THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017

An eye for education

Pursuing further education is a daunting task for anyone juggling work,
family and social commitments. Turn the page to learn how branch
campuses and foreign programmes can help professionals obtain an
international education while continuing to put food on the table.
2 Postgraduate THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017

Laugh your
brain off
WHAT'S not to love about science?
Add a little humour and wild
thinking and you have a recipe for
some interesting, albeit wacky
breakthroughs.
Fondly referred to as The Igs, the
Ig Nobel Prizes are a hilarious and
stimulating parody of the highly
acclaimed Nobel Prizes.
Awarded each year for research
achievements that cannot or
should not be reproduced, the
prizes honour demonstrations of
humour in science, medicine and
technology.
The absurd nature of the Ig
Nobel Prizes is reflected in its
ironic title, coined from a
combination of the Nobel Prizes
and the word ignoble.

Driving the paradoxical point home is the words being:

prizes official mascot, The Stinker a
caricatural take on Auguste Rodins well-known
Not honourable in bronze sculpture The Thinker.
character or purpose Instead of sitting in deep thought and
philosophical pondering, The Stinker is a
replica of the sculpture on his back, fallen to
the floor in the midst of laughter.
adjective The ingenious madcaps at the Annals of
Improbable Research magazine, the establishing
Of humble origin or organisation of the Ig Nobel Prizes, even went
social status so far as to adapt their own vocabulary in
conjunction with the ignoble theme, some
l Ignitaries Persons of high esteem
l Ignobelium Recipient of an Ig Nobel prize
l Igginess The quality of humour and
absurdity that somehow makes absolute
sense
The intention to celebrate the unusual and
honour the imaginative is certainly manifested
by the ingenuity behind the Ig Nobel Prizes.
With 2017 coming to a close, we take a look
at some of the wacky discoveries and batty
breakthroughs that were recognised this year.

Ever wondered why your

grandfather had such big
ears? Apparently, so did
James Heathcote, who was
awarded for studying the
general size of ears on
Matthew Rockloff and elderly men.
Nancy Greer received the prize In his research titled Why Do
for their experiments to see how Old Men Have Big Ears?, which
contact with a live crocodile affects a was published in the British
persons willingness to gamble. Medical Journal, Heathcote did not
Their paper, Never Smile at a Crocodile: specifically answer the question
Betting on Electronic Gaming Machines is Intensified by posed but he did conclude that the
Reptile-Induced Arousal, was published in the Journal human ear grows an average of
of Gambling Studies. 0.22mm per year and that gravity
The research concluded that high arousal can may also play a part in stretching
intensify gambling in at-risk players, but only if the the skin.
feeling is not perceived as a negative emotion.

Chosen and awarded by past

Jiwon Han was a high
school student at the Korean
Minjok Leadership Academy
when he jotted down his
observation of the science of
coffee spills, which
eventually led him to write a
paper titled A Study on the
Coffee Spilling Phenomena in
the Low Impulse Regime.
Strangely, this was not the
first research on coffee
spilling to be conducted.
Published in Achievements in
the Life Sciences, Hans paper
Ignobeliums and Nobel Prize winners,
If you think that it is hard Based on their study, they the Ig Nobel Prize winners are given 60
for you to tell apart one discovered that twins who seconds to explain the concept and
identical twin from another, are more prone to anxiety results of their research.
you are not alone. Matteo are more likely to mistake Other wacky winning research this
Martini, Ilaria Bufalari, Maria their twin siblings face as year involved the use of fluid dynamics
Antonietta Stazi and their own. to explain if a cat can be both solid and
Salvatore Maria Aglioti The research paper, Is liquid, the discovery of a female penis
concluded in their study that That Me or My Twin? Lack of and male vagina in a cave insect, and
many identical twins have Self-Face Recognition the first scientific report of human
the problem of telling Advantage in Identical blood in the diet of the hairy-legged
themselves apart visually Twins, was published in vampire bat.
based on pictures. PLoS ONE in 2015. In the area of better understanding
the human body, outstanding research
included didgeridoo playing as an
alternative treatment for obstructive
sleep apnoea syndrome, the use of
describes in detail the advanced brain-scanning technology to
dynamics of liquid-sloshing measure the extent to which some
and what happens when a people are disgusted by cheese, and
person walks backwards discovering that a developing human
while carrying a cup of foetus responds more strongly to music
coffee. that is played electromechanically
He concluded that inside the mothers vagina than to
coffee is less likely to music played electromechanically on
spill when you walk the mothers belly.
backward with your mug It is characteristic that the Igginess of
unless you crash into a the research receiving Ig Nobel prizes
colleague who may also be is a side effect and not the goal of the
walking backward, which study. The winners always make you
will still lead to spillage in laugh, then think.
the end.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017 3
4 Postgraduate
Stronger in partnership
CURTIN University, Malaysia
(Curtin Malaysia) and Novakey
Developers Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary
of the Episo Group of Companies,
recently signed three memoranda
to strengthen their academia-
industry partnership.
The documents included a
memorandum of understanding
for collaboration in education and
training, and two memoranda of
agreement for collaborative
research.
Signing on behalf of Curtin
Malaysia was pro-vice-chancellor,
president and chief executive Prof
Jim Mienczakowski while
managing director Datuk David
Goh Kien Ping signed for Novakey
Developers.
Signing as witnesses were Curtin
Malaysias Faculty of Engineering
and Science dean Prof Lau Hieng
Ho and Miri city councillor Ariffin
Mohamad on behalf of Curtin
Malaysia and Novakey Developers
respectively.
In his speech during the signing
ceremony, Prof Mienczakowski
commented that the signing was a
milestone for both organisations in
their pursuit of producing
graduates in construction
technology and civil engineering
as well as collaboration in
cutting-edge research to meet
market demands.
The collaboration will include
Novakey Developers sponsoring an
annual award of RM10,000 for the
best project by final-year civil and
construction engineering students.
Novakey Developers will also
appoint a representative to the
Representatives of Novakey and Curtin at the signing ceremony.
Faculty of Engineering and Science
Industrial Advisory Committee
who will work with the university
to develop competitive engineering
curricula and learning resources
relevant to industry requirements.
In addition, the two
organisations will develop
industrial placement and graduate
training programmes at Novakey
Developers to groom talent for the
civil and construction engineering
sector in Sarawak.
According to Goh, this is a good
move as there is a growing
demand for engineers to support
the states development agenda,
especially mega infrastructure
projects such as the Pan-Borneo
Highway.
Under the research memoranda,
Novakey Developers will provide
some RM230,000 as well as
materials to conduct research on
high-performance concrete, which
holds great potential in
revolutionising the civil
engineering industry.
Prof Lau said signing the
memoranda with Novakey
Developers was a significant step
in enhancing the Faculty of
Engineering and Sciences
engagement with its industry
partners.
The initiatives include
establishment of the Curtin
Highway Infrastructure Research
and Innovation Hub earlier this
year, which will work with the
industry to carry out research as
well as provide technical services
and innovative solutions to support
the ongoing development of the
Pan-Borneo Highway.
The faculty received more than
RM650,000 in research funding
and RM1.08mil worth of donated
equipment from the industry this
year.
It also established a Keysight
Reference Lab with Keysight
Technologies and a Digital Maker
Hub with the Malaysia Digital
Economy Corporation at the
campus.
Additionally, a biotechnology
research centre will soon be
completed.
n For more information, visit
www.curtin.edu.my
Funding
your potential
NO matter ones financial status,
scholarships are extremely helpful
for students and are the most well-
known form of financial aid they
can apply for.
However, funding postgraduate
studies involves a lot more than
fulfilling course fees every
semester, and different types of
scholarships are available for
different needs.
The following are a few
scholarship options for pursuing
postgraduate studies.
Fellowship scheme
The four public research
universities in Malaysia award
financial assistantships to all local
graduates to pursue postgraduate
studies, particularly those pursuing
doctorate degrees.
The usual requirements to
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
qualify for a fellowship from
research universities are include:
l Malaysian candidate
l Unemployed
l Looking to pursue
full-time study in a masters
or doctoral programme by
research or coursework and
dissertation
l Possess a bachelors degree
with minimum CGPA of 3.00 or its
equivalent or a masters degree
(for doctorate degree)
l Must not be older than 40
on application date
Research assistant scheme
Research supervisors, project
leaders or project heads are the
financial backing for this type of
postgraduate funding.
> TURN TO PAGE 7
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017 5
6 Postgraduate
The teenager comes of age
IT was almost 20 years ago when
The University of Nottingham
decided to open a campus in
Malaysia.
The vision became a reality in
2000 when it opened its doors to
86 students in temporary
accommodation on Jalan Raja
Chulan, Kuala Lumpur.
That office block is long gone,
having been replaced by
apartments, but it served the
university well during its first five
years of operation as it found its feet
and slowly grew in student numbers
as well as the range of degree
programmes offered.
In 2005, the university moved to
its custom-built campus in
Semenyih, which now hosts around
5,000 students and employs almost
700 staff.
From its initial offerings of
By PROF
GRAHAM
KENDALL
business, computer science and
engineering programmes, the range
of degrees that Nottingham offers
has grown to include biosciences,
biomedical sciences, English,
pharmacy and psychology, to name
a few.
The programmes that are taught
cover all levels of tertiary study
foundation, undergraduate, masters
and doctorate.
By design, all degrees offered are
awarded by the United Kingdom.
Whether you study in Malaysia, the
UK or the universitys campus in
China, you will receive a University
of Nottingham degree.
This philosophy underpins
everything that Nottingham does
across its three international
campuses.
Nottingham is the first British
university to open a foreign branch
campus in Malaysia. This was
viewed as an innovative and even
risky move, but 20 years on, the
same model is being adopted by
many other UK universities.
In realising its ambition to become
a higher education hub, Malaysia
now hosts five UK, one Chinese and
three Australian universities, in
addition to the 20 public universities
as well as many other private
colleges and universities in the
country.
The University of Nottingham
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
from Bangladesh arriving at the
Nottingham is campus in Malaysia over the next
12 months to become master
the first British trainers who will help deliver
university to open
training back in Bangladesh to
develop their colleagues.
a foreign branch A nice spin-off project is a
memorandum of understanding
campus in Malaysia. (MoU) with Universiti Teknologi
Malaysia to deliver English
This was viewed as language training for the
an innovative and individuals from Bangladesh who
will require extra support in this
even risky move, area.
At the recent Bett Asia
but 20 years on, Conference, UNMC also signed an
the same model MoU with the Panyathip
International School of Laos. The
is being adopted vision is to deliver Nottinghams
foundation programmes in Laos
by many other UK rather than requiring students to
universities. come to Malaysia.
It is hoped that this will make
higher education more accessible
to individuals in Laos who cannot
afford to travel to Malaysia or the
Malaysia Campus (UNMC) is UK. Nottingham hopes to start
now an established institution recruiting students for the
in Malaysia and among the programmes once a
members of Asean. memorandum of agreement has
It remains part of the global been signed early next year.
University of Nottingham UNMC also delivers an MBA in
something that is so entrenched Singapore and an MA in
in its DNA that it is hard to see Education in Sri Lanka, which
the basic premise that we offer attract high-quality students who
UK degrees that are the same as would have otherwise not been
if you studied in the UK able to study at Nottingham.
changing anytime soon. When we look back at the
However, like all teenagers, as first cohort of 86 students
the Malaysia campus approaches who enrolled in Nottingham in
its 18th birthday, it is starting to 2000 and how much the campus
think that it does not have to has developed in the intervening
always rely on its parent and is years, it is not only about the
developing its own identity. purpose-built campus in
UNMC is running and Semenyih and the 5,000 students
managing its own international that it hosts but also the footprint
partnerships, which would not it has left in the region, enabling it
have been thought possible even to reach more countries in ways
just a few years ago. that would not have been possible
The campus recently with just a single UK-based
embarked on a project to upskill campus.
about 8,500 lecturers and
teachers in Bangladesh through n Prof Graham Kendall is the
a project supported by the World chief executive officer, provost
Bank. and pro-vice-chancellor of UNMC.
This will see 1,000 senior staff Twitter: @Graham_Kendall
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
Furthering
education with
peace of mind
> FROM PAGE 4
The recipient of this aid is
enlisted to conduct certain
elements of the research project.
The project head must have a
substantial amount of money
left in his research grant to
appoint a research assistant
under the scheme.
Requirements for applicants
are:
l Full-time research
postgraduate student
l No prior financial
assistance
l Possess a degree with a
minimum CGPA of 3.00
(bachelors degree for masters-
level research and masters
degree for doctoral-level
research) or an equivalent
qualification recognised by the
Malaysian Government
MyBrain15
This scheme aims to
alleviate some burdens from
postgraduate student life to
allow these students to
concentrate on high-quality,
value-added research. Two
programmes are offered under
this scheme MyMaster and
MyPhD.
l MyMaster scheme
eligibility criteria:
- Malaysian citizen
- Not older than 35 at time
of application
- Must be an unemployed
graduate with no fixed income,
employed in the private sector
or lecture in a private institution
of higher education
- Not a recipient of any form
of financial aid for studies at the
same level
- Not bonded to any party
during sponsorship period such
as commitments to previous
scholarships
- Possess a bachelors degree
or Government-recognised
equivalent with a minimum
CGPA of 2.75
l MyPhD scheme eligibility
criteria:
- Malaysian citizen
- Not older than 45 at time
of application
- Has obtained admission to
or is already pursuing studies at
a higher education institution
- Not a recipient of any form
of financial aid for studies at the
same level
- Currently pursuing or
intends to pursue full-time
postgraduate studies
- Possess a masters degree
with a minimum CGPA of 3.00
or bachelors degree with a
minimum CGPA of 3.50
Postgraduate 7
- Relevant working experience
recognised by the Malaysian
Qualifications Agency
National Science Fund
(NSF)
This scholarship is awarded to
masters and doctorate students
undergoing full-time studies
based on research in local and
foreign higher education
institutions.
The scholarships cover
tuition, examination fees and a
monthly allowance (RM1,560 for
masters candidates and
RM2,300 for doctorate
candidates).
Prerequisites for applicants
are as detailed below.
l Applicants for masters
level must not be older than 30
and applicants for doctoral level
must not be older than 35 at
time of application.
l Applicants may not be civil
servants or tutors in local higher
education institutions.
Successful applicants are not
allowed to receive any other
source of funding or hold
positions outside the stipulated
scope of work in the
programme.
l Applicants for masters
degree must have a first class or
second (upper) class with
honours at the bachelors level
with a minimum CGPA of 3.00
or an equivalent qualification
recognised by the Government.
l Applicants for doctoral
degree must have a bachelors
degree with honours and a
masters specialising in fields
detailed in the NSF.
l Only candidates pursuing
research in specific science and
technology fields may apply.
Education loans
A popular choice for financial
aid even among undergraduate
students, the National Higher
Education Fund Corporation
(PTPTN) is the main education
loan provider for Malaysian
students pursuing studies locally
due to its low interest rates.
Recipients of this loan are
expected to fulfil and maintain
certain academic achievements
to continue benefiting from the
loan. Loan repayment starts six
months after graduation or
when employment commences,
whichever comes first.
Students will not be bonded
or required to serve the
Government after completion
of studies. More information
can be found on the PTPTN
website.
8 Postgraduate
NOBEL laureate and global icon
Malala Yousafzai summed up the
value of education in perhaps the
most profound of ways when she
said, With guns, you can kill
terrorists. With education, you can
kill terrorism.
This sentiment strikes as
particularly meaningful in todays
volatile and uncertain world. It
cannot be denied that education
stands between understanding and
ignorance, empathy and bigotry,
success and failure.
Through education, we learn to
open our eyes to new possibilities
and experiences. Education is a
tool that helps us overcome lifes
challenges, develop values and
shape our personalities.
It is a means by which we can
pick up necessary skills and know-
how to turn our dreams into
reality.
At the recent 21st convocation
ceremony of Open University
Malaysia (OUM), the hopes and
dreams of more than 3,000
individuals were turned into
reality.
All graduates who received their
scrolls are now part of our
80,000-strong alumni from across
Malaysia.
Teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs,
senior citizens, the physically
disadvantaged and even prison
inmates have all shown that
education can transform anyones
life into something more. This
bears testament to the fact that
each of us can make a difference.
We are immensely proud and
glad that this was achieved because
OUM has been committed to
playing a significant role as one of
the pioneers in the field of open
and distance learning.
The new reality
PROF
DATUK
DR
MANSOR
FADZIL
Our flexibility in providing
access to education to individuals
of diverse socioeconomic
backgrounds is unparalleled.
We are committed to practising
flexibility in all aspects of our
university. These include digitised
study materials, flexibility in
attendance and transfer of learner-
preferred location whether for
tutorials or examinations,
payments and financing, and more.
I foresee further advancement
with regards to our system and
ways of learning.
This is because disruptive
technologies such as advanced
robotics, the Internet of things and
work automation are expected to
reshape the business and social
landscapes of the future.
Therefore, it is crucial that
todays youth be equipped with
skills and knowledge so they can
thrive in an ever-changing world.
This is also in line with the
Malaysia Education Blueprint
2015-2025 (Higher Education)
aspirations to increase tertiary
access and enrolment in higher
education.
It hopes that by 2025, tertiary
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
education enrolment rate will rise lifelong learning as a way of life Once again, all of us at OUM
from 36% to 53% and higher and to support professional or extend our heartiest
education enrolment from 48% to personal development. congratulations to all graduates. To
70%. With our philosophy of all readers, we hope you are
This will require an additional liberalising education, we believe inspired.
1.1 million places to be created, that everyone has a unique The challenges of 21st century
which can be achieved mainly potential to succeed academically if living require Malaysians of all
through growth in technical and given the chance. ages to constantly seek out learning
vocational education and training To all readers, I would like to opportunities to enrich themselves.
(TVET), private higher learning implore you to take some time to With higher education becoming
institutions and online learning. think about what your education more accessible and affordable,
OUM has directly encouraged means to you. this has become the new reality.
working adults to take up higher Dare to dream, aim for more and
education either for economic never stop learning. With the right n Prof Datuk Dr Mansor Fadzil is
reasons or self-growth. spirit and dedication, I am sure the president and vice-chancellor
It also helps Malaysians embrace nothing is beyond our reach. of OUM.
Lifelong learning for all
ANDREA Luxman (pic) recently earned her experience richer.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Every classmate has valuable insights to
with distinction from the University of share in discussions regardless of the topic
Strathclyde. or area of expertise, adds the 32-year-old.
She describes the overall journey to be I began to realise that just by listening, we
excellent despite having an intense can learn so much from each other.
workload, especially since it was a part-time Embracing the art of listening and
programme. collaborating cohesively with groupmates
Juggling career and studies can be definitely contributes to one becoming a
overwhelming, but with the right attitude, better leader.
persistence and desire, its something that I highly recommend the Strathclyde MBA
can be managed, she says. to those seeking to enhance their career
Luxman shares that the two and a half prospects or wishing to gain insight into how
years spent completing the MBA course was theoretical business knowledge is linked to
a time of personal and professional growth. real-life decision-making.
Ive learnt how to leverage on my Furthermore, the flexibility of the
strengths and improve on the weaknesses. programme allows students to attend
Through self-awareness, Ive learnt how to seminars at other international teaching
step out of my comfort zone and challenge centres such as Singapore or even Dubai,
my typical way of thinking. which encourages the opportunity for wider
As our traditional beliefs and orthodox networking. The outcome of the learning
manner of working are constantly being experience will last a lifetime.
challenged in the business world, it is
imperative to have a mindset that is ready to n For more information, call 03-7660 8950
defy the status quo and allow room for or visit www.cdc.edu.my
change and disruption.
Stemming from a background of more
than nine years primarily in engineering
and consulting, Luxman decided to pursue
an MBA because she was curious about
other business sectors and wanted to better
understand the considerations that go into
creating value for a successful business.
I wanted to bridge the knowledge gap in
areas that I previously knew very little about
and apply it at work, says Luxman.
The Strathclyde MBA emphasises both
theoretical and practical business
knowledge, providing students with the
foundation to succeed in todays corporate
world.
At the heart of Strathclydes MBA
programme is group work. Being able to
contribute to discussions is just as important
as learning in the classroom.
The unique blend of experiences and
know-how that each student brings to
the table makes the overall learning
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
A champion of workplace safety, Prof Chong specialises in bioenergy and wastewater
treatment technologies to make palm oil mills safer to work in.
Improving
workplace safety
RESEARCH technology in palm oil mills has
made the workplace within a palm oil mill
safer and more attractive to workers,
including engineers, while creating a
sustainable process.
Prof Chong Mei Fong, a researcher at The
University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus
(UNMC), specialises in bioenergy and
wastewater treatment technologies. The
technology she developed has been well
received by the palm oil industry.
Her research has created a safer
workplace that attracts more women and
engineers to work in a palm oil mill.
The technology also promotes an efficient
alternative to wastewater treatment and
emits less pollution to the environment and
waterways.
The introduction of her technology earned
Prof Chong an honourable mention at the
Asean-US Science Prize for Women, in
conjunction with 7th Asean-US Consultation
on Science and Technology meeting on Oct
19 this year.
She says, As a woman engineer, I realised
that it is not only the engineering field that is
male-dominated but this is also the case in
oil palm mills.
Workplace safety is no longer a luxury
but a necessity. A safer workplace not only
attracts women, it attracts a highly qualified
workforce as well.
Prof Chong was the previous chair of
Gender Equality in Nottingham, a working
group in the university that advocates
gender equality in science, technology,
engineering, mathematics and medicine
(STEMM).
The new bioreactor system complies with
the Malaysian Environmental Quality Act
1974, which addresses environmental
protection and pollution control.
Apart from providing a safer workplace,
it promotes cleaner water and reduces
pollution of rivers, she adds.
The honourable mention at the Asean-US
Science Prize for Women won Prof Chong
US$5,000 (RM20,328.50). She is the
second Malaysian to be nominated for this
award.
She explains that there was a call for
proposals to apply for this award in July. The
award was based on a few criteria
excellence in research, mentoring of other
Postgraduate 9
Workplace safety is
no longer a luxury but a
necessity. A safer work-
place not only attracts
women, it attracts a
highly qualified work-
force as well.
Prof Chong Mei Fong
women in STEMM-related subjects and
global citizenship.
This years theme was urbanisation with
subtopics, including workplace safety, under
which Prof Chong submitted her proposal.
The new technology also promotes indoor
processing in an office or laboratory instead
of what was previously done processing
the water outdoor in a space as big as nine
football fields, usually located in a
plantation, she says.
Prof Chong has been working in a
consultative manner since 2015 with Havvy
Oil Mill Sdn Bhd to produce this technology.
While palm oil processing was previously
carried out mainly by mechanical engineers,
the process also attracts engineers from the
field of chemical engineering.
Mechanisation of the milling process
needs the expertise of mechanical engineers,
but chemical engineers also contribute to
this breakthrough process, says Prof Chong.
According to The University of
Nottingham Malaysia Campus vice-provost
(research and knowledge exchange) Prof
Claire OMalley, Prof Chong is not only an
excellent researcher who is demonstrably
able to translate her discoveries into
commercially viable products that are
valuable to the green technology agenda, she
is also a strong advocate and role model for
women in science, engineering and
technology. UNMC is very proud of her
achievements.
n For more information, visit
www.nottingham.edu.my
10 Postgraduate
FURTHERING studies after you
have left the classroom for a
long time can be daunting.
However, in todays competitive
work environment, pursuing a
masters degree serves as a
platform to climb up the corporate
ladder.
For people who want to change
careers, taking up a postgraduate
course could help them fulfil a
longstanding professional goal or
respond to changes in the global
career market.
To meet this demand, First City
University College (First City UC)
offers MA Design Management and
Master of Business Administration,
with the latter offering dual
awards.
These carefully structured
masters programmes allow
students to stay abreast of new
developments and technologies
that can impact or enhance their
roles at work.
Students can pursue these
programmes part time or through
distance learning, enabling them
to enhance their career without
taking a break from work.
A postgraduate course can help
develop practical expertise and be
the final touch a curriculum vitae
needs to shine.
Taking the time to upgrade ones
industry knowledge also reflects
ones aspirations and commitment
to self-improvement.
With emphasis on strategic
teaching and learning, the masters
programmes are designed to
enhance employability as well as
transferable and industry-specific
high-level skills.
Students can enjoy flexibility
when pursuing this course by
opting for either the full-time
(1.5 years) or part-time (two years)
mode of study.
Defining communications expertise
WHEN it comes to communications
and media studies, what does
having a masters degree make you
an expert of?
Dr Tan Meng Yoe (pic),
coordinator for the Master in
Communication and Media Studies
(MCMS) programme at the School
of Arts and Social Sciences, Monash
University Malaysia, explains.
According to him, the MCMS at
Monash University Malaysia equips
you with the skills to identify,
unpack and deconstruct
communication processes and
networks that societies require to
function.
In short, it makes you an expert
in cultural research. It does not
sound fancy, but it makes practical
sense in the increasingly globalised
society of today.
Media and communications
professionals such as journalists,
filmmakers and corporate
communication specialists are
often already experts in their
technical craft by the time they
consider enrolling in a masters
programme.
The real step up is the
development of advanced critical
thinking, exposure to a more
diverse range of knowledge, and
the ability to conduct quality
research to raise the level of media
content, management process,
business insights or any
communications role that one is
involved in.
Critical thinking
On the basic level, critical
thinking refers to the ability to
objectively analyse any issue and
develop an informed opinion on it.
Affordable quality education
Working adults can opt for part-time or full-time studies at First City University College.
They will be part of an extensive
business and professional network
across cultures and industries,
which opens up a world of
opportunities to connect with
their peers and become familiar
with the inner workings of the
industries they are interested in.
The programmes are taught by
professional lecturers who are also
industry practitioners in their
specialised areas.
Strategically located in Petaling
Jayas urban town centre amidst
Research is
a crucial skill to
have. Learning to
gather, analyse
and synthesise
information into
knowledge can
be applied to
everyday life.
Dr Tan Meng Yoe
As we are by nature biased, it takes
discipline and practice to be truly
informed.
For example, in news
consumption, if our habit is to
exclusively seek out news that
conforms to our pre-existing
worldview, there exists a bias that
restricts our capacity to juggle
multiple perspectives and analyse
deeper layers of meaning.
Without the willingness to
engage with our own biases and
consider alternative approaches to
data, we become echo chambers
who hear only what we want to
hear. This is detrimental to any
individual as it leads to intellectual
complacency.
The MCMS provides the tools to
break that habit. In the
programme, new theoretical ideas
about media and society are taught
and applied to real-world case
studies to sharpen students ability
to identify issues objectively and
commercial and residential areas,
First City UC is surrounded by
complete amenities and a variety
of food and beverage outlets.
The campus is equipped with
state-of-the-art teaching and
learning facilities for every faculty
to enhance students learning
experience.
First City UCs commitment to
providing the best education is
evident in its efforts to expose
students to real-life situations and
leverage on its many industry
solve problems creatively.
New knowledge
Critical thinking is important but
can only happen when there is
something to think about.
Therefore, new knowledge is
always necessary.
MCMS students learn and share
the latest trends and developments
in the media and communications
industry and are exposed to a wide
range of contemporary issues that
have implications for everyday life.
Students are encouraged to learn
about cultures beyond their own to
broaden their understanding of the
world.
A valuable resource, this
accumulation of knowledge is
facilitated by not just the lecturers
and curriculum but also the
diverse student cohort.
Because students come from
different professional backgrounds
and are of various nationalities, the
programme is an opportunity for
them to learn from each others
cultural and career experiences.
Learning to work together in this
environment is a lesson in itself. In
short, the spirit of learning is
actively cultivated in the MCMS
programme.
Research skills
Contemporary issues are not just
gleaned through reading about
global events in the news but also
through active research by both
the teacher and student.
Research is a crucial skill to
have. Learning to gather, analyse
and synthesise information into
knowledge can be applied to
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
companies and renowned
corporations some even before
they graduate.
Open Day
First City UC is holding its Open
Day on Dec 16 and 17. Some of the
highlights of the December Open
Day include:
l Art Camp for SPM leavers
(Dec 15 to 17)
l Fashion Illustration Workshop
(Dec 16)
l Special preview on Master of
Business Administration
(Dec 16)
l Special preview on MA Design
Management (Dec 16)
Prospective students are
welcome to visit the campus to find
out more about the various
programmes, scholarships and
incentives offered at First City UC.
They can also check out the new
campus facilities and meet the
academic staff.
Individuals who register before
Dec 28 can enjoy a 50% early bird
linkages across sectors such as tuition waiver. Terms and
banking, manufacturing, design conditions apply.
consultancy and publishing Counsellors are available to
companies. attend to queries during extended
Throughout the programme, counselling hours on weekdays
lectures by visiting academics or (8.30am to 6pm) and weekends
industry specialists are organised (10am to 4pm), excluding public
to give students insider knowledge holidays.
and valuable insight into real-
world processes. n For more information, call
With so much knowledge and the marketing department at
experience gained, it is no surprise 03-7727 3200, e-mail
that many First City UCs alumni enquiry@firstcity.edu.my or visit
have secured jobs at reputable www.firstcity.edu.my
everyday life.
Lecturers in the programme
are active in a wide variety
of research areas social
media, communications,
urban anthropology,
politics, international
relations and more.
Having good teachers
with years of teaching
experience is not enough.
Scholars at Monash
University Malaysia are
actively producing new
knowledge and can pass on
advanced skills in
conducting relevant
research.
This provides
students with the skills
required to develop
expertise in their
respective fields of
work through
rigorous, critical and
insightful research.
Good study
programmes are
all about being
collaborative, relevant
to the 21st century,
internationally
recognised and
producing graduates
who are job-ready.
The MCMS
programme at
Monash University
Malaysia not only has
these elements but
synergises them to
create a learning
environment where one
can develop holistically.
n For more information, visit
www.sass.monash.edu.my
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
A MASTER of Business Administration (MBA)
from Asia e University (AeU) will distinguish
you from other graduates.
AeUs MBA combines the best of global
business training with a unique focus on
Asia. It offers insight into the Asian business
culture while giving students a global
perspective.
The programme is popular among
working adults locally and internationally.
Its curriculum serves to enhance students
business and industry knowledge as well as
their management and strategic decision-
making skills.
These skills will help them secure and
prosper in employment or develop different
approaches to essential leadership skills in
their careers, whether in public
administration or private sectors.
Many entrepreneurs and professionals
seek new perspectives in complex business
scenarios in an Asian context.
AeUs MBA programme offers six
specialisations: international business,
entrepreneurship, supply chain
management, accounting, human resource
management and marketing.
These specialisations are useful for those
who want to enhance their career or are
looking for a change in career path.
From day one, students in the programme
are immersed in a global learning
environment and given the right tools to
allow them to reach their career aspirations.
They learn how business is conducted in
an emerging Asian market and the best
practices of some of Asias most successful
companies.
The knowledge and experience gained in
business case seminars and workshops can
be applied in a variety of settings, allowing
students to develop a global perspective with
in-depth knowledge of Asian economies,
recommend solutions that go beyond
international boundaries, learn and apply
key analytical skill sets in real-life settings,
and demonstrate holistic awareness of
relevant trends impacting contemporary
business.
The AeU MBA programme is offered in
full-time, part-time (18 months) and fully
online (12 months) modes.
Full-time and part-time classes are held
during weekends, allowing working adults
from diverse backgrounds, industries and
cultures to unite in the spirit of learning,
regardless of their geographic location, travel
schedules and work commitments.
I like the way the AeU MBA programme
was run as it enabled me to broaden my
knowledge in the aspects of business, says
DSP Mohd Hadzwan Zulkefle, who
graduated with the MBA in October this
year.
The subjects offered are extremely useful
in developing a wider knowledge in
leadership and research skills. I can apply
advanced tools learnt for rational decision-
making in a variety of settings.
The flexibility I enjoyed during my study
allowed minimal disruption to my family,
work commitments and challenges faced in
adjusting my time and roles as a public
officer, husband and father, he adds.
AeUs School of Management dean Assoc
Prof Dr Wan Sabri Wan Hussin says, The
AeU MBA programme is designed for
About Asia e University
AeU is a multinational university
established in 2007 under the auspices of
34 Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD)
countries.
Ranging from diploma to doctorate
levels, all its academic programmes are
approved by the Higher Education
Ministry and accredited by the
Malaysian Qualifications Agency.
Besides having a presence in many
of the ACD member countries, AeU
has also spread its wings to 80 non-
members such as Aland Islands,
Argentina, the Bahamas, Denmark, Hong
Kong, Iraq, Kenya, Libya, Maldives,
Mauritius, Namibia, New Zealand,
Nigeria, Sweden, Somalia, Taiwan, the
United Kingdom, Yemen, Zambia and
Zimbabwe.
Postgraduate 11
A unique Asian focus
I like the way the AeU
MBA programme was
run as it enabled me to
broaden my knowledge in
the aspects of business.
The flexibility I enjoyed
during my study allowed
minimal disruption to my
family, work commitments
and challenges faced in
adjusting my time and roles
as a public officer, husband
and father.
working adults and professionals. This
intense experience provides world-class
managerial instruction in a unique
atmosphere.
We stress not only the development of DSP Mohd Hadzwan is a
rigorous analytical and problem-solving proud AeU MBA graduate.
skills but also the application of moral
principles needed to use those abilities
wisely. postgraduate programmes through regular acquired through formal and informal
We want to help develop complete entry or the flexible Accreditation of Prior training.
managers and leaders men and women of Experiential Learning (APEL) entry pathway. The January 2018 intake is open for
outstanding professional capabilities as well APEL allows individuals who wish to registration.
as integrity, faith and strong moral character pursue tertiary education but lack
who will influence the world for good. conventional academic qualifications to be n For more information, call 1300 300 23,
We are confident that the AeU MBA assessed according to their work experience e-mail enquiries@aeu.edu.my or visit
experience will be the wind behind your as well as prior learning experience www.aeu.edu.my
sails as you navigate through the challenges
and opportunities of the Asian Century.
Extensive learning resources
AeUs e-learning has played a fundamental
role in reaching out to students from any
location. Its blended-learning pedagogy has
supported thousands of students from within
and outside the country.
AeU has successfully connected thousands
of students, faculty members, academic
facilitators, subject matter experts and
administrators via the Internet using the
universitys learning management system,
myPLS.
The system makes various learning
resources such as web-based modules and
multimedia courseware available for
students to view or download.
Additionally, AeU students can access the
librarys digital collection of more than
100,000 e-books, 71,000 e-journals and 1.6
million e-theses.
Flexible entry
Prospective students can enrol in AeUs
This years Rating for Higher
Education Institutions in Malaysia
ranked AeU as a Tier 4: Very Good
university among 71 universities ranked
in Malaysia. It emerged at the top among
the countrys open and distance learning
universities.
Today, AeU has a diverse and robust
international community of more than
24,000 students from around 84
countries.
AeUs strong network of 15,000 alumni
comprises local and foreign nationalities
of various cultures and races who are
making a difference around the globe.
Students can tap into this network to
connect with AeUs alumni, many of
whom are now holding prominent
positions globally.
12 Postgraduate
A PREMIER university in Malaysia,
Management & Science University
(MSU) is among the top institutions
of Asia.
It offers specialised programmes
at postgraduate and undergraduate
levels in the areas of business,
management, medicine, health
sciences, information sciences,
engineering, education and
hospitality.
MSU prioritises quality
education, incorporating 21st
century learning in its teaching
delivery to produce holistic
graduates.
The incorporation of global
mobility programmes and
extensive industrial training
components into students learning
experiences ensures the highest
standards of impactful innovation,
employability and industrial
relevancy of MSU graduates.
MSU integrates the global best
in educational innovations.
Real-world scenarios are
incorporated into the classroom
learning experience.
Strategic thinking and
thought-provoking case studies
equip students with a higher level
of practical problem-solving
abilities.
All modules are rigorously
designed with industrial and
corporate input as well as an
opening vignette to major events
and real-world issues around the
globe.
MSU professors hail from
diverse cultural backgrounds and
engage in cutting-edge research,
the pursuit of unparalleled
academic excellence and scientific
innovation.
They have conducted high-
impact research and published
A platform for teachers to learn
TERTIARY programmes in the
diverse field of social sciences
including early childhood
education, Islamic studies,
psychology and communication
are much sought after among adult
learners today.
This is according to Open
University Malaysias (OUM)
deputy vice-president (academic)
Prof Widad Othman (right pic),
who not only oversees all the
programmes offered but also
chairs all the social sciences
programmes at the university.
OUM, Malaysias premier open
and distance learning institution,
offers more than 40 programmes
ranging from business, human
resource, information technology
to occupational health and safety,
project management and social
science subjects.
One of its most popular
programmes is the Bachelor of
Teaching (Primary Education).
According to Prof Widad, more
than 1,000 teachers enrolled in the
programme this year. Many of
them intend to major in the Tamil
or Mandarin languages.
Another favourite is the early
childhood programme offered by
OUM at the diploma, bachelors
and masters level.
OUM provides flexibility of
learning and the option for
learners to do their practicum at
their chosen centres.
According to Prof Widad,
most learners who enrol in the
teaching or early childhood
education programmes are
experienced individuals who are
unable to relate to the theories of
teaching.
When they undergo the
programmes at OUM, they begin to
Making meaningful impact
Students at MSU are taught excellent problem-solving skills under the
guidance of experienced professors who engage in cutting-edge research.
thought-provoking academic
papers across a broad range of
business, industry and professional
areas. They have also worked in
and taught at all levels of
professional and industrial
platforms.
Their contributions have made
meaningful and concrete impact in
the global community at home and
abroad.
Professors at MSU are rigorously
selected worldwide from among
the best consultants and
professionals in their respective
fields and disciplines.
The postgraduate programmes at
MSU are carefully crafted to
cultivate leadership and real
Zahrawaani Ismail with her husband.
learn the skill of matching their
experiences to the theories, she
says.
Besides offering flexibility,
OUMs programmes are not
entirely research-based
programmes. They are mostly
assignment-based and learners
have the option of taking them
fully online.
These are the two main factors
that attract international learners
to study at OUM.
Teachers graduate from
OUM
OUMs 21st convocation ceremony
held last month saw a record
number of teachers graduate
from OUM in the area of social
science. Here are some of their
testimonies:
research contributions that address
industrial challenges at the highest
management level.
Due to the tremendous state of
flux within business and
management communities, top
management must adapt rapidly to
stay competitive, relevant and
strategically positioned to tackle
global trends by possessing the
relevant postgraduate
qualifications.
MSU offers Doctor of Philosophy
(PhD), Master in Business
Administration (MBA) and other
masters programmes that
emphasise and recognise
innovative research, scientific
knowledge and industrial
Widad Jalil, 34, Maldives
Master of Education (fully online)
I chose to pursue my masters
at OUM because I wanted an
internationally recognised
programme related to my field.
Moreover, it was taught by
professionals and expert lecturers.
The programme has enriched
my knowledge and allowed me to
progress academically. Almost
everything I gained from the
programme has been invaluable.
Ng Kok Hoong, 28, Selangor
Bachelor of Psychology with
Honours
I chose OUM because it is the
most suitable university for
working adults. The university
provides tutorials during
weekends, thereby giving me the
opportunity to attend classes and
learn from tutors face-to-face.
application on both domestic and
international platforms.
A PhD is the highest degree
awarded by MSU. It signifies the
pinnacle of academic and
professional standing. Doctoral
training involves close working
relationships with leading faculty
members on projects of key
interest, with an industrial and
scientific focus.
With advanced facilities and
technical support, MSU provides an
excellent academic climate for
postgraduate engagement with
faculty members.
MSU faculty members are highly
active in top-level research in a
wide range of areas and interests,
requiring innovative approaches
that push the boundaries of
interdisciplinary research.
MSUs advanced degrees at MBA,
MSc and PhD levels cover wide
areas, including management,
business, accounting, finance,
educational management and
leadership, education (Teaching
English as a Second Language),
computer science, information and
communication technology, food
service technology, biomedicine,
engineering, applied science,
biomedical sciences, information
technology, pharmacy and clinical
pharmacy.
These programmes are offered
under the School of Graduate
Studies and Graduate School of
Management.
The award-winning, home-
grown study programmes of the
Most learners
who enrol in the
teaching or early
childhood education
programmes
are experienced
individuals who
are unable to relate
to the theories of
teaching.
Prof Widad Othman
In addition, the universitys
learning management system,
myINSPIRE, enabled me to interact
with tutors and coursemates
anytime regardless of where I was.
I am very proud of my graduation
and intend to strive further to
attain greater academic success.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 2017
university meet stringent
standards set by both local and
international bodies.
Accreditors include the
Malaysian Qualifications Agency
(MQA), the United Kingdoms
Accreditation Services for
International Schools, Colleges &
Universities (ASIC) and Japans
Alliance on Business Education &
Scholarship for Tomorrow
(ABEST21).
MSU has achieved Excellent
status on the Higher Education
Ministrys Rating for Higher
Education Institutions in Malaysia
(Setara). It is also recognised as
The Most Entrepreneurial
Private University 2016 by the
ministry.
In addition, the institution is the
Best Brand in Education for
Leadership and Human Capital
Development 2017, awarded at the
Asia Pacific Elite of Elites
BrandLaureate Awards.
MSU recently entered QS World
University Rankings for the first
time, placing 217th or in the top
1.8% among universities in the
QS Asia University Ranking 2018.
Under the QS World University
Rankings rating system, the
university received five stars for
teaching, facilities, graduate
employability, social responsibility
and inclusiveness.
n For more information,
call 03-5521 6868, e-mail
enquiry@msu.edu.my or visit
www.msu.edu.my
Julie Soo Set Yee, 32, Sabah
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary
Education) with Honours
I grew up aspiring to graduate
from a university. Thanks to OUM
and the Education Ministry, I was
able to live my dream.
In the midst of juggling work
and studies, I realised that having a
positive mindset and a clear goal
are crucial to survive each
semester. To me, my convocation
was long-awaited and is a
celebrated milestone.
Zahrawaani Ismail, Pahang
Master of Islamic Studies
This year, my husband and
I were chosen to receive the
Presidents Award (Postgraduate)
scholarship awarded by OUM
to students who excel in their
studies.
Thank you, OUM, for providing
the opportunity for people like us
to further our studies through a
flexible learning system.
Prabuindran Karuppanan, 30,
Perak
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary
Education) with Honours
I used to be intimidated when I
first started working as a teacher.
Therefore, my pursuit of higher
education was for self-satisfaction
to feel good about myself.
Despite the heavy workload,
hardships and unavoidable issues I
faced, I told myself that the
children of today need an educator
who constantly strives to seek
knowledge. This kept me going and
I am proud of what I have
achieved today.
n For more information, visit
www.oum.edu.my