Campus News

Sunway University Business School champion PNB Quiz

2012-01-17T09:08:00.003+08:00

Derick Yee, Sonia Lim and Yap Wan Li who represented the Sunway University Business School (SUBS) during the national level Investment Quiz Competition organised by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) made Sunway University proud when they championed the 2011 competition. The students did not falter even though they were perceived to be ‘newbies’ in the competition and displayed strength and character throughout. This is the first time in 11 years a private institution (IPTS) has won.

Three students were chosen to represent the university in the final round that was held at Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang in December.The trio from Sunway University competed against 32 teams during the semi-finals and landed themselves in the finals against 3 other teams including Curtin University, Sarawak Malaysia.

From left to right: Yap Wan Li , Deric Yee Seng Kit and Sonia Lim Suan Li, SUBS’s Bachelor of Science (Hons) Accounting and Finance students.

For their efforts the trio won a cheque worth RM 5,000 for Sunway University and they each received a RM1,000 equivalent of Amanah Saham Gemilang units. The students topped the quiz by getting the most number of diagonal and horizontal strikes and boxes during the competition.

The competition was part of PNB’s aim to promote awareness and educate university students on the relationship between risks and return in long-term investments. The depth of terminologies and current issues in investments and economic developments in university students was put to the test.

From left to right: Yap Wan Li , Deric Yee Seng Kit and Sonia Lim Suan Li with the replica of the PNB Investment Quiz 2011 Champion’s Trophy.

Yap Wan Li said, “It was a memorable and fruitful experience overall. We did not only learn about the technicality of financial knowledge but also developed strategies throughout the competition as we progressed.” The three students had to prepare for both their final examination and competition at the same time. They ensured they remained calm and collected throughout the competition.

Yap shared, “Winning the game was secondary while enjoying the whole process was a priority. It was this mindset which pulled us through the semi-finals that later contributed to us winning the competition. Knowledge is essential, but skills like teamwork and strategising your game is equally important too.”

Yap added, “It was a progressive feeling of excitement as we could see that we were leading the competition judging by the total scores collected along the way. However, we could not help but feel a deep sense of pride when we were announced champions of the PNB competition." We are glad to have made our university proud by being the first private university which has won the competition since it was first held.”

Role model women inspire a sweet act from Chermaine

2012-01-06T16:19:00.001+08:00

After weeks of talking to and listening to 5 inspirational Malaysian philanthropic women as the host of NTV 7’s SK-11 Miracle Makers, Chermaine Poo decided that she would do her part for charity as well – by baking cupcakes to raise funds for a charitable organisation of her choice. Poo became the highlight in the show she was hosting when she challenged herself to bake 1,000 cupcakes and to sell them, in a charity drive named “Chermaine’s Cupcake Charity”.

The TV actress and chartered accountant baked the cupcakes single-handedly, only enlisting the help of her celebrity acquaintances and close friends to pack the cupcakes, all done within a span of two days. Within that time, Poo had to sell the beautiful cupcakes, packed in boxes of 6 starting at RM50 each, at Sunway Pyramid.

Chermaine (4th from right) delivered cupcakes to staff and students at Sunway campus foyer

One of the first people she approached was Elizabeth Lee, the Executive Director of Sunway Education Group, a person she got to know as an ACCA student of Sunway College. To her delight, Lee informed Poo that Sunway University would donate RM5,000 towards her cupcake charity drive.

On her way to deliver the cupcakes to Sunway Pyramid, Poo made a special delivery of the cupcakes in a white Lotus sports car, at Sunway University. The delicious cupcakes were distributed to students and staff at the Sunway campus.

Poo admitted it was hard work. The entire process had to be planned out carefully as she could not afford to lose any time. The long hours of baking were very tiring and the pressure to meet the target on time was tremendous.

“I kept reminding myself that my five mentors did exactly that – they kept on doing it and did not give up. I thank God for the strength and perseverance, and my family and friends for their encouragement and support, and NTV 7 and SK-11 for giving me the opportunity and platform to launch my charity drive” said Poo.

Poo sold the rest of the cupcakes at Sunway Pyramid’s main concourse raising a total of RM18,000 for Shelter Home for Children, Petaling Jaya, proving without a doubt that she could make her own miracle project.

A spellbinding event for the environment

2011-12-20T16:25:00.000+08:00

The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management (SHTLM), Sunway University organised a charity dinner recently to raise funds and awareness for World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Malaysia as part of the B.Sc (Hons) International Hospitality Management students’ assignment. The dinner was held at SHTLM’s training restaurant and supported by the newly renovated kitchen which was done in accordance with Le Cordon Bleu’s specifications.

Furthermore, the theme of this event was inspired by the musical film, Burlesque (2010) which was directed by Steven Antin and starred Christina Aguilera and Cher. Therefore, to truly bring out the essence of the theme, Viva Vertical, which specialises in pole dancing, agreed to perform for the event on a goodwill basis. In addition, Ryan de Alwis from MIX FM was also invited to emcee for that night.

Among the guests who were present, were the Executive Director of Sunway Education Group, Ms. Elizabeth Lee, and Youth Outreach Executive from WWF Malaysia, Mr. Brandon Liu. Ms. Anisha Chai, the Head of SHTLM said, “It is a meaningful activity as it was not only fulfilling the academic requirements but it was a community responsibility project as well.”

This event was entirely planned and executed by a team of 15 students under the supervision of the Head of Food and Beverage, Mr. Daniel Chong. He said, ”This event facilitates students to put operation management theories into practice, from conceptualisation to execution.”

“A Spellbound Enchanted Evening with Wonderful Performances”, was the tagline of this dinner and it was beyond doubt achieved by this group of students as each of the guests left with a wide smile on their faces. Besides the breathtaking performances by Viva Vertical, guests were also entertained by the hostess, who dressed identical to a character of the film.

Elizabeth Lee (centre) presenting the cheque to WWF-Malaysia’s Brandon Liu (left) as a representative from Viva Vertical (right) looks on.

A total of RM4,000 was channelled to WWF Malaysia from the event. The donations were collected from numerous companies and individuals. Besides that, merchandise sponsored by a few companies was used as door gifts and lucky draw prizes. “Thank you to the students and all the good-hearted people who contributed” said Liu.

Themed dinners like this are held mostly during the month of July and November every year, during the long semester periods which allow sufficient time for the students to plan, organise and execute these dinners successfully.

Sunway Cricket Team to play Malaysian National Cricket Team Cricket

2011-12-19T10:29:00.003+08:00

The dynamic talent of the Sunway Cricket team was proven when they were recently handpicked by the management of the Malaysian Cricket Association (MCA) to play in a series of matches against the Malaysian National Cricket team. Sunway’s Cricket team who participated in various tournaments organised by numerous State Cricket Associations had advanced into the finals of each tournament. The Chairman of the MCA was impressed by Sunway’s track record for Year 2011 and thus offered them an opportunity to partake in a five match series with the national team in preparation for their upcoming 2012 ICC World Cricket League Division Five tournament that will take place in Singapore in February.

The players in concentration during the match.

The Sunway team is made up of a number of international students who are pursuing their studies in Sunway. They come from countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India. The first match of five in the series started at the home of the Malaysian National Cricket team, Kinrara Cricket Academy, Kinrara Oval in Puchong recently. The Sunway players performed tremendously well against the illustrious opposition despite playing with their second squad. These students exercised time management skills as they were busy training for the match and preparing for their exams. Although the team came up short, Sunway’s bowler Sohail Khan took 3 Malaysian wickets in the finals contributing to Sunway scoring 6 for the match.

A Sunway Cricket player in action during the match.

Team Captain and American Degree Transfer Programme (ADTP) student, Ziaul Alam Rony said, “The experience playing against the Malaysian National Team was amazing. I did not have my first squad for the match but we tried our best to play decent cricket against them and put up a good fight.”
Rony conceded that there are some things to work on if Sunway defeats Malaysia in the upcoming games. “In my opinion, our bowlers bowled a good line and the fielding was superb, however we lacked strategy and confidence in batting. We hope to improve once the full squad returns in January next year. I think we will make a positive comeback in the upcoming matches.”

The Sunway Cricket players and the Malaysian National Cricket team shake hands after the match.

The Sunway Cricket Club deserves enormous amount of credit for being recognised by the Malaysian Cricket Association as one of the premier teams in the nation. Congratulations to SCC from all of us at Sunway.

Catharsis, Purging of Emotions by Sunway ADTP students

2011-12-03T10:31:00.004+08:00

A full house and uproar of laughter filled the auditorium as students from the class of THEA 1000 purged their emotions during the production of Catharsis, Purging of Emotions. The 5 short plays was each unique, entertaining and witty, played by the students of the Sunway American Degree Transfer Programme (ADTP).

The production held at Sunway University started with a play titled ‘The Unruly Bank Customer’, written and directed by Danny Voon Seng Hong. Danny wanted to create a sense of familiarity to everyone by placing an unruly bank customer with a thick Malaysian accent against a prim and proper service banker. The tendency for both of them to misunderstand each other created a chaos.

Rajen Pradhan (seated) and Chin Kai Yi battling it out in the Unruly Bank Customer.

The knee-slapping laughter that accompanied the first play echoed as the audience embraced themselves for a melodramatic change of emotions through the second play titled, “My Sunshine Away” directed by Tan You Ken and Daryl Premkumar. The play is a heart-warming tale about a sibling’s love for her handicapped brother who in turn is seeking autonomy in life.

The heart-warming tale of siblings love played by Leticia Nkulu and Rajen Pradhan.

Tan You Ken and Daryl Premkumar said, “It was a challenge directing a more serious play as it was important to evoke an emotional side to the audience. The depth of the story was great and we were hoping the audience would understand the storyline.”

The mood was uplifted once again with both the plays titled ‘Language Barrier’ directed by Jack Ling Jin Yew and “Thank God it’s…” directed by Nancy Yong Wen Shi and Hayden Cheanglai Yee. Both plays were written by Ronnie Shieu.

A scene from Thank God It’s….

Language barrier saw the class from the popular British comedy titled “Mind Your Language” together with their teacher, Mr Brown and school principal, Ms Courtney arrested for shoplifting. Jack said, “I wanted to produce something funny and it took a lot of movies, newspapers, life experience as well as the actor’s help to produce this play.”

A very frustrated police officer (extreme right) attempting to understand the foreign students in Language Barrier.

‘Thank God it’s..’ saw 3 friends who possess 3 contrasting characteristics dining in a prestigious restaurant. Little did they know they would be greeted by a waiter with an attitude, making the four a deadly combination for the perfectly calm night. Nancy and Hayden shared, “We had fun with each idea and improvised the play along the way. We were very proud of our actors who took on the characters well.” Nancy was able to share stage experiences with the actors as she has been involved in other productions.

A girl is smitten by the ‘Puss in Boots’ in Celinderella.

Celinederella written and directed by Nur Hazlin and Shavin Nair is a modern musical tale of a woman who tries to stay strong and happy while enduring the abuse of her stepsister. “We wanted Celinederella to deal with her own problems in order to showcase autonomy. We wanted to make it as real as possible”, said the directors.

Catharsis, a Purging of Emotions is a collaborative effort of all the students of THEA 1000 who come from various majors in the ADTP such as Business, Mass Communication, Engineering and Aviation. Students invested their time, energy and skills into making this production a huge success. Apart from the original scripts, directing and starring in this production, they were responsible for publicising, producing, sound engineering, stage management and other essential areas.

Yu Chu Vang, a student from China who played Juan in Language Barrier said, “It was challenging for me as a foreigner to put on a Spanish accent while battling to communicate in simple English. However, I practiced by speaking frequently with my friends. I also improved my command of English. I enjoyed the experience as it gave me an opportunity to express myself.”

Chin Khai Yi, an actor in An Unruly Bank Customer and Language Barrier said, “I picked up effeminate traits from movies and incorporated them in my roles. I watched a lot of Singaporean and Malaysian movies to pick up the accent and lingo.” Chin believed the production was an experience on its own as one learns how to respond to certain people, experiences and interactions throughout the production. He added, “I believe everyone played their part in making this production a success including the people from behind the scenes. Special mention of Miss Malissa Mahmud, Lecturer of ADTP and dramaturge for this production as without her this play would not have happened”.

Clean sweep for Sunway’s shining star

2011-11-25T14:41:00.003+08:00

19 year-old Katrina Ann Abdul Hadi is the proud owner of five glittering gold medals having swept all the synchronised swimming events at the 26th SEA Games in Palembang, Indonesia this year. Katrina and her team mates, having already delivered golds in the free duet, technical duet, free team and technical team events, were once again at their dazzling best, when they produced a consistent and energetic performance to overwhelm the spectators and judges in the fifth and final event, the free team combination. Performing to the song ‘Rio de Janeiro’, the team scored 75.363 points to easily win another gold medal.

Katrina (left) with her duet partner, Shareen Png

A delighted Katrina could hardly contain her excitement after helping Malaysia to make a spectacular medal tally. “I came with only a three-gold target in mind and I’ve won five – that’s a real bonus. Right now my priority is to try and qualify for the London Olympics next year but it won’t be easy. My personal target is the 2016 Olympics and, hopefully, I’ll continue swimming until then,” said Katrina, a student of the Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) student at Sunway College.

An all rounder, Katrina has also done well outside the pool having achieved 4 A’s in her CIMP examinations, so far. She will be an Ontario Scholar at her coming graduation.

Katrina did her SPM at the Bukit Jalil Sports School. She was a gymnast from the age of 5 years before switching to synchronized swimming at the age of 12. Her demanding training schedule normally begins at 6.30 am till 9.45 am followed by classes and then returning back to the pool at 3 pm before finishing at 7.30 pm. When there is night training, she is back in the pool from 8.30 pm till 10 pm. Her younger sister Farah Ann is a gymnast.

At the recent 26th SEA Games in Palembang, Jacqueline won a gold in the women’s doubles bowling for Malaysia with Zandra Aziela Ibrahim Hakimi

Katrina’s connection to Sunway is two-fold as her mother Kimberly Ann Gagnon, is a lecturer in the CIMP.

Sunway University Business School steps into Hollywood

2011-11-14T10:59:00.002+08:00

Sunway University Business School (SUBS) recently had a ball of time as they celebrated the grand annual ball held at Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa. 450 VIP guests, lecturers and students who were dressed in their finest suites and gowns were greeted by the SUBS Students Concilium committee at the Hollywood Walk of Fame themed grand ball.

Amritha Kaur receiving her award from Ms Christina Foo, a member CPA Australia Advisory Council.

Hosted by Siva Sanmugan and Fadwa Al-Omar, the event kicked off with an enthralling Burlesque performance by the Student Concilium members followed by an inspiring speech by Associate Professor Dr Foo Yin Fah, Head of the SUBS and the Student Concilium President, June Lum.

Lee Ker Ching receiving her award from Mr Siew Chin Kiang, member of ACCA Malaysia Advisory Committee.

While the night was devoted to fun and games, SUBS also paid recognition to students who displayed outstanding academic performance in their subjects. Adrian Ang Tze Ern and Michelle Soo Mei Cheng emerged top scorers for Advanced Management Accounting and Business Ethics and Social Responsibility and were rewarded with a book prize award by Ms Ho Li Li from CIMA Malaysia. Koo Yan Jing and Shalene Kalyanasundaram both took home the best subject award for Business Strategy and Strategic Financial Management presented by Mr Ramesh Rajaratnam Chairman of ICAEW Malaysia Alumni while Amritha Kaur A/P Jagjit Singh won the best subject award for Financial and Corporate Reporting 1 presented by Ms Christina Foo, a Member CPA Australia Advisory Council. Deric Yee Seng Kit and Lee Ker Ching were top scorers for Investment Management and Corporate Finance respectively who received their award from Mr Siew Chin Kiang Member ACCA Malaysia Advisory Committee while Ms Chai Sing Ru who was awarded the best recipient for Audit and Assurance received her award from Mr Siew Chin Kiang Partner KPMG.

SUBS Lecturers embraced their alter-egos during the 2011 Grand Ball.

The night was full of laughter as students also witnessed a chirpy side to the lecturers who put on a sketch dressed as superheroes and villains. The activities that evening included lucky draws, games and performances by students after a 7 course scrumptious dinner. Students also stood a chance to win an Ipad 2, LCD television, home theatre system, a canon printer and camera and others.

SUBS Student Concilium committee members dressed to kill during the Grand Ball.

Sunway International School Open Day 2011

2011-11-02T08:51:00.002+08:00

Sunway University 2011 graduates reach for the stars

2011-10-20T15:09:00.001+08:00

Sunway University recently celebrated 405 graduating students during the 2011 Graduation Ceremony in the presence of the Pro-Chancellor Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Ramon Navaratnam. The ceremony held at Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa is held annually for the conferring of degrees and the granting of diplomas to candidates from the Sunway University Business School, School of Computer Technology, School of Creative Arts and Communication, School of Health and Natural Sciences and the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management.

Sunway School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management students were all smiles after the graduation ceremony

Professor Steve Bradley, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University was present to confer the Lancaster scrolls to graduating students from the Business, Computing, Hospitality, Tourism, and Psychology disciplines for the honours degree developed by Sunway University and validated by Lancaster University.

Sunway University was also proud to award 30 graduating students with first class honours degrees and 3 community scholars under the Tun Omar Ong Yoke Lin community scholarship funded by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation.

Sunway University Business School students rejoicing after the graduation ceremony

Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam addressed the young graduates in his speech, “You are now ready to face many challenges and obstacles. While success is not always guaranteed, life itself is not a test of success. As your venture into the world, remember each of us have a special role to play in this life”.

Valedictorian, Mamoon Muhammad who graduated with first class honours in the BSc (Hons) in Business Management said, “I am not a citizen in this country, I’m from Pakistan, and being away from home, being away from my family, going away was for our own betterment and it was a tough decision to make. But here at Sunway it is a home itself”.

Mamoon showing Mohammed Omer his degrees after the graduation ceremony

Mamoon was the President of the Student Concilium of Sunway University Business School and also the School’s staff and student committee member. “From being a part of the societies in Sunway, I saw how change is an integral part of Sunway University. Student’s views on academic matters were always taken into consideration and changes were made accordingly”.

Mamoon will be heading to Pulau Redang, Terengganu for an exciting holiday with his brother, Mohammed Omer, a Sunway alumnus.

100 Sunway University Students inducted into Golden Key International Honour Society

2011-10-19T09:29:00.000+08:00

100 Sunway University students have once again received membership into the Sunway Golden Key International Honour Society. The Golden Key International Honour Society is a global non-profit organisation that recognises and rewards academic achievements in 380 universities around the world. The students who have been inducted into this society are the cream of the crop from the Sunway University Business School, School of Health and Natural Sciences, Australian University Programme as well as the School of Computer Technology based on their academic standards.

The students that received membership into the Sunway Golden Key International Honour Society

At the Membership Reception held to embrace the new students into the society, Professor Robert Bignall, Vice-Chancellor of Sunway University said, “Sunway University is proud of your achievements and hope you will continue to grow through your involvement with the Golden Key International Honour Society”. He added, “I hope you will discover your leadership potential and grow with this society and become captains of the industries”.

Susanna Chan, University Relations Officer Asia Pacific said, “This membership does not stop at academic recognition but also gives members an opportunity to exercise their leadership skills, engage in community service activities as well as develop networking skills that will enrich your experience”. She added, “The skills that you attain will enable you to give back to the community, make a contribution and have a positive impact on the lives of others”.

Daniel Roslan, a student from the Australian University Programme said, “I am very proud to be inducted into this esteemed society. I hope that it will benefit me in my job interviews and future career plans’.

Daniel Roslan receiving his certificate from Professor Robert Bignall

Finola Dwi Mustika, also from the Australian University Programme said, “Receiving this award not only makes me proud but it acts as a motivation factor for me to continue working hard to achieve my goals. It gives me pleasure to know that my work is appreciated and recognised. I hope this award will give me a bright future”.

The local chapter was launched in October 2010 when 120 Sunway University students were initiated into the chapter. The chapter has since conducted various activities including a fundraising that raised RM 1,690 for groceries and 200 t-shirts to Rumah Anak-Anak Yatim & Cacat Taman Megah.

Also present was Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director, Sunway Education Group, Lee Siok Ping, Director of Student Services Sunway Education Group and Ms Greeja Hemalata De Silva, Head of the Australian University Programme.

7 Awards for Sunway University in Culinairé Malaysia 2011

2011-10-19T09:11:00.000+08:00

6 students from the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Management (SHTLM) recently bagged awards at the Culinairé Malaysia 2011. The students took part in 3 categories namely, Cocktail, Mocktail and Fruit Flambe. Phuah Ng Kit and Shireen Tan who competed in the cocktail competition took home the silver medal each while Jessica Chang and Natasha bt Mohd Yusof who participated in the Mocktail category as well as Michelle Tan and Tan Vi June who participated in the Fruit Flambé category took home the bronze medal each.

From left to right: Tan Vi Jun, Michelle Tan, Chong Wei Tzeh, lecturer, Daniel Chong, Shireen Tan, Jessica Chang and Natasha Bt Mohd Yusof

Each student had to create an international recipe and showcase their creations to a panel of judges. Shireen Tan invented a drink that reflected her life. She cleverly put together a combination of flavours that gave the drink a bitter sweet sensation she called Monhistoire which means My Story in French. “I used granulated coffee and Guinness stout to give it a bitter taste and finished off with a fruity flavour for the base for an acquired taste of sweetness”. She added, “The whole experience was an eye-opener to me. You see competitors in a different light and learn skills you have never seen before and meet people from different industries”. Shireen lives by the quote “Dare to be Different”.

Jessica Chang invented “Home” an inspiration derived from her mother and her hometown in Sarawak. As Sarawak is famous for the harvest festival, Jessica opted for a grainy blend by adding barley to espresso syrup. Home was popular amongst her male friends. Despite having a short time to prepare, she was very comfortable during the performance. She said to future competitors, “Dare to step out of your comfort zone and you will realise your potential”.

Natasha bt Mohd Yusof who invented the Bambu which means bamboo in Italian was inspired by a 3 course meal, appetizer, entrée and dessert. She added a combination of coffee and balsamic vinegar to give a sour and acidic taste for the appetizer and used a Soursop blend with passion fruit syrup and lemon juice for the second layer as the main course. Natasha used green tea and syrup for a sweet finishing. The three layers combined into a green white and brown appearance giving a very Japanese feel as expressed by its name, Bambu.

Michelle Tan who competed in the Fruit Flambe category combined sour plum with apple cider vinegar, cempedak juice and puree with dry shrimp and Osmanthus flower powder to give the dish a sweet, sour and salty taste. The dish is called Eclipse because of the combination of colours that produces an eclipse effect. Michelle said, “The most important factor is confidence and learning how to sell your products. You have to be your own marketing person”.

Tan Vi June identified his ingredients but had a hard time figuring out the best combination and blend. He thought about his favourite food (Satay) and that was how Saté came about. He shared, “No matter how bad you think you are, you should go for it and you will never know”, to future students interested in entering a competition.

Chong Wei Tzeh, chef cum lecturer at Sunway University also took home the bronze medal for the Malaysia Pastry Cup category. The Culinairé Malaysia 2011 is the region’s largest culinary food and beverage service competition that is held in conjunction with FHM 2011. It is held to set a benchmark on the culinary and food and beverage related service standards in the Malaysian Hospitality industry.

Sunway University lecturer expresses creativity through Space Animation Movie

2011-10-11T16:32:00.000+08:00

Sunway University Lecturer, Asmadi Jusoh from the School of Creative Arts and Communication (SCAC) will be showcasing his talent in Re-entry, the first space animation movie to be made locally. Contributing ideas in architectures and 3-D designs, Asmadi will join 6 other colleagues including Norul Rafidi, who oversees this project in making this space adventure thriller animation that will depict human life making their way to space in 50 years from now.

Asmadi who hails from Terengganu has a Bachelor of Science in Housing, Building and Planning and a Bachelor of Architecture from University Sains Malaysia, Penang. Asmadi started working as an architect and then proceeded to University Tun Abdul Razak where he spent 2 years as a part time lecturer before joining Sunway University. He also took up the Unitar Multimedia Coursewave, a twinning programme with an MSC company from India.

Asmadi with his architecture and 3-D design that will be featured in the space animation movie, Re-entry.

Asmadi who has a collection of figurines from the popular Manga series Naruto and Gundam, said, “I have always had the passion to do 3D and Animation. Therefore I took an interest in learning software programmes such as 3D Max and AutoCAD among other programmes”.

This project came about when Norul Rafidi was introduced to Patrick Collins, a space programme professor at Azabu University Sagamihara City in Japan, by his brother Norul Ridzuan, the founder and president of Space Tourism Society (STS) Malaysia Chapter. Patrick Collins was trying to spread the idea of space tourism and life in space through his comic book in Japanese and he was interested to turn that into an animated movie. Norul Rafidi had a team of animators including Asmadi that possessed different skills and expertise that would benefit this project. The rest was history.

Asmadi’s contribution to the project varies from the design of the space craft, vertical takeoff and landing (VITOL), weapons, cockpit and hotel. “I’ve made a cylindrical design of the space hotel that has the characteristics of a Rafflesia flower unique to Malaysia. The cylindrical design rotates and will give everyone an equal opportunity to have a window view of space”, he quipped.

The animators are currently in the final stage of completing the trailer for Re-entry that will be presented at the International Association for the Advancement of Space Safety (IAASS) conference from Oct 17-19 in Paris, France. The trailer will also be presented to representatives for Nasa, ESA and Japan Aerospace Agency (Jaxa).

By the light of the silvery moon

2011-09-28T11:02:00.001+08:00

They were from Pakistan, Yemen, India, Iran, Botswana, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan and Indonesia and were spotted parading around with lanterns under a full moon. Sounds like a vampire’s prowl? No, they were just Sunway University students having fun at a Lantern Walk Mid-Autumn Festival outing at Sunway South Quay. The students also enjoyed dinner hosted by Elizabeth Lee, the Executive Director of Sunway Education Group as part of the Sunway University event.

Maitumelo Daisy Motlaleng from Botswana enjoying the moonlit walk with her lantern.

The 34 international students started off on a cruise on board the South Quay Princess on the Lake that is central to the Sunway South Quay development and then adjourned to Elizabeth Lee’s home nearby for a lavish Chinese dinner. Desserts offered included, moon cakes which were washed down with tea. After dinner the students went on a walk with their lighted lanterns by the lakeside as per the tradition of the mid-Autumn Festival.

Ms. Lee (second from right) with some of the international students.

“The lantern festival was special and I enjoyed the cruise. It was fantastic” said Madhiya from Pakistan.

“It was great to enjoy the lanterns, the company and the view. The dinner was delicious and Ms Lee was a generous hostess. I will never forget this” said Ali Abdullah from Yemen.

Sunway Anime Convention Twice as Fun

2011-09-28T09:32:00.000+08:00

The 2011 Animangaki organised by the Sunway University’s Anime Club (SUAC) was once again a huge success as die-hard anime and cosplay fans from all over Klang Valley made an appearance in this exciting convention.

This year, the gathering was twice the fun as 2,000 people attended to this convention that was held for two days despite running concurrently with the Malaysian Info Toys Fair and the Anicom: Cosplay Competition. Themed “Summer” to illustrate the fun and excitement that accompanies the summer festivals in Japan, the SUAC were determined to introduce new activities to satisfy the passionate crowd. This year, the Touhou Room was introduced, where participants could play games, check out figurines, purchase posters as well as partake in mini-games.

Muhammad Hazwan, a student from the School of Computer Technology (SCT) and committee member of the SUAC said, “As an SCT student, I had to incorporate my skills in designing to invent various attractive designs for the website, posters, pamphlets and t-shirts. It was quite an exciting experience and a platform for me to exercise my skills as I was given no limit, but an in-exhaustive virtual canvas to portray my creativity. It serves as a jumpstart for me and my career”.

Jowena Kok, studying ICAEW was in-charge of securing a sponsorship. She said, “It was fun and educational as I learned how to approach different people from different organisations. It also gave me an opportunity to mentor new committee members into executing different tasks”.

Koh Song Leong from ACCA who is President of SUAC shared, “It was a challenge keeping in touch with so many things at the same time. As a leader, it also taught me how to trust and support my team members. I truly felt that it was the people who made it a memorable experience for me as I learnt to appreciate people for the work they put into making the convention a huge success. I was also able to exercise my social skills as I learnt that there are different ways to approach different people. It was very important to be flexible and study the different schedule of people and use appropriate means to better communicate with them”. Jowena added, “We ensured prompt replies in our exchange of e-mail to show our initiative and working style”.

The 2011 Animangaki saw many competitions such as the Animangki Idol, Cosplay, Art, Yonkoma and Omatsuri competitions that were packed with people. Music aficionados were delighted to see performances from Desu, a pop punk nerd band, Flying Pan, essentially a merger of two different bands Zeolite and Lost Decibels, who are influenced by Japanese rock music and others. The Anime Music Video Competition (AMV) was also held to encourage the creative and talented participants to showcase their work.

Volunteering for a Cause

2011-09-19T16:40:00.001+08:00

After facilitating the exciting business simulation game and planting 150 “Tengek Burung” trees at the Raja Musa Forest Reserve, the enthusiastic Lancaster University students were hard at work behind the scenes at the Dewan Sivik, Petaling Jaya for two days in preparation for the “I Believe” Benefit Concert organised by StART Society recently.

The Sunway–Lancaster Exchange students who are here for the Summer Programme together with an International Opportunities intern from Lancaster University who chaperoned the British students to Malaysia were present on both the 12th and 13th of September to help the StART Society with the ticketing booth, lighting and sound, distribution of programme booklet, props, ushering, food and beverages, taking care of the children, as well as sales of t-shirts.

Billy Girow, a 3rd year student studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics said, “We are all eager to help the StART Society kids”. Girrow shared his experience being part of the Lancaster University Student Union (LUSU) which is also active in teaching about social enterprises.

The StART Society was initiated by Joshua Lee, a Sunway University alumnus who was in search of something greater than his own achievements. He is now the Programme Director for the underprivileged children who have been taught to express and articulate their feelings and emotions through music, fine arts, drama, dance, speech, writing and life skills.

Sunway University together with the assistance from Malaysian Care provided school-leavers with scholarships and are now pursuing their studies in a degree of their choice.

The “I Believe” Benefit Concert saw dance performances choir, drama and guests artistes performing alongside the children.

Lancaster and Sunway students enjoy a game

2011-09-15T17:43:00.000+08:00

Bright-eyed exchange students, 28 to be exact, from Lancaster University who were in Sunway University on a Sunway-Lancaster Summer Programme (Sep 4 – 24) this year, found themselves in a game during their stay at Sunway. It was a Business Simulation Game that they facilitated for a group of younger students enrolled in the Foundation in Arts (FIA), a Pre-University programme which is the foundation programme tailored for the Lancaster collaborative degree programmes offered at Sunway University.

The aim of the game was to develop communication, teamwork and entrepreneurial skills around challenging yet hypothetical activities of buying and selling as well as coming up with solutions to real-life problems and situations that can be found in Kuala Lumpur. It forced the FIA students to think in a business way to come up with solutions. The groups had to present their ideas to the rest of the participants at the end of the game.

One of the tasks was to build towers of straw and paper that would be able to hold an egg.

Jemma Gaskell, one of the exchange students from Lancaster said “I really enjoyed the business game especially since my two teams came in 2nd and 3rd. The Sunway students presented very well and I was impressed with their skills”.

Kimberley Warrillow, an International Opportunities intern from Lancaster University who chaperoned the British students to Malaysia explained that the game was an extension of volunteering that Lancaster students do with school children in their community. It empowers the volunteer students, indirectly teaches them about social enterprise and the 3 “P”s (which stands for People, Planet and Profits) which are important to have in daily life. “One needs to work with the community, taking into consideration the community and the environment while allowing a company to make profits. All 3 “P”s should ideally be combined” she said.

“The most important thing is for students to have confidence and we definitely saw this in the FIA students during the business game. In future, I hope the students will continue their relationship with the community” added Kimberley.

e2 Forum

2011-09-13T16:41:00.000+08:00

Be Alive and Be Transformed

2011-09-09T11:57:00.000+08:00

SIFE Sunway, A Head for Business, A Heart for the World

2011-08-29T11:04:00.001+08:00

Equipped with a head for business and a heart for the world, the Sunway University SIFErs believes in a dream of enforcing changes within the community that reflects the famous saying, “Teach a man how to fish and feed him for a lifetime”. It is with this understanding the SIFErs decided to work on an innovative way of teaching various communities skills that will assist them in raising funds as a survival kit instead of making a one off donation.

The Sunway University SIFErs stands for ‘Student in Free Enterprise’, is part of an international organisation that brings together the top leaders of today and tomorrow to create a better sustainable world through the positive power of business. Aside from giving back to different communities, Sunway SIFErs is an appropriate environment for students to develop innovative and creative thinking to build their customised projects in a team.

Nabilah Mohammad, President of Sunway SIFErs showing the Kaum Semai Women how to make the eco-friendly soaps during their visit.

The Sunway SIFErs have been involved in two projects in the past, the Eco Soap Project and the Project Sounds of Silence (SOS). The Eco Soap project was initiated with the aim of helping the Orang Asli women from the Kaum Semai society living in Post Betau, Kuala Lipis, Pahang develop skills to help maintain a more sustainable lifestyle. The project was targeted at 11 women who lived in an environment with improper hygiene and health care conditions that were burdened from the inability to educate their children in public schools let alone understand the importance of education.

A Sunway SIFEr representative showing the Kaum Semai Women how to make the eco-friendly soaps during their visit.

The Sunway SIFErs initiated the idea to teach these women to develop the simple processes to develop the eco-friendly soap after learning that there is a demand for green products in the market. This eco-friendly soap has a pure palm old biodegradable base and doesn’t cause harm to the environment. It also promotes a healthier looking skin by locking in moisture into the skin texture. This potentially income-generating business and the knowledge imparted on to them to develop the soap with simple business knowledge from PERKAS (Persatuan Kemajuan Kaum Semai) will ensure the lives of the Semai women community are enhanced.
Another project the Sunway SIFE students worked on was the Project Sounds of Silence (SOS) that is concerned with empowering refugee women in Malaysia to be self-sustainable and independent. These women originating from different countries and cultures such as Somalia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Afghanistan are in need of a great support system as they are not able to work under a legal circumstance in Malaysia due to their status.

University SIFErs during Project SOS.

Having to still bear the responsibility to support their own families, the Sunway SIFErs invented ways to help them upgrade and market their products such as the brightly coloured cupcakes and well-designed apparels to Malaysian consumers. The women also offer catering and tailoring services for those willing to give them the opportunity.

Sunway SIFErs provides assistance and support from a business perspective to ensure they are able to generate an income as well as lessen the language barrier between the refugee women and the local community. The Sunway SIFErs have future plans to execute coaching for selected women to help them pursue the market with their products when they are highly attuned to cater to the Malaysian market standards.
The Sunway SIFE team have also raised funds for other SIFE Teams such as the SIFE Japan in which RM 1,170 was contributed to the victims who suffered a financial crisis in the wake of the earthquake and tsunami tragedy that hit the country earlier in March 2011.

SIFE Sunway has also established an internal, long term project known to be the Income Generation Project, a monthly open bazaar to raise funds for future projects and support Sunway SIFE’s operating expenses. This project will enable students to display and market the products produced from the other projects at the University.

JEFFREY CHEAH FOUNDATION HOSTS CHARITY RECITAL

2011-08-26T18:39:00.002+08:00

Featuring the International Ensemble of the Perak Society of Performing Arts

Bandar Sunway, 26 August 2011 – Around 800 people packed Sunway University’s Multi Purpose Hall on Friday, 19 August to attend a charity recital entitled “A Celebration of Music: Butterfly Lovers and Love Songs” hosted by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (JCF). In conjunction with the recital, MasterClass Workshops were held on Saturday, 20 August for members of the public where 79 people attended the workshops.
The recital was organised to share the beauty and discipline of music with a wider audience beyond the confines of the university community.

In his wecome message, Founding Trustee, Tan Sir Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah said, “This recital is very much aligned to the spirit of the Foundation as music and arts are inextricably linked to education, enriching and nurturing lives towards the total development of individuals”.

The Charity Recital featured the 2011 International Ensemble of the Perak Society of Performing Arts (PSPA), an icon of music-making in Asia since 2007. Since its formation, the ensemble has attracted musical talents from around the world and includes several internationally-acclaimed musicians from the USA and Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and China. Led by conductor Eugene Pook, the ensemble is renowned for its innovative concert programming and versatility.

Eugene Pook is an established music producer, orchestra conductor, clarinetist and music arranger. In addition to his role as music director for the Perak Society of Performing Arts (PSPA) International Ensemble, he also serves as music director and conductor for the Perak Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as music director and conductor for the Kinta Valley Wind Orchestra. Eugene also holds a teaching position working as conducting tutor at the University of Malaya, Malaysia.

Another notable performer in the Perak Society of Performing Arts (PSPA) International Ensemble is Penang-born tenor Tan Wei Han who is widely recognised as one of the top tenors in Malaysia. Wei Han’s experiences have been far-reaching. In 2008, he was attached to an opera company in Australia, touring in numerous cities Down Under, where he took the lead role in Verdi’s opera La Traviata, completing 40 performances. More recently, he performed Mozart’s opera “The Marriage of Figaro”, singing the part of Basilio at Tunghai University, Taiwan, and performed as a tenor soloist in Mozart’s “Requiem” with Taiwanese conductor Chun-Fung Lee and the Contemporary Chamber Orchestra Taipei. Wei Han is currently under the guidance of Famous Taiwanese Soprano Dr. Yi-Lin Hsu.

The Charity Recital also showcased the Sunway University Ensemble, made up of students, alumni and staff, as well as students from the Department of Performance and Media, Sunway University, who performed an original dance and movement called “The Growing Seeds” led by second year student Keilly Lim May Harn.

Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director, Sunway Education Group and Member of the Management Committee, the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation said, “Music and performance is very much a part of a world-class university and I am proud that our very own students of the Sunway University Ensemble and our Performance and Media department were able to support the professional musicians for the recital.”

The concert programme featured the all-time favorite Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto, one of the most famous works of Chinese music. Originally written for a full symphony orchestra, it is now in a rare and unique chamber version. The concert also included elegant and romantic Italian and English love songs and arias.

All proceeds from the Charity Recital will be channeled to the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. The Foundation seeks to give back to society by making quality education available to deserving students through the provision of scholarships and research grants.

In conjunction with the Charity Recital, MasterClass Workshops were also held, where talents from the PSPA International Ensemble 2011, provided on a voluntary basis, free classes to the public aimed at assisting to improve their skills in a range of musical instruments including the violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, vocals, double-bass and oboe. Their mission is to encourage the development of an appreciation and understanding of the performing arts, while contributing to the growth and advancement of artistic talents. The attendees went away inspired and armed with useful tips.

Campus Auto-pay car park closed

2011-08-18T17:15:00.000+08:00

Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Charity Recital- Invitation

2011-07-29T15:20:00.003+08:00

Sunway University’s accounting and finance programme gains maximum exemptions from CIMA

2011-07-21T10:32:00.000+08:00

Elizabeth Lee and Charles Tilley during the signing ceremony.

Sunway University and CIMA (the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants), the world's largest professional body of management accountants that offers the most relevant finance qualification for business recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) where CIMA has accorded the maximum number of exemptions to Sunway’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and Finance programme. Graduates of this programme will receive the maximum 11 exemptions of the CIMA Professional Qualification in Management Accounting. Sunway University may also use the CIMAstudy.com online study material to complement classroom teaching.

The MoU was signed by Charles Tilley, Chief Executive of CIMA and Ms Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director of the Sunway Education Group. Witnessing the signing ceremony were Ms Irene Teng, Regional Director of CIMA South East Asia and Australasia, and Associate Professor Dr Foo Yin Fah, Head of the Sunway University Business School.

Ms Elizabeth Lee said, “We are very happy with the exemptions and hope to leverage CIMA’s global reach and experience to explore research in areas of common interest and align our programmes so that our graduates may take the CIMA pathway to be relevant in today’s fast changing world. I believe we stand equal in our aspirations and together as partners, we will shape graduates with creativity, imagination, leadership and analytical skills and who can make purposeful contributions in industry’

Elizabeth Lee (extreme left) exchanging folders with Charles Tilley (extreme right) while Mr Lee Weng Keng, CEO Education and Health Care, Sunway Group looked on.

Charles Tilley who was confident with this partnership said in his welcome address, “ CIMA is pleased that Sunway University’s Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and Finance programme has been accredited with 11 exemptions, showing its relevance with CIMA. This means that graduates with this degree can enter directly to the strategic level of the CIMA Professional Qualification in Management Accounting. This is indeed a fast track to being a CIMA member or a CIMA Chartered Management Accountant who is recognised worldwide by key employers for unique skills in finance and business. We prepare our members to be focused on the future - driving value, managing performance, understanding how organisations are best led and inspired, and helping to sustain vibrant business and government.’

La Renaissance d’ Arthur, Feast of Camelot ~Experience Exquisite Medieval Cuisine~

2011-07-19T16:26:00.000+08:00

According to old customs, King Arthur longed to hear the adventures of his godly and chivalrous Knights of the Round Table while sinking his teeth delicious food and sumptuous desserts placed on platters

'King Arthur and Queen Guinevere' made a grand entrance during the Feast of Camelot.

Inspired by the a legendary British monarch, the students from the School of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Management (SHTLM) of Sunway University cooked up a feast that showcased the traditions, rituals and customs of the noble folks from medieval times while exercising their skills in running a restaurant to gain additional learning experience.

The students from the Bachelor of Science (Hons) International Hospitality Management programme put together a flamboyant dining experience, performance and presentation that showcased the “La Renaissance d’ Arthur, Feast of Camelot” recently.

The event kick started with the grand arrival of ‘King Arthur and Queen Guinevere’. King Arthur and his brave soldiers took centre stage marking the start of the ‘La Renaissance d’ Arthur’.


Duck meat was served to replace 'Peacock' that was commonly consumed during the medieval times.

As it was customary for people in the medieval times to feast on meat such as beaver, hedgehog, peacock and black bird, the SHTLM students improvise on the theme by replacing the meat with what is considered more acceptable these days.

The 'Hedgehog' served actually lamb cooked in a hedgehog shaped pastry.

The five course meal was replaced with meat such as fish, lamb, duck breast and squab respectively. The tradition of serving pear with honey sauce persisted. Guests were served with a sumptuous tail of fish soup served with shellfish and parsley, shoulder of lamb in camelyn sauce and spinach, canard breast with sawse madame and puree of butternut squash, squab with grain of paradise and puy lentils and pear with syrup and blackberries.

Guests raising their 'cups', marking the start of the feast.

By the end of this unique dining experience, the guests went home with an understanding of the traditions that were considered customary during the medieval times, why certain dishes were served and at the same time, experience the management and culinary talents of the SHTLM students.

Pivotal Orators in the Making at Sunway

2011-07-19T15:48:00.000+08:00

“Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel”, said Ralph Waldo Emerson. Understanding the importance of speech and its impact in the world today, Sunway University and the Oxford and Cambridge Society of Malaysia for the 9th time jointly organised ‘An English Cornucopia 2011: Oxbridge English Language Event, a Public Speaking and Essay Writing Competition’ for secondary schools.

Amanda Sonia Nathan Vishnu from SMK (P) Methodist, Klang championed the public speaking competition while Mark Lester Johnson from SMK Damansara Utama emerged 1st runner-up. Not far behind was Naveen Daniel, George from Sri Kuala Lumpur International School who emerged 2nd runner-up. The finalist for the public speaking competition each presented a speech entitled ‘Shadows’ and an impromptu speech titled ‘Less is More’.

Amanda Sonia Nathan Vishnu, Mark Lester Johnson, Naveen Daniel, George and consolation prize winners (Azriel Abisheg Paul Chelliah, Jagan Narayanan Subramaniam, Lee Zhen Wei, Shaun) during the Oxbridge English Language Event.

The Essay Writing competition saw a winning entry titled, ‘All that you have is your soul’ from Ian Tan Wei Chuen from SMK USJ12 while Sharannya a/p Suresh from SMK Puteri, Seremban who wrote about ‘The law of making women dress moderately’ emerged 1st runner-up. Nur Amalina binti Khairul Anuar from SMK (P) Methodist, Klang emerged as 2nd runner-up with her essay entry on the discussion of whether ‘Parents should only have one child’. The essay writing competitors were required to choose one out of 5 topics and complete it within one hour. The top three winning essays were posted on the Sunway University and Sunway College websites.

The champions of the Public Speaking and the Essay Writing Competition walked away with full tuition bursaries up to RM 21,700 and cash prize worth RM 600 each while the 1st runners-up walked away with RM10,000 tuition fee waiver and RM 400 cash prize each. The two second runners-up was awarded RM 8,000 tuition fee waiver and RM 200 cash prize each. The 3 consolation prize winners will be awarded with RM 2,000 tuition fee waiver and RM 300 cash prize each. All winners will be able to enrol into any pre-university programmes at Sunway College. The first three winners and three consolation prize winners also received trophies, certificates of commendation from the Oxford and Cambridge Society and trophies for their school besides cash prize sponsored by the Oxford and Cambridge Society and also bursaries for studies in Sunway College.

Ian Tan Wei Chuen, Sharannya Suresh, Nur Amalina binti Khairul Anuar and consolation prize winners (Cassandra Chung Li Hooi, Phoong Li Yan, Emily Neoh Gaik Kin) with Mrs Margaret Hall, President of the Oxford & Cambridge Society of Malaysia and Elizabeth Lee.

This year sees the participation of 24 schools and 741 students from the Klang Valley and outstation. Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director of Sunway Education Group said, “English is the lingua franca of the world and the currency of communication that cuts across different countries and cultures. In today’s world where Facebook, twitter, linked-in and short messaging services can supercede the art of face-to-face communication, the ability to captivate an audience is a powerful asset. Mere ideas alone are not enough. We need to master the language that is understood by all in order to persuade, influence or even entertain. I am indeed proud that the Oxbridge English Language Event can play a part in nurturing this”.

Sunway University hopes to empower the future generation and cultivate a healthy competition in English language through events such as public speaking and essay writing competitions and stresses the importance of language that will help students in his education and career prospective.