CONVOCATION 3 March 2024 Institute of Business Excellence (IBE), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia Ceremony 2024
Contents The Holy Quran ...................................................................................................... Welcome Remarks from Think Plus Academy.................................................. Welcome Remarks from Institute of Business Excellence (IBE)................... Think Plus Academy Sdn Bhd ............................................................................. Institute of Business Excellence (IBE), UiTM ................................................... The Program .......................................................................................................... Certification ........................................................................................................... Hybrid Approach ................................................................................................... Board of Governance ........................................................................................... . Message from the Chairman of Board of Governance ................................................. Assessment Criteria .................................................................................................................. List of the graduates............................................................................................. Recipients of Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice ................ Recipients of Executive Diploma in Applied Sustainable Practice .......... Inspirational Quote .............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 13 14 15 29 30
The Holy Quran And [recall] when Moses prayed for water for his people, so We said, "Strike with your staff the stone." And there gushed forth from it twelve springs, and every people knew its watering place. "Eat and drink from the provision of Allah , and do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption. 1
Welcome Remarks Esteemed guests, faculty members, and the graduating class of the inaugural Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice program, On this momentous occasion, I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Today, we celebrate not only the culmination of your academic journey but also a significant step forward in your commitment to building a more sustainable future. The establishment of this program, together with IBE, UiTM, stemmed from a deeply held belief: that sustainability is not merely an academic pursuit but a call to action. We envisioned a program that transcended theoretical knowledge and equipped individuals with the practical tools and expertise to navigate the complexities of realworld implementation. The P5 Framework, serving as the bedrock of this program, has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability through the interconnected lenses of product, process, people, planet, and prosperity. This holistic approach, coupled with the unique blend of experiential learning, on-site coaching, and business facilitation, has empowered you to translate knowledge into tangible action. Witnessing your dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to sustainability throughout this program has been a source of immense pride. You have not only embraced new perspectives and challenged yourselves intellectually but also embarked on a journey of personal transformation, becoming valuable assets in the ongoing pursuit of a sustainable future. As you embark on the next chapter, I urge you to carry forward the invaluable knowledge and practical skills you have acquired. Remember, the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainability are vast and ever-evolving. Embrace continuous learning, seek collaboration, and strive to be agents of positive change within your organizations and communities. I am confident that each of you will leave an indelible mark on the world, contributing significantly to building a future where environmental responsibility and economic prosperity go hand in hand. Congratulations once again, and best wishes for your continued success in your chosen endeavors. Thank you. TS Dr Norsaidatul Akmar Mazelan CEO, Think Plus Academy Sdn Bhd 2 by Ts Dr Norsaidatul Akmar Mazelan
Welcome Remarks I am honored to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the graduates of the Executive Master of Sustainable Applied Practices program, a joint collaboration with Think Plus Academy. To the graduates, as industry practitioners, you have embarked on a journey of lifelong learning and professional growth. My hope for each of you is that you continue to uphold the values of sustainability and apply them in your respective fields. May you leverage the knowledge and skills gained from this program to drive positive change and innovation within your organizations and communities. I encourage you to remain curious, open-minded, and proactive in seeking solutions to complex challenges. Embrace diversity, collaboration, and ethical leadership as guiding principles in your professional endeavors. Remember that your actions have the power to shape a more sustainable and equitable future for generations to come. As you move forward in your careers, may you inspire others with your passion, resilience, and commitment to creating a better world. Stay connected with your fellow graduates, mentors, and the broader network of sustainability champions. Together, let us continue to drive progress towards a more sustainable and thriving society. Congratulations once again on this significant achievement. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Associate Professor Dr. Wan Edura Wan Rashid Director, Institute of Business Excellence 3 byProf Madya DrWanEduraWanRashid
Think Plus Academy Sdn Bhd Specializing in Training, Assessment, and Consultancy services for Sustainability Impact Projects, Think Plus Academy focus is on shaping a future that thrives on responsible practices. At Think Plus Academy, we excel in crafting industry-specific curriculum modules and courses, providing certificates for micro-credential courses and specialized programs accredited by international and local bodies. Through strategic collaborations with esteemed Institutions of Higher Learning, we curate Executive Master and Master Class Programs, cultivating a skilled workforce tailored to specific industries. Distinguished by our cutting-edge assessment tools for competency, project ideation, and Sustainability Awards, we ensure a comprehensive evaluation process. As consultants, we extend our expertise to project certification in sustainability, covering project management, sustainability impact analysis, and ESG reporting. Think Plus Academy’s mission to shape a sustainable future through innovative education and impactful projects. 4
Institute of Business Excellence, UiTM The Institute of Business Excellence (IBE) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) is a distinguished Center of Excellence within the university, dedicated to providing exceptional services in training, consultancy, and research. IBE's focus is on equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today's competitive business landscape. IBE understands the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. Hence, IBE works closely with industry partners to ensure that its programs and services are relevant, practical, and aligned with real-world needs. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, IBE empowers its clients to achieve tangible results and drive sustainable growth. Through its comprehensive training programs, IBE offers participants practical insights and cutting-edge strategies that enable them to excel in their respective fields. IBE's consultancy services provide tailored solutions to address specific challenges and seize opportunities for its clients, while its research initiatives generate valuable insights that inform industry practices and shape the future of business. In essence, IBE is committed to excellence in education, consultancy, and research, working hand in hand with industry partners to empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. 5
The Program The Executive Master & Executive Diploma in Applied Sustainable Practice, a joint program by Think Plus Academy and UiTM's Institute of Business Excellence, is designed for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in sustainable practices. This program offers a well-rounded curriculum blending industry knowledge and practical applications, covering sustainable business strategies, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. Through a rigorous curriculum comprising 30 modules, candidates have been equipped with essential knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of sustainable development. The programme integrates the P5 Framework introduced by GPM Global, focusing on product, process, people, planet, and prosperity, providing a comprehensive foundation for sustainable practice. What sets this programme apart is its emphasis on Recognition of Prior Learning Certification, allowing candidates to convert their experiential learning into formal accreditation. This recognition underscores the value of hands-on experience in driving sustainability initiatives and highlights the commitment of both institutions to fostering excellence and innovation in the field. The program exemplifies the commitment of Think Plus Academy and UiTM to preparing professionals for leadership roles in a world increasingly focused on sustainability. 6
Certification via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and normal education learning differ in how your prior knowledge and experience are recognized when earning a qualification: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) • Focuses on: Evaluating and recognizing your skills and knowledge gained outside of formal education, such as work experience, volunteer work, training programs, or personal projects. • Assessment: You submit evidence like portfolios, certificates, or testimonials, and undergo interviews or assessments to demonstrate your competence in areas relevant to the qualification. • Benefits: Faster completion (skip learning what you already know), potentially lower costs, validation of your existing skills. • Drawbacks: Requires strong evidence and documentation, plus may not provide the same depth of knowledge as formal education. Normal Education Learning • Focuses on: Gaining knowledge and skills through structured learning in a classroom or online setting, following a curriculum designed by the institution. • Assessment: You complete assignments, exams, and projects designed to assess your understanding of the course material. • Benefits: Provides a structured learning experience, broadens your knowledge base beyond existing skills, may be required for certain professions. • Drawbacks: May take longer and be more expensive, may involve learning things you already know. Certification 7
Feature Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Normal Education Learning Focus Prior knowledge and experience Structured learning Assessment Evidence-based (portfolio, etc.) Assignments, exams, projects Benefits Faster, potentially cheaper, validates skills Structured learning, broadens knowledge Drawbacks Requires strong evidence, not universal, less depth Takes longer, may be more expensive, redundant learning Certification via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and normal education learning differ in how your prior knowledge and experience are recognized when earning a qualification: Certification 8
The Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice program is a Hybrid version and have elements of both Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and normal structured learning. It recognizes prior experience through projectbased assessment while still potentially providing new knowledge and skills through coursework or other learning activities. RPL aspects Assessment focused on project implementation and evidence: The program evaluates existing knowledge and skills through practical application. Sustainable project details and elements: The program recognizes existing understanding of sustainable practices based on past involvement in relevant projects. Normal structured learning aspects Attaining a certificate generally entails structured learning and the acquisition of fresh knowledge, even if it builds upon existing skills. A prerequisite is necessary before candidates can qualify to submit projects for assessment. Hybrid Approach 9
The Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice is the optimal choice! A hybrid approach offers distinct advantages to industry participants seeking a Certificate in Sustainability Practice. A. For individuals already entrenched in the business or industry, the Executive Master's programme provides a tailored path. This approach acknowledges their wealth of experience and expertise, offering a more efficient route to certification. By recognising prior learning through project-based assessments, the programme validates existing skills while also providing opportunities to acquire new knowledge through coursework and learning activities. B. The Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice stands out as a hybrid programme, blending elements of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) with traditional structured learning. This combination caters to the diverse needs of industry professionals by accommodating their existing expertise while supplementing it with additional insights and skills essential for advancing in the field of sustainability. By incorporating both RPL and structured learning components, the programme ensures a comprehensive and efficient learning experience, empowering participants to excel in their careers while contributing meaningfully to sustainable practices in their respective industries. 10
BoardofGovernance Prof. EmeritusDatoDr. Mohamad Azemi MohdNoor Prof. MadyaDr. Wan Edura Wan Rashid Dr.Noorhana Yahya Datin Ts.Dr.Norsaadah Zakaria ShuryatiDatuk Shuaib 11 Ts.Dr.Norsaidatul Akmar Mazelan Dr. Shamsul Baharin Saihani
Congratulations on your remarkable achievement in completing the Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice programme. Your dedication and commitment to sustainability have been truly inspiring. Throughout this journey, you have demonstrated outstanding leadership, resilience, and a passion for driving positive change. Your ability to embrace new ideas and implement innovative solutions is a testament to your potential as leaders in sustainability. As the Chairman of the Board of Governance, we are proud to have witnessed your growth and development. Your success in obtaining certification in Executive Master or Diploma in Applied Sustainable Practice is a testament to your hard work and determination. As you move forward, we encourage you to continue leading by example and advocating for sustainable practices in your personal and professional endeavours. Your role as ambassadors for sustainability is crucial in shaping a more equitable and resilient future. Once again, congratulations on this significant milestone. We are confident that you will continue to make a meaningful impact in the field of sustainability. Best Regards, Dr. Noorhana Yahya Message fromthe Chairmanof Boardof Governance 12
Participants in the Executive Diploma & Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice were assessed through various methods, including individual and group assignments, presentations, case studies, and research projects. The assessments were designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of sustainable principles. Emphasis was placed on the ability to analyze and implement sustainable strategies in real-world situations, demonstrating critical thinking and problemsolving skills. The assessments also considered participants' leadership qualities, communication skills, and their potential to create positive environmental and social impact within their organizations. Overall, the goal was to equip participants with a strong skill set that prepared them to be effective leaders in the field of sustainability. 13 Assessment Criteria
The Graduates 1.Ts Murugan AL Krishnan Executive Diploma in Applied Sustainable Practice 1. Mohamad Thaqeef bin Noor Hisham 2. Noor Hisham bin Ab Hamid 3.Farah Wahida binti Jamaludin 4.Ayanda Goba (South Africa) 5. Maniyarasu Solai 6.Dr Gwee Sai Ling 7.Aini Saadah binti Saod 8.Muzammil bin Mardzuki 9.Anja Juliah binti Abu Bakar 10.Noor Azila binti Abdul Hameer 11.Norbaizura binti Ikhazam 12.Melvin Tong Tim Yi 13.Rita Murni binti Zainal Abidin 14.Yang Suselawati binti Zakaria Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 14
Thaqeef specializes in asbestos management, ensuring safe and ecofriendly removal. They conduct detailed surveys to identify asbestos, guiding clients on compliance and safety. Thaqeef prioritizes ongoing training for their team, collaborating with regulatory bodies for environmental standards. Their commitment extends to responsible disposal, emphasizing sustainability, safety, and compliance. Thaqeef is a reliable partner for asbestos management, offering comprehensive services for a greener and safer future. The Graduates Mohamad Thaqeef bin Noor Hisham Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 15
The Graduates Noor Hisham, a key figure at ECT, developed Bio-Solv®, a water-based degreaser gaining international recognition. His achievements include securing approval for oil spill response and pioneering a method for cleaning contaminated sand. With notable success at events like Dubai Expo 2020 and KIOGE 2022, Noor Hisham highlights ECT's global presence and value in the market. Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 16 Noor Hisham bin Ab Hamid
The Graduates Farah Wahida, with 18 years of experience and a focus on sustainability in project management for 9 years, is a certified GPMb by GPM Global USA. Since 2022, she has actively assessed sustainable projects for GPM360 certification, using the P5 standard. Farah's commitment extends beyond project management; she serves as a GRI consultant, providing comprehensive reports, and excels as an ESG reporting analyst for complete Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reports. Her profile showcases a seasoned professional dedicated to integrating sustainability practices into project management and offering expertise in sustainability reporting. Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 17 Farah Wahida binti Jamaludin
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 18 Ayanda Archiebold Goba Ayanda Archiebold Goba, with 14 years of experience, serves as a Resource Auditor at DALRRD, South Africa, overseeing sustainable use of agricultural resources. His expertise spans industries like agriculture, water resources management, and forestry. Ayanda focuses on sustainable resource management, compliance, corporate social responsibility, and project implementation aligned with ESG and sustainability requirements under CARA.
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 19 Maniyarasu Sole@Solai is the Director of Sustainability and Business at MAM Minerals Sdn Bhd, focusing on Green Mining and Sustainability Project Management. With a history of managing project offices for top organizations, he brings expertise in sustainable practices and strategy implementation. His role involves collaborating with teams and executives to execute multimillion-dollar projects, reflecting his commitment to environmentally responsible mining. Previous roles include positions at Malaysian Association Productivity (MAP), Peremba Jaya Holding Sdn Bhd, and MBF Holding Berhad. Maniyarasu Sole@Solai
The Graduates Dr Gwee Sai Ling, the General Manager of Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC), is dedicated to empowering youth in Penang, with a focus on sustainability. With extensive leadership in private higher education, she has coached and supervised thousands of youths, emphasizing positive mindset, self-belief, and values. Certified as a trainer and a practitioner of NFNLP, Sai Ling is passionate about lifelong learning for a better world. Her training expertise lies in sustainability (SDGs & ESG), soft skills, and areas such as leadership, problemsolving, event management, public speaking, communication, customer service management, and Outcome-Based Education (OBE). Dr Gwee Sai Ling Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 20
The Graduates Aini Saadah Binti Mohd Saod has been the Penolong Pengarah Hal Ehwal Murid at Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Perak since 2015 and previously held the position of Penolong Kanan Kokurikulum at SK Tasek Damai, Ipoh, Perak from 2013 to 2015. She is driven by a strong desire to advance sustainability practices in education, addressing environmental challenges, and promoting social responsibility. Applying for the Executive Diploma in Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) program, she aims to deepen her knowledge of ESG principles and implement them in organizational decision-making. Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 21 Aini Saadah binti Saod
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 22 He is a Tourism Transformation Expert with Marketing and Social Engineering skills. Qualified Greenhats Competitive Intelligence (CI) and EC-Council (CEH) and Security Countermeasures). Leading the "Tour Buddy" Digital Tourism Project with Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). A Social Engineer with many tools chasing into Think and Act Tourism Malaysia Productivity Corp(MPC). He is also an Industry Expert in Tourism, Also a Sustainability Tourism Expert and as a GPM Global Ambassador Muzammil bin Mardzuki
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 23 Anja is an accomplished networker and a visionary. Her leadership strategies uphold the true value of an organisation’s vision and mission. Anja’s worldwide professional connections enable her to explore business opportunities and establish new business partnership globally. Anja is passionate about mentoring women social entrepreneurs and inspire them playing an active part in their community. Anja Juliah binti Abu Bakar
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 24 Nor Azila is a detail-oriented CFO and Legal Advisor with expertise in managing social impact and monitoring economic output, focusing on sustainable consumption and production. Holding a Bachelor's Degree in Law and an MBA in Finance, she excels in strategic planning, risk management, financial analysis, and legal counsel. Nor Azila is dedicated to promoting a better quality of life and worklife balance for staff. She also serves as a Global GPM ambassador and holds a Professional Certificate in Applied Sustainable Practice from GPM Global, showcasing her commitment to financial success and social responsibility. Nor Azila binti Abdul Hameer
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 25 Norbaizura binti Ikhazam Norbaizura is a professional with 15 years of experience, specializing in sustainability-focused project management for the past 7 years. Certified by GPM Global USA in 2017, she has been actively engaged in assessing sustainable projects for GPM360 certification since 2022, utilizing the P5 standard set by GPM Global. Her dedication is focused on upholding the highest sustainability standards in project management, reflecting her commitment to excellence in both project management and sustainable business practices.
The Graduates Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice 26 Melvin Tong Tim Yi Melvin, a natural farmer and permaculturist, uses his expertise to promote sustainable practices in corporations and regenerative food systems. He completed a Permaculture Design Certificate to address food sovereignty issues. Driven by permaculture principles, he runs "My Kampung Life" to explore profitable natural farming methods. His farm serves as a demonstration site showcasing a mature food forest and closed-loop practices. He seeks to bridge the gap between corporations, communities, and sustainable living through the GPM global standard.
Rita Murni, a seasoned IT professional with 15+ years of experience, excels in solution implementation and organizational growth. Known for her skills in IT operations and architecture, she has served clients like DBKL, MDEC, and JPN. Rita actively engages in Corporate Social Responsibility, participating in events related to UN17 Sustainable Development Goals and supporting initiatives for human rights, community sustainability, and economic prosperity. Her commitment to making a positive impact is a hallmark of her well-rounded professional approach. The Graduates Rita Murni binti Zainal Abidin 27 Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice
Yang Suselawati possesses over 10 years of experience in Construction, Landscape Architecture, and Professional Services, with a strong focus on participating in NonGovernmental and Association activities. Committed to Corporate Social Responsibility, she actively engages in events related to UN17 Sustainable Development Goals, campaigns for community enhancement, and various programs supporting human rights, economic prosperity, and health and wellness. Her leadership roles in associations and clubs underscore her dedication to shaping positive community impact. The Graduates Yang Suselawati binti Zakaria 28 Executive Master in Applied Sustainable Practice
The Graduates Senior Lecturer in Polytechnic of Mersing (PMJ), and 35 years experiences in TVET education. Obtained his Master degree in Electrical, Electronic & System from UKM (2004). Responsible for developing and executing green and sustainable initiatives in Polytechnic of Mersing campus together with his team. He was involved in Renewable Energy and Smart Agricultural grant project in Polytechnic of Mersing. Being a member of SusTNET and received his Professional Certificate in Advanced Sustainable Practice under the GPM Global Sustainability Framework in 2020. Ts Murugan AL Krishnan Executive Diploma in Applied Sustainable Practice 29
Martin Luther King, March for Integrated Schools “Make a career of humanity. Commit yourself to the noble struggle for equal rights. You will make a better person of yourself, a greater nation of your country, and a finer world to live in.”
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Convocation Ceremony 2024 Think Plus Academy Sdn Bhd Institute of Business Excellence, UiTM Sustainability Training, Assessment & Analysis Centre (SusTAAC) www.thinkplusesg.com