post graduate - 18 august 2015

THE STAR, TUESDAY 18 AUGUST 2015

special

Progress through ingenuity

2 postgraduateTHE STAR, TUESDAY 18 AUGUST 2015

Graffiti arts at the Taiping Lake Gardens reflects the nation’s shared hopes and griefs over the aviation disasters of MH370 and MH17 as well as the fate of the people of Gaza. These messages are inspired by subjects of national interest.

The uniting factor By TINA CARMILLIA

IT is a generally accepted fact that Malaysian society is culturally diverse. With three major ethnic groups in peninsular Malaysia and dozens more in Sabah and Sarawak, the understanding, respect and acceptance of other cultures are important factors to the nation’s harmony and growth and to maintain a stable, multicultural society.

One of the best ways to inculcate these values is through education, specifically arts education. In his book Celebrating Pluralism: Art, Education and Cultural Diversity, researcher F. Graeme Chalmer described the arts as a “powerful, pervasive force that helps to shape our attitudes, beliefs, values and behaviours.”

When applied effectively, arts education can promote not just cultural awareness but develop a united multicultural society with its own unique identity and cultural heritage.

In the context of the arts, cultural heritage can be in any medium and take various forms, including performance arts, visual arts, textile motifs and architectural designs.

The Government, too, recognises the arts as a tool that can bring the community together.

In May, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak highlighted the importance of cultural heritage during the tabling of the 11th Malaysia Plan. He followed this with the announcement that the Akademi Seni Budaya dan Seni Kebangsaan (Aswara) is to be upgraded to university status to raise the standard of higher cultural education in the country.

Similarly on the global stage, the cities of Malacca and George Town were jointly recognised as Unesco World Heritage Sites in 2008, an acknowledgement of the cities’ importance to cultural heritage.

George Town is frequently touted as a city rich with arts, culture and antiquity. Street arts and performances and art festivals are the mainstay of the thriving art scene in the city amid heritage areas and colonial buildings.

The city’s public spaces, such as the once abandoned Hin Bus Depot

and the repurposed Beach Street, have become galleries and stages as well as a tourist fascination.

Artist Ernest Zacherevic’s distinctive mural paintings are scattered throughout the city, attracting the attention of locals and tourists alike.

While some of his murals represent the nostalgia of the yesteryears or the anecdotal descriptions of modern life, others stand out as quirky and whimsical.

Paint the town vibrantStreet art projects such as the

ones in George Town continue to bloom elsewhere in the country, including in the back lanes of Shah Alam, the streets of Johor Baru and in Kuching.

The back alleys of SS2 in Petaling Jaya have also recently received similar treatment. A joint effort by local authorities tasked art students and freelance illustrators with giving the walls in the commercial area a facelift with new and original artworks that are relatable to Malaysians of all walks of life.

The production of graffiti art in Malaysia is not something new, according to Sarena Abdullah and Norshahidan Mohamed, Universiti Sains Malaysia researchers, in their recently published paper Incorporation and Exploration of Local Imageries and Identities in Malaysia’s Graffiti Art.

According to the paper, it can be traced back to two decades ago with the emergence of hip hop

music in Malaysia. While initially treated as vandalism and a marker of social ills, graffiti art acceptance has grown and is now “even embraced by local municipalities as well as the National Visual Art Gallery in their public programming and activities”.

Graffiti art in Malaysia infuses local cultural visual elements with established graffiti styles.

The localised style leads to visual arts with local nuances and cultural identities and paints imagery that is clearly inspired by national and regional subjects (as illustrated in the photos on this page), which sets it apart from its Western counterparts.

The researchers concluded that the aspirations reflected by Malaysian graffiti artists in exploring local identities should be commended and supported. They further argued that most of the artists took a “tolerant and positive stance in trying to expand or adapt to match the context and point of view of other Malaysians”.

They also noted that today’s breed of graffiti artists are no longer self-taught but have attained formal education at institutions of higher learning in art and design.

They work as visual artists or in related fields and treat graffiti art as an alternative form of expression, which is slowly but surely gaining some if not full recognition by the authorities.

Indeed, graffiti art is still often classified as unlawful, especially if

done without the property owner’s permission.

However, instead of waging an all-out war against graffiti art, the decision by local authorities and the corporate sector to support the arts by organising graffiti art events and competitions has perhaps resulted in art that orientate more towards cultural heritage, social unity and national pride.

Just like graffiti art, the wayang kulit, a traditional form of shadow play puppets popular in the olden days Kelantan, faces some attempts by local authorities to control and regulate its activities.

The issue with the case of the wayang kulit is the content of the performances that is based on the Hindu epic, Ramayana, which proves to be problematic to the Islamic authorities in Kelantan.

This is particularly so because the performers and audience of the show are made up of the largely Muslim majority population.

However, according to published writings of Ghulam-Sarwar Yousof, an expert in traditional Malay and South-East Asian theatre, Islamic and Malay features have in fact found its way into the wayang kulit repertoire replacing the Hindu elements, which is a sign of social assimilation and adaptation.

The force is strong with the arts

Cultural cross-overs in the arts such as in the case of wayang kulit

can be subtle (for example, there are at least a few pieces of graffiti arts around Kuala Lumpur that represent shadow play puppets) but there are also instances where vastly contrasting elements or cultures collide – in a good way, such as with the case of Peperangan Bintang.

Peperangan Bintang, which made its debut in 2012, is the brainchild of Tintoy Chuo and Teh Take Huat, an engaging piece where the traditional art of wayang kulit received a modern twist with a touch of technology.

It is the wayang kulit adaptation of the Star Wars stories and characters helmed by tok dalang (master puppeteer) Muhammad Dain Othman, also known as Pak Dain, accompanied by the Star Wars soundtrack played with traditional instruments.

With the assistance of Pak Dain, the designer and art director duo combined traditional elements with computer-generated effects to birth a renewed interest in the traditional art.

The novel approach proved successful, with Pak Dain recently awarded the Tokoh Wayang Kulit of 2015 (an award that recognises the best puppet master) by the Majlis Kebudayaan Negeri Kelantan.

Clearly, the arts thrive by evolving to embody the spirit of the people, the times and the place. Whether it is a construction or a performance, the artistry put into its design and creation is supposed to epitomise the essence of the present nation.

To strike the balance between preserving the traditional arts practices and introducing new elements to the arts scene, a generation of educated, innovative and passionate artists are necessary.

And to teach and train these artists, we need our arts education to be supported, respected and leveraged as a purposeful vehicle to unite the people.

An artwork on the wall along the back lanes of SS2 portrays a scene

reminiscent of the good old days, appeal to the ageing generation in the

mixed-residential area.

3THE STAR, TUESDAY 18 AUGUST 2015


Prof Peter Heard, Sunway University’s deputy vice-chancellor for research and enterprise.

Platform for researchOWNED and governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, Sunway University is one of Malaysia’s leading not-for-profit private universities.

The vibrant and modern Sunway University is well known for its quality teaching and learning as well as its rapidly growing body of research work, which is increasing in prominence nationally and internationally.

Sunway University is offering 20 fully funded PhD scholarships for aspiring researchers to pursue their dreams of contributing to and helping to develop a knowledge-based society in Malaysia and beyond.

The scholarships, which are available to Malaysian and international students pursuing research areas in business or computing and information systems, will cover the three-year programme’s fees and include a monthly stipend of RM3,000.

Sunway University provides a dynamic and diverse research culture with around 200 academic staff from different parts of the world, including Europe, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

The scholarships are offered through the university’s Office for Research and Enterprise to further boost the university’s growing contributions to the world’s knowledge base.

Prof Peter Heard, deputy vice-chancellor for research and enterprise, believes that the support given to the university by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation to further develop its research profile provides for a unique environment for prospective PhD students.

“Sunway University is the only private university I know in South-East Asia that truly puts quality ahead of anything else.

“We search for the best faculty and

students from around the world – the first question we always ask ourselves is how talented a potential candidate is, not what can we charge them or how much it will cost us,” says Prof Heard.

“Sunway is a truly international university in every sense of the word; we have staff and students from practically every corner of the globe, which means our students not only learn from the very best, but also gain vital experience of working across different cultures.”

According to Prof Heard, PhD students who enrol in the university under the scholarship scheme will have the chance to attend at least one leading international conference during their studies.

“With opportunities to listen to some of the leading academics and thought-leaders such as Prof Jeffrey Sachs, Prof Nick Rawlins, Prof Barry Eichengreen and Prof Dave O. Ulrich through the Jeffrey Cheah Distinguished Speakers Series, students will be exposed to some of today’s greatest thinkers. Such opportunities are not available anywhere else,” he says.

Aside from experienced supervision, successful applicants will have access to some of the most modern facilities available anywhere.

The university recently opened its new RM350mil campus building, boasting some of the best facilities for research, teaching and recreation, including state-of-the-art laboratories, lecture theatres, a Fifa-standard soccer pitch, gymnasium and Olympic-sized swimming pool.

These facilities are available within the confines of Malaysia’s finest resort city – Bandar Sunway.

The broader Sunway organisation to which the university belongs has an inspiring mission and vision that permeates all it does.

Sunway University is a member of the Sunway Education Group, which has extensive links with many top universities.

It has a strategic partnership with Lancaster University, which is ranked 9th in the United Kingdom and in the

top 1% of universities worldwide.Lancaster University offers many joint

degree programmes and undertakes joint research projects with Sunway University.

Sunway University also collaborates with Harvard University, University of Cambridge and University of Oxford to run events such lectures, conferences, workshops and symposiums, which successful candidates will have the opportunity to leverage on for their research.

Sunway University is accepting applications for the 20 fully funded PhD scholarships in the areas of business and computing and information systems.

Applications are open until Sept 30.

n For more information, visit sunway.edu.my/university/research-mngmt

Prof Rema Hanna from Harvard Kennedy School conducting a Jeffrey Cheah Distinguished Speakers Series lecture at Sunway University’s Graduate Centre.


postgraduate 5

By PROF CHRISTINE ENNEW

VC COLUMN

Responsibility to communityFOR many, the mention of university or college brings to mind students, education and qualifications.

Prospective students think about the different study options offered to them, while their parents may be more concerned with the employment opportunities available to their children after graduation.

On the other hand, governments and the industry may place a priority on workforce skills and competencies.

Many individuals go to university to undertake research that addresses major global challenges, finds solutions to problems, and invents new products and services.

Magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound devices, liquid-crystal display screens and genetic fingerprinting are just some examples of the transformative innovations that have emerged from universities worldwide.

Education, research and innovation are the core functions

of universities and of huge significance in emerging knowledge economies. However, the responsibility of these institutions extends beyond those functions.

Universities are not just for promoting economic well-being; they are also social institutions that are part of local, national, regional and global communities.

Each university has a responsibility to these communities – a responsibility to share, engage with and support growth and development.

Regardless of the way each university carries out this responsibility, the importance of community engagement is evident through the growing number of institutions that are developing teams dedicated to improving the effectiveness of their community engagement.

Working with schools is one of the most common forms of community engagement – not least because it fits naturally with what universities do.

Many universities build links with local and regional schools and work with schoolchildren to offer them an insight into university life, raise their aspirations and support their learning.

At the same time, universities may also work with school teachers, supporting their professional development through the acquisition of new skills and knowledge in their subject areas as well as in their approach to teaching.

Besides that, there is always the opportunity to share facilities with local schools, providing access to, for example, sports centres or event space. In doing so, universities become more accessible to the public.

Alongside the community engagement work undertaken and

led by university management, the student body also offers important contributions.

As higher education remains a privilege, many university students are aware that they have a responsibility to help and give something back to others.

Therefore, in universities and colleges throughout the world, students often undertake volunteer and charitable work where their skills and expertise can be put to good use.

Some may perform various tasks such as running, walking, cycling or shaving their heads to raise money for good causes.

Others offer their time and knowledge to undertake projects on behalf of disadvantaged communities, including building a school, digging a well, installing a generator and building new business opportunities.

There are also individuals who invest their time in campaigns that promote sustainability, protect biodiversity or fight poverty.

It is imperative that students

recognise their obligations to the community that they live and study in.

The community is not the only party that benefits from this kind of work; students themselves benefit from the experience too.

When students undertake the aforementioned activities, they grow in their understanding of the world around them and develop the skills associated with leadership, management, communication and organisation.

When such experience and learning are combined with the skills and knowledge acquired in the core curriculum, students gain some of the essential ingredients to help them become the global citizens who will play a key role in ensuring that the global society develops towards a sustainable, fair and just future.

n Prof Christine Ennew is the chief executive officer and provost of The University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus.


Modern marvels of engineering

MANKIND has come a long way in the fields of architecture, engineering and technology. With every passing day, civil, chemical, electrical, mechanical and system engineers are utilising new tools and skills to construct amazing mega structures that are not only beautiful in terms of design and useful to the people in the surrounding areas but also marvels of engineering skill.

l Millau Viaduct, FranceWith a maximum height of

1,125ft (343m), the Millau Viaduct is not only taller than the Eiffel Tower but the tallest cable-stayed bridge in the world.

The 2.46km bridge stretches across the Tarn Valley in France, connecting Causse Rouge and Causse du Larzac.

Cable-stayed bridges are traditionally constructed in sections before they are hoisted into position by cranes.

Due to the height and scale of the project, a new technique was developed where the bridge deck was built on either side of the valley and rolled into position before finally meeting in the middle.

The areas surrounding Millau were infamous for their traffic jams especially during the summer holiday months. But after 14 years of preparation – including three years of construction – the bridge, along with its seven concrete pillars, is now not only a breathtaking sight to behold but the least congested and cheapest route between Paris and the Mediterranean.

l Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, JapanSubjected to severe storms,

strong tidal currents and wind gusts of up to 288km per hour, the extreme weather posed a constant threat to ferries that were crossing the Akashi Straits in the south of Honshu island.

After numerous setbacks, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge was constructed under severe natural and social conditions.

This magnificent feat of engineering took 10 years to construct, using 181,000 tonnes of steel and 1.4 million cubic metres of concrete.

Almost 23,000 cars use the bridge every day, travelling from the city of Kobe on Honshu to the island of Awaji.

Although the bridge was completed almost two decades ago, it remains the world’s longest

suspension bridge extending 3.911km. l Venice Tide Barrier Project,

ItalyThe beautiful city of Venice has

long been termed the city of love or the city of water, but for many, the latter is a more accurate description of reality.

Due to the extraction of fresh water beneath the city, tectonic plate shifting and soil compaction, the city is constantly sinking and the rising tides make it prone to flooding.

To prevent the city from becoming totally submerged, a new dam project called MOSE (an Italian abbreviation for Experimental Electromechanical Module) is being undertaken to seal off the city from rising tides.

This complex system uses a series of underwater mobile steel gates that can be raised and lowered on command depending on the tide level. The �5bil (RM21.93bil) project began construction in 2003 and is expected to be completed by mid-2016.

l Nord Stream, Russia-Germany

Previously known as the North Transgas and the North European Gas Pipeline, Nord Stream is the longest sub-sea pipeline system in the world with a total length of 1,220km.

The pipeline links Russia and Germany, ensuring a reliable supply of natural gas to meet the rising demands of the European market.

Among the biggest challenges in building this pipeline is the unique diversity and unevenness of the Baltic seabed.

Engineers had to constantly adjust the way they laid the pipes, which included placing rocks for additional pipe support in underwater valleys and burying the pipes in pre-dredged trenches in shallower waters.

The pipes also had to be rerouted past certain areas that contain thousands of munitions that were dumped into the Baltic Sea after the Second World War.

The pipeline is deemed to be more than just an important gas supply route as it passes though the exclusive economic zones of five countries and hailed as a benchmark in EU-Russia cooperation.

With the addition of the second pipeline in 2012, the system

transports an annual capacity of 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas and this is expected to double by 2019 when two additional pipelines are laid.

l Large Hadron Collider, Switzerland

The Large Hadron Collider was built by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (Cern) and is the world’s largest and most powerful particle collider, using superconducting magnets to boost high-energy particle beams to travel close to the speed of light.

A collaboration between more than 10,000 scientists and engineers from around the globe, it is also the largest and most complex experimental facility and machine in the world, forming a giant 27km ring beneath the France-Switzerland border near Geneva.

The incredible size and complexity of the machine provided unique operational issues related to the amount of energy stored in the magnets and the beams.

After initial tests, the machine generated such high forces that it broke its own magnet supports,

had leaks and caused considerable damage to its vacuum tube.

The magnets inside the machine also have to be chilled at -271.3°C, a temperature colder than outer space, for it to operate efficiently.

Building the machine 50m to 100m underground also meant that the surroundings and life above ground were shielded from the machine’s radiation.

Researchers are adamant that the £4bil (RM25.1bil) price tag of building this machine is perfectly justified as it is the key to experimenting and proving multiple scientific theories, and in the long run, opening a door to developing new and practical applications.

l Bailong Elevator, ChinaEnvironmentalists criticised the

move to build a giant lift in the middle of a World Heritage Site.

However, from an engineering standpoint, the Bailong Elevator, also known as the Hundred Dragons Elevator, is the tallest full-exposure outdoor lift, tallest double-deck sightseeing lift and the fastest passenger lift with the biggest capacity in the world.

To build the lift, engineers carefully studied the many quartz sandstone columns in the vicinity before finally proceeding with construction.

Workers dug lift shafts and tunnels in the column and the entire structure is securely bolted to the face of the cliff.

Completed in 2002, nearly five million visitors ride up this glass lift annually, enjoying jaw-dropping views of the mountain range of the Hunan province at 1,070ft (330m).

l Cape Wind, the United StatesAcross the globe, companies and

organisations are taking various steps to reduce their carbon footprint and increase their green or eco efforts.

Cape Wind, a new project that is in its final commercial contracting stage, is located off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and will become America’s first offshore wind farm.

These giant wind turbines will be able to produce up to 468MW of clean, renewable energy.

Civil engineers are working closely with mechanical and power engineers to develop the various electric transmission cables and interconnections that are required underwater and on land.

The wind farm is capable of producing 75% of the electricity used on Cape Cod and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

The project will create new jobs and economic development in the area, generate greater energy price stability and price reductions in the wholesale electric market as well as reduce annual emissions of heat-trapping carbon dioxide by 734,000 tonnes.

l The Gherkin, EnglandThe city of London is filled with

magnificent buildings such as Tower Bridge, the O2 Arena and St Paul’s Cathedral.

But 30 St Mary Axe, also known as The Gherkin, is an engineering wonder due to its energy efficiency and advances in engineering and architecture.

This 40-storey office building first opened in 2004 and features gaps in each floor that create six shafts for natural ventilation, floor-to-ceiling windows to improve daylight penetration, column-free floor space and a grid of diagonally interlocking steel elements to reduce energy consumption by 50%.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Japan.

The Gherkin, England.


postgraduate 7

A valued qualificationTHE Management & Science University (MSU) is one of the best teaching and learning universities in Malaysia.

It focuses strongly on in-demand areas of study, which encompass medicine, health sciences, pharmacy, information sciences and engineering, business management and professional studies, education and social sciences, and hospitality.

MSU has received much recognition from Malaysian and international independent bodies.

It has been rated an Excellent Status University twice by the Higher Education Ministry through a rating system for all universities in Malaysia.

MSU is also accredited by the Accreditation Services for International Colleges (ASIC), United Kingdom, and the Alliance on Business Education and Scholarship for Tomorrow (ABEST21), Japan.

MSU’s Graduate School of Management (GSM) recognises that today’s global companies require managers with a broader outlook.

The university attracts top students through its internationalisation effort of employing faculty members with overseas experience and forming effective links with businesses.

The Master in Business Administration by MSU (MSU-MBA) offers students an experiential learning opportunity in cross-cultural communications, building a global network and possibly

By building on the foundations of work experience, MSU’s Master in Business Administration enables students to make a smooth transition to a higher level of responsibility at work.

creating a future international career.

In addition, students are able to develop management skills and techniques, obtain strategic orientation and implement the strategies formulated.

The MSU-MBA helps students develop skills in leadership, entrepreneurship, strategic management and decision-making so that they become successful leaders in the most competitive markets.

The programme aims to build on the foundations of work experience and, by equipping students with new skills and knowledge, enable students to make a smooth transition to a higher level of responsibility.

The MSU-MBA provides sufficient knowledge for students to understand the various facets of an organisation to formulate successful strategies. It also instils confidence in them.

The MSU-MBA is popular with

employers as it is a recognised currency in the human resources marketplace. Employers know the value of the qualification and what they can expect from an MBA graduate.

They also recognise the commitment shown by MSU-MBA students in investing heavily in their careers. Such candidates are likely to be dynamic self-starters who will be an asset to any organisation.

There is a multitude of reasons so many students now consider an MSU-MBA to be an integral step in their career paths.

Having an MSU-MBA can be the determinant in getting a high-paying and high-power job.

Active learning exercises within the programme act as a basis for verbal analysis and discussion, allowing for a rich learning environment by integrating the classroom with the real world.

These exercises broaden students’ understanding of issues by inviting them to think beyond the text material. New terms and concepts are defined in the margins to facilitate learning.

The GSM has established collaborative educational links with a number of top overseas universities, including in the United Kingdom, the United States,

Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Germany, Russia and China.

The Global Mobility Programme is a means to provide MSU postgraduate students with international exposure.

Through this programme, students have the opportunity to develop an awareness and appreciation of other cultures, political and economic environments, and approaches of doing business.

Professors of the MSU-MBA are accomplished teachers who have made significant contributions to the business world, both as academics and working professionals.

They have conducted research and published articles across a broad range of business and professional areas. They have also taught university-level business courses abroad, thus bringing their rich multicultural heritage to Malaysia.

Professors at MSU are selected worldwide from among the best consultants and professionals in their fields.

n For more information, call 03-2718 4310/2718 4311 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.msu.edu.my


Upgrade yourself to a nation builder

OPEN University Malaysia (OUM) is offering great opportunities to those who visit its open day from Sept 4 to 6. Those who register during these three days will receive rebates on their semester fees.

The university’s alumni also qualify for the rebates if they wish to take on another programme at OUM. What’s more, their rebate is not confined to the open day period.

Under the new scheme as well, OUM is increasing the discounts given to senior citizens and the physically challenged (OKU).

As of its September intake, a 75% discount will be given to the physically challenged and senior citizens aged 60 to 74 as well as a 100% discount to anyone aged 75 and above.

Previously at 40%, the new scheme is for all levels of

programmes at OUM – diploma, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate programmes.

President and Vice-Chancellor of the first open and distance learning university in Malaysia, Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Anuwar Ali, says that OUM takes its motto, University for All, very seriously.

“We created this precious opportunity to accommodate people because we know that times are hard, especially with the current situation of the economy. With the ringgit’s value going down and the cost of living going up, people are being forced to tighten their belts.

“Our nation is celebrating 58 years of independence and nation building. The people should be able to free their minds and become nation builders.”

Tan Sri Anuwar went on to say that the new scheme, coupled with OUM’s lifelong learning culture and blended learning pedagogy, makes learning easily accessible, especially for senior citizens and the physically challenged.

“They too, would want to be self-reliant and be able to contribute to the country’s prosperity and harmony. Therefore, pursuing educational dreams should be made convenient for them too.”

Accessible learningOne of OUM’s compelling

strengths is that it caters to these two groups of the population – senior citizens and the physically challenged.

Not only has OUM

lowered fees for them but also provides various modes of learning so that they can learn around their physical issues.

“Hearing loss, blindness, walking difficulties and other physical challenges are already an inconvenience for them, which is why they come to us. Our various learning materials that include notes in PDF format, videos, audio books, e-tutorials, easy access to our digital library, virtual learning environment are available for them to facilitate their learning.”

Two out of the many OUM success stories are Vijaya Kumar Kishin Singh and Wan Zainun Wan Abd Manan.

Vijaya Kumar was diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease of the eyes at five years old. He is now partially blind and suffers from other complications as well. Despite the difficulties he has encountered, Vijaya went on to graduate with a CGPA of 3.9, a feat he never imagined possible.

He says, “The staff of OUM were truly marvellous in assisting me to meet my special needs. I also forged a special friendship with one of my lecturers.

“Their help and guidance reflects how OUM’s staff and lecturers carry out their duties in dealing with their students.”

Wan Zainun is the oldest recorded student at OUM at 83 years old.

She is from the Terengganu

learning centre and is currently doing her Bachelor in Islamic Studies.

When news of her enrolment last year spread among the OUM family, students from all of OUM’s 34 learning centres nationwide were inspired and encouraged by her will and determination to pursue her studies.

Staff and learners at the Terengganu learning centre are always looking out for ways to help her. For example, the director of the Terengganu Learning Centre even assisted her in keying in her details onto the online registration form.

Something for everyoneThis new rebate scheme

substantiates the aim and mission of OUM Education – to widen access to quality education and provide lifelong learning opportunities by leveraging on technology, adopting flexible mode of learning and providing an

Open University Malaysia’s main campus in Kuala Lumpur.

Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Anuwar Ali, President and Vice-Chancellor of OUM Education.

Wan Zainun Wan Abd Manan, 83, is the oldest recorded OUM student.

From September onwards, those aged 75 and above can study for free at OUM.

engaging learning environment at competitive and a affordable cost.

OUM Education comprises three educational institutions – OUM, Institute of Professional Development (IPD) and International Open College (IOC).

IOC programmes are conducted full time via face-to-face classes and online support.

IPD-OUM, on the other hand, offers professional skills development programmes and courses, which complement the learning provided by IOC and OUM.

Widening access to postgraduate programmes and accommodating senior citizens and the physically challenged prove that OUM Education is an unconventional educational institution. It is the best fit for all, regardless of age, location, status and socio-economic background.

n For more information, visit www.oum.edu.my


postgraduate 9

The International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW) offers a quality MBA programme for the modern day business specialist.

WHETHER you are a job-seeker looking for more responsibilities and higher pay or someone moving up into a managerial position at your current workplace, you need to boost yourself above others to stay ahead in today’s competitive business world.

Moreover, in recent times when unstable economic situations are prevalent, it is perhaps more pertinent than ever for professionals to be one step ahead of the competition, making a master’s in business administration (MBA) qualification the perfect tool for the modern day business specialist.

To meet current market needs, the International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW) offers an MBA programme that provides business professionals with the opportunity to pursue their study on a part-time basis and at an affordable price.

The IUMW MBA programme focuses on business administration strategies and the specific needs of entrepreneurs and innovators.

It also fosters enterprising innovation, flexibility and managerial autonomy that businesses rely on to stay competitive in this dynamic economy.

The coursework covers business fundamentals, including strategic development, economics and human capital management.

The programme also assists students in developing strategies to deal with the global market of tomorrow.

Modules in international marketing management, financial management and organisational behaviour add to the skills that a business person needs to move forward in a competitive global environment.

The IUMW MBA also exposes students to financial management, analysis and reporting.

Furthermore, the programme has an international focus, along with its multidisciplinary and integrative curriculum, reinforcing the strategic, international and ethical dimensions of business.

In addition, qualified IUMW students can opt for dual awards,

which awards graduates of the MBA programme a parchment from both IUMW and the University of Wales.

Students develop strategic and integrated views of organisations and management, skills in effective decision-making, critical awareness of the operation of global organisations within an international environment as well as an advanced understanding of international, ethical and strategic concepts and current theories in the management of global businesses.

The IUMW MBA seeks to promote an understanding of core business and management disciplines while emphasising and enhancing management skills.

The programme also encourages the development of new ideas and concepts in the areas of analysis, problem-solving, decision-making, effective communication and leadership, methodologies and concepts that can be applied in any organisation.

The core elements of the programme encourage understanding of the modules and facilitate interactive teaching and learning.

The modules are from a wide range of business and management disciplines, including economics, marketing, information systems, statistics, human resource management and law.

IUMW students have the privilege to access the extensive and popular resources of University of Malaya such as its libraries, sports facilities and laboratories at no extra cost.

The IUMW MBA programme significantly enhances graduates’ capability to function as a senior manager within a wide range of commercial and service organisations.

Individuals who are keen to pursue the IUMW MBA programme are required to have a relevant bachelor’s degree in any field with a minimum CGPA of 2.5 and minimum of five years work experience.

n For more information,call 03-2617 3000 or visitiumw.edu.my

Beat thecompetition


Dr David Mackay, distinguished visiting teaching fellow from the UK, delivers the strategic management module of the dual-award MBA programme offered at Sunway University.

Going global with an MBA WITH the proliferation of master’s of business administration (MBA) programmes, choosing the right MBA to pursue can be difficult.

The dual-award MBA offered at Sunway University provides a high return over investment for young managers who aspire to become strategic leaders.

In collaboration with top-ranked Lancaster University Management School, Sunway’s MBA is considered one of the best, immersing its students in global recognition, global delivery and faculty and global networking.

Dr David Mackay, visiting teaching fellow of Lancaster University,

shared his insights into Sunway University’s dual-award MBA.

With 10 years of teaching experience and diverse practical work experience in production engineering, management and consultancy, Dr Mackay recently visited Sunway University to conduct the strategic management module of its MBA programme.

Global recognitionUpon completion of the MBA

programme, graduates are awarded two scrolls – one from Sunway University, a renowned private education institution in Malaysia,

and one from Lancaster University, which is ranked in the top 1% of universities globally.

The Lancaster MBA programmes are triple-accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA).

“Triple accreditation is a prized asset in the business school community. It is held by only about 1% of business schools around the world.

“To gain triple accreditation, schools need to meet the most exacting standards for process,

programme design and execution, and student experience.

“That creates a valuable MBA experience and practical career gains for participants. The benefit should be felt by students during their period of study as the well-designed programme is delivered to the highest standards. Students also gain the potential for good career progression, having graduated from a triple-accredited school,” says Dr Mackay.

Global delivery and faculty

The broader Sunway organisation, which the university is connected to, has an inspiring mission and vision that permeate the university’s operations and physical setup of the campus.

The state-of-the-art Graduate Centre is also highly conducive to an effective MBA learning experience.

Students learn from a faculty that consists of some of the best management consultants, educators and research scholars in the world.

Dr David Mackay is one of many UK-based distinguished lecturers flown in to deliver world-class learning experience to Sunway’s MBA students.

Students also have the flexibility of gaining credits by taking modules at other locations where Lancaster delivers an equivalent to its MBA programme. Current locations include Singapore, Jordan, Ghana and the United Kingdom.

Global networkingThe establishing of a network

of peers who share similar level of intellectual capability is a desirable benefit.

Sunway University’s careful selection of students for its dual-award MBA ensures student diversity in terms of industry, age and experience.

This allows an intellectually gifted and highly capable cohort of students to work and learn in a multidisciplinary environment, further strengthening their networks.

Graduates can also become alumni of not only one but two prestigious universities – Sunway University and Lancaster University – which help graduates stay connected to the institutions and their fellow graduates.

Engagement in alumni associations allows networking, which expands professional connections and advances one’s career by continuously learning from peers.

“As you progress through life after the MBA programme, you will have access to the social network formed during your studies, which can prove to be an excellent resource,” says Dr Mackay.

The dual-award MBA programme is financially accessible with bursaries available to students.

In addition, local students can apply for a MyMaster Government grant that provides a maximum value of RM10,000.

Sunway University will be having a preview session for its MBA programme on Aug 22.

n For more information,call 03-7491 8701 orvisit www.sunway.edu.my/university/MBA


postgraduate 11

Ir Khoo Voon Chin graduated from AeU with the Master of Science (Management) by Research.

Fruitful academic journey

WHEN I decided to become a part-time student while holding a full-time job that sometimes required me to work the night shift, I was apprehensive about being able to manage both tasks well.

However, if I did not take any action to further my study, I would never know if I could do it.

I overcame my anxiety and took the first step by enrolling in Asia e University (AeU)’s Master of Science (Management) by Research or MSc (Mgt) programme in May 2010.

The programme offered the best option for a working professional like me. The MSc (Mgt) programme’s flexibility and the independent nature of its research project allowed me the freedom to customise my study schedule to fit my work requirements.

My academic journey in AeU was not without its ups and downs.

Being a full-time working adult with family obligations, it was challenging to complete the degree programme within two years.

Although the study duration could be extended, I did not want to take that option for granted as I feared the consequences of not completing my degree.

As I progressed in the self-regulated research programme, I found that the MSc (Mgt) suited my personal goals and work commitment in the semiconductor testing industry.

Specialising in automation and semi-conductor testing as well as acting as a sales manager with COHC, Inc at that

time, I was responsible for multi-site testing and handled sales and service activities.

The programme offered at AeU was very flexible and affordable compared with other research-based master’s programmes provided in other institutions.

As time passed, my fear and doubts about completing the programme gave way to confidence.

The advisory and counselling services provided at the university were invaluable and timely.

I am especially thankful to Dr Oo Yu Hock, programme coordinator of the MSc (Mgt) at AeU’s School of Management and advisor to PhD candidates in AeU’s School of Graduate School, for his dedicated and wise guidance.

I am also grateful to my external supervisor Prof Dr Shahrul Kamaruddin.

He and Dr Oo have contributed to reshaping my academic values and professional orientation.

Learning at AeU was a truly rewarding and enriching experience as I have benefited from two challenging years of working and studying at the same time.

This invaluable experience culminated in my convocation on Sept 21 last year, with the conferment of my MSc (Mgt) degree by AeU.

My work-based and job-related thesis is now a living testimonial of my fruitful journey at AeU. – By Ir Khoo Voon Chin

n For more information on AeU’s programmes, visit www.aeu.edu.my


The Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park is a good example of an open public space.

The sustainable nicheBy RONI KING AND DELIA AHMAD

WHILE green architecture and sustainable building once catered to a niche group, the trend is slowly seeping into the wider market.

In fact, sustainable architecture has always been part of the architecture curriculum at the undergraduate level, but it could be said that it has only entered the public consciousness with accreditation bodies and agencies recognising and rating green buildings.

Without a doubt, sustainable buildings are the future and there is much need for research and postgraduate work to be carried out in this sphere for this to gain more traction in Malaysia.

The most popular misconception about building a green home is that it is more expensive than the conventional method.

This is, however, only a matter of perspective. Adding green elements to a conventionally designed home (such as solar panels or insulation) may mean additional costs.

But designing green from the very beginning – using less material and reusing material that would typically be waste – can cut the overall cost of the project.

Innovative solutionsEven on a larger scale,

sustainable architecture does not have to be expensive – it only needs to be innovative.

Jaime Lerner, the former mayor of Curitiba and former governor of the state of Parana in Brazil, used his skill as an architect and urban planner to provide unorthodox yet fitting solutions to Curitiba based on its own unique geography.

Curitiba is constrained by finances, so instead of building an expensive floodplain system, the town uses municipal sheep to keep the parks vegetation under control, with the wool from the sheep funding children’s programmes in the city.

As a result of this innovative approach, the city ranks as among the top cities in per-capita park area.

Lerner said of this feat: “Every city in the world can be improved in less than three years. It’s not a question of scale; it’s not a question of financial resources. Every problem in a city has to have its own equation of co-responsibility and design”.

Another notable Brazilian landscape architect is the late Roberto Burle Marx whose designs of parks and gardens made him well known as a modernist nature artist and public urban space designer.

His work has inspired and influenced many tropical garden

designs in the 20th century.One of his last works was the

Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) Park that adorns the Petronas Twin Towers with greenery.

One of the best examples of the use of open public spaces in the country, the park integrates tropical greenery with man-made structures and is a calm oasis in the centre of the often chaotic capital city.

More than this, the park is a mini ecosystem, where the temperature is cooler and biodiversity greater than its surroundings.

The 20-hectare park has 66 species of palms and 1900 indigenous trees – some of which are rare species – deliberately selected to attract local and migratory birds.

Designing a future

Sustainable building and green architecture are becoming the new

ideological medium for public and living spaces, especially in urban areas.

While some are motivated to

reduce tangible impacts on carbon footprints and climate change, others are simply just warming up to the idea of sleek design that results from using less material and using spaces more effectively.

Green architecture is certainly an upcoming trend in the building industry, especially judging from the number of projects that consultants and architects in Malaysia are currently seeing.

The increasing cost of energy and water (due to the removal of subsidies), the various incentives, legislatures and policy frameworks, and the branding of multinational companies from the aspect of corporate social responsibility are some of the factors that have led to the increased popularity of green architecture.

Future architects, engineers or designers are the future shapers of our built environment. It takes experience and insight to understand the relationship of the built environment with the livelihood of community, social integration of various citizens and well-being of the natural environment, and to ensure economic justice for all layers of society.

Examples and solutions are available around the world for any curious and open-minded researcher to find inspiration from.

In fact, academics alone may not be able to produce sufficient talents or skills to sustain this green trend.

Though there are courses that incorporate elements of environmental engineering or management available in Malaysia – The University of Nottingham Malaysia campus’ Environment Division, for example, conducts research into the development of process and product technologies for achieving a sustainable development goal for human

activities – most local universities do not have specialised programmes on green or sustainable building such as

building science or energy engineering.

Some universities,

Sustainable building and green architecture are becoming the new ideological medium for public and living spaces, especially in urban areas.

such as University of Malaya, allow postgraduate candidates to conduct research in their particular area of interest – for example, an architecture postgraduate candidate may conduct research in sustainable design if he or she has a particular interest in this field.

This means, however, that these candidates must have the initiative and drive to actively pursue their niche interests and that those who do not have such definite passions (the majority) graduate from conventional studies in this field and may struggle to meet the industry’s demands for specific skills.

But while a postgraduate degree may be necessary, or at least preferred, for those who want to make their mark in the green architecture industry, it is not advisable to jump into postgraduate education right off the bat.

A postgraduate education certainly enriches a person’s experience in a niche subject, but most professionals agree that some working experience will give a young architect a view of the industry and the knowledge of what he or she would really like to focus on moving forward.

Young architects should see at least one full project through to completion.

The average project takes three or four years to complete, but this period of time will allow a young professional to experience almost everything in the architecture process and provide ample information to help in the decision-making process of whether to move on to postgraduate study and what to study.

Persevere, preserveThe shift towards

environmentally conscious consumer behaviour means that architects, designers and urban planners should work together to meet the high expectations of delivering cost-effective and environmentally sustainable buildings while complying with the laws and regulations related to green architecture.

The Government has already implemented policies to ensure that new construction within the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur and in Putrajaya are certified as green buildings.

It is therefore not too far-fetched to imagine a future blanket policy across the entire country that makes green architecture a norm.

It seems then that green building is the only viable future for architecture and that the demand for suitably skilled professionals will only increase.

The future holds great potential for green architecture.


postgraduate 13

(From left) Jeffery Soong (regional manager (Asia), University of Melbourne, Australia), Assoc Prof Dr Chin Sze Kim (dean, BERJAYA Business School), Mae Ho (chief executive officer, BERJAYA Higher Education) and Prof Ian O. Williamson (Helen Macpherson Smith Chair of Leadership for Social Impact, associate dean, International Relations, Melbourne Business School, The University of Melbourne, Australia).

Unique business programmeTHE Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme offered by BERJAYA University College of Hospitality (BERJAYA UCH) is relevant to working adults and provides them with solid management theories as well as the practical aspects of business studies to help them further excel in their respective fields of work.

The MBA programme encompasses areas such as leadership, human resource management, information technology, finance, economics, marketing and business ethics.

Electives in the areas of international business, international hospitality and international tourism are also offered.

This programme is backed by the BERJAYA group of companies – one of Malaysia’s largest and most diversified conglomerates.

Postgraduate degrees with an edge

The company’s executives form part of the pool of resource talents that give this programme a unique edge over other postgraduate courses.

The programme is suited to those who are interested to further their studies as well as to working adults who wish to pursue a postgraduate degree and work at the same time.

BERJAYA UCH’s postgraduate programme is catered to students who wish to obtain a postgraduate qualification in the field of business and management.

This programme aims to help students gain analytic abilities, problem-solving skills and be involved in extracurriculum-related activities.

Students are exposed to real-life problem-solving exercises and insights gained from various industry experts.

The MBA curriculum is meticulously designed with the advice of a team of industry experts who forms the Industry Advisory Panel for in-depth experiential learning and curriculum relevancy to the dynamic and robust, local and global, business environment.

For more effective learning, industry projects, case studies analyses, case writing and seminars are all value-added activities

embedded within the programme.To further enhance student experience

and course relevancy, a series of B-Talks are organised for the benefit of the BERJAYA Business School MBA students.

The senior management of BERJAYA Corporation subsidiary companies are also invited to attend these talks.

It is an opportune time for the students and senior management who comprise general managers, executive directors and above, to interact and network.

Most importantly though, students are able to learn from the industry experts.

Relevant topics such as governance, risk and compliance (GRC), concepts of logistics and supply chain, business franchising model, consumerism in retail insights, creating positive customer experiences and more are delivered by industry experts who share their experiences and implementation of different tactical strategies in a business environment.

BERJAYA UCH is also having its MBA Preview during the Open Days on Aug 22 and 23, from 10am to 5pm (both days).

Visitors can step into its city campus, located on the 11th and 14th floors of BERJAYA Times Square, Kuala Lumpur.

It is conceptually designed with a five-star hotel ambiance, equipped with the most comprehensive and advanced facilities that mirror real-world settings.

BERJAYA UCH aims to make higher education more accessible, affordable and attainable for everyone.

The PTPTN education financing scheme is made available to Malaysian students. Its affiliation with the BERJAYA Corporation Group of Companies also allows BERJAYA UCH to host several bursary schemes and education scholarships available to both local and international students.

BERJAYA UCH is Malaysia’s premier university college in the fields of retail and business, public relations, hospitality, culinary arts, tourism and events management, situated in the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur. BERJAYA UCH also offers courses in business and liberal arts.

n For more information, visitwww.BERJAYA.edu.my

Equipped to advanceI GRADUATED with a master’s in business administration (MBA) from the University of Strathclyde.

The course equipped me with the necessary business management skills I needed to progress in my career.

The combination of my prior technical experience and the course gave me an added advantage to strategically operate and manage an organisation as well as open doors to greater opportunities for career advancement.

When I was looking for a university to pursue my MBA in, the triple accreditation and availability of experienced faculty members from the United Kingdom influenced my decision to go with the University of Strathclyde.

The Strathclyde MBA provides value-for-money education and its part-time mode suited my schedule as a working professional.

The Strathclyde MBA is regarded as one of the best in the world specialising in corporate strategy.

We learnt about strategic management as well as business management fundamentals such as finance, accounting, marketing, human resources and operations.

I enrolled in the MBA programme with 14 years of work experience under my belt, which was important to understand the relevance and value of a postgraduate course.

While the timing was right for me to pursue the course as I was transitioning from a technical role to a management role in my career, it was hard at first to adjust to studying again.

Juggling my work, studies and family life was a challenge and I had to adapt and divide my time accordingly every day.

As for the programme, the best part of it was the real-life case studies that demonstrated how theoretical knowledge can be applied in certain areas of business.

I also enjoyed the group work, which allowed us to exchange ideas, points of view and provide us the opportunity to learn from each other.

We shared heated debated sleepless nights, disappointments, life experiences, laughter and joy, all of which led to the development of long-lasting friendships.

I now manage and lead

the aerospace and defence division of the company I work for. I am responsible for the management, production and delivery of critical aerospace and defence systems and components to some of the world’s largest aerospace and defence organisations while ensuring profitability of the business.

The knowledge that I gained from the MBA programme has helped me in terms of business planning, management and operations of the division.

The Strathclyde MBA has made a positive impact in my professional and personal life. The awareness and knowlegde I gained from my MBA studies help influence my decision making and management approach at work.

My advice to those who are considering pursuing an MBA is to just do it.

It is a worthwhile and life-enriching experience.

While doing an MBA requires perseverance and hard work, you will come to enjoy the educational journey and gain friendships that will last a lifetime. – By Burhanudin Noordin Ali

n For more information, call 03-7660 8950 or visit www.cdc.edu.my


Burhanudin Noordin Ali, MBA graduate from the University of Strathclyde.

Developing comprehensive research skills is built into the Master of Communications and Media Studies curriculum via the mandatory thesis component.


postgraduate 15

Assoc Prof Dr Joanne Lim identifies research as a key component of the MCMS experience.

Enriching experience

WITH the global job market becoming increasingly specialised and competitive, employers are constantly on the hunt for individuals with the optimal balance of qualifications and work experience.

The Master of Communications and Media Studies (MCMS) offered by Monash University Malaysia is a degree specifically crafted to cater to those needs.

The programme is designed for individuals who are currently working and interested in broadening their education in the media and communications industries.

The student-focused course provides individuals with a holistic learning experience.

Central to the MCMS programme are flexibility and practical support for working students. The degree can be completed on a full-time (three semesters, in one-and-a-half years) or a part-time basis (six semesters, in three years).

These options provide students with the opportunity to continue pursuing their careers while enhancing their qualification in the field.

According to 38-year-old Nurlina Hussin, this flexibility was a crucial part of her decision to enrol in MCMS.

“I was keen to study subjects relating to media and communications.

“However, as a mother of two young children, I needed to look for a master’s programme with a timetable that fit my daily schedule,” she says.

“As the classes were mainly on Saturdays, I decided to enrol in the MCMS degree with Monash Malaysia.”

Echoing the same rationale, Yap Yoong Jian, a project coordinator at Bar Council Malaysia, says, “I chose MCMS because it has weekend classes, which is important to me as I am working full time at the moment.

“I also think that the faculty members are very interesting and well-respected in their respective fields. This holds a lot of value because I get to learn from the best.”

The MCMS programme is coordinated by a team of leading academic scholars. The School of Arts and Social Sciences, which offers the degree, is distinctive for its multidisciplinary research into social transformation in South-East Asia.

This research strength is reflected in the skills and knowledge transmitted to MCMS students. Looking back on her newly completed MCMS degree, 26-year-old editor Rohini Rajadorai expresses that her expectations for the programme have been realised.

“I expected to write, research and explore different areas of media studies to gain a more worldly view of communication,” she says.

“These were fullfilled through the various subject areas that we were exposed to in the programme, from research to international communication to analysing issues in Asia.

“Meeting lecturers across the various subjects offered has been interesting as well. Their depth of knowledge is astounding.”

MCMS course coordinator Assoc Prof Dr Joanne Lim Bee Yin identifies research as a key

component of the MCMS experience.“The MCMS is unique partly

because it places high value on research-led teaching.

“Academics who work in various fields relating to communication and media studies incorporate research insights into their teaching and structuring of the overall curriculum,” she says.

“Students engage in lively discussions on issues pertaining to globalisation and regional governance, the political economy, and subaltern agencies, among others.

“The course is designed to dissect global and regional communication issues and practices, utilising contemporary teaching and research approaches in analysing theory so that graduates can confidently transition into leadership positions.

“Graduates of the programme have moved on to lead editorial teams, marketing divisions of large conglomerates as well as strategic communication and business development units of organisations. They contribute to contemporary

practices in public relations and marketing,” says Assoc Prof Lim.

Being grounded in the practical aspects, the programme is useful to working students. Both graduates and current students report the programme’s relevance to their professional lives.

“The critical thinking and research skills developed in the programme have benefited me in my work, as I have to engage in research for the projects that I embark on,” says Yap.

“If you think you are ready to explore the world through a research-intensive curriculum, MCMS is a sensible choice.”

Developing comprehensive research skills is also built into the MCMS curriculum via the mandatory thesis component.

On the whole, students describe MCMS as an eye-opening experience. For Nurlina, the course has been a personally enriching one.

“While working, it was easy to get caught up in the daily grind of life. MCMS reminded me that there are various issues affecting different parts of the world and how these ultimately affect our country and personal beliefs,” says Nurlina.

“I would definitely recommend the programme to others, even to working adults. It is an enriching programme that will open your mind to issues and topics that you have forgotten in the hectic pace of your life.”

n For more information, visitwww.sass.monash.edu.my


Universiti Malaysia Pahang offers some of the best information technology programmes in Malaysia.

Nurturing talents in ITTHE Faculty of Computer Systems & Software Engineering at Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) produces knowledgeable, highly skilled and competitive graduates within the sphere of software engineering, system and computer network.

Establishing the faculty was in line with the vision and mission of the university to produce talents who can contribute effectively to the field of software engineering and computer networks.

Five research groups were introduced in the effort to enhance the contents of the programmes offered.

These research groups are information systems, software engineering research, soft-computing and intelligent system, multimedia computing and visualisation, and systems network and security.

The faculty emphasises the development and growth of its students’ enrolment and graduates. With its high-quality lecturers, laboratories, proper and careful advising and numerous professional activities, UMP students are given the opportunity to excel in classroom and laboratory sessions.

Students are equipped with software engineering knowledge and technical skills.

Thus, they are ready and confident to begin their professional career or further their studies.

At present, the faculty has four undergraduate programmes and three postgraduate by research programmes.

There are also three new postgraduate programmes by

coursework offered by UMP. They are:l Master of Science

(Information & Communication Technology)

This conversion course is designed to develop the technical, analytical and professional skills required for a computing role.

You can integrate professional computing skills into your current discipline or start a new and rewarding career in information technology.

l Master of Science (Software Engineering)

Designed for graduates of computing disciplines, this course includes a process-oriented approach to the subject and features study of advanced technological developments and several other issues related to the software industry.

It helps students build a strong foundation of theory and best-practice knowledge, which they can apply in a variety of technical and business environments today and in the future.

l Master of Science (Computer Networking)

Designed for graduates of computing-based disciplines, this course is designed to address a specific need in the computer networking industry, which blends the technical and management aspects of computer networking to

offer students a unique educational opportunity. It is intended for students who wish to specialise in the security aspects of the computer networking field.

Entry requirements To enrol in a UMP postgraduate

programme, the minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree in science from a public institution of higher learning or private institution of higher learning as recognised by UMP Senate with CPA 2.7 and above or a qualification deemed to be equivalent with some experience in the related area as approved by UMP Senate.

Applicants of the MSc (Information & Communication Technology) should have at least three years’ working experience in an information technology-related field.

Foreign students from countries where the primary language is not English or who do not have a previous degree from an English-speaking university must complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam with a score that meets the graduate school standards, which are currently 550 or Band 6 respectively.

n For more information, visit ips.ump.edu.my

post graduate - 18 august 2015

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