23

The evening was alive with the excited chatter and laughter, as future graduates of Taylor’s School of
Biosciences celebrated their upcoming graduation with a special dinner at Tarragon Restaurant.
This soiree is fast becoming a tradition within the School since it was first launched in November of 2014,
allowing the School to engage their graduating students and create an active SBS alumni network.
The celebration dinner provides a precious opportunity for graduating students to get together and
share their happiness with fellow graduates, lecturers, alumni, as well as some industry partners.
One of the highlights was the appreciation speech by Chong Xiao Rui, a Regulatory Affairs
Executive at Mead Johnson Nutrition, who shared that persistence and hard work are the
foundation to success in the corporate world.

24 | GATHER FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE STORIES…

FEATURE ALUMNI

BUDDING HEAD PASTRY CHEF
YUN LOI, A LIVING GUSTO

Taylor's University is the foundation that helped redefine the Despite his impairment Yun Loi, now 30, is making a
otherwise silent world of a young deaf youth. As a person difference with the skills he learnt from Taylor's University
with hearing disability, Khew Yun Loi, 30, related that his School of Hospitality,Tourism & Culinary Arts. Not only is he
eight months of intensive, yet priceless experience of eking out a living as the Head Pastry Chef at the Silent
studying at Taylor's University has been instrumental, Teddies Bakery, a bakery run by The Community Service
equipping him for the future.Through the Taylor's Education Centre for the Deaf (CSCD), he manages the orders and
Group's aim of educating the youth of the world to take their trains the other bakers.
productive place as leaders in the global community, this Pastry Course Advisor Chef Karam sees huge potential in the
mission has turned around the life of Khew Yun Loi. Yun Loi. "He has a lot of potential as he displays the passion
Being the first hearing-impaired student in the course and to become one of the best pastry personnel. He is always
having completed his International Certification in Patisserie the first to arrive for class and the last to leave and is always
(Basic and Advanced) at Taylor's University under the full upbeat about learning new recipes. His impairment has
sponsorship of Hong Leong Foundation,Yun Loi reminisced never been a hindrance for him as he would constantly relay
about the early days when he would walk past bakeries and his questions via his translator. All he needs is to spend
feel overwhelmed by the freshness of buns and pastries more time perfecting his finishing skills and he could
paraded all over the window displays. It was then that Yun become a successful pastry chef," commented Chef Karam.
Loi secretly started to follow his dream of running his own So, what's running a bakery like, now that Yun Loi has
bakery, fiercely undeterred by his hearing disability. achieved his dream? Though orders are sometimes
With only praises for his pastry advisor, Chef Karamvir Singh overwhelming, he says that tiredness is a way of life, but he
Godrei, the beaming Yun Loi declared, 'speaking through' his doesn’t whine. In fact, the fighter in him doesn’t see himself
interpreter,Rose Ng,"It was a lot of fun participating in the class quitting the bakery, adding that he loves it there.
and fine-tuning my baking skills.The experience became more
valuable as my pastry making skills improved day by day.The
world class kitchen facilities was the perfect place for me to
experiment with different recipes; from crepes to éclair and fruit
tarts, to his favorite strawberry shortcakes.

Khew Yun Loi
Head Pastry Chef at Silent Teddies Bakery,
a bakery run by the Community Service
for the Centre of The Deaf (CSCD)
Alumni of International Certi cation in Patisserie (Advanced)
under the Taylor's Centre for Continuing Professional
Education (CPE), in collaboration with Taylor's University
School of Hospitality,Tourism & Culinary Arts and
the Academie de Toulouse, France.

Photo credit: Postkod Malaysia

FEATURE ALUMNI | 25

JOHN LEONG -
LEVERAGING ON
HIS ORANGE-FACTOR

This issue, we feature an alumna Founder / Operation Director of
who is a Jack-of-All-Trades, and Orangehotels.com.my, V5 Orange Hotels Sdn. Bhd.
Master-of-All. From mastering the Alumna of Diploma in Hotel Management,
skills of inventing new bread Bachelor Degree in Hotel Management,
recipes, maximizing hotel sales, Taylor's School of Hospitality,Tourism & Culinary Arts
to building new hotels, John has Year of Graduation: 2006
done it all. And that's not the end
yet. His next goal? To build ten
hotels within the next three years!

To be honest,I chose to exit my pre-university course once I was sure When the opportunity presented itself,I have the sales experience to
of my passion in life.This led me to joining the School of Hospitality, deliver results,the micromanagement skills from running events and
Tourism & Culinary Arts.Since then,I found that being in this industry the confidence to build a business from nothing. With the valuable
is something that I enjoy and that's the start of a journey filled with experiences I gained from my internships,I convinced my partners to
the most invigorating whiff from freshly baked bread. start up a hotel management company, branded as Orange Hotels.
I first enrolled into Taylor’s College School of Hospitality and Here, we manage business budget hotels in Malaysia and are
Tourism for my Diploma, as Taylor's, known for being the best involved in startups, which include a wide range of roles like
hospitality school in Malaysia, was the perfect place for me to consultancy, human resource, accounting, site survey, renovation,
excel. While also pursuing my Bachelor Degree, I had the chance operation and management.
to intern with some of the top hotels in Malaysia, such as After a hard day's work, to be able to read something positive
Putrajaya Marriot Hotel and Hyatt Saujana. However, as my goal in from our customer reviews like, "The hotel was beyond
life is to start my own business, I had already envisioned the type expectation for a normal simple hotel. The room was clean and
of business I wanted to run even before my graduation. spacious. Value for money!" is sufficient enough to pull me
through another grueling day.
26 | FEATURE ALUMNI For now, our vision is to be the market leader of business
budget hotel in Malaysia and to have Orangehotels.com.my
branch in every major city in Malaysia within the next five
years. I believe, with the Orange factor, we will even be able to
go international in six years' time!

YENNI LAW - LAUNCHING A FEAST
FOR THE SENSES

A culinary student from the Hotel and Catering Institutional
Management Centre (HCIMC) (later part of Taylor’s College),Yenni
reminisced about her life then,"In addition to my parents chipping
in for meals and school fees,I had to do odd jobs to sustain myself.
As a teenager who was hungry all the time, pau (steamed buns
with filling) were my staple diet. Now, I can't even look at pau."

Hailing from Taiping, Yenni, 40, is a professional-trained chef
who co-owns and manages Boathouse. In 2004, she began her
stint as a Manager at Boathouse. Soon after, she bought over
the restaurant with her business partner. Since then, Boathouse
has satisfied a legion of food lovers.

Not one to rest on her laurels, Yenni decided to make her
childhood dream come true by authoring her own cookbook,
Meatology.Yenni says the book took much longer to complete
than most of the other cookbooks in MPH's Masterclass Kitchen
series - a fact that Yenni herself admitted a little apologetically.
This was largely due to her perfectionistic streak that somehow
led to her decision to revamp the line-up when she was more
than halfway through the compilation.

So, it was no surprise when Yenni's former mentor cum lecturer,
Trudo Ho, General Manager of Werner’s Group of Restaurants and
Bar had this to say of Yenni,“Until today,I have yet to meet a young
fresh graduate who works as hard as she did. She was so eager, I
was worried that she would burn herself out before she had the
chance to truly explore the wonderful,wicked world of gastronomy.”

We met Yenni Law for the first time at the media launch of
her cookbook, 'Meatology' at her restaurant and bar, The
Boathouse, situated smack in the middle of the vibrant bar
scene of Taman Tun Dr. Ismail.

Looking a bit ill-at-ease when the cameras pointed at her,
she later surprised us with her smooth delivery when she
welcomed members of the media to her event. In her
calm, measured tones, she related some of her
experiences in culinary adventures with wit and charm.
Through her smooth articulation, her passion and love for
food and cooking shone across unwaveringly.

In the Acknowledgement section of Meatology, Yenni has
specifically mentioned Taylor's very clearly. "It is without a doubt
that I owe this to the years I spent training at Taylor's and the
lecturers who have guided me during the time I was a student
trying to find my niche. To Dr Pradeep, I want to thank you for
supporting me throughout my years of education up till now
when I am running my own restaurant.You still make an extra
effort to dine at my place, even with your extremely busy
schedule as Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Taylor's University. I am
truly humbled by your kindness."

If cooking were a science, and there are many who insist it is,
then Yenni has certainly found the winning formula at her
restaurant by doing what scientists do best: learning,
researching, testing, failing, trying again and succeeding.

FEATURE ALUMNI | 27

MEET LAU YIN MAY, A STRONG
ADVOCATE OF 'YOLO’ – NEVER BE
AFRAID IN STEPPING OUT OF
YOUR PARADIGM

A firm believer and practitioner of ‘You Only Live Once’, Yin May Cheng and she disciplined me as how she would do to her
has been challenging the norm since young. She was always the students. I guess it really helped by putting me in place as I grow
first to dash out to the playground with the boys during breaks in up. My growing up years had been truly amazing with her.”
kindergarten and the one to climb to the highest slide as the other At 17 years of age, she made the first major decision in her life.
girls looked on and gasped for her safety, and the list goes on. Her “Taylor’s College.That was the only college I wanted to be in and I
love for outdoor activities continued as she grew up, progressing worked really hard to get myself enrolled into Cambridge A Levels.
from swings and slides in the playground to volleyball,surfing and Competition was really tough as they had the best students in the
diving, though she still enjoys the simple fun of swings when she country and getting in wasn’t easy. My parents didn’t go easy on me
gets the chance nowadays. either, as we were staying in Ampang and the distance was their
Despite her active participation in these outdoor activities, she main concern. So I used my amateur negotiation and persuading
still came out tops in her studies, to which she shared with much skills with them and they finally agreed.Thinking back, I was really
gratitude,“Luckily, my grandma was an academician from Kuen made for Marketing,”Yin May laughs.

Vice President, Sales & Marketing,Taylor’s College
Alumna of Cambridge A-Levels,Taylor’s College
Tan Sri Loy Hean Heong scholarship holder
Year of Graduation: 1997

28 | FEATURE ALUMNI

Surprisingly enough, Yin May ended up pursuing a degree in
Accounting with Monash University in Australia.“I spent 2 months in
an auditing firm after my graduation.My inner self was hinting to me
to try out something else, so despite the norm that Accounting
graduates should end up in auditing or accounting firms, I ventured
into management consulting,and subsequently explored media and
advertising industry, before landing myself in Marketing &
Communications in one of the top airlines in Malaysia.”
After 10 years of diverse work experience spreading across many
industries,Yin May decided to explore a new industry.“When I was
offered a position in Taylor’s College, I knew I had to come back.This
is the place where I have had the greatest and most memorable
experiences as I was transitioning from school to college life,
challenging myself to do better, learned new life skills, and these
experiences definitely helped me tremendously to survive through
my uni and working years. I’ve also made some of the most
wonderful friends in my life here,” shares Yin May.
As the Vice President of Sales & Marketing of Taylor’s College, she is
tasked to make a revolutionary impact on the brand, operations and
the overall college experience for the future generation. Her role
requires her to look after both Admissions Dept and Marketing Dept,
supporting the two campuses, Subang Jaya and Sri Hartamas.
“It takes a lot of passion and determination to succeed.”This Tan Sri
Loy Hean Heong Scholarship recipient holds firmly to her favourite
quote: 'You only live once. Live life to the fullest. Life is not the count
of years, but the years that count.' “I have a strong urge to stay
competitive – always be hungry (for food to stay alive) and more
importantly, for knowledge to learn new things to stay in the game.
But most of all is to have an amazing team who works as one.
Because without a great team, you can’t conquer the world!”
With all the stars aligned in her way, it will not be long before this
stunning beauty, who joined Taylor's College in January 2015, finds
the world at her feet.

FEATURE ALUMNI | 29

ALUMNI MATTERS

WHAT TOP ACHIEVERS FROM
TAYLOR'S COLLEGE SHARE IN
COMMON?

In conjunction with Taylor's Enrolment Day and in the spirit of
sharing valuable experience and inspirational stories with others,
a one-hour exclusive forum comprising students who recently
graduated was held at the Taylor's College.
Who better to share the formula of success in integrating into
Taylor's education path and emerging a better person, than
Taylor's very own top achiever alumni, Ang Chu Yang (Merit
Scholar), along with Srinithya Nagarajan (Full As graduate), Quek
Han Yang (ranked ATAR 96.00 and above) and Lim Zunren
(Outstanding 40 points and above).
They shared with prospective students and parents their
experiences studying at Taylor's and how the opportunities that
abound have helped equipped them with the right set of skills
and knowledge, and eventually giving them a head start in their
journey to being a well-rounded student.

EDUCATION WILL BRING YOU FAR.
PASSION MAKES YOU SOAR FURTHER

(14 March)

"Passion is something that changes constantly. Don't be afraid to
try out different courses in University and even careers, until
you've found the one you are most passionate about and happy
with. I switched from A-Levels to SAM and then did a Degree in
Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nottingham. In
terms of career, I've worked in various industries, but ended up in
the F&B world instead! I took all the experiences I have acquired
over the years and turned them into a group of invaluable skill set
unique to the creation of myBurgerLab," recounted the co-founder
of myBurgerLab's, Chin Ren Yi.
Another forum speaker, Eric Chan, Financial Advisor at OCBC Bank
chipped in, "In this generation, you're going to have a few jobs
before you ended up knowing what you want to be. You can still
change course along the way and try something else."
Irving Tan, a geologist with Petronas, nevertheless, was glad that
studying at Taylor's has led him to turn his career into passion.All the
forum speakers who were present at Taylor's College Enrolment Day
spoke on "Making a Career out of Your Passion," agreed in unison
that it is better to discover one's passion late than never.

30 | ALUMNI MATTERS

BUOYANT BROTHERS AND
FAR-SIGHTED PHD STUDENT ON
CHOOSING TAYLOR'S

"The staff and management of Taylor's treated me really good and we are
Facebook friends as well. For example, the staff at postgraduate office and
international office is really friendly and helpful.Whenever I have problem, I will
look for them and each will solve my problem immediately."

Zhu Lei, Wendy, PhD student in Business

Three illustrious alumni were invited back for the Taylor's 9th education, following family and siblings history of all going to
Agents Conference organized by International Alliance Taylor's - their older brother and five cousins all studied in Taylor's.
Network to share on their experience studying in Taylor's. At this juncture,they even joked that they chose to study inTaylor's
Wendy Zhu,from China,who has been in Malaysia for the past as they get to enjoy sibling discount.
9 years and siblings, John-hans and John-son Oei shared first The brothers spoke on the influence of how Taylors helped
hand of why Taylor's was their first choice and what they loved shaped their direction of where they were headed and
about Taylor's. Those present included Taylor's Group touched on the influence and positivity of their lecturers
Education management and over a hundred of delegates who were mentors along the way. Although they have left
from Indonesia, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Taylor's, John-son is still working closely with Taylor's to
Lanka, Kazakhstan,Tanzania, Myanmar and other countries. showcase the good he is doing for the community, post
John-Hans, CEO of hotel management company, and John-son, Taylor's days. To view his video, visit his Youtube video at
CEO of multiple award winning social enterprise - EPIC, are https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANSNybBzJio
alumni of Taylor's College and University all throughout higher Meanwhile, Wendy, who is currently pursuing her PhD with
tutorship in the first year at Taylor's University Business School,
shared her experiences as a student in a foreign land. Armed
with a Master’s degree in Finance at Taylor's University, she
chose to continue her postgraduate course here due to the
good reputation of Taylors among other private universities.
Furthermore, she realized that the employment rate of Taylors’
graduates is high. Finally, she ended that she would definitely
recommend Taylor's to her friends and relatives in China due
to her memorable experience here.

ALUMNI MATTERS | 31

SHAKERS AND MOVERS

MAN OF MANY HATS -
PROFESSOR DR. HIEW PANG LEANG,
DEAN OF TAYLOR'S
SCHOOL OF COMPUTING & IT

Fast, is an appropriate word for
how Dr. Hiew talks - he has an
opinion for everything, but that's
how things can get done. The
moment he starts to talk, you
know he is the IT man, most
suitable to lead the School of
Computing and IT.

It is hard to resist the stereotypical When asked what he would be doing if multi-skill in non-traditional areas such
assumptions that computer science, he's not walking down this path, Hiew as staff training and IT support", he said.
electrical and computer system disclosed that since young, he has had a Hiew has been extremely adept at
graduates work in isolation with an clear vision of what he would like to driving change and providing clear
intense focus on machinery, when you pursue and has since then,never stopped direction in all aspects of the
meet up with Professor Dr. Hiew Pang chasing his ambitions to become a organization's growth & delivery.
Leang. Being strong technically, Hiew technologist, engineer and educationist. Hiew's nugget for life is that "Innovation
also has strong leadership capability. Hiew has a Ph.D. specializing in should constantly be pushing the
Talking to him, it took mere seconds to Telecommunications, a Bachelor of boundaries of what is technologically
know that he is equally comfortable Science majoring in Computer Science possible, yet staying relevant to our
with researchers and business people. and Information Technology, and a everyday life." Earlier on, when life was
Dr Hiew is currently the Professor and Bachelor of Engineering majoring in once synonymous with research, technical
Dean for the School of Computing and Electrical and Computer Systems. journals and talks in international
Information Technology (SOCIT) of Taylor’s Reflecting on his experiences at the conferences and industry forums, Dr
University in Malaysia. Prior to joining different campuses and his current Hiew now strives to maintain a balance
Taylor’s University, his illustrious career station, Taylor's University, Hiew said between work and family. But we can
in private service spanned fifteen years. that while infrastructure and support rest assure that under the able helm of
He has held posts such as; Associate systems were more advanced in Dr Hiew, Taylor’s School of Computing
professor at Monash University and the Australia, the smaller size of the and IT , established in 1998, will lead by
founding Head of School of Information Malaysian campus had made it easier the notion of producing technopreneurs
Technology,the Managing Director of BT to get to know people. who are geared to meet and tackle the
Global Technology (M) Sdn Bhd,head of "Working on a smaller campus like challenges of the future.
BT's research centre in Malaysia and Taylor's University for instance, has also
consultant with a number of government given me the unique chance to
and semi-government organisations,
both locally and abroad.

32 | SHAKERS AND MOVERS

BUILDING DREAMS WITH TONY LIEW,
DEAN OF TAYLOR'S SCHOOL OF
ARCHITECTURE, BUILDING & DESIGN

When one's motivational tagline
is 'Never Stop', you can expect a
leader who keeps ploughing
energy into his work, day and
night. Behind that hardworking
persona, the sound of his
daughter’s laughter when she’s
watching her favorite episodes of
Simpsons or playing with her
brothers are the little things in life
that keep Tony Liew productive at
work, plus the will to carry on.

With over 11 years of experience helming "My goal of working in an educational saying was,“There are 360 degrees, so
the Taylor's School of Architecture, institution stems from my unquenchable why stick to one?” Her forthright
Building & Design (SABD) which has lifelong interest and pursuit of challenge against conventionality and
continuously clinched awards in information. Learning never ceases presumption of the status quo of
numerous local and international because of new scientific discoveries, designing square buildings is a call to
competitions, Tony Liew could have artistic interpretations and technological arms for architects to challenge them to
rested on his laurels. Nonetheless, advancements. I advocate a humanistic stretch the limits of their imagination.
being the visionary and competitive belief that values artistic creativity Similarly for Tony, although Architecture
leader that he is,Tony says he still finds and imagination and recognise the was not his first choice of study, it has
it tough to face competition when the importance of literature, music, the allowed him to fulfill some of his
opponent is also doing an amazing job. visual and performing arts for personal dreams such as designing buildings for
He has learnt that to cope with the development and fulfillment. people and witnessing some of mankind’s
competition, one has to possess an The School has been in existence since greatest architectural achievements.
unwavering vision, ebullient passion 1998 and it achieved an exponential Tony lets us in on what he would have
and a humble demeanour. growth from 150 students in 2003 to an been, had he not been the Dean of
"As the Dean, the philosophy that’s optimal capacity of 1500 students in Taylor’s School of Architecture, Building
served me well is 'A good leader is not 2012. The School relies wholly on the and Design today. If he had the chance,
someone who only recognizes his expertise of its staff to offer its own he would have walked a different path
strengths but also knows his limitations.' programmes at all levels of studies, altogether, and practised Dentistry
Leaders cannot accomplish things except doctoral studies, and its because he is very adept with his hands,
single-handedly. I depend on others undergraduate programmes are fully possesses an excellent eye for detail and
who are faster, stronger, and smarter to accredited by various local and has concern for good oral hygiene!
tap on their gifts and abilities. The overseas professional bodies that are
School is hence stronger as a result of key contributing factors to its growth. SHAKERS AND MOVERS | 33
the great people that I'm grateful for Tony is inspired by the greatest female
their amazing contributions," he architect Zaha Hadid, whose famous
humbly reveals.

TAYLOR'S CENTRE FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION (CPE)

Did you know that local workers are more willing to give up higher pay and
career growth to learn new skills and have a greater work-life balance?

Taylor’s Centre for Continuing Professional Development (CPE) has been
featured in UP Magazine, a Human Resource Management Publication, with our
very own Professor Selvaraj sharing his take on the importance of lifelong
learning and how Taylor’s CPE Programme is able to provide solution through
their programmes and services.

EDUCATION IS WHAT REMAINS AFTER ONE

HAS FORGOTTEN WHAT ONE HAS LEARNED

IN SCHOOL. - Albert Einstein

Education is a continuous process and it is imperative towards your
growth and progress in life. In today's time and age, an academic
qualification alone will not suffice as there is more to education than
learning itself.Apart from knowledge, professional education plays a
pivotal role in providing busy professionals with opportunities for
self-improvement and personal enrichment which gives them an
edge to withstand the inundation of competition.
For the past 13 years, Taylor's Continuing Professional Education
(CPE) Programme has been helping professionals further develop
their skills and tap into their innate potentials.
The University offers custom-made programmes that are tailored to
the specific interests and request of the participants, a distinctive
feature that sets it apart from other education programmes. "It's not
about getting them to fit our programmes, it's about creating
programmes that are built around their needs", says Professor Dr.
Selvaraj Oyyan Pillay, Vice President, Taylor's Centre for Continuing
Professional Education.

give yourself a
CAREER BOOST WITH
TAYLOR”S CPE PROGRAMME

Professor Dr. Selvaraj Oyyan Pillay,
Vice President,Taylor's Centre for Continuing Professional Education

34 | TAYLOR'S CENTRE FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION (CPE)

REBUILD YOUR CAREER, REINVENT YOURSELF AND REVAMP YOUR LIFESTYLE

At Taylor’s Centre for Continuing Professional Education (CPE), we provide ongoing learning, the latest industry development
skills and the edge to be at the forefront of your respective fields - whether it is in the hospitality industry, culinary arts or
business entrepreneurship.
Continuing education is not just a matter of upgrading skills but a necessary business investment. It is all about complementing
and upgrading existing work skills, knowledge and industry development. Taylor’s Centre for CPE not only understands this but
develops this thinking and trend with out programmes, teaching staffs, information edge and facilities.
With the backing of the reputed pioneer and respected name in private tertiary and academic education - Taylor’s University -
Taylor’s Centre for CPE offers over 18 years of proven results to help ambitious and motivated professionals challenge their own
abilities in achieving professional and personal goals and rewards.
At Taylor’s Centre for CPE, we aim to help you rebuild your career, reinvest yourself and revamp your lifestyle. Let us take you to
the next level to enhance your professional expertise and enrich your lives.

Programme Series

Teaching & Team Building Finance & Hospitality Human ICT & Language & Leadership
Learning Accounting Management Capital Technology Communication Development
Series Development
Series & Leisure Series Series Series Series
Series
Logistics & Plantation
Sports Strategic & Supply Chain Marketing Personal & Mill Project Retail & Shopping
Management Quality Management & Sales Series Development Management Complex
& Leadership Management
Management Series Series Series Series Management
Series Series Series

Please visit our website www.taylors.edu.my/cpe or call us at 603-5629-5781 to find out more about our programmes.

Centre for Continuing Professional Education
Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus No.1 Jalan Taylor’s, 47500 Subang Jaya,
Selangor Darul Ehsan
Tel: 603-5629 5781 Fax: 603-5629 5141 Email: [email protected]

TAYLOR'S CENTRE FOR CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION (CPE) | 35

MUSINGS BY ALUMNI ABROAD

Alisher Tazhinov,Taylor's Business School,
major in Finance

I came to Malaysia in October 2012 to study at Taylor's.At first, I was worried, as this was my first
experience studying overseas. But I overcame all challenges, graduated with distinction and
now working in very good environment.
Right now I am working in Kazakhstan in one of the largest mining extraction companies in the
world. I am working as a Corporate Finance Manager.
I chose to study at Taylor's University because when I first visited Malaysia and Singapore in
2010,I was very impressed,how both countries are developed.Moreover,Taylor's University was
recommended to me by my friends as one of the best universities in Malaysia.
My favourite lecturers are Prof. Khong Wei Kok, Subramaniam Pillay, Kenneth David, Aaron Koo
and Cheng Fan Fah for their working experience, interesting teaching atmosphere and for very
interesting and creative lectures.
Taylor's culture is very different from Kazakhstan.People here are more ambitious,goal-oriented.
Studying at Taylors's helped me very much as I did my internship at DHL, which is a truly
multinational experience.

Karam Lee, Canadian Pre-University
(CPU), graduated in 2012

I chose CPU over other programs mainly because of CPU’s uniqueness. It has great Canadian
instructors and the curicculum is interesting, students get more freedom in terms of way of
studying and the opportunity to go to a Canadian university.
My favourite lecturer in CPU was Mr.David St.Germain. I just liked taking his International
Business course. He was very welcoming to the students, helping students who are in need and
easily approachable. I remember the class atmosphere was so relaxing and interesting that it
changed my stereotype on business classes. I initially thought it was a boring subject.
Growing up as a Korean, going to school and studying there was always intense. Not only
myself, but my friends in Korea also had to study all day long and always concentrate on the
national college entrance exam.
Studying at Taylor’s on the other hand, has taught me that studying is not only about sitting
down on the chair for hours without saying a word, but that studying can be done by
communicating with people, through presentation. I think the reason why I like CPU is that it
values things like presentation, group work and assignments more than exams. Also, I can
proudly say that one of the reasons why I enjoyed CPU life was that it had so many fun activities,
which no other program would have had, for example dress-up week, CPU assassins, CPU
Talent show and so many more.
I found that my experience at CPU is similar to my current Canadian university. CPU prepared
me for the university by practising activities like presentation and group work that are
mandatory for certain courses at my current university; particularly for the business courses like
accounting, management and marketing.
I actually made one of my best friends changed her mind and she enrolled in CPU a semester after
I went to CPU, so yes, I would definitely recommend Taylor's CPU to other international students!
I’m so proud to be a CPU alumni. CPU rocks!

36 | MUSINGS BY ALUMNI ABROAD

INSPIRING PEOPLE

A personifying personality, Khoo Cai Lin,
Malaysian National Swimmer & Record Holder -
"Back then, I didn't like swimming"

In this edition of “Inspiring People”, we speak to Cai Lin who is currently one of Malaysia’s
top competitive swimmers and has represented her country to the Olympic games in
Beijing. In this interview, she shares her journey as a budding young swimmer who came
into the sport out of circumstance and has now progressed to the realm of high
performance swimming on a global level.
She also talks about her life as a national athlete shedding light into the difficult yet
fulfilling life of a career athlete and their many trials and challenges in life. Cai Lin shares
moments of despair and hope with us and the Alumninews Magazine editorial team would
like to thank her for sharing such insightful thoughts into her life.
Most of all, congratulations for clinching the 'Sportswoman' award at the Majlis Sukan IPTS
Malaysia (MASISWA) Award Night 2014!
Well done, you have made Taylor's University proud!

INSPIRING PEOPLE | 37

I started swimming at the age of 3. I only started
because my eldest sister had asthma so my mum
sent my second sister and myself to learn swimming
together with my eldest sister as well. We slowly
progressed and went from inter club competitions to
inter-state. Both my sisters were state champions
when they were in primary school but soon stopped
swimming to concentrate on their studies.As for me,
I continued to swim through primary school even
though I hated swimming back then. My passion for
swimming slowly grew when I started to win during
inter-state and inter-school competitions. The rest,
like they say, is history.
I've been in the national team for 13 years and
it's always a good time. There can be more
downs than ups but when I finally achieve
something that I've set out to do and I achieve it,
everything else doesn't matter.

People have asked me before, since I have participated in countless local
and international competitions, do I still rehearse strategies, execution, &
feelings for every competition? Many would think swimming should come
easily for me, like a duck taking to the water.The truth is, before my races, I
will still usually visualize what or how my race is going to be.
This goes the same for my studies as well. But of cause it can't all be just
visualization and no hard work..If one is not willing to put in any hard work,
one should not complain about not getting the outcome that one expects.
As a national athlete, people always think that we get whatever we
want but in reality we work very hard to get what we want. It is very
difficult to look for sponsors these days but I am very grateful for the
help I've been getting from everyone. I started my diploma at Taylor's 6
years ago and was very happy to get a sports scholarship from Taylor's
for the second semester of my diploma.The scholarship covered 100%
of my tuition fee. That was a burden that was lifted off my mum's
shoulders as education is really expensive. After my second semester,
I obtained a sports scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education
and have been on their scholarship since then.
I feel that every kid should start off doing any kind of sport during their
younger days as it really helps build character and discipline. It will also
teach them to be independent and have good time management skill.

38 | INSPIRING PEOPLE

Programmes
Valid for Degree Programmes (except School of Medicine, Continued
Professional Education, Centre for Languages, Postgraduate Studies)
Min.Academic Eligibility
National and State player (Malaysians only) of any sports endorsed by the
Malaysian government.
Entitlement
100% or 50% tuition fee waiver for full duration of studies.
Interview is required.Bursary Committee to determine based on Academic
Merits, Financial Hardship & Sports Achievements
Sports scholarship for all intakes
Closing date: 2 weeks before intake date
T&C apply.

INSPIRING PEOPLE | 39

PUONTLOENCKTIINAGL

As one of the pioneers and leading institutions of higher education in
Malaysia, Taylor's has always held steadfast to our commitment of
educating a new generation of global leaders, while giving back to
society. In addition, we are also strongly embedded with the late Tan
Sri Dato' Dr Loy Hean Heong's philosophy of the power of education
- that education empowers students towards making our world a
richer and happier place.

Alicia Ooi "I am the first person in my family to attend university. My mother is a single
Taylor's Hardship Award 2011 mother with four children and I am the eldest child. I still remember the
Taylor's Business Foundation feeling of dilemma having to choose between studying or stepping into the
Bachelor of Business (Hons) Banking and Finance working world instead.
I felt guilty having to ask my family to finance my higher education after I
graduated from my SPM. Hence, I tried my luck by applying for many
scholarships, hoping that I can get a full tuition fee waiver. Unfortunately,
the scholarships that I have been selected for from a few universities were
not sufficient and my family still could not afford the remainder of the fees.
So, I still could not afford to accept the scholarship in the end. Similarly, I
had also considered taking up PTPTN loan to finance my study. However,
we still could not afford to pay for the remainder of the fees.
I almost gave up hope to pursue a tertiary education and was
contemplating to look for a job. The turning point in my life came when I
received a call from Taylor's University one day with their scholarship offer,
i have never looked back!
Without this scholarship, going to university would be impossible for me
and I would not be allowed to obtain such a high quality education.
I wish to contribute back in any way possible.In future,I want to impact people
and build a society that will help and support everyone to reach their dreams,
just like exactly how the scholarship is helping me to reach mine."
A small gift of kindness can change the course of a person's life, which
ultimately can change the course of the world in future, just like how this
scholarship had changed Alicia's life.
Alicia Ooi is a recipient of the Taylor's Financial Hardship Award 2011. She
received a 100% tuition fee waiver for Taylor's Business Foundation and
Bachelor of Business (Hons) Banking and Finance,worth a total of RM105,000.
Taylor's, helping to unleash the power of potential of the future generation.

40 | UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

SAVE THE DATE

TAYLOR’S ALUMNI OFFICE

TAYLOR’S Date : 12th September 2015 (Saturday)
Time : 10.00am - 3.00pm
Venue : Sport Planet (Subang Grand)
Fees : RM49.00/team

Register at tiny.cc/alumnifutsal

FALUMNI-STUDENT Prizes

UTSAL MATCH Champion

RM500

1st Runner Up

RM300

2nd Runner Up

RM150

SAVE THE DATE | 41

ALUMNI BENEFITS

42 | ALUMNI BENEFITS

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Personal and Professional Development -

LIFETIME DISCOUNT OF UP TO 25%

Hospitality,Tourism & Culinary Arts Programme

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OR TRAININGS ORGANISED
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ALUMNI BENEFITS | 43