The inaugural Senior Fellows Network Forum, held at the University of Nottingham on November 10th, brought together distinguished educators from Malaysia and Singapore. Moderated by UNM’s Director of Nottingham Recognition Scheme, Ts. Jaya Kumar Karunagharan, the event served as a melting pot of insights, with speakers sharing wisdom and a shared commitment to advancing educational practices. Here’s a concise recap of the key messages and actionable takeaways for educators.

Beyond Senior Fellowship: A Global Beacon of Excellence

Daniel Sheratte, representing Advance HE, set the tone by delving into the profound benefits of Senior Fellowship. With an impressive global cohort of almost 20,000 Senior Fellows, Sheratte emphasised that Senior Fellowship extends beyond individual accomplishments. It activates a cultural shift in institutions, placing student learning at its core. Sheratte highlighted the transformative power of Senior Fellowship, likening the journey through Advance HE’s Fellowship scheme to climbing peaks of educational excellence. The scheme catalyses institutional change, fostering collaboration globally and facilitating career progression.

Daniel Sheratte – International Partnerships Manager, Advance HE

Nurturing Pedagogical Excellence at Curtin University

Dr. Samuel Adeyinka-Ojo shared Curtin University Malaysia’s commitment to teaching excellence, aligning seamlessly with the goals of Advance HE. Their initiative, “Growing Influence for Greater Impact on University Education,” places continuous improvement in teaching methods at its core. Adeyinka-Ojo emphasised the impact of Senior Fellowship on mentorship, assessment, and reflective practice. Curtin University’s dedication to quality assurance, mentorship, and community resonated with the essence of the Senior Fellows Network.

Dr. Samuel Adeyinka-Ojo – Head of Department of Management for Faculty of Business, Curtin University Malaysia

Celebrating Excellence with NTF 

Dr. Joanna Matthan introduced the National Teaching Fellowship (NTF) to celebrate its exceptional impact on student outcomes and the teaching profession. The NTF, bestowed by Advance HE, offers individual and institutional benefits, serving as a gateway to academic and career opportunities while fostering collaboration among teaching excellence advocates. Through the NTF, institutions can showcase their commitment to teaching excellence, creating a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration that transcends national boundaries. Matthan emphasised the demonstrable areas of excellence and outlined individual and institutional benefits. The NTF, with its wide recognition, not only opens doors for individuals but also elevates the status of teaching within institutions, fostering collaboration on a national and international scale.

Dr. Joanna Matthan – Dean of Academic Affairs & Director of Education, Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia

Pioneering Impact – Navigating the NTF Journey

Dr Steven Hoo shared a personal journey of applying for the National Teaching Fellowship, providing a comprehensive guide emphasising the significance of impactful evidence and effective articulation in the application process. Hoo encouraged educators to be specific in showcasing impactful outcomes, emphasising the “What’s Next?” aspect. He urged applicants to focus on continuous record-keeping, specificity in outcomes, and the importance of showcasing uniqueness. He highlighted the importance of ongoing professional development and research in improving teaching. Hoo provided valuable insights into the application process, advising applicants to focus on impactful pieces of evidence, articulate their hard work, and maintain a continuous record of positive feedback.

Dr Steven Hoo Choon Lih – Programme Director of Studies for Mechanical Engineering, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

The shared experiences and insights emphasised the transformative impact of celebrating achievements in higher education. As the educational landscape evolves, the wisdom from this forum guides educators in pushing the boundaries of excellence. “What a privilege to host outstanding colleagues to discuss opportunities to influence higher education institutions!” remarked Ts. Jaya Kumar Karunagharan.

In Malaysia, the 2019 National Health Morbidity Survey (NHMS) unveiled a disconcerting truth – nearly one in 20 children aged five to nine in the country may grapple with mental and developmental disorders. These silent challenges cast a long shadow on the well-being of our youth, demanding comprehensive solutions that reach beyond traditional healthcare. As we delve into the profound intersection of science, education, and research, we aim to unravel how these powerful tools can usher in a brighter future, free from the shadows of mental health struggles. To guide us on this path, we sat down with Assistant Professor Dr. Shue Ling from the School of Psychology, whose expertise sheds light on the science-backed approach that holds the promise of transformation.

Dr Shue Ling Chong

Science and Research: Unveiling the Path to Progress

In a world grappling with rising concerns about mental health, science and research stand as formidable allies in our quest to address developmental disorders and pave the way for peace and development in our community. Here’s why:

Scientific research plays a pivotal role in uncovering the root causes of developmental disorders, enabling effective interventions and support systems. It also empowers early detection through screening tools and bolsters intervention strategies, involving various stakeholders like parents, teachers, schools, and communities that can reduce stigma and promote greater acceptance and support for individuals and families affected by developmental disorders. Additionally, research drives public awareness and education, which will aid the development of policies and advocacy efforts aimed at improving access to mental health services.

Addressing developmental disorders and mental health concerns is not just a matter of personal well-being but also a cornerstone of community and national development. When individuals receive proper support, we promote our communities’ general well-being and foster a healthy society.

Efforts are actively underway to address the mental health and well-being of Malaysian youth entering the workforce. These initiatives encompass multiple facets:

1. Awareness and Education: Organizations and government agencies are working diligently to raise awareness about developmental disorders and mental health issues, reducing stigma, and fostering inclusive workplace cultures.
2. Mental Health Support: Employers are increasingly offering employee assistance programs and mental health resources to help young professionals cope with stress and emotional challenges.
3. Mentoring, Peer Support, and Community Initiatives: Mentorship programs, peer support networks, and community-based initiatives provide invaluable guidance, emotional support, and a sense of belonging to young professionals with developmental disorders.
4. Government and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) Support: Both the Malaysian government and NGOs play a crucial role in offering various forms of assistance, including financial support, vocational training, and job placement services for individuals with developmental disorders.

By promoting evidence-based interventions and awareness, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and peaceful society that champions the well-being of all its members. We can also do our part in participating in community engagement and advocacy, education and research, and public awareness and support, as these collective efforts can make a meaningful impact on addressing developmental disorders and promoting mental health awareness in Malaysian youth.

For prospective students considering exploring their potential in enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities by providing essential services, reducing stigma, and advocating for improved policies and support systems, Dr. Chong conveys a powerful message:

“Welcome to a journey of impact and change! Your dedication and knowledge will reduce stigma and make a real difference among people. Join us to shape a more positive world.”

Inspired by Dr. Chong’s message? Explore higher education at the University of Nottingham Malaysia’s School of Psychology. Our research spans from theory development to understanding real-world issues. We offer undergraduate programs like BSc (Hons) Psychology and BSc (Hons) Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, as well as postgraduate options including MRes/MPhil/PhD Psychology and Developmental Disorders MSc. Visit https://www.nottingham.edu.my/Psychology/index.aspx for more information.

Next-generation vehicle technology has become the key direction for the Malaysian Transportation System in recent years. One of the important aspects that emphasize the requirement for next-generation vehicles is stated in the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020). The policy was developed with support from various ministries, agencies, academia, intellects, financial institutions, research and analysts’ entities, associations, and industry players. The policy mainly emphasizes the future development targets and specific strategic plans for Malaysia’s automotive industry. According to the 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia, The NAP 2020 will continue to promote the participation of local companies in the domestic and global supply chain, encourage R&D and engineering activities, build capabilities and capacity of the local workforce, support national car projects as well as enhancing exports, investments, and local production volume. This is mainly emphasized by the “smart” element in the new technologies such as Smart City, Smart Delivery, Smart Manufacturing, Smart Grid, and Smart Mobility as shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 1: National Automotive Policy 2020 focusing on “Smart” Element from NAP2020

The policy encourages new growth in vehicular technology in Smart Mobility such as the Next Generation Vehicle (NxGV) and Mobility as a Service (MaaS), which is the current focus in Malaysia’s automotive technology. It can be noted in the new NAP 2020 that NxGV, MaaS, and Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) have been added as new elements that are in line with the development of future automotive technologies. Next generation vehicle (NxGV) has been classified as a vehicle that meets the definition of EEV classifications and is enhanced with Intelligent Mobility applications with a minimum Level 3 Vehicle Automation such as Conditional Automation. Besides, the NxGV is also classified based on the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standards based on the five levels of Autonomous Driving Level.

Fig. 2: Integration of Services and Electric & Electronic (E&E) Sector In The Automotive Sector from NAP2020

Current Approach for Autonomous Vehicle Testing in Malaysia

Recently, the Ministry of Transport with support from Futurise Sdn Bhd has published the updated version of “Guidelines for Public Road Trials of Autonomous Vehicles” for the development and testing the autonomous vehicles in Malaysia. This guideline is used as a guide government for the agencies to plan and conduct physical trials of autonomous vehicles on designated Malaysian public roads. The Guideline sets out relevant information on the AV Trial routes, application process, safety, and technical requirements, and rules governing the conduct of such AV trials. In the guideline, it can be noted that several locations have been selected as the designated roads for testing the autonomous vehicles. The designated routes for testing autonomous vehicles are located at Cyberjaya, Putrajaya, Selangor, and Johor called MaGIC Route A and B (Cyberjaya), Route A and B (Putrajaya), Route A (Sunway), and MRANTI Route A and B (Bukit Jalil). Figures 3-11 show the designated road for the public trials of autonomous vehicles in Malaysia. However, among all the routes, the MRANTI Route A and B is the private entity location, and this location has been used to design the test cases for the safety testing of autonomous vehicles based on “Scenario Identification and Classification Framework for ADAS Testing” proposed by a research group called Automated Vehicle Engineering System (AVES) from the University of Nottingham Malaysia.

Several government agencies have shown initiation towards vehicle safety and autonomous vehicle testing. Malaysian Automotive, Robotics, and IoT Institute (MARii) also actively plays an important role in establishing the autonomous vehicle testing protocol in Malaysia. Over the past two years, MARii has been very active in supporting government initiatives such as planning for an autonomous vehicle test bed and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Proton, CARARC, and DRB-HICOM for adoption of next-generation mobility technologies. On the other hand, MARii and Multi-Code Electronics Industries (MCE) have signed a MoU on the development of critical components to accelerate the implementation of autonomous driving and connected mobility, in line with the National Automotive Policy 2020. On the other hand, Futurise has also established MyAV to address several aspects such as regulatory sandbox, supporting infrastructure for the testbed, and approval of test routes for autonomous vehicle testing. Moreover, another government agency called MRANTI has established a living lab called MRANTI Autonomous Vehicle Living Lab to conduct scenario-based safety testing in virtual and physical by collaborating with the AVES research group from the University of Nottingham Malaysia.

Formation of Automated Vehicle Engineering System (AVES) Research Group

According to the My Autonomous Vehicle (MyAV) under Futurise, several challenges have been identified for testing and deployment of autonomous vehicles in Malaysia. Firstly, the sensor requirement for an autonomous vehicle in order to overcome the drawbacks due to bad weather, heavy traffic, and road signs with graffiti on them can negatively impact the accuracy of sensing capability. Second, machine learning is not widely accepted and agreed upon to ensure that the autonomous vehicle can be always safe. The next challenge mainly highlights the open road physical testing. The main issue is to ensure the Automated Driving System (ADS) continues to be safe even with future upgrades and store all the previous safe behaviors. Another challenge is focusing on the regulation focusing on testing autonomous vehicles in Malaysia. Currently, the Malaysian government has proposed new guidelines for physical trials as shown in Figures 3-10. There still of lack in terms of testing standards and procedures for any Autonomous Vehicle developers to deploy their vehicles on the road in Malaysia. It can be noted that the initiatives from the Malaysian government, companies, and universities show that Malaysia is already moving forward towards the deployment and testing of autonomous vehicles. However, a proper homologation process is required to address most of the challenges before moving towards physical testing as mentioned in guidelines to meet the requirement for developing countries such as Malaysia, which has high traffic flow and accident rates. Some of the complex scenarios could not be tested on a physical road since the testing location is more like a controlled environment. Besides, complex scenarios involving a large number of road users could not be tested on actual roads in order to avoid unwanted road casualties during testing. Taking into consideration, a research group called Automated Vehicle Engineering System (AVES) as shown in Figure 12, takes the initiative to conduct the research and development focusing on the safety testing of autonomous vehicles focusing on Malaysian roads and traffic environment. In order to initiate the research activities, two major fundings have been secured by the AVES research group called The Yayasan Tun Ismail Professorial Chair Programme (YTIPCP) and ASEAN NCAP Collaborative Holistic Research IV (ANCHOR IV).

Fig. 12: Automated Vehicle Engineering System (AVES) Research group Logo

Scenario-Based Virtual Safety Assessment Framework using Human-Machine-Interface

In order to overcome the challenges mentioned in the previous section, an adequate safety testing framework is required before deploying an autonomous vehicle in Malaysia as shown in Figure 13. The safety testing framework that is aimed to be developed can be used to supervise autonomous vehicles to adapt to Malaysian roads and traffic scenarios. Besides, the framework can be used to evaluate the capability of an autonomous vehicle to perform emergency braking and obstacle avoidance autonomously to minimize road accidents using ADAS/ADS technology. Therefore, a framework is developed as part of the AVES initiative by investigating the important elements that need to be focused on the development of safety assessment of autonomous vehicles for virtual and physical environments using Malaysian road and traffic environments.

Fig.13. Virtual Validation of Scenario-Based Assessment Workflow

Based on the assessment workflow, the virtual safety testing framework is developed in this study to evaluate the performance of autonomous vehicles as shown in Figure 14. There are a few stages that need to be considered in the assessment methodology. Firstly, scenario identification and classification are required to investigate the required scenario to be developed and assessed in the virtual testing platform for autonomous vehicles. This required video recordings from actual scenarios in selected roads and traffic networks in Malaysia. Then, the second stage is focused on the environment modeling and scenario generation virtually known as a test case, based on the actual scenario that has been classified in the first stage. Then, the third stage focuses on the development of the vehicle model based on the actual vehicles in Malaysia and then the development of the driver prediction model. The vehicle model developed in this platform needs to be validated with an actual vehicle to assure the accuracy of the model before conducting virtual testing. Meanwhile, the driver model is validated using actual human driving responses collected from various drivers in Malaysia and also from the 6DOF vehicle driving simulator. The driving pattern of Malaysian drivers needs to be studied carefully and the optimum driving response in order to validate the driver prediction model. This model will be used as the benchmark driver model in the safety testing platform. The last stage is focusing on the safety assessment for urban driving whereby a collision avoidance system is mainly used for this assessment. A combination of ADAS technology such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist system (LKAS), automated emergency steering (AES), and automated emergency braking (AEB) are used for the safety analysis. The overall simulation platform was established using the IPG Automotive simulation tool called IPG CarMaker. Figure 6 shows scenario-based simulation testing by integrating all the stages for the safety testing with human-machine interface. 

Fig. 14. Integrated 6DOF Platform for Virtual Simulation of Autonomous Vehicle

Fig. 15: Safety testing of Autonomous Vehicle for Level 3 Condition with Human-Machine-Interface

Establishment of MRANTI Autonomous Vehicle Living Lab (AVLL)

Early this year, MRANTI initiated to idea to establish the MRANTI AV Living Lab to support the autonomous vehicle developers to test and deploy their technology at MRANTI. This idea has a major impact on the local and international companies and startups to focus on the Malaysian Autonomous Vehicle ecosystem. In order to strengthen the idea, a research collaboration has been initiated with the Automated Vehicle Engineering System (AVES) research group where the team is already focusing on safety testing analysis in a virtual simulation platform. By collaborating with the AVES research group, the MRANTI AV Living Lab accelerates the idea of safety testing at MRANTI Park by developing the virtual environment model MRANTI Route A and B as well as designing the relevant test cases for the safety testing of autonomous vehicles. The test cases are designed based on EURO NCAP, ASEAN NCAP, and Malaysian traffic scenarios which gives a unique identity to traffic conditions in developing countries such as Malaysia. Moreover, after signing the collaboration with AVES, MRANTI has signed an agreement with the Center of Excellence for Testing and Research of Autonomous Vehicle@NTU (CETRAN), which is leading in the development and safety testing for autonomous vehicle targeting for Level 4 and Level 5 autonomy. This collaboration has had a positive impact on MRANTI AV Living Lab because the team can use CETRAN as a benchmark team to develop the test cases for the safety assessment of autonomous vehicles at MRANTI Park. Figure 16 shows the overall collaboration that has been established under the MRANTI AV Living Lab.

Fig. 16: Collaboration framework for MRANTI AV Living Lab

High-school leavers, congratulations on completing your latest milestone! This marks the beginning of an exciting step into pre-university life. 

So, what’s the best pathway to your field of interest and career goals? The answer is in understanding your passion and learning style. A good understanding of your preferences will help determine your next step in building a strong foundation for a seamless transition to undergraduate studies. 

Foundation in Humanities or STEM? 

First, determine if you excel at and are drawn to either humanities-related subjects or science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related (STEM) subjects.  

Humanities is a multidisciplinary field, with transferrable knowledge and skills across different fields like business, education, history, philosophy, foreign languages, arts, and film, to name a few. Alternatively, STEM is a gateway into evolving career opportunities with the emergence of technological advancements in healthcare, food, transportation, and manufacturing fields. It’s worth noting, science learners also have the flexibility to opt for the arts and business-based discipline, if a change is desired further down the line.  

The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) offers four pathways namely, Foundation in Arts and Education, Foundation in Business and Management, Foundation in Engineering, and Foundation in Science. 

Pick the best environment for a solid foundation 

Next, pick the best environment to support your learning style. Consider the location, cost, and reputation of the institution offering your foundation course of choice. Research the curriculum, teaching styles, and extracurricular opportunities available and how they match your optimal learning style. 

The University of Nottingham Malaysia offers foundation programmes that are tailor-made to prepare students for a direct and seamless transition into its undergraduate programmes. The university’s global reputation, ranked among the top 100 universities in the world by QS World University rankings 2024, is reflected in its high academic standards, top-notch facilities, and experienced faculty who are experts in their fields.  

Students benefit from personalised attention with small class sizes, and a diverse and inclusive campus environment which fosters cultural awareness and global perspectives with an international student body from over 70 countries. Students are assessed via a combination of coursework and exams and can use the foundation year to explore their field of interest through modules designed to help the transition to undergraduate study. 

Furthermore, access to over 80 clubs and societies at UNM offers an ideal environment to nurture resilient and well-rounded learners who are passionate about making a difference in the world. UNM also provides a host of scholarships to support students such as the High Achievers’ Scholarship and Sports and Arts Scholarships, among others.

What to expect as a learner 

The perception that your foundation is a ‘honeymoon year’ is a misconception. UNM Centre for English Language and Foundation Education Head, Ms Saleha Abdul Rahman, advises, “This is the period that students should be most resourceful and take the opportunity to learn about themselves and their learning habits, in preparation for undergraduate life. Focus on effective time management, note-taking skills, and study techniques, including critical-thinking. Once a strong foundation is established, the rest of the academic journey should be easier to navigate.” 

Ms Saleha Abdul Rahman, Head, Centre for English Language and Foundation Education, UNM

“Two important skills students must develop to survive the transition from school to pre-university are independent learning and information literacy, which is knowing where to find information, and how to digest that information. At UNM, learners experience a hands-on approach from chemistry and biology lab work to computer science programming and psychology experiments. Students also benefit from UNM’s evidence-based teaching approach, backed by research. Finally, learners are given the opportunity to be involved in student-led community service projects to develop soft skills in real-world, high-impact initiatives,” explains UNM, Foundation in Science Head, Dr Jaya Kumar Karunagharan. 

Dr Jaya Kumar Karunagharan, Head, Foundation in Science, UNM

Explore your interests today and start charting your education journey at University of Nottingham Malaysia. Learn more at nottingham.edu.my.  

The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) and Autism Inclusiveness Direct Action Group (AIDA), an autistic-led non-profit advocacy group has entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance autism research and advocacy in Malaysia.   

The partnership which was spearheaded by the university’s Mind and Neurodevelopment (MiND) research cluster under the Research and Knowledge Exchange Hub, aims to promote and encourage collaborative research, engage in joint activities, and enhance professional growth for both staff and students. The MOU signed on 16 August 2023 was represented by Prof Chris Gibbins, UNM’s Interim Vice Provost for Research and Knowledge Exchange, and Aida Othman, Chairperson and Co-Founder of AIDA. 

MiND is an interdisciplinary research cluster under UNM’s Research and Knowledge Exchange that is focused on conducting research to understand how conditions that arise from neurodiversity such as Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Tic Disorder, Intellectual Disability and learning disorders or brain injury, affect children, young people, and adults. 

AIDA is an autistic-led non-profit advocacy group dedicated to promoting inclusion and self-representation of the autistic community across all levels of society and policymaking. Founded by Beatrice Leong, a late diagnosed autistic female, AIDA contributes from a diverse background of experiences and expertise and is committed to using its platform and expertise to make a positive impact in building a world that’s inclusive and supportive of autistic people, in Malaysia and internationally. 

A current project undertaken in this partnership is an opinion paper that will explore the state of the literature about autism research in Malaysia. Specifically, with this paper we aim to communicate to the public, academics, and policymakers in Malaysia, what shall be the priorities to focus on when working with autistic individuals and the community. We hope through this study, we can identify these priorities which will be led by the autistic community and serve as recognition of their lived experiences. Both MiND and AIDA aim to submit the research findings by early 2024, to “Autism”, a world-leading journal in the field.  

Apart from this, MiND and AIDA will work together in the future on other projects and expand the field of autism research in this region through the cross-collaboration of autistic individuals within AIDA’s network. These projects include: 

• The implementation of communication boards in public spaces in Malaysia. 

• The development of Media and Language Guidelines for Disability and a specific Autism chapter (with Content Forum). 

MiND and AIDA are excited to work together to advance autism research and advocacy in Malaysia. This partnership will help to ensure that the voices of autistic individuals are heard and that their needs are met.

The University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with several industry players to promote and enhance STEM education in Sarawak. This is aimed at fostering educational equality and bridging the digital divide in Malaysia.  

The MoA was signed between UNM’s School of Computer Science and TS Diagnostics Sdn. Bhd. This collaboration included a partnership with UNM’s School of Education and external partners such as Lighthouse of Hope Bhd., University Technology Sarawak, Monash University Malaysia, and Power Sains. The MoA signing was represented by Prof Chris Gibbins, UNM’s Interim Vice Provost for Research and Knowledge Exchange and Mr Tang H. Boon, Chief Executive Officer of TS Diagnostics Sdn. Bhd. and witnessed by Dr Marina Ng, Primary Investigator (PI) and Associate Dean – Admission, Recruitment & Marketing at UNM and Ms Jess Yap, Director of TS Diagnostics.  

Also present from UNM were Prof Ir Law Chung Lim, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dr Chen Zhiyuan, Head of the School of Computer Science, co-investigators Prof Lee Kean Wah, Dr Xun Yu Chai, Dr Alberto Luis August from the School of Education and representatives from the Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) Hub. 

This initiative comes at a critical time, as interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects among students nationwide has been on a decline. According to the 2020 annual report by the Ministry of Education, student participation in STEM was at its peak in 2012 at 48.15 percent, dropping to 47.18 percent in 2020. This trend is particularly alarming given Malaysia’s 60:40 policy, which targets 60 percent of students to be in the STEM field. 

The project is designed to enhance STEM education in rural and remote areas, with a particular focus on indigenous and minority communities in interior Sarawak. It aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) of ensuring quality education for all. The initiative will involve the development of an innovative, culturally responsive, and accessible STEM learning system for teachers and students. This system will empower students in rural areas to connect with their culture and environment while acquiring valuable skills in technology and science in a practical way. The project is expected to have a significant impact on the nation, contributing to the development of a technologically literate and innovative workforce, essential for Malaysia’s digital economy aspirations. 

Do you have a passion that you hope to nurture into a dream job or profession one day? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. The journey to carving a place for yourself and your ideas in the world begins with identifying your passion and the right environment to support you. 

Here is what four inspiring Malaysian alumni of the University of Nottingham Malaysia, who have found their place in the world, have to say about starting your journey. 

Vision For Sustainable Future 

Harith Ridzuan, Founder of the Green Factory, is a designer-maker of sustainable furniture and home and living products. “The University of Nottingham Malaysia’s 118-acre foothill campus and lush greenery provided an inspiring environment that ignited my passion for sustainability. Pursuing a degree in Management Studies, I gained valuable business knowledge that remains applicable today. Furthermore, the University’s commitment to environmental consciousness and its dedication to fostering innovation provided the perfect platform for me to explore and develop my ideas. My alma mater played a vital role in fuelling my creativity and drive to make a positive impact, which resulted in my purposeful journey towards success, with sustainability at its core,” says Harith, who graduated with a BA in Management Studies in 2008.

Harith Ridzuan, better known as the ‘Green Carpenter’ says that his time at University Nottingham of Malaysia fuelled his creativity and drive for making a positive impact with sustainability.

Vision To Develop Youth Towards Unity and Nation Building  

Ts Dr. K. Nagulendran’s heart for public service in Malaysia has led to a career spanning 28 years. Currently serving in the Ministry of Youth and Sports as its Secretary General, Dr. Nagulendran, believes the foundation for his passion to serve the community and nation was laid from a very young age. During his early days of service, he had the opportunity to continue postgraduate studies at the University of Nottingham UK for his Masters and later his doctorate at the University of Nottingham Malaysia. “As a proud alumnus of the University of Nottingham Malaysia, I can attest to the transformative power of an international and diverse student community. Interacting with students from over 70 countries further augmented my knowledge in public administration. Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the exceptional learning environment that combined the Malaysian ecosystem with the invaluable input of UK perspectives and exposure to different cultures and ideas. This was pivotal in shaping my vision for unity and nation-building, igniting my passion for developing the youth towards a brighter future. The University of Nottingham Malaysia truly prepares its graduates to thrive in a globally interconnected world,” Dr. Nagulendran, who was also the 2017 winner of the University of Nottingham Vice-Chancellor’s Medal. 

Ts Dr K. Nagulendran attests that exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and ideas at University of Nottingham Malaysia shaped his vision for unity and nation-building.

Vision For a Mental Wellbeing Literate Society  

Genevieve Wong is a licensed and registered counsellor with the Malaysian Board of Counsellors and an accredited Mental Health First Aider. She finds joy in walking the journey with patients experiencing distress towards finding hope. “The best years of my life were at the University of Nottingham Malaysia. I found my passion which led me to pursue Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience. It opened a whole new world to me. I met inspiring lecturers who guided me to become who I am now and achieve good counselling skills and cultivated my research skills,” said Genevieve who graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience in 2016. 

Genevieve Wong finds joy in journeying with patients experiencing distress towards finding hope as a licensed counsellor an accredited Mental Health First Aider.

Leading a new innovative era in agrifood 

Aiman Syed Jaafar, FarmByte CEO, has four key ingredients to success for SPM leavers to consider, “First, it does not matter what job you do, have something to do outside work. Be it a club or a society, joining them is the best way for you to expand your network. Second, stay connected with everyone. Once you graduate, you will quickly realise that you do not meet your classmates daily, so stay connected via social media. Third, read books. It is one of the things I learned and appreciated during my time at the University of Nottingham Malaysia: the need to continuously learn. There’s wisdom in reading books and it keeps you grounded. Finally, stay humble and be grateful. No matter how fast you achieve success in life, stay humble, because the moment you allow ego to get in the picture, you will be clouded in terms of how you move forward,” says the Computer Science and Management Studies BSc (Hons) graduate. 

Beyond formal education, these inspiring individuals have displayed the critical soft skills that every individual striving for success in their passion really needs; all of which are present in a good higher education environment. From passionate educators, and diverse student mobility to a stimulating extra-curricular environment, the University of Nottingham Malaysia offers it all to help students find their place in the world.

Aiman Syed Jaafar believes in the need to continuously learn, a lesson he credits the University of Nottingham Malaysia for instilling in him.

Follow in the footsteps of these Malaysian and carve your place in the world, starting with the right university. If you are looking to pursue a UK education in Malaysia, visit the University of Nottingham Malaysia’s Campus Open Day this 24-25 June 2023. Learn more at nottingham.edu.my. 

There is a saying that goes: “You are a product of your environment.” This speaks to the influence your surroundings have on your development and future success. For aspiring young minds currently at the crossroads of life, selecting a world-class university with highly ranked qualities is strongly correlated to being a highly employable graduate.  

The highly ranked qualities in question are mirrored in the QS World University Rankings 2024 metrics which are the learning and teaching environment, research reputation, research impact, and internationalisation, as well as three new metrics recently added, sustainability, employment outcomes, and international research network, to reflect the industry’s current developments. 

University of Nottingham Malaysia helps students develop important soft skills through personal engagement with students and staff from over 70 countries and work-like experiences offered through their partners

“Today, a university is about more than merely earning a degree. Knowledge is freely available online, but the university experience helps students develop important soft skills through personal engagement with students and staff from over 70 countries, work-like experiences that we offer with our partners, and study abroad opportunities that will not be available in an online experience,” explains University of Nottingham Malaysia Director of Student Recruitment and Marketing, Jagdish Singh Malhi. 

Jagdish Singh, Director, Student Recruitment and Marketing, University of Nottingham Malaysia

He adds: “Our students benefit from the best teaching and learning environment to develop mastery in their respective fields of passion, accompanied by a safe environment to apply their newfound skills. Our recognition as a world top 100 university in the 2024 QS World University Rankings is a testament to our world-class teaching and learning environment and superior partnerships with industry and employers. It is no wonder that our graduates are highly employable and are in demand by the world’s top 100 global brands

University of Nottingham Malaysia students benefit from the best teaching and learning environment to develop mastery in their respective fields of passion.

Learn from the world’s greatest minds 

One-third of UNM’s academic staff is international, representing 33 countries and bringing a global perspective to the classroom.  This reflects the quality of UNM’s teaching staff and its position as the home of groundbreaking research for modern-day advancements. Students with access to great minds actively working on cutting-edge research in green technologies, medicinal and biomedical chemistry, food science, environmental sciences and energy, to name a few, bodes well in modelling Malaysia’s future high-value talent. 

Extracurricular activities are relevant to your career goals 

According to job discovery platform, Hiredly, fresh graduates and those with limited work experience can give their resume a much-needed boost by showcasing extracurricular experience. UNM’s list of over 80 student-run associations creates a world of opportunities for students to pursue passion projects that enhance soft skills and build an impressive track record of experience in project management and entrepreneurship, to name a few. 

Industry ready before graduating 

UNM’s unrivalled industry partnerships and engagement built over the past 23 years have amplified talent readiness and employability. Based on University of Nottingham Malaysia’s Graduate Destination Survey 2022, graduates can earn up to 50% more than the average graduate in Malaysia. UNM’s global reputation of excellence extends globally, with graduates being hired by the world’s top 100 global companies. Leading graduate employers include Accenture, CIMB, Ernst & Young, Experian, Huawei, IBM Malaysia, Intel, Johnson & Johnson, Maybank, Mondelez, Motorola Solutions, Nestle, OCBC Bank, PwC, Public Bank, Royal Bank of Canada, Shell, Top Glove, Wipro Unza, and many more. 

Sustainability in action through education 

Sustainability is the responsibility of every individual and organisation globally. Therefore, education institutions play a critical role in embedding awareness for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among future talent. At UNM, summer modules such as the ‘Sustainability in Action’ module under the Nottingham Advantage Award, aim to raise awareness amongst the UNM Community through the WasteNott project which addresses waste management on campus, in Malaysia and globally. Through this, students learn how the zero-waste lifestyle and implementation of the circular economy concept can impact our environment, society and economy and achieve the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.  

These aspects are critical to young people today who are looking for their place in the world and are determined to make an impact. The University of Nottingham Malaysia understands these needs and has curated a purpose-fit campus life experience for highly employable talent of the future. 

Gain the knowledge and skills to thrive at university and beyond. If you are looking to pursue a UK education in Malaysia, visit the University of Nottingham Malaysia’s Campus Open Day this 19-20 August 2023. Learn more at nottingham.edu.my.  

The University of Nottingham Malaysia has appointed Professor David Goodwin as the new Dean of the Nottingham University Business School in Malaysia (NUBS). David will provide strategic and operational leadership for one of UNM’s largest Schools and he will be responsible for shaping and implementing the University’s strategies in education, research, knowledge exchange, student experience and global engagement.

Apart from being experienced in teaching, he is also proficient in a wide range of areas including business consulting, personal branding, innovation and entrepreneurship, and business governance. He is also an active researcher, addressing issues at the nexus of business and law. For example, exploring their effect on society, their application to business transformation, and linking entrepreneurship and regulatory aspects.

Before joining us at UNM, David served as the Head of Industry and External Engagement at Victoria University Business School in Melbourne, gaining extensive experience in collaborative curriculum design and delivery over the past four years.  He was also previously the MBA director at RMIT University.

He has first-hand experience in both the law and business industries. He practised as a mediator and commercial barrister at the Victorian Bar in Melbourne. He also worked as the Head of Corporate Affairs in publicly listed companies such as Singapore’s Neptune Orient Lines and in Australia, BlueScope and OneSteel.

David holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Queensland in addition to a Master of Business and a PhD in Law from RMIT University.

We are honoured and excited to gain Professor David Goodwin’s integrated experience in both the business and law industry, his extensive network of business relationships across the Asia-Pacific region, and his profound knowledge in building new partnerships. David’s leadership will enable us to continue to shape the future of business education and research in the region.

Women such as Hedy Lamarr, the Austrian-American actress who invented frequency jumping technology, the basis of today’s WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth systems, have often been uncredited for their contributions. As a matter of fact, this is a common occurrence among women in STEM fields.

Studies have shown a jarring gender gap in STEM, especially at the undergraduate level. The lack of support for these scientists is what drives many women away from the field. This subsequently leads to a lack of diversity, which is also a big problem in STEM.

Here at Nottingham, we encourage thought-provoking discussions and believe in #EmbracingEquity. In commemoration of International Women’s Day, the University of Nottingham conducted a 1-day STEM forum, inviting female speakers to discuss the importance of women in science.

The opening ceremony was conducted by Prof. Dr Sarah Metcalfe. Following that, participants engaged in discussions with well-respected veterans of STEM to discuss the impact women have on the science field.

The first forum moderated by Dr Nafizah Goriman Khan discussed embracing equity with panellist speakers Dato’ Dr Ambiga Sreenevasan, Dr Mahaletchumy Arujanan, and Dr Chai Lay Ching. This was followed by a lunch break where attendees were provided with complimentary food as well as the chance to chat with the panellists. The second forum centred around the topic of ‘Driving Science Forward’ with panellist speakers Dr Ho Weang Kee, Dr New Siu Yee, and Dr Alison Wee Kim Shan, winners of the L’Oreal-UNESCO Women in Science Award.

Thanks to the students, the university provided exciting and heartwarming performances such as the 24 Festive Drums. There was also a song duet by Ms Nurina and Ms Reeshna, whose performance was joined by many women from the university’s student body. The image of them holding hands together onstage symbolised the hope we have for our current and future women in STEM. It was then followed by another performance by Ms Nurina and Mr Wira.

The forum came to a close with an Instagram competition hosted by Ms Wong Yu Qing before a closing remark by Prof. Dr Sandy Loh.