Run for education Glowing in the dark - Sunway College
Run for education Glowing in the dark - Sunway College
Run for education Glowing in the dark - Sunway College
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VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012Advisor :Elizabeth LeeEditorial Team :Jerr<strong>in</strong>e Koay(Editor)Jacquel<strong>in</strong>e Muriel Lim(Sub-Editor & Writer)Laveenia Theertha Pathy(Writer)Publisher :<strong>Sunway</strong> Education GroupShould you have comments, k<strong>in</strong>dly contact:The Public Relations Department<strong>Sunway</strong> Education GroupTel: 603-7491 8622pr@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/collegeDisclaimer:The views and op<strong>in</strong>ions expressed orimplied <strong>in</strong> are those of <strong>the</strong> authors orcontributors and do not necessarily reflectthose of <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group.is published four times a year. The name was selected by popularchoice by <strong>the</strong> students <strong>the</strong>mselves to represent a progressive <strong>Sunway</strong><strong>College</strong>, an <strong>in</strong>stitution owned and governed by <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey CheahFoundation. S<strong>in</strong>ce its <strong>in</strong>ception <strong>in</strong> 1986, <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> has alwaysbeen a lead<strong>in</strong>g private <strong>in</strong>stitution of higher learn<strong>in</strong>g, and it is <strong>for</strong>everescalat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> next level of excellence. or UPP stands <strong>for</strong>“Uniquely Purposeful Programmes”.The <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group <strong>in</strong>stitutions and services are :-<strong>Sunway</strong> UniversityTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mysunway.edu.my/universityMonash University <strong>Sunway</strong>campusTel: 603-5514 6000<strong>in</strong>fo@monash.edu.mywww.monash.edu.myJeffrey Cheah School of Medic<strong>in</strong>eand Health SciencesTel: 603-5514 6000<strong>in</strong>fo@monash.edu.mywww.monash.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong> International Bus<strong>in</strong>ess &ManagementTel: 603-7493 7023<strong>in</strong>fo@sibm.com.mywww.sibm.com.myShanghai <strong>Sunway</strong> F<strong>in</strong>ancialTra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g Co. LtdTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway-tes.cn<strong>Sunway</strong> Le Cordon Bleu Instituteof Cul<strong>in</strong>ary ArtsTel: 603-5632 1188yuwm<strong>in</strong>gh@sunway.edu.myConcept + Design :Yoong & Ng Consult<strong>in</strong>gPr<strong>in</strong>ter:Ocean Transfer (M) Sdn Bhd<strong>Sunway</strong> International SchoolTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fosis@sunway.edu.mywww.sis.sunway.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>Tel: 603-5638 7176<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mysunway.edu.my/college<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> Johor BahruTel: 607-359 6880<strong>in</strong>fojb@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/jb<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> IpohTel: 605-545 4398<strong>in</strong>foipoh@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/ipoh<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> Kuch<strong>in</strong>gTel: (6082) 232 780/236 666<strong>in</strong>fo@swck.edu.mywww.sunwaycollegekuch<strong>in</strong>g.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong>-TESTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.myCONTENTSCover Story<strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> <strong>education</strong> 3HallmarksProduc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> best 6Champs, once aga<strong>in</strong>! 7Straight A’s 8Wonderful facilities 9AlumniThe Aces of <strong>Sunway</strong> 1425th Anniversary12 25 golden yearsGraduation10 Of mortar board and gown<strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group18 <strong>Glow<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>dark</strong>19 Bridg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> gap <strong>in</strong> <strong>education</strong> <strong>in</strong>equity
Cover Story<strong>Run</strong> <strong>the</strong> race. <strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> elections. <strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> your life!‘<strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> Education’? Why doesone have to run <strong>for</strong> <strong>education</strong>? Is<strong>the</strong>re someth<strong>in</strong>g <strong>education</strong>al aboutrunn<strong>in</strong>g?asked Steve Thong Jun Nam,a student of <strong>the</strong> Monash UniversityFoundation Year (MUFY), a preuniversityprogramme offered by <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>,why he chooses <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> event which heand his team organised as one of <strong>the</strong> many officialevents to celebrate <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group’s25th Anniversary.His answer was : “When I first mooted <strong>the</strong> idea, ouradvisor, Mr. Mahesh Biaspal shared some of histhoughts. Toge<strong>the</strong>r, we came out with <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>me,<strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> Education. It clearly states our support of<strong>education</strong>. Our ma<strong>in</strong> objective was to collect fundsthat could be used <strong>for</strong> orphans to enable <strong>the</strong>m tohave extra coach<strong>in</strong>g as <strong>the</strong>ir peers.”The idea of <strong>the</strong> run as a charity fund-rais<strong>in</strong>g,turned <strong>in</strong>to a reality on Sunday April 8. 400fellow students, staff and members of <strong>the</strong> public,participated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>augural <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>Run</strong><strong>for</strong> Education.The total distance was about six kilometres, whichstarted at <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> campus at 7am whenElizabeth Lee, <strong>the</strong> Senior Executive Director of<strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group, sounded <strong>the</strong> horn. Thetrail took <strong>the</strong> participants <strong>in</strong> and around Bandar<strong>Sunway</strong>.Later, after <strong>the</strong> run was over, Lee told that she was very proud of<strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> students and staff, who will<strong>in</strong>gly availed <strong>the</strong>mselves on aweekend to be a part of this historic moment. “Be<strong>in</strong>g a part of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Run</strong>,whe<strong>the</strong>r a participant or as part of <strong>the</strong> organis<strong>in</strong>g committee, requireda lot of dedication and commitment,” she said. “It is important <strong>for</strong> allof us to count our bless<strong>in</strong>gs and realize that not everyone has <strong>the</strong>necessary means to af<strong>for</strong>d tuition.”“This is why we decided to raise funds to help defray <strong>the</strong> tuition fees<strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>se children,” added Steve.VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 3
Cover StoryCharityThe event managed to also raise approximately RM4,000 to support <strong>education</strong> <strong>for</strong> young people <strong>in</strong> orphanages who aresitt<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir SPM. “We will be us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> proceeds generated from <strong>the</strong> <strong>Run</strong> to fund tuition classes <strong>for</strong> underprivilegedchildren from Homes around <strong>the</strong> Klang Valley who are prepar<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir SPM exams,” said Steve. “Tuition <strong>for</strong> Ma<strong>the</strong>maticsand English subjects will be <strong>the</strong> ma<strong>in</strong> focus of <strong>the</strong> classes which will be taught to <strong>the</strong>se children over a period of 10months.”Accord<strong>in</strong>g to Steve, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Run</strong> will become an annual event organised by <strong>the</strong> MUFY students. “Our objective is to raise fundsand contribute towards provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>education</strong> opportunities <strong>for</strong> underprivileged children <strong>in</strong> a susta<strong>in</strong>able manner,” he said.“We aspire to touch <strong>the</strong> lives of hundreds of underprivileged children.”Added Mahesh: “These days with all <strong>the</strong> excit<strong>in</strong>g development <strong>in</strong> In<strong>for</strong>mation Technology, <strong>the</strong> television, and o<strong>the</strong>r electronicgadgets, it has become <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>gly more difficult <strong>for</strong> teachers to keep <strong>the</strong> attention of young m<strong>in</strong>ds <strong>in</strong> class; thus manyhave resorted <strong>in</strong> gett<strong>in</strong>g extra coach<strong>in</strong>g elsewhere. We feel that orphans do not have <strong>the</strong> advantage; so we hope to give<strong>the</strong>m some support and restore some balance.”The MUFY organis<strong>in</strong>g committee also hopes <strong>the</strong> <strong>Run</strong> will help to create awareness among staff and students that <strong>the</strong>y canplay an important role <strong>in</strong> help<strong>in</strong>g underprivileged children with <strong>the</strong>ir tuition classes. Steve added: “I would like to thank <strong>the</strong>participants on behalf of <strong>the</strong> children and teenagers who will be benefit<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>the</strong> tuition and hope that this help can reallymake a difference <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lives.”4 MAGAZINE
Cover StoryW<strong>in</strong>nersCharity aside, <strong>the</strong> participants were generally verycompetitive. They put on <strong>the</strong>ir best dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><strong>Run</strong>. There were w<strong>in</strong>ners <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> two categories –Men’s and Women’s Open. The top 20 runners ofeach category also received a medal each.The Champion <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Women’s category wasMarie-Josée Talbot-P, a lecturer of <strong>Sunway</strong>International School (SIS). She was runn<strong>in</strong>galongside friends Virg<strong>in</strong>ia Chow (First <strong>Run</strong>nerup),also a teacher at SIS. Michelle C. Mah wasSecond <strong>Run</strong>ner-up.A jubilant Marie-Josée told that toge<strong>the</strong>rwith Terry Reich of SIS, <strong>the</strong>y had organised arunn<strong>in</strong>g club at SIS. “We thought it was a goodopportunity <strong>for</strong> our students to participate <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> race,” she said. “<strong>Run</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> a charity suchas this one is a great way to <strong>in</strong>teract with <strong>the</strong>community and to promote fitness. Everyone’sparticipation and ef<strong>for</strong>t has shown that toge<strong>the</strong>rwe can make a difference!”Marie-Josée also said that she hopes <strong>in</strong> future<strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> Education races, everyone will participateto support <strong>the</strong> worthy cause. “<strong>Run</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g is funand good <strong>for</strong> your health,” she expla<strong>in</strong>ed. “Youhave to persevere and try to push your limit. Itis important to keep a pace that is good <strong>for</strong> you.Don’t start too fast if you want to make sure youf<strong>in</strong>ish <strong>the</strong> race.”In <strong>the</strong> Men’s category, Certified Account<strong>in</strong>gTechnician (CAT) student, Jason Loh ChwanChy<strong>in</strong> was <strong>the</strong> Champion, followed closely byMarv<strong>in</strong> Madhavan as First <strong>Run</strong>ner–up and JeremyCh<strong>in</strong> Ee Wai as Second <strong>Run</strong>ner-up.Chwan Chy<strong>in</strong> said, based on his GPS watch,<strong>the</strong> distance logged was 5.96km with a tim<strong>in</strong>gof 22:58m<strong>in</strong>s. “A few days be<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong> event, myknee was <strong>in</strong>jured,” he said. “There<strong>for</strong>e, I did notexpect to w<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> title. I feel very <strong>for</strong>tunate tocomplete and w<strong>in</strong> this mean<strong>in</strong>gful race with <strong>the</strong>support of my family and friends.”For future participants Chwan Chy<strong>in</strong> said: “Never underestimate yourability. With persistence and determ<strong>in</strong>ation, everyone can make it to <strong>the</strong>top.”This year is <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group’s 25th Anniversary and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong><strong>College</strong> <strong>Run</strong> <strong>for</strong> Education is one of several events to be held throughout<strong>the</strong> year to celebrate <strong>the</strong> Group’s 25 years <strong>in</strong> Education, shap<strong>in</strong>gMalaysia’s Education landscape. <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> is <strong>the</strong> first <strong>education</strong>al<strong>in</strong>stitution under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group, established <strong>in</strong> 1987 byChairman of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Group, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah,AO. For this event, <strong>the</strong> official T-shirt supplier, Microsports Enterprisesponsored <strong>the</strong> trophies, refreshments and first aid <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Run</strong>.VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 5
HallmarksInternational students were among <strong>the</strong> top few graduands of <strong>the</strong>Victoria University (VU) graduation ceremony, held at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong>Pyramid Convention Centre recently.Hail<strong>in</strong>g from <strong>the</strong> Maldives, Aishath Adam was <strong>the</strong> top student froma batch of 383 graduands who received <strong>the</strong> VU degree from itsChancellor, George Pappas.She had consistently achieved outstand<strong>in</strong>g results dur<strong>in</strong>g her3-year Bachelor of Bus<strong>in</strong>ess (Account<strong>in</strong>g/Bank<strong>in</strong>g and F<strong>in</strong>ance)degree, scor<strong>in</strong>g a total of 20 High Dist<strong>in</strong>ctions, three Dist<strong>in</strong>ctionsand one credit <strong>in</strong> total.Overall, she scored anaverage of 85.88% <strong>in</strong>her course.Produc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>BESTAishath was alsoawarded with <strong>the</strong> CPAAustralia Book Prize2012 <strong>for</strong> be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> bestF<strong>in</strong>al Year account<strong>in</strong>g student <strong>in</strong> her cohort. Aishath is currentlyemployed as a Project Manager with <strong>the</strong> Bank of Maldives.iHer compatriot, Fathimath Jawza, 45, achieved <strong>the</strong> highest markacross all VU campuses worldwide, <strong>in</strong> four subjects – F<strong>in</strong>ancialAccount<strong>in</strong>g, F<strong>in</strong>ancial Institutions & Monetary Theory, CorporateLaw and Advanced Management Account<strong>in</strong>g. She also scored19 High Dist<strong>in</strong>ctions and four Dist<strong>in</strong>ctions and achiev<strong>in</strong>g 85.88%average <strong>in</strong> her course.A mature student, Fathimath took leave from her job as a manager <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> Currency Section of <strong>the</strong> Maldives Monetary Authority to pursueher Bachelor of Bus<strong>in</strong>ess (Account<strong>in</strong>g/Bank<strong>in</strong>g & F<strong>in</strong>ance majors)under a Government of Maldives sponsorship.“Although my degree was challeng<strong>in</strong>g, VU <strong>Sunway</strong> provided mewith a good foundation and a very up-to-date coach<strong>in</strong>g from itsexcellent and enthusiastic lecturers,” she said.Ano<strong>the</strong>r model student, whom VU lecturers described as a joy toteach was George Elias from Tanzania, who is currently pursu<strong>in</strong>ga Masters degree under a scholarship at an <strong>in</strong>ternational branchcampus university <strong>in</strong> Malaysia. He scored <strong>the</strong> highest mark acrossall VU campuses worldwide <strong>for</strong> F<strong>in</strong>ancial Account<strong>in</strong>g and Audit<strong>in</strong>g.ii“He was very humble, polite and very helpful to his course mates,”said one of his lecturers. “He also had perfect attendance at alllectures and tutorials.”Both Fathimath and George were also recipients of <strong>the</strong> Tan SriDato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah Scholastic Award. Meanwhile, <strong>the</strong>top Malaysian was Bryan Tan Yeang Chih who achieved 10 HighDist<strong>in</strong>ctions and four Dist<strong>in</strong>ctions.Ano<strong>the</strong>r graduand was Mohamed Munthif Ahmed, also from <strong>the</strong>Maldives, who despite hav<strong>in</strong>g to cope with a hear<strong>in</strong>g disability, is anall-rounder and do well <strong>in</strong> studies and sports. He had represented<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> <strong>in</strong> table tennis, and toge<strong>the</strong>r with his team, emergedas champion <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> MAPCU Table Tennis Tournament <strong>in</strong> 2011.In her occasional address, <strong>the</strong> Deputy High Commissioner ofAustralia <strong>in</strong> Malaysia, H.E Jane Duke quoted a figure, where shesaid Australia had graduated over 300,000 students from Malaysias<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> 1960s. “With technology develop<strong>in</strong>g at such a rapid pace,<strong>the</strong> skills learnt <strong>in</strong> university are <strong>in</strong> great demand,” she said.iiii Prof Peter Dawk<strong>in</strong>s, Vice-Chancellor andPresident of VU, Hazar Ahmed (Fathimath’shusband), Fathimath and VU Chancellor GeorgePappasii George Elias (right) receiv<strong>in</strong>g his scrolliii Aishath (right) receiv<strong>in</strong>g her scroll6 MAGAZINE
Hallmarks<strong>Sunway</strong>-TES ACCA students have once aga<strong>in</strong> emerged as <strong>the</strong> Champion <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> ‘CFAMalaysia Investment Research Challenge 2012’ held recently.The team, compris<strong>in</strong>g Lee Yen Peng (capta<strong>in</strong>), Chooi Wai K<strong>in</strong>,Muthayee a/p Valliyappan, Chuang Vi Kie, and L<strong>in</strong>g Sze Hsien, beat13 o<strong>the</strong>r teams from private and public universities and colleges,who participated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>vestment research challenge (IRC).In <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>als, <strong>the</strong>y beat <strong>the</strong> teams from HELP University, Taylor’sUniversity, and Universiti Sa<strong>in</strong>s Malaysia, with <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>in</strong>vestmentf<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>gs on Top Glove, <strong>the</strong> world’s largest rubber glove manufacturer.They were <strong>in</strong>vited to make a verbal presentation of <strong>the</strong>ir report toa panel of judges, based on <strong>the</strong>ir f<strong>in</strong>ancial analysis of <strong>the</strong> publiclistedcompany on Bursa Malaysia.Champs,onceaga<strong>in</strong>!Besides tak<strong>in</strong>g home with <strong>the</strong>m a cash prize of RM5,000, <strong>the</strong> teamrepresented Malaysia at <strong>the</strong> Asia Pacific Regional F<strong>in</strong>al of <strong>the</strong> Global IRC 2012 <strong>in</strong> Hong Kong.The team also won <strong>Sunway</strong>-TES a cash prize of RM5,000. Their trip to Hong Kong wassponsored by <strong>the</strong> CFA Institute.<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>’s Executive Director, Teo Ee S<strong>in</strong>g said that <strong>the</strong> achievement by <strong>the</strong> ACCAteam is someth<strong>in</strong>g to be celebrated. “This is, <strong>in</strong> fact, <strong>the</strong> second consecutiveyear that <strong>Sunway</strong>-TES has won this challenge organisedby CFA Institute,” he said.From left: Chooi Wai K<strong>in</strong>, Muthayee a/p Valliyappan, Chuang Vi Kie, Teo Ee S<strong>in</strong>g, L<strong>in</strong>g Sze Hsien and Lee Yen PengVOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 7
HallmarksLeft to right, back row are Lee Yee Chang, Tham Yow Wai, Fariz Iskandar Faisal Khoo, Loh Wei Lian, Yew Sheng Qian, Chong Zhi S<strong>in</strong>. Seated from left toright, front row are Chan Mei Yen, Lim Chia Y<strong>in</strong>g, Nisha Al<strong>in</strong>a B<strong>in</strong>ti Mohamed Musha<strong>in</strong>i, Lim Qian Wen and Harmeet Kaur Maan a/p Abtar S<strong>in</strong>ghStraight A’s8 MAGAZINETham Yow Wai received an Outstand<strong>in</strong>g Cambridge Learner Award <strong>in</strong> Novemberlast year <strong>for</strong> achiev<strong>in</strong>g Top <strong>in</strong> Malaysia <strong>for</strong> Ma<strong>the</strong>matics AS level <strong>in</strong> his June 2011A-Level exam<strong>in</strong>ations.An exhilarated Tham who recently achieved all As <strong>in</strong> his A-Levels said he is plann<strong>in</strong>gto apply to Ivy League universities to study Mechanical Eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g. “It’s ei<strong>the</strong>r MITor Caltech,” he said.Thank<strong>in</strong>g his lecturers, Tham said he felt personally touched by <strong>the</strong> commitment<strong>the</strong>y had demonstrated. “I had a lot of fun meet<strong>in</strong>g great people throughout myprogramme,” he said. “The lecturers helped all of us tremendously.”His fellow classmate, Fariz Iskandar Faizal Khoo has secured a place to readMechanical Eng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g at Imperial <strong>College</strong>.Ano<strong>the</strong>r top scorer, Yew Sheng Qian, who plans to study Medic<strong>in</strong>e <strong>in</strong> IMU said hesimply loved <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> A-Level programme. “The mentor-mentee system is great asit is nice to get attention from lecturers,” he said. “The teach<strong>in</strong>g here is different from<strong>the</strong> Malaysian secondary school style of teach<strong>in</strong>g.”The three students were among a group of ten students who scored straight Asafter sitt<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> November 2011 A-Level exam<strong>in</strong>ations. They have applied to study<strong>in</strong> various top universities <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> US, UK, Australia, S<strong>in</strong>gapore and locally to studyEng<strong>in</strong>eer<strong>in</strong>g, Medic<strong>in</strong>e, Pharmacy, Optometry and Account<strong>in</strong>g.
HallmarksCompared to 25 years ago, <strong>Sunway</strong> students are now enjoy<strong>in</strong>g state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art facilities.In what is today, <strong>Sunway</strong>’s newly-renovated In<strong>for</strong>mation Technology Learn<strong>in</strong>g Labs cost<strong>in</strong>g RM900,000, <strong>the</strong> personalcomputers here are of <strong>the</strong> latest models, with <strong>the</strong> average computer no more than 20 months old. The contemporary andcom<strong>for</strong>table ambience that <strong>the</strong>se laboratories provide also creates conducive learn<strong>in</strong>g environment <strong>for</strong> students do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>irassignments.Wonderful facilitiesThe personal computers are l<strong>in</strong>ked to a multifunctional Fuji Xerox pr<strong>in</strong>ter <strong>for</strong> students to easily navigate to pr<strong>in</strong>t, scan orcopy. O<strong>the</strong>r personal computers <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> laboratory cont<strong>in</strong>ue to be available <strong>for</strong> students to use <strong>for</strong> assignments and dailylearn<strong>in</strong>g.A virtual desktop with all <strong>the</strong> latest software comes with every PC start-up. A more accessible disabled-friendly personalcomputer is also available <strong>for</strong> students who are physically disabled.Each IT learn<strong>in</strong>g lab is also equipped with a smart board. This makes learn<strong>in</strong>g more <strong>in</strong>teractive <strong>in</strong> classroom session betweenlecturers and students, ensur<strong>in</strong>g that learn<strong>in</strong>g is fun, relevant and real. The smart boards have short-throw projectors <strong>for</strong>clearer view<strong>in</strong>g.All of this is part of <strong>Sunway</strong>’s ef<strong>for</strong>ts to provide <strong>the</strong> best and latest technologies <strong>for</strong> hassle-free use that support students’academic success.VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 9
HallmarksThree top scorers, among 74 Foundation <strong>in</strong> Arts (FIA) students who received <strong>the</strong> Tan Sri Dato Seri (Dr) Jeffrey CheahCont<strong>in</strong>u<strong>in</strong>g Scholarship, have chosen to pursue <strong>the</strong>ir undergraduate studies at <strong>Sunway</strong> University.Janardhni a/p Ravi, who scored an average of 88.55 percent, and her fellow student, Sam Zhen Yang(86.9 percent) have both enrolled <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bachelor of Science (Honours) <strong>in</strong> Account<strong>in</strong>g and F<strong>in</strong>ance at<strong>Sunway</strong> University.Janardhni, who hails from SMK Seri Aman, said <strong>the</strong> results were least expected. “I may be one of <strong>the</strong>top ten students, but never <strong>the</strong> top student. I guess because of <strong>the</strong> way teach<strong>in</strong>g is be<strong>in</strong>g conducted,I became a lot motivated <strong>in</strong> my studies,” she said. “When I graduate, I hope to become a f<strong>in</strong>ancialanalyst.”Meanwhile, Au Yong Choon Mun, who scored 86.65%, said he decided to pursue his ACCA programme<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> April 2012 <strong>in</strong>take.Seven o<strong>the</strong>rs received <strong>the</strong>ir Certificates of Appreciation <strong>for</strong> organis<strong>in</strong>g various extracurricular activities throughout <strong>the</strong>ircourse.The students were among a batch of 129 FIA students who recently celebrated <strong>the</strong>ir graduation.The 8th batch of <strong>Sunway</strong> FIA students are preparedGetta gofoundThe graduands prepared to embark on <strong>the</strong>ir ambitions.All smiles dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> graduation ceremonySam Zhen Yang receiv<strong>in</strong>g hisgraduation certificate fromProfessor David Ngo.Janardhni a/pher graduatioProfessor Dav10 MAGAZINE
Hallmarksto pursue <strong>the</strong>ir dreams, photo by Yeoh Cheng LimDirector of Pre-University Studies, Cheng Mien Wee, expressed how much she appreciated <strong>the</strong> students. “We are proud ofyou,” she said. “You have touched our lives <strong>in</strong> ways you may never know and we hope we have touched yours too.”<strong>in</strong>godationDirector of <strong>the</strong> FIA Programme, Ruma Lopes said that <strong>the</strong> students had done a fantastic job. “To <strong>the</strong>parents, thank you <strong>for</strong> trust<strong>in</strong>g us with your children’s <strong>education</strong>,” she said. “They have compla<strong>in</strong>edendlessly about too much work be<strong>in</strong>g given, but <strong>the</strong>y have proven <strong>the</strong>mselves to be ready <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>iruniversity studies. Most of <strong>the</strong>m have decided to cont<strong>in</strong>ue with <strong>Sunway</strong> University.”She added that <strong>the</strong> programme would not have been possible without her vibrant team of lecturers andstaff who brought out <strong>the</strong> enthusiasm to learn <strong>in</strong> each student.Urg<strong>in</strong>g her students to look <strong>for</strong>ward to <strong>the</strong>ir university <strong>education</strong>, she said: “Go <strong>for</strong>ward and enjoy yourlives. <strong>Sunway</strong>’s FIA isn’t as easy as you thought but you can now enjoy <strong>the</strong> fruit of your hard work.”Also present at <strong>the</strong> graduation were Professor Robert Bignall, Vice-Chancellor of <strong>Sunway</strong> University; Professor Pua EngChong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor David Ngo Chek L<strong>in</strong>g Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and HigherDegrees), <strong>Sunway</strong> University; Dr. Khatijah Khalid, Chief Executive of <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>; Cheng Mien Wee, Director of Pre-University Studies; Mrs Ruma Lopes, Director of <strong>the</strong> FIA Programme, <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>.Ravi receiv<strong>in</strong>gn certificate fromid Ngo.Au Yong Choon Mun receiv<strong>in</strong>ghis graduation certificate fromProfessor David NgoFIA students proud to have completed <strong>the</strong>ir foundationprogramme <strong>in</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>.Look<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong>ward to an undergraduate <strong>education</strong>.VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 11
25th AnniversaryFor someone born <strong>in</strong> 1988, she would have completed her undergraduate studiesand by now, probably started work<strong>in</strong>g. This is how long Lee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g hasworked with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group. Twenty-five years seems to be a longtime <strong>for</strong> most people, but <strong>for</strong> Lee, who is currentlyDirector of Student Services, time has passed byso quickly.In fact, she had never dreamt of be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> samejob <strong>for</strong> that many years. “The only th<strong>in</strong>g I wantedwas just to be an awesome educator,” she said.“My philosophy and dream has always focused onbuild<strong>in</strong>g people and shap<strong>in</strong>g leaders.”25goldenyearsWhat has kept her on <strong>the</strong> job <strong>for</strong> a quarter of acentury is her dream, which is aligned with that of <strong>the</strong> founder of <strong>Sunway</strong> EducationGroup, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah. “I saw <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> be<strong>in</strong>g placed first under a Trustand <strong>the</strong>n under a Foundation. This unique position of <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitution is aligned with myown desire to give back to <strong>the</strong> community,” she said. “Work becomes more mean<strong>in</strong>gfulwhen we can engage with <strong>the</strong> team to make a difference <strong>in</strong> a more tangible manner.In particular was <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Community Scholarship, which has been mostgratify<strong>in</strong>g, especially when you get to see children from orphanages be<strong>in</strong>g helped.”Touch<strong>in</strong>g StoriesJagadesan Chandra Mohann, whose fa<strong>the</strong>r had passed away and mo<strong>the</strong>rwas suffer<strong>in</strong>g from cancer, is a student whom Lee had helped. “Despite <strong>the</strong>family circumstances, he graduated 3 years ago with a first class honours <strong>in</strong>Bachelor <strong>in</strong> In<strong>for</strong>mation Technology,” said Lee. “Without <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey CheahCommunity Scholarship, Jagadesan would be probably liv<strong>in</strong>g a different life.”Ano<strong>the</strong>r recipient of <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Community Scholarship, Candy Leewho came from a s<strong>in</strong>gle parent environment and raised by her grandmo<strong>the</strong>r,is now do<strong>in</strong>g very well, work<strong>in</strong>g with a local bank. “She faced challengesdur<strong>in</strong>g her course of study, but with <strong>the</strong> encouragement that she got from <strong>the</strong>student services, and <strong>the</strong> extra coach<strong>in</strong>g given, she graduated a few yearsago,” added Lee. “Recently, she sent me a short message to say that she hasbeen promoted to a managerial position.”There were also cases of some students who were experienc<strong>in</strong>g a lot ofpressure <strong>in</strong> life when <strong>the</strong>y were teenagers. “They were somewhat morerebellious and stubborn, but over time, some of <strong>the</strong>m regretted <strong>the</strong>ir actions.Instead, <strong>the</strong>y sent us ‘Thank you’ cards to tell us how much <strong>the</strong>y appreciatedour ef<strong>for</strong>ts to help <strong>the</strong>m. This is <strong>in</strong>deed very satisfy<strong>in</strong>g,” elaborated Lee.There were also disappo<strong>in</strong>tments <strong>in</strong> her role as a counsellor. “Usually, <strong>the</strong>parents are <strong>the</strong> ones <strong>in</strong> self-denial,” she said. “They would not admit that<strong>the</strong>ir children have emotional or psychological problems. We had one case,where eventually, after seek<strong>in</strong>g help from <strong>the</strong> psychiatrists, we had to ask <strong>the</strong>parents to take <strong>the</strong> son home. It was not easy, but <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> well-be<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong>irson, we had to do it.”In her area of work, Lee said she was tested by some of <strong>the</strong> students whowere a bit more challeng<strong>in</strong>g. “They were at different stages of <strong>the</strong>ir lives,” Leerecollected. “It is understandable. And at a later part of <strong>the</strong>ir lives, some of<strong>the</strong>m have come back and said, ‘Thank you to us.’”Be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> student services also meant that she had <strong>the</strong> opportunity to buildfriendships with some of <strong>the</strong> students. “I used to have a student who cameto see me <strong>for</strong> career counsell<strong>in</strong>g. She went on to do psychology <strong>in</strong> Australia,now, she has migrated to Perth, Australia,” said Lee. “My family and I visitedher about ten years ago. We had fun toge<strong>the</strong>r. I remember one Saturdayafternoon, <strong>in</strong> Perth, we decided to go out and buy hair dye. We started to dyeeach o<strong>the</strong>r’s hair. It was fun!”Through <strong>the</strong> years, she has reconnected with a few students from <strong>the</strong> earlydays us<strong>in</strong>g Facebook and o<strong>the</strong>r social media.12 MAGAZINELee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g with her familyBuild<strong>in</strong>g a team with an effective partner<strong>in</strong>g relationship<strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d - focus<strong>in</strong>g not just on results (KRAs/KPIs) butbehaviours (with character, values, person’s quality,<strong>in</strong>tegrity) towards a culture of ‘People Help<strong>in</strong>g People’,such as <strong>the</strong> peer counsell<strong>in</strong>g conference which takesplace on 10-11 MayBuild<strong>in</strong>g PeopleIn her capacity as Director of StudentServices, Lee is <strong>in</strong>volved with <strong>the</strong>development of student leaders. “There wasone particular team of students who werevoted <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> Student Council. They felt so<strong>in</strong>adequate, but with some coach<strong>in</strong>g, tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>gand encouragement, <strong>the</strong>y were trans<strong>for</strong>medto become good leaders,” said Lee.This was <strong>the</strong> most satisfy<strong>in</strong>g th<strong>in</strong>g <strong>for</strong> Leeto see students becom<strong>in</strong>g successful <strong>in</strong> lifeespecially as a result of <strong>the</strong> hard work doneby her department.Forums are organised from time to time toequip, enhance and empower <strong>the</strong> studentsbe<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong>y enter <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> work<strong>for</strong>ce. TheStudent Services has engagement withover 650 companies which have becomepartners with <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group.
Awesome Alumni<strong>Sunway</strong> has also produced a number of awesome alumni, who have enrichedLee’s career. Some of <strong>the</strong>m were early bloomers while o<strong>the</strong>rs became successfullater <strong>in</strong> life.25th AnniversaryS<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> alumni office officially started four years ago, <strong>Sunway</strong> has engaged heralumni <strong>in</strong> many ways. The list of alumni who return is endless. Among o<strong>the</strong>rs,alumni like George Ang, a successful entrepreneur, and a group who co-authoreda book toge<strong>the</strong>r, Benson Wong, Rodney Toh, Lenny Chiah and Steven Shim,have been com<strong>in</strong>g back to give talks to <strong>the</strong> students. “When we <strong>in</strong>vite our alumniback to give talks, we want <strong>the</strong>m to make an impact <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> lives of <strong>the</strong> students.We want our alumni to tell our current students all <strong>the</strong> hard work that <strong>the</strong>y havegone through, not just <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong> success stories,” Lee said.There are also o<strong>the</strong>r alumni she takes pride <strong>in</strong> such as Jac<strong>in</strong>tha Tagal whograduated from Harvard university and has chosen to devote her life to teach<strong>in</strong>gchildren <strong>in</strong> a high needs school, and Joshua Lee, who left a lucrative advertis<strong>in</strong>gcareer to build a place <strong>for</strong> children to grow through art. Lee believes that Jac<strong>in</strong>thaand Joshua serve as mentors to <strong>the</strong> younger generation by liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir lives asa sh<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g example. “We want our students to achieve great th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> life beyondjust <strong>the</strong> academic achievements. Their stories become an <strong>in</strong>spiration to <strong>the</strong>young graduates.”iIn conjunction with <strong>the</strong> 25th Anniversary celebrations this year, Lee said shehopes to catch up with <strong>the</strong> alumni when <strong>the</strong>y come back to be a part of thisyear’s grand celebrations. All <strong>the</strong> activities will be announced on <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong>website.In RetrospectW<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> clock backwards, Lee remembers how she had jo<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>Sunway</strong> asa student counsellor. After graduat<strong>in</strong>g from a local university with a Bachelorof Psychology (Honours), she first taught at a private <strong>in</strong>stitution. When <strong>the</strong>opportunity came to take up <strong>the</strong> post, she decided to jo<strong>in</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> as a StudentCounsellor <strong>in</strong> February 1988. With only 200 students back <strong>the</strong>n, she was <strong>the</strong> onlyemployee <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> entire department. “We had to multitask by help<strong>in</strong>g students f<strong>in</strong>dhous<strong>in</strong>g,” she said. “I even did some market<strong>in</strong>g by go<strong>in</strong>g to Sabah and Sarawak.It was challeng<strong>in</strong>g.”iiIn <strong>the</strong> early days of <strong>Sunway</strong>, <strong>the</strong> students were a different lot. “They had a lot ofchallenges as students,” she recalled. “The student numbers were small <strong>the</strong>n butwe helped <strong>the</strong>m <strong>in</strong> practical ways. We were all closely knit. I even sat on <strong>the</strong>irmotorbike to go and have teh tarik with <strong>the</strong>m.”Today, her department has grown to 22 staff, to serve a population of 11,000students <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> areas of Student Development and Sports, Counsell<strong>in</strong>g, CareerServices, Scholarships, Alumni office, and o<strong>the</strong>r support services such <strong>Sunway</strong>Orig<strong>in</strong>als (<strong>Sunway</strong> merchandise and gift items) and Student Centre. “What Ialways am very proud of is that about one-third of our department are <strong>for</strong>merstudents of <strong>Sunway</strong>,” she said.iiiLook<strong>in</strong>g back, she said that <strong>the</strong> 25 years has been a wonderful, excit<strong>in</strong>g journey.“It’s very fulfill<strong>in</strong>g to see how <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitution has grown,” she said. “The growthhas been <strong>in</strong> phases and modes and very purposeful. I feel privileged to havegrown with <strong>the</strong> college which is now a university.”The mo<strong>the</strong>r of two teenagers, Rebekah, 17 and Rachel, 15, said she treats <strong>the</strong>undergraduate students like her own children. “With my two daughters, I havebecome <strong>the</strong>ir friends. This is what we call mutual respect, because from young,my husband and I have been <strong>in</strong>culcat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>m <strong>the</strong> fundamental values <strong>in</strong> life.“Likewise, <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> students, I also like to see that <strong>the</strong>y do not only per<strong>for</strong>m well<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir studies, but that <strong>the</strong>y become responsible leaders <strong>in</strong> society. They haveto take <strong>the</strong> responsibility of learn<strong>in</strong>g and develop<strong>in</strong>g to become a valuable assetto <strong>the</strong> country. One should work towards a leadership role. At <strong>the</strong> same time,although it is important to work hard, hav<strong>in</strong>g a work-life balance and fun is equallycrucial.vii Toge<strong>the</strong>r with our partner, Malaysian Care atJagadesan’s graduation ceremonyii Lee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g with Candy Lee - when Candy wasback <strong>for</strong> a visitiii Lee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g with George Ang at <strong>the</strong> 1 MalaysiaEntrepreneurship Week hosted by Sun-Uvi Lee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g with Cherma<strong>in</strong>e Poo at <strong>the</strong> groundbreak<strong>in</strong>g of Sun-U new build<strong>in</strong>gVOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 13
AlumniWhen Adrian Ooi was study<strong>in</strong>g at <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> 25years ago, he did not know that he would marry afellow alumna by by <strong>the</strong> name of Adela<strong>in</strong>e Teoh, andlater produce four children – Aaron, Alv<strong>in</strong>, Amanda and Alden.The Aces of <strong>Sunway</strong>Two of <strong>the</strong>ir aces are now with <strong>the</strong>ir dad’s alma mater as asecond generation of <strong>Sunway</strong>ians. The eldest, Aaron, 16, iscurrently do<strong>in</strong>g his CIMP programme at <strong>Sunway</strong>, while Alv<strong>in</strong>,15, is do<strong>in</strong>g Level 9 at <strong>Sunway</strong> International School. Amanda,10, is <strong>in</strong> Standard Four, while Alden, 7, has just enteredStandard One.For Adrian and his wife, plac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir children at <strong>Sunway</strong>was a means to express <strong>the</strong>ir confidence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>education</strong>standard at his alma mater. “In those days, when I enrolledat <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>, it was because I had confidence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>Sungei Way (now, <strong>Sunway</strong>) Group back <strong>the</strong>n,” Adrian said.“Now, it is because <strong>Sunway</strong> has reached a certa<strong>in</strong> standardthat has enabled us to have confidence <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> quality of<strong>education</strong> it provides.”Adrian’s loyalty to <strong>Sunway</strong> goes back to 25 years ago.When Adrian f<strong>in</strong>ished school, Malaysia was go<strong>in</strong>g through af<strong>in</strong>ancial crisis <strong>in</strong> 1984-87. When <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> officiallystarted on 25 July 1987, Adrian was enrolled as a studentto do his Bachelor of Bus<strong>in</strong>ess (Account<strong>in</strong>g and m<strong>in</strong>or<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>law) tw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g degree with Curt<strong>in</strong> University.The family while holiday<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> Hanoi, Vietnam“We were truly <strong>the</strong> pioneer batch of students that literally rodethrough <strong>the</strong> storm of our country’s f<strong>in</strong>ancial crisis,” he laughed. “That has made us a lot stronger as<strong>in</strong>dividuals. I came from a poor family background, and this had also motivated me to study harder, which resulted <strong>in</strong> megett<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah scholarships <strong>the</strong>n.”14Humble beg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>gsIn <strong>the</strong> first year, <strong>the</strong>re were only about 200 students <strong>for</strong> all threetw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g degree courses with Curt<strong>in</strong> University, Western MichiganUniversity and Leicester University. “Everyone knew each o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> college,” he quipped. “We had very dedicated lecturers suchas Mrs Lim Tiew M<strong>in</strong>g, Ms Bibi and Mr Tee. All three of <strong>the</strong>m,toge<strong>the</strong>r with Ms Lee Siok P<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong> counsellor, were very closewith <strong>the</strong> students and we treated each o<strong>the</strong>r like ano<strong>the</strong>r familymember.”Fast <strong>for</strong>ward, Adrian said today, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> that he used to knowhas developed <strong>in</strong>to a reputable university of choice not only <strong>in</strong>Malaysia, but also <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore, Indonesia and Thailand. “This is<strong>the</strong> feedback that I have received from people <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>se countries,where I travel often to, to do bus<strong>in</strong>ess,” he said. “The facilities aremuch better and <strong>the</strong>re are more choices at all levels. Of course,you cannot compare with it 25 years ago, when we had <strong>the</strong>personal touch we enjoyed as a smaller community of students.”His wife, Adela<strong>in</strong>e, who recently visited <strong>Sunway</strong> with her children,also commented: “The student population is now much bigger and<strong>the</strong>re are students from all over <strong>the</strong> world. This is good becauseour children can <strong>in</strong>teract and adopt a more global outlook <strong>in</strong> life.Our kids generally love <strong>the</strong> environment here, s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> universityis now fully equipped with a huge library, laboratories, lecturehalls, students area, cafe and sports facilities.”MAGAZINEHis role as a fa<strong>the</strong>rAs a fa<strong>the</strong>r, Adrian believes he has to set a good example<strong>for</strong> his children. “I have always advised my kids to have<strong>the</strong> right priorities <strong>in</strong> life – that is to put God first, followedby <strong>the</strong>ir family commitments, be<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong>ir bus<strong>in</strong>ess orcareer. That has to be <strong>the</strong> order <strong>in</strong> life,” he said.“I have also taught <strong>the</strong>m to be bold and diligent <strong>in</strong>work<strong>in</strong>g towards <strong>the</strong>ir dreams. They learn never to giveup. Failure is after all a stepp<strong>in</strong>g stone to our futuresuccess. We must be bold enough to walk through <strong>the</strong>unchartered territory and experience new th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> life.This is my motto <strong>in</strong> life, and it is <strong>the</strong> same advice I wish toleave with <strong>the</strong> younger generation of <strong>Sunway</strong> students.”Admitt<strong>in</strong>g that <strong>the</strong> young people <strong>the</strong>se days lack arespect <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> elders, Adrian said that he wants his ownchildren to grow up learn<strong>in</strong>g to be humble at all timeseven when success is at <strong>the</strong>ir doorstep. “This is because<strong>the</strong> glory ultimately belongs to God, who has a purpose<strong>for</strong> each one of us. Through self-discovery and ourgrow<strong>in</strong>g-up process, we realise our utmost potential,”he said. “We must never let <strong>the</strong> failures <strong>in</strong> life knock usdown and our response when that happens is to get upand try aga<strong>in</strong>!”
A mo<strong>the</strong>r and a wifeAdela<strong>in</strong>e, who also graduated with a Bachelor of Bus<strong>in</strong>ess (F<strong>in</strong>ance)from <strong>Sunway</strong>’s tw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g programme with Curt<strong>in</strong> University, said:Alv<strong>in</strong>“The quality of <strong>education</strong> is guaranteed by a team of dedicated lecturers,excellent facilities and conducive environment to study,” “Of course <strong>the</strong>ywill have Aunty Lim, Aunty Siok P<strong>in</strong>g and Uncle Tee to watch over <strong>the</strong>mfrom time to time. I want <strong>the</strong>m to experience <strong>the</strong> most enjoyable andmemorable phase of <strong>the</strong>ir life, like we did when we were at <strong>Sunway</strong>!”This is <strong>the</strong> mo<strong>the</strong>r’s heart <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> children <strong>the</strong>y love. “As parents, wehave close relationships with all our kids and we try to understand <strong>the</strong>irstrengths and weaknesses, and also <strong>the</strong>ir personality traits,” she said.“We had a thorough discussion with each of <strong>the</strong>m be<strong>for</strong>e decid<strong>in</strong>g andadvis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m on <strong>the</strong> course to pursue. Ultimately, we let <strong>the</strong>ir resultsdictate what course <strong>the</strong>y should pursue. For <strong>in</strong>stance, Aaron aspires tobe a bus<strong>in</strong>essman, so we advised him to take ei<strong>the</strong>r Account<strong>in</strong>g or Law,which will serve him well <strong>in</strong> his field of work <strong>in</strong> future.”Adela<strong>in</strong>e is currently <strong>the</strong> Commissioner/Director of a listed company <strong>in</strong>Indonesia. Her work is not too hectic and does not take up much of hertime as <strong>the</strong>y only have between four to six meet<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> a year. “I am not<strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> daily operations of <strong>the</strong> said company and thus, <strong>the</strong>re is nottoo much of a time commitment required,” she said.AaronFor parents with grow<strong>in</strong>g children, Adela<strong>in</strong>e said that she would stronglyadvise both parents to be <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> counsell<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir children on <strong>the</strong>ir careerprospects. “Always plan few years ahead and constantly have discussionswith <strong>the</strong>m on <strong>the</strong>ir career path,” she said. “Visit colleges/universities oneyear ahead to enquire on each college/university requirement. Focus oneach of your child’s strength and lik<strong>in</strong>gs, and translate that <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong>ir field ofstudy. A student will have higher chances of do<strong>in</strong>g well <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> field which heor she likes.”FeedbackWhen asked what <strong>the</strong>y th<strong>in</strong>k about <strong>Sunway</strong>, both Aaron and Alv<strong>in</strong> gave <strong>the</strong>irown op<strong>in</strong>ions.Aaron Ooi: “When I first entered <strong>Sunway</strong>, it was a whole new environment andI was of course nervous and scared. But <strong>the</strong> teachers and students <strong>in</strong> CIMPwere very friendly and with<strong>in</strong> a few weeks, I felt right at home.“When I came to CIMP, I expected <strong>the</strong> lessons to be held <strong>in</strong> lectures (where <strong>the</strong>teachers would give speeches to <strong>the</strong> students) but <strong>in</strong>stead I f<strong>in</strong>d an <strong>in</strong>teractiverelationship between <strong>the</strong> teacher and student. The facilities at <strong>Sunway</strong> make<strong>for</strong> a very conducive environment <strong>for</strong> study<strong>in</strong>g. I was <strong>for</strong>tunate to have alsogone through an American Christian-based home school learn<strong>in</strong>g system,which allowed me to study and complete my course two years ahead ofmy time. As a result, I am now study<strong>in</strong>g pre-University course just be<strong>for</strong>ereach<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> age of 16.”Alv<strong>in</strong> Ooi: “SIS is fun. The teachers are very friendly and k<strong>in</strong>d. Most of <strong>the</strong>teachers will apologise to us when <strong>the</strong>y know <strong>the</strong>y are wrong, unlike <strong>in</strong>o<strong>the</strong>r schools, <strong>the</strong> teachers are always right. I also like <strong>the</strong> way teach<strong>in</strong>gis conducted, as we dont’t just study textbooks but use o<strong>the</strong>r sourcesof <strong>in</strong><strong>for</strong>mation, like <strong>the</strong> computer, presentations and events. I also look<strong>for</strong>ward to <strong>the</strong> new SIS build<strong>in</strong>g to be completed by this June 2012, as <strong>the</strong>current premise is too small <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> grow<strong>in</strong>g population of <strong>the</strong> students.”(Adrian is currently <strong>the</strong> F<strong>in</strong>ance Director cum CFO <strong>for</strong> an Indonesian publicly listed company,PT Inovisi Infrakom Tbk. He also holds <strong>the</strong> position of Chief Corporate F<strong>in</strong>ance Officer <strong>for</strong>Global Capital Ltd, an <strong>in</strong>vestment firm based <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore and Indonesia, manag<strong>in</strong>g an<strong>in</strong>vestment portfolio of USD2.0 billion. Adela<strong>in</strong>e is a Commissioner/Director of a publiclylistedcompany <strong>in</strong> Indonesia, with a market capitalisation of USD1.3 billion).VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 15
Our Awesome 25th AnniversaryCelebrationswww.sunway.edu.my
<strong>Sunway</strong> Education GroupThe <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group which has its orig<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong> 1986 with <strong>the</strong> establishment of <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>, is a f<strong>in</strong>anciallyself-susta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g entity synonymous with quality <strong>education</strong> and scholarship founded by <strong>the</strong> Chairman of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong>Group, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah,AO. In a span of just 25 years, <strong>the</strong> Group has grown phenomenally to twelve<strong>in</strong>stitutions located <strong>in</strong> Malaysia and overseas. Among <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitutions are <strong>Sunway</strong> University, <strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>, MonashUniversity <strong>Sunway</strong> campus, <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah School of Medic<strong>in</strong>e and Health Sciences and <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> InternationalSchool.Owned and governed by <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group is <strong>the</strong> only group of private<strong>education</strong> <strong>in</strong>stitutions held under a special purpose not-<strong>for</strong>-profit foundation <strong>in</strong> Malaysia.This transfer of equity ownershipwas valued at RM700 million <strong>in</strong> 2010.To <strong>the</strong> Founder of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Group, <strong>education</strong> extends far beyond <strong>the</strong> bus<strong>in</strong>essrealm and <strong>the</strong> success of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group <strong>in</strong> contribut<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>education</strong> means much more than rank<strong>in</strong>gsand enrolment numbers. Over <strong>the</strong> years, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group under <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, has givengenerously <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>for</strong>m of scholarships and awards to society and accorded more than 11,000 deserv<strong>in</strong>g students,access to <strong>education</strong> which <strong>the</strong>y o<strong>the</strong>rwise would have been denied.Guided by <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Foundation’s pr<strong>in</strong>ciples of Quality Education, Giv<strong>in</strong>g to Society and A Vision <strong>in</strong> Perpetuity,<strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group is proud to be <strong>in</strong> a position to give generously to society through <strong>education</strong> which it viewsas a vital vehicle that enriches and improves lives.The <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group <strong>in</strong>stitutions and services are :-<strong>Sunway</strong> UniversityTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mysunway.edu.my/university<strong>Sunway</strong> International SchoolTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fosis@sunway.edu.mywww.sis.sunway.edu.myMonash University <strong>Sunway</strong>campusTel: 603-5514 6000<strong>in</strong>fo@monash.edu.mywww.monash.edu.myJeffrey Cheah Schoolof Medic<strong>in</strong>e and HealthSciencesTel: 603-5514 6000<strong>in</strong>fo@monash.edu.mywww.monash.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong> InternationalBus<strong>in</strong>ess & ManagementTel: 603-7493 7023<strong>in</strong>fo@sibm.com.mywww.sibm.com.myShanghai <strong>Sunway</strong> F<strong>in</strong>ancialTra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g Co. LtdTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway-tes.cn<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong>Tel: 603-5638 7176<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mysunway.edu.my/college<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> Johor BahruTel: 607-359 6880<strong>in</strong>fojb@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/jb<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> IpohTel: 605-545 4398<strong>in</strong>foipoh@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/ipoh<strong>Sunway</strong> <strong>College</strong> Kuch<strong>in</strong>gTel: (6082) 232 780/236 666<strong>in</strong>fo@swck.edu.mywww.sunwaycollegekuch<strong>in</strong>g.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong>-TESTel: 603-7491 8622<strong>in</strong>fo@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my<strong>Sunway</strong> Le Cordon BleuInstitute of Cul<strong>in</strong>ary ArtsTel: 603-5632 1188yuwm<strong>in</strong>gh@sunway.edu.myContents<strong>Glow<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>dark</strong> 18Bridg<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> gap of <strong>education</strong> <strong>in</strong>equity 19VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 17
<strong>Sunway</strong> Education GroupWith noth<strong>in</strong>g more than clip-on lights toillum<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>the</strong>ir music sheets and donn<strong>in</strong>gglow stick bangles on <strong>the</strong>ir wrists <strong>for</strong> morevisibility, <strong>the</strong> recital was per<strong>for</strong>med with much gusto.<strong>Glow<strong>in</strong>g</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>dark</strong>As chief musician, Karen Lock described it, <strong>the</strong>colourful glow sticks and music “lent a greatatmosphere to <strong>the</strong> event.” Even <strong>the</strong> baton used byRockie Siew, <strong>the</strong> ensemble’s leader and conductor,was jo<strong>in</strong>ed to a glow stick.Describ<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> recital which was per<strong>for</strong>med at<strong>Sunway</strong> University, Siew said: “Be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>dark</strong>helped <strong>the</strong> audience focus on <strong>the</strong> music and thatgave everyone a chance to connect and enjoy <strong>the</strong>recital even more.”Rem<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g and celebrat<strong>in</strong>g Earth Hour was <strong>the</strong><strong>the</strong>me of <strong>the</strong> recital by 27 students and alumni, who<strong>for</strong>med <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> University Ensemble. Their onehourper<strong>for</strong>mance, which was done “live” on March31 between 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm, mesmerised <strong>the</strong>audience of 300 people, where half of <strong>the</strong>m alsosigned <strong>the</strong> “Earth Hour pledge to live green” <strong>for</strong>m.This was <strong>the</strong> first time <strong>for</strong> some of <strong>the</strong>m to experienceEarth Hour.Donations collected dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> recital werechannelled to <strong>the</strong> Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, a nonprofitorganisation that gives back to society throughscholarships <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> deserv<strong>in</strong>g.Yoo Ai Lee, a f<strong>in</strong>al year Bachelor of Bus<strong>in</strong>ess student(Victoria University tw<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g programme) and amusician said even though one may be rich and canaf<strong>for</strong>d to pay <strong>for</strong> excess usage of water and electricity,money cannot buy everyth<strong>in</strong>g. “It is important thatour youths learn to reduce wastage and help topreserve <strong>the</strong> environment, especially when we seeMo<strong>the</strong>r Earth deteriorat<strong>in</strong>g,” she said. “We have toth<strong>in</strong>k of our future.”Front row from left to right: Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Ramon Navaratnam, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah AO, Dzameer Zulkifli and Dato’ Noor Rezan Bapoo.Back row; Jeffrey Cheah Foundation scholars18 MAGAZINE
<strong>Sunway</strong> Education GroupIn a rare move, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheahpersonally conducted a class <strong>in</strong> SMK Puchong, Petal<strong>in</strong>gPerdana dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> “Teach <strong>for</strong> Malaysia Week” on April19.Accord<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Sunway</strong> Group founderand chairman, it was a great opportunityto create greater awareness <strong>in</strong> Malaysia on<strong>the</strong> importance of <strong>education</strong> and equip <strong>the</strong>future generation with valuable skill sets.“I am humbled and honoured to be able toshare my experiences with a very differentaudience that I am used to and hope thatI am able to <strong>in</strong>spire <strong>the</strong>m <strong>in</strong> one way orano<strong>the</strong>r,” he said.“Giv<strong>in</strong>g back to society through provid<strong>in</strong>g quality <strong>education</strong>to deserv<strong>in</strong>g Malaysian students is my personal vision andI am happy to learn that Teach <strong>for</strong> Malaysia’s vision mirrorsthat. I hope that JCF’s support will go a long way towardssupport<strong>in</strong>g Teach <strong>for</strong> Malaysia’s mission to end <strong>education</strong><strong>in</strong>equality.”Bridg<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> gap of<strong>education</strong><strong>in</strong>equityEarlier, Tan Sri Cheah also witnessed a recent sign<strong>in</strong>gceremony mark<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> corporate partnership between <strong>the</strong>Jeffrey Cheah Foundation and Teach <strong>for</strong> Malaysia, whichwas held at <strong>the</strong> newly completed GraduateCentre at <strong>Sunway</strong> University. The agreementwas signed between Tan Sri Dato’ Dr RamonNavaratnam (Trustee of JCF) and Dato’ NoorRezan Bapoo (trustee of TFM).Also present were Dzameer Zulkifli (co-founderof TFM), Tan Sri Ra<strong>in</strong>er Althoff, (Trustee ofJCF), Sarena Cheah (Executive Directorof Strategy and Corporate Development<strong>Sunway</strong> Group), members of <strong>Sunway</strong> Groupand <strong>Sunway</strong> Education Group’s seniormanagement team, and n<strong>in</strong>e Jeffrey CheahFoundation scholars of <strong>Sunway</strong> University and MonashUniversity, <strong>Sunway</strong> campus.As a corporate sponsor, JCF contributed RM150,000towards TFM, to assist <strong>the</strong> organisation <strong>in</strong> achiev<strong>in</strong>g itsmission to reduce <strong>education</strong> <strong>in</strong>equity between rural andurban schools. This Bronze sponsorship entails f<strong>in</strong>ancialsupport and non-f<strong>in</strong>ancial support to TFM.VOL 02 ISSUE 05 / June 2012 19