Nursing students educate public on domestic violence against women

In conjunction with the World White Ribbon Day, Sunway University’s School of Health and Natural Science conducted a talk about Domestic Violence against Women. The White Ribbon Day was created to raise awareness in order to hinder violence against women.

The students from the Department of Nursing, School of Health and Natural Science who were undertaking Moral Studies organized a talk at Sunway University (Sunway). Admission to the talk was through the purchase of white ribbon priced at RM 1.

Kimberly Loh explaining how gender inequality is still practiced in some rural areas.

Sunway University graduate won the First Place and Watts Prize

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) April 2010 student from Sunway University (Sunway), An Li Fong clinched the First Place and Watts Prize recently. An Li Fong, a 22 year old full time staff for PricewaterhouseCoopers was awarded his certificate in the presence of The Chancellor and Founder of Sunway University and Chairman of Sunway Group, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO by the Chief Executive Officer of ICAEW, Mr. Michael Izza during his visit to Sunway University.

An Li Fong who topped the world to bag the First Place and the Watts Prize for the Audit and Assurance paper which he completed in June 2010, will be presented with a plaque and return air-ticket to London by Sunway-TES, the professional financial courses division of Sunway University. He will be attending the ICAEW Annual Awards Ceremony in London on the 19 May 2011 in recognition of his outstanding achievement.

Mr. Lee Weng Keng, Chief Executive Officer of the Education and Healthcare Division of Sunway Group said “ We are proud to be the only ICAEW Partner in learning in Malaysia and providing an accelerated pathway to the ICAEW qualification’ in his address.

Mr. Michael Izza presenting the award to An Li Fong while a proud Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah applauded.

International Agents Conference

The first International Agents Conference was held in Sunway University (Sunway) recently. With 66 participants from various parts of the world, the International Agents Conference started with a welcome speech by Mr. Baskaran Sabapathy, Organizing Chairman of Sunway’s International Agents Conference 2010.

The International Agents Conference was aimed to provide all agents and representatives with an in-depth knowledge of Sunway’s programmes, facilities and services. Besides motivating the agents to promote Sunway on international grounds, there was a need to foster interaction between the agents and Sunway staff.

Sunway staff and agents posing for a photograph during the conference

A Forum on Intelligence

Malaysian Mensa and the Department of Psychology of Sunway University (Sunway) collaborated and organized a forum on intelligence recently. The forum was themed board games and puzzles and had a turn out rate of approximately 40 people.

Consisting of Mensa members and Sunway staff and students, Mr. Azrai Skymmar, the Chairman of Malaysian Mensa welcomed the guests with an opening speech followed by a talk by Dr. Lin Mei-Hua, the Head of the Department of Psychology and Organizational Psychologist of Sunway University. She explained how skills applied in board games are intertwined with the decision making process that can be applied to real life settings. “There is a similarity in decision making processes in board games and real life as each are related to a goal an individual is hoping to achieve”, she explained.

Participants carefully strategising their next move during the forum.

Sunway Continues the Terry Fox Dream

Terry Fox had a dream. It was to create awareness and raise funds for cancer research through the Marathon of Hope. Having lost one leg to cancer, Terry Fox embarked on a journey across Canada to raise funds for this cause that attracted nationwide support. Although cancer consumed him, Terry’s dream lives on even in the hearts of Sunway students and staff.

The Sunway Terry Fox Run 2010 organized by Sunway University College’s Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) was conducted to commemorate Terry Fox’s 30th anniversary. It was aimed to raise both funds and awareness for cancer research in Malaysia through the support of donors and participants. Proceeds from the Sunway Terry Fox Run 2010, went to Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (CARIF), Malaysia.

The students, staff and committee members of Sunway University College who made the Terry Fox Run a success.

A Convention of Anime Lovers at Sunway

The recent Sunway University College (Sunway) Sunway Animangaki event pulled various die-hard anime and cosplay fans from all around the state together. Organised by the Sunway Anime Club, this convention was aimed to give the public a feel of what real conventions are like.

The 2010 Animangaki Convention was bigger, brighter and more exciting as the committee members had raised the bar from the first Animangaki debut in 2009. With more emphasis on Japanese pop culture and competitions such as cosplay, karaoke and Omatsuri, a festival of Japanese games; this event was overflowing with many passionate and enthusiastic Anime fans.

Participants putting on their best show to mimic their favourite anime character during the Cosplay Competition.

Sunway Thrills the Night Away

The students of Sunway University College’s American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP) unleashed their creativity and artistic talents as they crept into Halloween reigning terror on all present during the Halloween Night. The students gave their all as they put together a Halloween night that emphasized fun and games while maintaining a good heart. Themed the Paranormal Halloween Night with tickets priced at RM 90 each, all proceeds went to Vivekananda Home in Rembau, Negeri Sembilan.

As students made their way through the venue at a hotel in Subang Jaya, they were greeted with a handful of emotions as a world of mystique unfolded around them. As fog illuminated the atmosphere, Sunway students got into their characters with their stunning costumes and thrilled the night away.

Sunway ADTP students dressed to kill during the Halloween Night, photographed by Joseph Low, a Sunway Biomedical/Chemistry student.

Sunway to nurture talent and innovation in new PhD programme

The School of Computer Technology at Sunway College University (Sunway) has launched the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) (Computing). This is the first PhD programme for Sunway and the first IT-related PhD offered by a private University College in Malaysia.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Computing) aims to develop leaders and innovators in the area of computing and ICT. Through this PhD programme, candidates will be trained with the ability and skills to create, develop and extend the frontiers of advanced knowledge in the field of computing or Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The programme prepares candidates for a rewarding career in the ever-growing IT industry with Fortune 500 companies such as IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Accenture, KPMg, MDec and BT.

The academic staff of the new PhD (Computing) programme with Professor Robert Bignall (extreme left)

Sunway University College signs MoU on FSTEP

Sunway University College (Sunway) and Institute of Bankers of Malaysia (IBBM or Institut Bank-Bank Malaysia) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 2nd December 2010 to establish collaborative efforts to develop academic exchange and co-operation in teaching, training, research and development in the financial services industry.

Our Student Services Department, the coordination unit at Sunway, has been commissioned to undertake the channelling of our graduates to the Financial Sector Talent Enrichment Programme (FSTEP).

The exchange of the MoU document between Ms Elizabeth Lee, on behalf of Sunway, and Mr Tay Kay Luan, Chief Executive Officer, on behalf of IBBM, was held at Lanai Kijang in the presence of Y.B. Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Minister of Higher Education of Malaysia, Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz, Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia, and Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Azman Hashim, Chairman of IBBM.

New facilities to meet the requirements of Sunway’s partnership with Le Cordon Bleu

Soon hospitality and culinary students will be able to learn from and savour the best in culinary education as RM6 million has been invested into upgrading the facilities at the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management. These new and state-of-the-art facilities include the Demo, Cuisine and Pastry kitchens that will be ready by the beginning of April 2011.

Artist’s Impression of Demo Kitchen

Canopy Walkway Provides Convenience to Sunway Students

Students of Sunway University College (Sunway) can now enjoy the convenience and comfort of strolling along a “Canopy Walk” that links Sunway with Sunway Pyramid Mall. Besides providing a short cut to the Mall, the walkway also opens up a new parking option for students to take up seasonal parking at the Mall when Sunway undergoes expansion works in the near future that would cause a temporary shortage of car park lots available on campus.

Sunway canopy walkway

Cutting for a Cause

There are many things you can expect from the creative minds of youths and young entrepreneurs today but to combine creativity, customer satisfaction and do it for a cause is a whole different ballgame. The Pre-Cutathon held at Sunway University College (Sunway) was implemented to do all of the above.

A Cut Above Academy collaborated with Brian Lee, the Youth and Business Director of Junior Chamber International Kuala Lumpur (JCIKL), and alumnus of Sunway as well as Sunway’s Young Entrepreneur Society (YES) with Sunway Education Group to host this fundraiser. Their vision was simple; to use expertise and skills, deliver customer satisfaction and most importantly set the benchmark for Malaysian citizens to start giving back to the community.

Peter Wong, Head of a Cut Above Academy (third from left) presenting the cheque to Puan Sri Susan Cheah (center).

Sunway Students Spread Deepavali Joy

As you step into the foyer of Sunway University College, you will be greeted with a symphony of colours embedded within a majestic peacock floor art. The students from the Department of Arts and Design skilfully crafted a marvellous creation that is a kaleidoscope of colours.

Chong Shiew Ee(from left), Malathy Karthiraesu, Teo May Yeen(center), Koh Wei Fang and Lim See Yean from the Department of Arts and Design who put together the beautiful kolam.

Sunway assists in sweeping crime off our streets

A Malaysian Crime Prevention Workshop for Young Adults was recently held in Sunway University College. The workshop was an awareness campaign aimed to educate participants on ways to prevent psychosocial crimes that included personal safety and commercial crimes.

Approximately 200 people from a total of 19 schools, colleges and churches participated in this workshop comprising Form 4, Form 5, and Form 6 students.

Sunway student helper holding up a sign of one of the crime categories for a focus group discussion.

Hong Kong Polytechnic University Students Impressed by Sunway

Thirty-four students and their lecturer Dr. John Ap from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University visited Sunway University College recently. The students were final year tourism management students on a study tour for their Theme Parks and Attractions class.

They were greeted by staff and students of Sunway’s School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management (SHTLM) followed by an overview of the course and facilities such as the training restaurant, pastry kitchen as well as a mock hotel room that students train in.

Students of Polytechnic University and Sunway University College mingling during the refreshment period.

Golden Key International Honour Society Recognizes Sunway Students

120 students of Sunway University College comprising various programmes were recognized for their outstanding academic achievement and honoured with a membership into the Golden Key International Honour Society recently. The Golden Key is recognized as the world’s premier collegiate honour society that has nearly 2 million members from 190 countries. The Sunway students were from the School of Business, School of Computer Technology, School of Health and Natural Sciences, Australian Universities Programme as well as School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management.

Bawany Batmanathan receiving her certificate from Professor Robert Bignall during the recognition ceremony.

Sunway University College gave RM2.9 million at scholarship presentation

Another scholarship presentation ceremony by Sunway University College held in October this year, affirmed and acknowledged its top and deserving students.

An amount of RM2.9 million were given to the 380 recipients at the ceremony. The source of the funding was the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation which was launched in March this year. This year, RM6.9 million was handed out on two occasions including this one. Puan Sri Datin Seri Dr Susan Cheah, the wife of Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah AO, the Founder and Chancellor of Sunway University College gave away the scholarships.

The Chancellors Scholarship recipients (left to right) Karlisyle Lum Ern Ai, Ch’ng Ying Zhao and Hong Xingwei with Puan Sri Susan Cheah (2^nd from left)

International Field Trip for Australian Students

Sunway University College’s Bachelor of Business twinning program with Victoria University (VU), recently hosted a total of 20 students from Victoria University, Melbourne with their lecturer, Mr. Roberto Bergami who visited as part of a study tour. This was a requirement for a field research project, where the students were expected to understand Malaysia’s role and stand in the international business arena. The international students were also exposed to the work environment in Sunway Group; Sunway Lagoon Theme Park and Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall. The study tour had an agenda that matched industrial and cultural exposure with academic knowledge for the visiting students.

Students of Victoria University, Melbourne listening attentively to Mr. Tim Dillion’s talk on FDI.

Launch of 1Malaysia Entrepreneurship Week

Sunway University College’s drive and growing need to produce first-class students in the education industry was visible with their second launch of the 1Malaysia Entrepreneurship Week in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education. Implemented to create a platform of enterprising youths that are eager to exchange ideas and seek guidance, the students were exposed to a series of talks, interviews, question and answer sessions as well as practical tips.

The launch was officiated by YB Dr. Hou Kok Chung, The Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Malaysia (fifth from right)

Sunway University College to produce Analytical Graduates with SAS

Sunway is the first institution to offer a joint certification with SAS on Information Systems degree course in Malaysia.

Sunway University College (Sunway) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with SAS Institute Inc. USA (SAS) to enable Sunway the full right to run a specialization in the area of Business Intelligence and Data Mining in its B.Sc (Hons) Information System degree programme.

Shaking hands on the partnership, Elizabeth Lee (left), Executive Director, Sunway University College with Mr Jimmy Cheah (2^nd from right), Managing Director, SAS Malaysia. Witnessing the occasion was Mr. Lee Weng Keng (Centre), CEO Education & Healthcare Division, The Sunway Group

A Styro-free Campus

The Sunway University College Student Council recently waged a war on Styrofoam by launching their Scrap-the-Styro Campaign on campus. Student Council President, Joyce Wong said “Styrofoam is hazardous not only to the environment, but has carcinogens and is harmful to health of mankind. It is the white weapon of mass destruction (WMD). By going styro-free in its cafeteria and campus, Sunway University College is setting an example for the rest of the higher institutions to play their part in making the world a better place”.

Understanding Minds, Empowering Lives

Research in the field of psychology is growing in hopes of achieving a better understanding of the capabilities and flaws of the human mind. Sunway University College (Sunway) understands how vital research skills are in the field of Psychology and an Academic Symposium, organised by the Department of Psychology of Sunway was implemented to create a learning environment for students, academicians and researchers to share their knowledge and present their study.

Tay Ee Lin, A Psychology student explaining her research to Professor Peter Mitchell,  Head of Psychology (Lancaster University)

Sunway goes Styro-free from October 4

The Sunway University College Student Council recently waged a war on Styrofoam by launching their Scrap-the-Styro Campaign on campus. Student Council President, Joyce Wong said “Styrofoam is hazardous not only to the environment, but also to the health of mankind. It is the white weapon of mass destruction (WMD). By going styro-free in its cafeteria and campus, Sunway University College is setting an example for the rest of the IPTS that higher institutions can also play their part in making the world a better place”. Before the launch, the council organised a survey to find out the views from students and staff and as it turned out 96% of the respondents were in favour of having a Styrofoam-free campus.

A Nobel Laureate wows students and the public at Sunway

AUSMAT (Western Australian Year 12) at Sunway University College (Sunway) and the University of Western Australia hosted a luncheon yesterday for a group of top science students from its Pre-University programmes, with Nobel Laureate Professor Barry Marshall from the University of Western Australia.

Professor Barry Marshall was joined by two other UWA academics, Professor Carmen Lawrence, former Western Australia Premier and former Australia Federal Health Minister and Professor Kadambot Siddique, Chair in Agriculture and Director UWA Institute of Agriculture. They were at Sunway to make their presentations during the Science for the Future Festival which was held after the lunch.

The Winning Essay - Oxford and Cambridge Writing Competition 2010

We'd like to feature the winning article of our recent Essay Competition to recognise the thought and effort put into it. Bravo Ishen Perumal  from SMK Methodist (ACS) Ipoh!

Global Accounting and Organizational Change Research Conference 2012

Hosted by Sunway University in association with the Journal of Accounting & Organizational Change and La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia.

We are pleased to announce that the third biennial international conference of the Global Accounting and Organizational Change Research (GAOCR) network will be held at Sunway University, tentatively from July 14-17, 2012. The theme of the conference is “Accounting’s role in promoting good corporate governance and sustainable management.”

The GAOCR network is committed to high-quality research on contemporary issues in organizational and accounting change. It aims to provide a platform for international researchers and practitioners from multiple disciplines to disseminate information on organizational and accounting systems change. The 2012 conference will be organized by Sunway University in association with La Trobe University (Victoria, Australia) and the Journal of Accounting & Organizational Change (JAOC). Founded in 2005, JAOC represents a new emphasis on exploring how organizations change, and how the change process affects organizational and social processes. For further details about the journal, visit: http://www.emeraldinsight.com/jaoc.htm

We hope you will have a stimulating conference, and also have an opportunity to enjoy the Sunway Integrated Resort City, the city of Kuala Lumpur and its surrounding areas in Malaysia.

We look forward to welcoming you to the conference and to Sunway University in 2012!

Further details about the conference will be available soon!

Associate Professor Dr. YF Foo, School of Business Sunway Universit No.5 Jalan Universiti Bandar Sunway 46150 Petaling Jaya Malaysia +603 7491 8622 Ext 8309 foo-yf@sunway.edu.my	Professor Zahirul Hoque, School of Accounting La Trobe University Victoria 3086, Australia + 613 9479 3433 jaoc@latrobe.edu.au

Oxford and Cambridge English Language Event 2010

The Oxford and Cambridge English Language Event 2010 finally came to an exciting conclusion at Sunway University College on June 26. This annual event which comprises the Public Speaking Competition and the Essay Writing Competition, is aimed at secondary school students to promote the usage of the English language as an effective communicational tool.

After the preliminary rounds in April, all six finalists of this year’s Public Speaking Competition were once again on stage to wield silver tongues to battle the ambiguous topic, “Face”. In a 4-minute prepared speech, each finalists displayed their personal panache and interpretation of that singular word. Some literally talked about the face and its many expressions while some spoke of the ubiquitous culture of saving face. Some speeches were heavily laden with humour, some simply tugged at the heartstrings.

The competition were judged by Oxbridge members Simon Marshall, Andrew Caie and Emma Davidson. Each speech was evaluated in terms of content, presentation manner, speech structure and relevance.

Concurrently, the Essay Writing Competition was held with the participation of 22 schools from Klang Valley and Ipoh. 61 participants were put in an examination setting and they answered one of the five questions given.

The essays were screened by judges from Sunway University College led by Dr. Stephen Hall, the director of the Language Unit, where the six best entries were shortlisted and reviewed once again by a panel of Oxbridge judges which included Datuk Dr Paddy Bowie, Simon Marshall, Andrew Barber, Shawn Tan and Balraj Singh Bannu.

During an interval packed with activities, students were first given a tour of the campus which included the Tun Hussein Onn Library and the training restaurant. They then attended special lectures on effective writing and oral communication skills by several Oxbridge members. Later, students were given a talk by Dato’ Richard Small on application procedures and entry requirements into pre-eminent universities Oxford and Cambridge.
When the results were finally out, Margaret Hall, chairperson of the event, once again took to the stage to announce the winners.

Ishen Perumal who wrote an essay on how race, gender and/or social class help determine the circumstances of a person’s life, was the champion of the writing competition. Perumal represented SMK Methodist (ACS) Ipoh.

The champion of the much anticipated public speaking contest went to Vishnu Arvindran from SMK Taman Jasmin 2 who gave a heart-rending speech on the inner and outer face.

Both winners walked away with cash prizes each amounting to RM600, individual trophies, certificates of commendation from the Oxford and Cambridge Society Malaysia, and full tuition fee waiver for any pre-university programme in Sunway University College.

Winners for the Oxford and Cambridge Writing Competition:
Champion
Ishen Perumal (SMK Methodist (ACS), Ipoh)

1st runner-up
Parkashkumar Rajesekaran (Victoria Institution, KL)

2nd runner-up
Gan Ja Qian (SMK USJ 12, Selangor)

Consolation Prizes
Chen Liang Yi (SMJK Sam Tet, Ipoh)
Christal Wong (SMK Taman SEA, Selangor)
Fan Ray Aun (SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya)

Winners for the Oxford and Cambridge Public Speaking Competition:

Champion
Vishnu Arvindran (SMK Taman Jasmin 2)

1st runner-up
Nicholas Lim (SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya)

2nd runner-up
Loo Han Rong (Chong Hwa Independent High School, KL)

Consolation Prizes
Joash Ong (SMK Sultan Abdul Samad, Petaling Jaya)
Kailash Kalairasu (SMK St. John’s)
Daniel Ong (SMK Damansara Jaya)

This event was jointly organised by Sunway University College, and the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia.

Sunway School Of Business Visits Lancaster University Management School

A recent visit by the Management Group of Sunway University College’s School of Business has emphasised the continuing development of the relationship with Lancaster University Management School (LUMS), a triple-accredited, world-ranked business school in the UK.

 

From left: Dr. Foo Yin Fah, Mr. Nagiah Ramasamy, Dr. Cheah You Sum, Mr. Paul Linus Andrews

Dr Foo Yin Fah, Mr. Nagiah Ramasamy, Mr. Paul Linus Andrews and Dr Cheah You Sum visited LUMS between 28 June and 1 July, meeting academics and students from LUMS during their visit.

The main objective of the visit was to enhance the working relationship between the two schools and explore new collaborations in research and staff development activities.

At present, LUMS validates the three undergraduate degrees offered by the School of Business to ensure its academic quality and graduates will then receive two degree certificates, one from Sunway University College and another from Lancaster University. The School of Business also collaborates with LUMS in offering Master degrees in Management, Management with Law and Money, Banking and Finance.

According to Dr Foo, “The visit was an eye-opener and has helped us learn a great deal more about teaching, admissions and research standards which will help us make the transition to university status and strengthen the partnership with LUMS.”

A shuttle bus tracking system for Sunway students and staff

A research team of the School of Computer Technology (SCT), Sunway University College has come up with an innovative solution that cuts down unnecessary waiting time for the Sunway Shuttle buses that ply the Sunway Integrated Resort City.

Using GPS data over an open framework of web services and a graphic display system, students can view the exact location of the buses in real time represented by the bus icons on a public display electronic screen. Further information is available such as estimated arrival times at a stop, when a user chooses to interact with the system via SMS, Bluetooth or the web from their mobile phone to a number displayed on the screen. A survey conducted during the research found that 82% of all respondents prefer to have arrival data available on their mobile phones.

A student reading the shuttle tracking system at the guard house of the Sun-U Residence

Currently the public display screens are located at the Sun-U Residence Guard House, the Staff Public Ubiquitous Display (SPUD) (which has a touch screen interaction) at the SCT and the plasma TVs (which can be requested by SMS) in the concourse. This facility is the research project of SCT lecturers Terence Le Grange, Daniel Leow and Lyon Laxman. The project comes under public display research in the areas of human computer interaction and ubiquitous computing. This research has been funded by an internal grant by Sunway University College.

Three students, Henni Ismail the chief architect of the system, who completed a Diploma in Information Technology, Newsha Nosrati, studying a Bachelor of Information Systems (Hons) from Iran and Nicholas Mbaria Kariuki Maina, pursuing a Diploma in Information Engineering from Kenya have been assisting in this project during their 3 month internship at the SCT.

From left to right, Nicholas Mbaria, Daniel Low, Newsha Nosrati and Terence Le Grange with the shuttle tracking system at the SPUD area in the SCT

The Sunway Shuttle bus system is a free service provided by the Sunway Group which makes multiple round trips from 7 am to 9.30 pm around the Sunway Integrated Resort City. It makes nine stops including at Monash University, Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway Resort and Spa, Sunway Lagoon Theme Park and Sunway Pyramid Mall. A complete route is approximately 6.5 km and the frequency of the bus is every 25 minutes. The average time differs depending on traffic conditions and the weather. Heavy rain and traffic are the major cause of delays.

Newsha said “It is good that we can help others using such an application. I hope more students will use the system so that they can plan their trips with greater accuracy”.

A concert like no other: RM11,700 raised for orphanage

Bandar Sunway – Kindness was in the air recently as the Kids4Kids Charity Concert took place at the Multi-Purpose Hall of Sunway University College. The event was jointly organised by the Junior Chamber International Kuala Lumpur (JCIKL), part of an international non-governmental organization (NGO) with active participation in the UN system; Sunway University College and Music Notes Sdn Bhd, Kepong.

Left to right Brian Lee, Ms. Lee Siok Ping, Director of Student Services Department, Sunway University College, JCIKL members Adam Swee, Shon Teik Lee (National Vice President of JCI Malaysia), Michael Ong and Home Patrons Dr. Chiam Yoke Choo and Dr. Paul Nah Seang Hoo)

The organizing Chairman of the event was Sunway University College alumnus and Youth & Business Director, JCIKL, Brian Lee. JCI members worldwide share the belief that in order to create lasting positive change, they must improve themselves and the world around them. “The Kids4Kids Charity Concert was one way of building a better world” said Brian Lee.

The aim of the Kids4Kids Charity Concert was to raise funds for the Orphanage Home Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Yatim dan Miskin Wawasan Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. The concert was for the children, by the children!. The event saw children of all ages displaying their talents on the piano, drums and even on the traditional Chinese instrument GuZheng. The wide repertoire included compositions from Bach to traditional Chinese songs. The children entertained the audience with their remarkable talents and showmanship. It was a great effort on both the children’s and parents’ who generously volunteered their time and efforts for the concert.

There were also performances by the Glee Club from The Language Studio and the Blue Sand Band.

In the month preceeding the concert, the Sunway University College Young Entrepreneur Society (YES) members and Sunway University College students Heri Gunawan and Sarah Loke Xing Wen sold concert tickets to students and staff of Sunway University College. All in all RM 11,700 was raised and presented to the orphanage home which exceeded the original pledge of RM10,000.

Sponsors for the event were Fullhouse Lifestyle Store & Café, MPH Online, Apex Healthcare Berhad and AEON Co. (M) Berhad.

Accounting Quest 2010 Competition

After months of preparation and hard work, the quest for the 21st century accountants came to an exciting end on May 8 at Sunway University College, Bandar Sunway, when Sek. Men. Keb. (P) Sri Aman, Selangor, emerged the champion.

Gleeful screams greeted the announcement of their win as Amiera bt Zulkarnain, Fong Weng Yee and Iman Izni binti Ezzat Chan hugged each other on stage celebrating the rewarding conclusion to their long arduous journey.

As champions, the girls were recipients of full scholarships from Sunway University College to pursue a foundation programme continuing into an undergraduate degree in accounting, and the opportunity to be mentored by KPMG, one of the prestigious Big 4 accounting firms, in their final year of studies. Upon graduation, with all conditions fulfilled, they will also be offered a job by KPMG. Each of the champions walked away with RM1000 cash prize and individual trophy, along with RM500 cash prize and a Challenge Trophy for their school.

Launched in April, the inaugural Accounting Quest 2010 is a gruelling competition divided into five stages. It was opened to all secondary school students of Form 4 and 5 in Peninsula Malaysia. 138 schools from 6 regions took part with the top 21 teams (three from each region with the exception of six from Selangor-Kuala Lumpur) making it into the finals.

This competition aimed to unearth well-rounded students who have the qualities to be groomed into a progressive 21st century accountant.

The much anticipated finals started with Stage 3 where each team was drilled on their knowledge of the accounting subject. Enthusiastic supporters in the audience were also spotted trying to solve the problems. Eight teams with the highest scores proceeded to Stage 4.

Stage 4 presented a different challenge to the participants. In line with the idea that the modern accountant not only crunch numbers but also possesses good business acumens and the ability to interact with investors, each team was required to make a 3-minute PowerPoint presentation of their Stage 2 project.

Ranging from beverage manufacturers like F&N to conglomerates like Sime Darby, the teams made in-depth analyses of the performance of their chosen companies and attempted to convince the judges to invest in them. After each presentation, the teams were questioned on their choices and recommendations, along with their personal views on a broad range of subjects including the cause of the 2008 banking crisis, description of what a 21st century accountant should be and what are the implications of governments aiding banks in this crisis.

The panel of judges, made up of Dr. Foo Yin Fah (Head of Sunway University College School of Business), Audrey Danasamy (General Manager - Malaysia of CPA Australia), Lee Yee Keng (Audit Partner with KPMG) and Adrian Lee (Audit Partner with KPMG representing ICAEW), assessed each team based on the content of their projects, eloquence and public speaking skills.

Five teams made it into Stage 5 as the competition was raised another notch in the final speedy buzzer round where teams had to prove their smarts on general knowledge and the ability to listen to instructions. All the teams who made it this far were consistent performers since Stage 1 itself.

In the end, as all the points from every stage were tallied, SMK (P) Sri Aman had a slight edge as they performed very well during the buzzer round.

The Accounting Quest 2010 is organised by Sunway University College in partnership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and CPA Australia, along with the main sponsor, KPMG.

Congratulations to the champions and all the other teams who also did a tremendous job in the Accounting Quest 2010.

The full list of winners:

Champion SMK (P) Sri Aman, Selangor Amiera bt Zulkarnain, Foon Weng Yee, Iman Izni binti Ezzat Chan 1st Runner-Up SMK Damansara Jaya (Team B) Marc Choong Guong Nam, Lim Wen Li, Koh Hui Yin 2nd Runner-Up SMK Damansara Jaya (Team A) Tia Tzyy Yee, Lee Yi Zhen, Kang Chan Keat

Consolation SMK Infant Jesus Convent, Johor Chiew Yilynn, Low Hui Yi, Elyssa Chan Ern-Mei ELC International School, Kuala Lumpur Beechey Julian Charles, Khubchandani Mihir Salim, Sarah Lim Yan Yi Stage 4 Consolation SMK Taman Melawati, Selangor Kaif Hilman bin Muhammad Borhan Tan, Ong Jer Rick, Chua Wang Jheng SMJK (P) Cina, Penang Lon Chin Ling, Ooi Kiesha, Tan Pei Ying SMK (P) Methodist, Penang Andria Ooi Ching Mei, Lim Lean Na, Shirley Leong Yan Yan

 

 

Sunway A-Level Math & Logic Challenge 2010

The Sunway University College yearly A-Level Math & Logic Challenge which started in 2006 aims to increase the level of math proficiency among students in Malaysian secondary schools and to promote math as a challenging and interesting subject. It is open to Form 3, 4 and 5 secondary school students.

This year the competition attracted 96 schools from Peninsula Malaysia to the recent competition at Sunway. Some of the schools came from as far as Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak and Penang. In total there were 192 teams with 384 students and scores were awarded based on individual MCQs in Round 1 and teamwork challenges in Round 2.

The champion team that emerged was Chong Hwa Independent High School made up of Too Sheng Tack and Loo Han Rong. This is the second time the school has become the champion in the competition. The First Runner-Up was Hin Hua High School, Klang and the Second Runner-Up was SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya.

The Champions (Left to right), Mr Ong Lim Chuan, math teacher; Loo Han Rong and Too Sheng Tack with Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director, Sunway University College

The prizes for the Top 3 teams included trophies and bursaries valued at RM15,000, RM12,000 and RM8,000 respectively for the Champion, First Runner-Up and Second Runner-Up team members, applicable for the A-Level Pre-U programme at Sunway. The champion school also received a Challenge Trophy and the schools whose teams won the Top 3 prizes were given cash of RM500, RM300 and RM200 respectively. The top 10 highest individual scorers of Round 1 received bursaries for the A-Level programme valued at RM6,000 and the 11th to 50th received bursaries valued at RM5,000.

The champion schools of the past were Foon Yew Independent High School, Johor Baru in 2006, SMJK Katholik, Kuala Lumpur in 2007, Chong Hwa Independent High School, Kuala Lumpur in 2008 and SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya (for the second time) in 2009.

The questions, which were created just for the competition, were devised by the experienced team of 9 Sunway A–Level math teachers headed by Dr Wong Yoke Chen, Director of the A-Level programme at Sunway.

The University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) sponsored 10 Amazon Book Vouchers valued at £10 each to the Top 10 individual scorers of Round 1. The value in prizes for the competition totaled RM154,000.

Oxbridge Public Speaking Competition 2010 (Preliminary & Semi-Final)

The preliminary and semi-final stages of the Sunway University College Public Speaking Competition, an exciting annual event of English oratory excellence, was held on April 17, 2010, at the Bandar Sunway campus. This competition was opened to secondary school students from Form 4 and 5, and this year, it attracted about 100 participants from 52 schools all over Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh.

In the initial round, students were given the chance to impress the judges with a 4-minute prepared speech on the open-ended topic, What is always on my mind. Following a short break, they then faced the true test of their public speaking mettle, the 3-minute impromptu elocution. Students had to think on their feet, articulating opinions spontaneously on topics drawn randomly from an envelope.

During the preliminary rounds, some students managed to charm the judges with suave eloquence while some with their sheer determination and sincerity. A few multi-talented ones even showed off their singing skills.

After some deliberations by the judges, Margaret Hall, the Organising Chairperson representing the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia, announced the 12 semi-finalists who then went on to dazzle the audience with their wits in another round of 3-minute impromptu speeches each on the topic, Family matters. A few of the speakers even had the judges in stitches which is always a good sign.

In order of appearance, the semi-finalists were:

Vishnu Arvindran (SMK Taman Jasmin 2)
Nicholas Lim (SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya)
Afeeq Shaswan Bin Zambre (SM Alam Shah, Putrajaya)
Loo Han Rong (Chong Hwa Independent School, Kuala Lumpur)
Daniel Ong Ying Yao (SMK Damansara Jaya)
Prasant Nambiar (SMK LaSalle, Petaling Jaya)
Roshni George (SMK Seafield, Subang Jaya)
Joash Nicholas Ong (SMK Sultan Abdul Samad, Petaling Jaya)
Daniel Rajasingam (SMK Sultan Abdul Samad, Petaling Jaya)
Kailash A/L Kalaiarasu (SMK St. John, Kuala Lumpur)
Goh Chin Ying (SMK (P) Methodist, Klang)
Marissa Law Jun Yi (SMK USJ 4, Subang Jaya)

The judges for the semi-final were Simon Marshall and Darina Yusof representing the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia, Jeanette Lim and Leonard Chin for Sunway University College, with Dr. Stephen Hall, head of the Language and Compulsory Subjects Centre of Sunway University College, presiding as Chief Judge.

All 12 semi-finalists were awarded Certificates of Commendation and six were selected to compete in the Final scheduled on June 26, 2010. In no particular order, the finalists are:

Vishnu Arvindran (SMK Taman Jasmin 2)
Nicholas Lim (SMJK Katholik, Petaling Jaya)
Loo Han Rong (Chong Hwa Independent School, Kuala Lumpur)
Daniel Ong Ying Yao (SMK Damansara Jaya)
Nicholas Ong (SMK Sultan Abdul Samad, Petaling Jaya)
Kailash A/L Kalaiarasu (SMK St. John, Kuala Lumpur)

The winner of the Sunway University College Public Speaking Competition 2010 stands a chance to win an Oxbridge and Sunway University College Bursary for full tuition fee waiver (Pre-university programmes/American Degree Transfer Program/diploma programmes), an individual trophy and an individual cash prize worth RM600.00.

The Sunway University College Public Speaking Competition is jointly organised by Sunway University College, and the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia.

“Be Drug Free” Campaign powered by Peer Influence

The 4-day “Be Drug Free” campaign, organised by Sunway University College held recently, had the admirable objective of educating students on the causes and risks of drug abuse for prevention purposes.

According to the Agensi Anti Dadah Kebangsaan (AADK), unofficially in 2008, 69.67% of drug users in Malaysia were between 19 and 39 years old. The biggest push factor for this group was peer group pressure as 55.5% of them began taking drugs because of peer influence.

Through this campaign Sunway has identified and equipped around 60 students as volunteers. Sunway’s counselling unit will provide the volunteers with basic knowledge while guiding and encouraging positive peer influence among students. This drug prevention peer programme will empower students and be the social mechanism that will prevent the risk of drug abuse on Sunway’s campus.

Students saying the Pledge to say “No” to drugs

During the campaign, Sunway also initiated the students’ public pledge to say “no” to drugs. Sunway hoped that through this involving step, students felt proud for contributing to their improved quality of life on campus. The pledge was a commitment which hopefully will stay with the students for the rest of their lives. The Campaign theme song is “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. Campaign volunteers performed this theme song during the opening ceremony.

Stephanie Fernandez, a Canadian International Matriculation Programme student at Sunway said “This is an excellent campaign and is something all of us can relate too”.

The Guest of Honour at the opening ceremony was YB Teresa Kok, Senior Executive Councillor of Selangor. There was also talk by DSB Zaiton Binti Hussein, Pegawai Turus Pengundangan dan Nasihat, Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Narkotik IPK Selangor on “Consequences of Drugs Abuse, Related Law and Symptoms of Drug Addiction”.

Students supporting the campaign

Other participants of the campaign included the Narcotic Department Selangor and Agensi Anti Dadah Kebangsaan. NGOs such as Drug Rehabilitation Centres    Home of Victory and Lifezone as well as Malaysian Care had exhibition booths educating students about drugs. A Royal Malaysian Police K9 unit demonstration will also staged a dog tracking demonstration at the Sunway University College foyer. Canon Malaysia sponsored the prizes in the Photography Contest themed, A Drug-Free Lifestyle. Talks, games, quizzes and group activities were also available for students during the Be Drug Free campaign.

Students win the hearts of Orang Asli

A group of 26 students from the School of Computer Technology at Sunway University College donated 17 units of computers to an Orang Asli community in Kampung Jelintuh, Perak. The donations were made in two separate visits over 8 months, during which the students installed the computers at the “Balai Rakyat” at the village and provided some basic lessons to the children and adults there.

Receiving the computers was the Penghulu, Ba Ayyeh. Mr. Johnny Savarimuthu, the advisor of the community service project initially, who attended the first trip with the students sometime in the middle of last year, said “This is a milestone event for the Orang Asli community in Malaysia as it is the first time that a donation of computers has been made to them”. Mr. Christopher Ong the current advisor of the project added “We will continue to work with and support the Orang Asli in order to provide more opportunities and access to the latest technologies for them”.

Student Hasan-Ul-Mokaddes from Bangladesh said “This is a truly remarkable and new experience for me and it gave me an insight into the orang asli community. I was touched by their hospitality and their eagerness to learn about computers. His coursemate, Joseph A/L Gangadaran shared “There are still a lot of people in Malaysia that have missed out on technology and I am really glad me and my classmates had a chance to help. Through this project, we learnt to work as a team and it was a great learning experience too”.

This community service project is part of the requirement for the students’ completion of their diploma course. The computers were a donation by the School of Computer Technology. The costs of travelling and accessories for the installation were covered by a fund raising lunch organised by the students. The students have also raised additional funds through a recent Tea and Fashion Show for computer classes for the Orang Asli which will be provided by the Shalom Community Centre in Gopeng.

An unforgettable and unusual lunch lesson for 8 students

Sunway University College alumnus and well-known entrepreneur George Ang, Group Managing Director of Revenue Valley Sdn Bhd (the company that owns The Manhattan Fish Market, Tony Roma’s and TOKYO.g) hosted 8 lucky Sunway students for lunch. All the 8 students took part in the “Nothing Fishy” competition that was part of a profile on George Ang in Sunway’s quarterly Blaze magazine.

Instead of choosing one winner to have lunch with, Ang chose instead to have lunch with all the 8 students. The 8 were from ACCA, Victoria University twinning degree in Business at Sunway, Business Management (Hons) and Psychology (Hons) degrees validated by Lancaster University. The lunch was held at Tony Roma’s in Sunway Pyramid.

The passionate F&B industrialist whose company has an annual turnover of around RM100 million a year did his AUSMAT (formerly known as TEE) pre-university studies at the then Sunway College in 1990. He then went on to University of Western Australia and graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance and Accounting. George Ang was a guest Entrepreneur Speaker at Sunway recently.

George Ang (striped shirt) with the students.

At the lunch, Ang shared how he started out working part time as a Pizza Hut delivery boy while studying at the old Sunway College in PJ New Town. This was the start of his eventual phenomenal career rise in F&B. He shared on his insights and philosophy on his business. The lunch was a two-way street of sharing and learning that the students found most beneficial and inspiring.

Here are some comments from the students who attended the lunch.

Students with George Ang outside Tony Roma’s

“I think the lunch was awesome! I was amazed by Mr. Ang’s fondness in sharing his secret recipe for his success. It was certainly a wonderful experience that a student could have” - Chang Mei Yan, B.Sc (Hons) Psychology

“The lunch was inspiring and knowledge enhancing especially when George shared his philosophy and experience on managing his business regionally”- Heri Gunawan from Indonesia, B.Sc (Hons) Business Management   

“George Ang is a great and ambitious entrepreneur. He enlightened us on how to be successful in business and he’s keen in knowing other people’s opinion which makes him a great leader” - Seah Chuying, ACCA

George Ang shared many things, mostly based on his exposure and experience as an international businessman. It is quite rare for students to have this kind of learning opportunity. He has been successful in motivating us students to learn more. The food was superb and the conversation was really a mind blowing experience” - Karin Nathasa from Indonesia, B.Bus Victoria University twinning programme at Sunway 

Student Council Wannabes test run new “Speaker’s Corner”

Sunway University College (Sunway) opened a new chapter in the history of private higher educational institutions when it became the first private higher education to launch a Speaker’s Corner recently. Extolling free speech, Speaker’s Corner at Sunway is aimed to encourage free expression of ideas, views and opinions and to develop confidence in public speaking among its students. It is also a forum for the healthy communication of ideas, thoughts, issues and information.

Sonia Lee Yi Jie from A-Levels

To initiate this, 17 students were given a chance to shine at the rostrum by presenting their argument for “Why I want to serve on the Sunway University College Student Council 2010”. All the students rose to the occasion by eloquently pitching their strengths and highlighting their concerns on various issues on campus. They impressed and swayed the audience with their enthusiasm, confidence and oratorical skills.

Fatima Khakoo from CIMP who hails from Tanzania

Nur Rafiqah Binte Rahman from Singapore is studying in the ACCA at Sunway

Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Ramon Navaratnam, Pro-Chancellor of Sunway University College and a celebrated speaker himself, gave his verdict of the Speaker’s Corner. “Student Council members stand to gain from their exposure to public speaking and I support Speaker’s Corner as it provides a platform for students to improve themselves and ultimately do well in their careers. This is a wonderful debating corner for the university college and its launch is a milestone event.”  He added that he looked forward to seeing more students participating in the Speaker’s Corner in future.

The Student Services Department of Sunway University College will be planning speaking events in the near future with topics on current issues. This would allow students a chance to express themselves in an open debate and encourage analytical as well as critical thinking in order to prepare them for their future in the working world.   

International students livened up a Sunway event

Sunway University College’s international students were the centre of attention during the launch of Sunway Towers (formerly Wisma Denmark) in Jalan Ampang recently. The well-known building was officially opened by the Datuk Bandar of Kuala Lumpur, Dato’ Ahmad Fuad Ismail and the event was organised by Sunway City Berhad, a Sunway Group company.

8 female students donned their national costumes and played the role of ushers for the event. Their presence underlined Sunway University College as one of the major facilities of the integrated resort city of Sunway under the Sunway Group.

Caption: Left to right, Enkh-Oyun Davaadorj (Mongolia), Naushafarin Said Mirza (Tanzania), Chantsaldulam Baatar (Mongolia), Sabeeha Mohamed Rafiki Ibrahi Sadi (Kenya), Sarah Francesca Tsehayenesh Bekele (Zinbabwe), One Atang Lefenya (Botswana), Madiha Mushtaque Rashid (Pakistan) and Nanjaa Unurjargal (Mongolia)

Sabeeha Mohamed Rafiki Ibrahi Sadi, one of the students from Kenya who is pursuing the Bachelor of Accounting & Finance said “It was a very good experience for me as I got to meet people from other countries and it was fascinating to learn about their cultures and costumes. It was also exciting to meet the Chairman of the Sunway Group (and Chancellor of Sunway University College) and to learn that Sunway was venturing their projects into areas out of the Sunway area”.

The students were also joined by staffs of Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall, who were dressed in Malaysian ethnic costumes.

Sunway students “shout” for 350

Around 40 students from Sunway University College (Sunway), mostly from the Victoria University B.Bus twinning programme, took part in the Sunway 350 Survival Pool Party in conjunction with October 24, 2009: An International Day of Climate Action to make their voices heard loud and clear for 350.

The students were made up of Malaysian and international students from Taiwan, Nigeria, Indonesia and the much-affected Republic of the Maldives.

They joined citizens, scientists and world leaders in 177 countries who took to nearby streets, mountains, parks, and reefs on the same day to demand strong action on climate change, in what was the most participative day of environmental action in the planet’s history.

More than 4,400 rallies and events took place, all of them centred on the number 350, to draw attention to 350 parts per million (ppm), which an overwhelming number of scientists now insist is the safe upper limit for carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

“We decided to soak in the pool and form the ‘350’ human formation after the call for action from the President of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, who held an official cabinet meeting in an unusual location – underwater - on 17 October 2009” said organiser Simpson Khoo, Public Relations Executive who is also a youth climate activist from Malaysian Youth Climate Justice Network (www.mycjn.org)

Ahmed Muzhid, a Sunway Information Technology (Hons) degree student from the Maldives said “If we are still continuing and further damaging our planet, my country and other island countries will be affected. I will lose my country and home”.

Youth across Asia have taken up the 350 call and organised creative events across the region. In China, more than 300 events were planned across the entire country while Vietnam youth hosted a nationwide summit in Hanoi to learn about climate change. In the Philippines, students in Manila highlighted the recent damage caused by typhoons and in Cambodia youth rallied at Angkor Wat one of the most iconic sites in Asia.

“350 has become a symbol of this new youth climate movement here and around the world. I’m glad that Sunway University College is organising this great event and I hope there will be greater awareness among Sunway students and more participation from them” shared by Ubong Akpaso a Sunway MUFY student from Nigeria.

Sunway shared the videos and photographs they took immediately with the 350.org’s website and the 350.org organizer displayed them along with hundreds of other photos taken around the world on the giant advertising screens of Times Square before hand-delivering the shots to UN delegations.

“Sometimes our parents and politicians say youth just don’t worry that much about global warming,” said Don Lin, a Sunway VU student from Taiwan. “I think we’ve proven—around the world—that there’s no issue we care more about.” He added.

The pool party involved students making the 350 Pledge and learning the dance mob moves to the chant “I say-It’s hot in here” and a 350 formation.


About other Sunway CSR Initiatives

This event follows the WWF-Malaysia Earth Hour and “Egg=Life” campaign involving Sunway students earlier in 2009. Sunway strives to work towards disseminating good social values to students via its CSR involvements through environmental activities, community outreach and also in providing scholarships.

Scholarships are awarded through the Jeffery Cheah Foundation which has been recently converted from Sunway Education Trust Fund. The Trust has dispersed RM 50 million since it was incepted in 1997.


About 350.ORG

350.org is an international campaign dedicated to building a movement to unite the world around solutions to the climate crisis—the solutions that science and justice demand. Their mission is to inspire the world to rise to the challenge of the climate crisis—to create a new sense of urgency and of possibility for our planet.

350 parts per million is what many scientists, climate experts, and progressive national governments are now saying is the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. Scientists have concluded that we are already above the safe zone at our current 390ppm, and that unless we are able to rapidly return to 350 ppm this century, we risk reaching tipping points and irreversible impacts such as the melting of the Greenland ice sheet and major methane releases from increased permafrost melt.