CONTENTS

- FACE TO FACE -

03

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed or implied in UP2 are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Sunway Education Group.

Sunway College No. 2, Jalan Universiti Bandar Sunway 47500 Selangor Darul Ehsan Malaysia T: 603-5638 7176 E: info@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/college

Sunway University T: 603-7491 8622 E: info@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/university

Monash University Malaysia T: 603-5514 6000 E: mum.info@monash.edu monash.edu.my

Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences T: 603-5514 6000 E: mum.info@monash.edu med.monash.edu.my

Sunway International School T: 603-7491 8070 E: infosis@sunway.edu.my sis.sunway.edu.my

Sunway College Johor Bahru T: 607-359 6880 E: infojb@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/jb

Sunway College Ipoh T: 605-545 4398 E: infoipoh@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/ipoh

Sunway College Kuching T: 6082-451 221 / 573 251 / 573 252 E: info@swck.edu.my swck.edu.my

Sunway-TES Centre for Accountancy Excellence T: 603-7491 8622 E: info@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/college/sunwaytes

Sunway International Business & Management T: 603-7493 7023 E: info@sibm.com.my sibm.com.my

Shanghai Sunway Financial Training Co. Ltd. T: 603-7491 8622 E: info@sunway.edu.my sunway.edu.my/college/ssft

Sunway Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts T: 603-5632 1188 E: yuwmingh@sunway.edu.my lecordonbleu.com.my

Jeffrey Cheah Institute on Southeast Asia T: 603-7491 8622 jci.edu.my

The Sunway Education Group

UP2 or UPP or Uniquely Purposeful Programmes is a quarterly publication that represents a progressive Sunway College. Owned and governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, this leading private institution of higher learning is forging ahead towards the next level of excellence.

Advisor Editorial & Photography Team

Concept & Design Printer

: Dr Elizabeth Lee : Jerrine Koay Katherine Kee Tan May Ling : Writers Ink : Gloverin

UP2 is published by Sunway College

Should you have any comments, kindly contact:

The Public Relations DepartmentSunway Education GroupT: 603-7491 8622E: pr@sunway.edu.mywww.sunway.edu.my/college

03040608

12

14

15

Enjoying Effortless ExcellenceVolunteering Is Its Own RewardI Heart NYUA Platform For Learning And Earning IdeasReinvent To Create New BeginningsTeaching Is My Life!Making A Difference In The Lives Of OthersIn The Pacific Northwest

The Big Five Increases Engagement With StudentsAdding Colour To AcademiaBreeze Or Storm, MUFY Graduates Shine AgainStarting The Year With A Great CelebrationWinning Twice The Most Outstanding Club And SocietyCelebrating Excellence

Sustainable Future Of No WastageHeaded Into A Sanctuary

10

07

1316

17

18

19

05

09

Face To Face

Movers & Shakers

Social Report

Victoria University Homecoming

school student whose future rested on a single paper at the end of the semester. This paper contributed 90-100% of the final score. When all the topics of the semester are condensed into one final examination, Jee Hong thinks it is quite hard for students like himself to study an entire semester’s worth of knowledge knowing that testing will be on a tiny portion of what is learnt throughout the whole semester. That meant students like him ended up taking these exams with a hit-or-miss strategy.

For the fair distribution of scores across the internal and external examinations, 18-year old Jee Hong chose the MUFY programme as his next step. MUFY gave him the option to devise his study schedules to fit his personal preference and he believes the internal exams are what makes MUFY different. He was particularly drawn in by the research project in his English Unit 2 class. According to him, “Being able to actually research and work on your own gives a surprisingly good sense of accomplishment upon completion of the research paper. Nothing beats the sensation of slapping down a stack of completed papers of your own creation.”

For Jee Hong, MUFY was a great choice as he had the freedom to choose whatever subjects suited him whilst having various options available to him after completing his programme. His time in MUFY was a time of personal growth as the frequent tests gave him the responsibility of tracking his own progress throughout the semester, knowing his strengths and weaknesses as a student.

Starting end of February, Ng Jee Hong is pursuing a Bachelor of Design majoring in Architecture at the Melbourne School of Design, the University of Melbourne. A Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) alumnus, Jee Hong plans to pursue a Master of Architecture for another 2 years after completing his Bachelor of Design.

He thinks Architecture may be the perfect course as he enjoys studying concepts of physics behind the construction of buildings. At the same time, he will be able to use his ideas to create structures that excel practically and design-wise. He is very much looking forward to the classes where he will be exposed to a completely different field of knowledge in his quest to be an architect.

For Jee Hong, his most important takeaway from the MUFY programme at Sunway College has been his understanding of “If you enjoy what you’re doing, you will excel at it effortlessly.”

Formerly from Catholic High School in Petaling Jaya, he remembers having spent the past twelve plus years as a

ENJOYING EFFORTLESS EXCELLENCE

No.3, Jalan SR 3/7, Taman Serdang Raya, Seksyen 3, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor

- FACE TO FACE - - SOCIAL REPORT -

04 05

Merging the yearly practice of reducing un-called for disposal of recyclable resources with providing opportunities for the less fortunate is an ideal way for both Sunway College and Rentwise to give back to society.

By putting a “no wastage” policy into practice, both Sunway College and Rentwise have taken the initiative into developing a sustainable future for electronic gadgets. The yearly e-Waste Disposal Campaign where unwanted electronic gadgets are collected via e-Waste collection bins on the Sunway campus has now grown to include a collaboration with Rentwise.

In working together with Rentwise, the IT department of Sunway College has just taken one step forward into a sustainable future for electronic gadgets. By providing thirty sets of refurbished Dell desktops and LCD monitors to Sekolah Kebangsaan St Mary in Kuala Lumpur, the IT department of Sunway College has helped the school to set up their first computer lab.

Although no longer new, these refurbished computers will enable St Mary students to gain the opportunity to pick up computing literacy and knowledge for the next three to five years. The maintenance of the computers will be carried out by Rentwise and are expected to perform similarly to new computers.

In boosting St Mary of Kuala Lumpur’s computer-aided learning, these students now have the opportunity to expand their knowledge horizons to include access to technology and hopefully a gateway to a brighter future.

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE OF NO WASTAGEApplying to Harvard to study biochemical science, Marian Yeow Chee Yen formerly from the Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) believes she reaps more than she gives when volunteering.

A Special Scholarship recipient and a Chemistry tutor to her CIMP peer, Marian was busy juggling her time between her studies and her activities in CIMP. As former President of the CIMP Choir Club and member of the CIMP Basketball Club, Swimming Club and CIMP Dance Club, her time in the programme has changed her perspective of life for the better. She advises future CIMP students to jump right in to learn about the different cultures of the world through interaction with international students and the friendly teachers.

Marian believes volunteering has helped her discover herself, learn new experiences and explore opportunities. A feel-good boost for her, her two-week volunteer work in Cambodia with the non-governmental organisation, AHHA Education had Marian teaching English to approximately 200 students who had little or no exposure to the language. At times, Marian had to resort to using body language, googling pictures through her phone to explain the meaning of English words.

In dusty Cambodia, Marian witnessed children pulling carts on the unpaved roads and discovered many in her age group who did not have the opportunity to go through formal education. However, they wanted to learn English to get jobs to support their families. Not only did the students progress in acquiring some English but Marian also learnt to dance and make the traditional mango salad dish for a whole community, with the help of her students.

In assisting the teachers in their classes for the Center for Asia Leadership (CAL) Camp: Developing A Successful Personal Brand, Marian stayed in the hostel on campus to help out with the welfare of the campers. Being responsible, working as part of a team and learning the teaching methods of graduates of the Harvard School of Education has taught Marian the value of hard work.

In winning the Harvard Book Prize, Marian who maintained an average academic achievement of 90% and above believes she is one step closer to achieving her dream of studying in Harvard. She hopes to one day become a scientist who mitigates environmental issues through biochemical methods.

VOLUNTEERING IS ITS OWN REWARD

After class in the main hall

Launch ceremony of the computer lab The computer lab

Marian (seated front row, 3rd from left) with her students Students trying out the computers

- FACE TO FACE - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

06 07

Majoring in Chemistry for a Bachelor of Science with a minor in Mathematics at New York University (NYU), 21-year old Liew Khye Borg from Ipoh, Perak is currently pursuing his dreams of studying in New York under a JPA (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam) scholarship.

Following his gut feeling in choosing NYU, Khye Borg is a big Broadway and choir geek. As he wanted to be in a university swarming with talented performers and was excited by the opportunity of being able to learn alongside these performers, Khye Borg spent approximately four months of his A-Level stint applying for SATs, Common Application, essays and sending of transcripts.

On a Sunway College bursary scholarship during his A-Level stint beginning July 2013, Khye Borg’s favourite subject was Chemistry as he had a natural affinity for the subject. Grateful for the help of his lecturers, Ms Sharon Kong, Ms Loh Hwee Ying and Ms Miki Sung plus the support of his friends during his 18 months at Sunway College, Khye Borg enjoyed his time in A-Level citing, for once you’re with the right people, your college experience will definitely feel a lot more “right”.

Having lived in New York for the past nine months, Khye Borg first enrolled in NYU as a biology major, expecting to only take biology courses. Instead, he took a literature class in his first semester for the programme in NYU is very flexible. After two semesters in NYU, Khye Borg chose to major in Chemistry as the connection between Chemistry and him was strong. In his own words, ”It is probably because my mum is a Form 6 Chemistry teacher and I have been to a number of Chemistry classes in the 9 months my mum was pregnant with me and teaching chemistry. I could also totally imagine myself as a Chemistry teacher, hoping to help students who are not too keen on the sciences to see the beauty in science. Science can be really beautiful when you stop memorising stuff and start appreciating the beauty in it.”

Finding his programme at NYU very challenging, Khye Borg has learnt the beauty of knowing more through learning about things outside his field of interest in Chemistry. Having auditioned for the NYU choral society with the song “Think of Me” from Phantom of the Opera, Khye Borg was selected into one of the selective choirs and has given two performances for the public.

Having watched ‘Wicked’ at the Broadway Theatre, visited Times Square, experienced the Bronx Zoo, passed by the Statue of Liberty and gone on a trip to Washington DC with international students, Khye Borg’s favourite place is still his dormitory in Manhattan, New York.

Having a good friend in 18-year old Michael Cleary, his roommate; Khye Borg had an accelerated introduction to New York because Michael is a native New Yorker. Respectful to each other as roommates, both Michael and Khye Borg bonded over how much they hate travelling and how much they preferred staying in the room and enjoying their time instead of getting tired travelling everywhere.

With a unique singing voice and having New Yorkers seeing this as his talent has Khye Borg enjoying his time in NYU and he is very much looking forward to gaining exposure in areas other than his studies and the choir.

I HEART NYU

Taking their commitment to accounting to the next level of advancement, BDO, Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC have established corporate suites on the Sunway Campus. Launched at the tail end of 2016 by Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah, AO, Founder and Chairman of the Sunway Group, Dato’ Gan Ah Tee, Managing Partner at BDO; Tan Theng Hooi, Country Managing Partner at Deloitte; Lee Soo Fern, Partner, Malaysia Talent Leader at EY; Adrian Lee, Audit Partner at KPMG and Sridharan Nair, Managing Partner at PwC were present for the momentous occasion together with Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University and Teo Ee Sing, Executive Director of Sunway College.

“The first to have the big five employers based on campus, our Sunway TES Centre for Accountancy Excellence (CAE) students are expected to benefit significantly from these partnerships”, shared Teo Ee Sing.

By enabling the Big Five managers, directors and partners to engage with students at a higher level, students can gain information and insights into the various areas of accounting and finance they might consider for their future careers. The Big Five human resources representatives are expected to share tips on writing an effective resume, insights on what makes good job interviews and information on the skill sets required by graduates to be industry ready. A win-win situation, the students at Sunway TES CAE and Sunway University may gain an extra edge in employer-employee relationship as the Big Five are able to engage with potential talents at an earlier stage.

Since the launch, the Big Five corporate suites have been a hub of activity. “By helping to prepare our students for employment through this partnership with the Big Five, we hope to aid our students in building industrial knowledge, updating them on what is happening in the industry”, explained Teo.

Through collaborations and activities on campus with the Big Five which includes workshops, talks and dialogue sessions with industry experts, Sunway TES CAE hopes to expose students to current relevant topics, emerging issues in the market, better insights and a more in-depth understanding of tax, audit and advisory areas related to accounting and finance. With the addition of audit simulations on campus reviewed by the Big Five and the Nurture Business Challenge requiring students to present business ideas to a panel made up of the Big Five, Sunway TES CAE is forging ahead in the quest for quality education for the students and in providing quality leaders for the Accounting and Finance industry.

THE BIG FIVE INCREASES ENGAGEMENT WITH STUDENTS

(From Left) Sridharan Nair, Adrian Lee, Lee Soo Fern, Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah, Tan Theng Hooi, and Dato’ Gan Ah Tee

Roommate and friend Michael Cleary

Khye Borg with friends

Khye Borg

- FACE TO FACE - - SOCIAL REPORT -

08 09

Dickson and tried a variety of Malaysian food like roti canai, Chinese chicken rice, nasi lemak and durian juice, Ajnish has yet to discover a favourite Malaysian food. Finding Malaysia a vibrant country, Ajnish has learnt to be independent as his interactions in a country foreign to him has enabled him to be open to exciting new challenges that he would not have had the opportunity to experience in Nepal.

With aspirations to work in policy making for public health in Nepal, Ajnish plans to help his country improve their health index and help the government establish a research institute for Nepal’s future medical students. The 2015 earthquake in Nepal helped Ajnish realise that community health issues are his foremost interest.

Ajnish took a trip back to Nepal for twenty-two days in December 2016 to spend some time with his family. For him, “Family are like branches on a tree where we may grow in different directions yet our roots remain as one.”

He is now enrolled for the March 2017 intake in Sunway University for a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Medical Biotechnology. He is very much looking forward to learning more about global health issues and getting to work with senior researchers, professors and students in the programme.

Though far from his home in Bharatpur 21, Narayani Nepal; 19-year old Ajnish Ghimire has just recently completed the Foundation in Science and Technology (FIST) programme at Sunway College. Interested in biomedical sciences, Ajnish chose FIST for giving him the capacity to think about science and giving him a foundation of knowledge to work from.

A student ambassador and a Sunway MERCY Malaysia Nepal Earthquake Relief Scholarship recipient, Ajnish found it interesting to be involved in classroom activities that made him speak up in front of people. For him, it was a good platform for learning and earning ideas.

Using his time well in FIST for Ajnish meant using a planner to help him manage his time better and to get the extra mileage from that time. FIST and Sunway College has exposed Ajnish to issues of the world through the international conferences, seminars and talks which has helped him develop the critical thinking skills he needs.

For future FIST students, Ajnish is of the opinion that Sunway is a place where every student gets a rare opportunity to be a pioneer of the world. Sunway has enabled him to realise who he is and to think of ways by which he can benefit society.

Compared to Nepal, Ajnish finds the infrastructure here more developed which has provided a better quality of living in Malaysia. Having visited PetroSains, Malacca, Shah Alam, Port

A PLATFORM FOR LEARNING AND EARNING IDEAS

Classroom learning in Sunway College in the Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) programme took an interesting turn one fine Saturday morning. To aid the group of forty students in understanding the role of Corporate Social Responsibility and its impact on the environment, AUSMAT lecturer Sangeetha Muniandy led an excursion to the Krau Wildlife Reserve in Pahang.

As part of their Business Management and Enterprise syllabus, these forty students and their AUSMAT Business Management lecturers began their visit with an introduction to the area followed by a guided tour of the nature museum. Aided in their excursion by a World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Malaysia representative, the students learnt that human activities such as uncontrolled land clearing and poaching is one of the leading causes of wildlife extinction.

The jungle trek was next on the agenda. Escorted by a forest ranger, the students played the roles of scientists by carrying out water quality testing at a stream. Through this exercise of testing for water pollution, the students had the opportunity to connect various aspects of business to the management of resources and the impact of business decisions on the environment. By creating an awareness of the importance of ethical and environmental considerations when it comes to running businesses, Sangeetha hopes the field trip will aid the students in nurturing the need to protect the environment and at the same time develop the realisation that businesses should be accountable for giving back to society and not just aim for profits.

One of the aims of the Business Management and Enterprise syllabus is to help the students develop successful entrepreneurship skills. Ending the day at the Krau Wildlife Reserve with a visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, this field trip was an opportunity for AUSMAT students to understand better the role of Corporate Social Responsibility in the real world.

Thrilled by the out-of-classroom experience, AUSMAT student Sahadev found the trip educational. The hands-on experience at the Krau Wildlife Reserve allowed his peers and himself to broaden their horizons in learning about the importance of wildlife and bio-resources conservation.

HEADED INTO A SANCTUARY

AUSMAT students with their lecturers at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary

- FOCUS - - FOCUS -

10 11

A triumphant homecoming event for 42 of the attendees, the much anticipated Victoria University (VU) homecoming event took place at the end of last year in the presence of Ms Greeja Hemalata De Silva and Mrs Irene Teoh, the Director and Deputy Director of the VU programme.

The brainchild of VU alumna Yanty Kurnia, the homecoming was an opportunity to bring together university mates and lecturers to catch up with old friends and strengthen ties. With many of the alumni flying in from Indonesia with their spouses and children, they were welcomed warmly by the Victoria University Business Club (VUBC) student committee (made up of current and former students) and the Sunway CPA Australia Student Charter (SCSC) student committee in the reception area.

Lined with balloons of different hues and a welcome banner, the reception area was filled with a sea of VU blue. Each VU alumni was handed a “goody” bag which included a VU blue t-shirt, VU Centenary luggage tag, VU Centenary key chain, VU Centenary lapel, generously donated by VU Australia, and pens. The children were given a koala bear souvenir soft toy each and Kit Kat chocolates. A long serving VU lecturer, Dr Jason Cheok’s booming voice greeted each VU alumni as he tried to identify each guest at the reception area.

Taken on a tour of the vast campus grounds, the VU alumni were impressed by the new additions such as the field, library, auditoriums, the new VU office, covered walkways, Sunway International School, Sunway Monash Residence and the basement car park (which used to be the college field).

Taking pride in the development of leading edge learning facilities that the college now offers, the VU alumni were then seated in Audi 4 where they used to attend lectures during their VU days. Trading stories about being backbenchers, the alumni laughed at their memories of being students, remembering lecturers and their amusing traits.

Thanking the committee for their hard work in putting together this homecoming, Ms Greeja warmly welcomed the alumni back to Sunway. Turning this gathering in Audi 4 into class-mode, the alumni were bombarded with a quiz session on their former subjects, putting to test their memory skills. Their attempts were rewarded with tokens courtesy of the Sunway VU Alumni office and the International Office. It was a walk down memory lane for many of the alumni when old snapshots of their college and graduation days were shared during the session.

Gracing this special occasion was Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University. Participating in group photos with the alumni, Dr Lee was flanked by the alumni and their children, who could possibly be future Sunway-ians.

VICTORIA UNIVERSITY HOMECOMING Adjourning to the Atrium for the dinner, Dr Elizabeth Lee spoke fondly about the growth of the Sunway campus and facilities, and how thrilled she was to have the alumni return after more than a decade. To commemorate the momentous occasion, there was a cake cutting ceremony and some of the alumni took to the stage to share their triumphs and paths taken after leaving college; highlighting the unforgettable moments with friends in class, and out at the food stalls around Sunway.

Taking to the stage to render the heartfelt Chinese song of PhenYu, Jess Lum (2001 VUBC President) was joined by the lecturers Mr Tee, Mr Teoh and Dr Jason Cheok. The buoyant mood continued with Mrs Irene Teoh and all the lecturers dedicating the song “Good Luck, Good Health, God Bless you”, to the alumni. The night came to a close when the VU family members sealed their bond of friendship by holding hands and singing Auld Lang Syne.

After organising a poolside farewell party in 2004, I made a promise to Mrs Irene Teoh to have a reunion 10 years later. But I couldn’t plan for one as my younger son was born in 2014. The homecoming reunion finally took place on 12 Dec 2016 with the hard work of many people. Many thanks to the organising committee for all the efforts. I was very excited to visit the campus once again with my family, sit in the lecture theatre like we used to, and meet our fellow classmates and lecturers. Right after the reunion, my elder son said, “Mummy, your school is so cool. Everyone is kind and friendly. I want to study here too!” I hope that VU Sunway will continue to grow and offer more courses. Glad to be back, and always proud to be part of VU Sunway! – Yanty Kurnia

All of these happened almost a decade ago and a lot has happened in our lives. We appreciate the effort and initiative to have this, to call us back. We had the best time of our studies here. We are glad that someone actually put together this meet up, especially on campus; if it happened in a hotel, then it would be so different. It is a good arrangement. Tonight is one of the very important memories in our lives. We hope to make it a yearly event. VU is family. – Jess Lum, Ling Chee Liong and Ling Chee Siong

It is good to be back. I almost failed Ms Greeja’s subject but I managed to get through to go to Australia. For me, looking at the field, the walkway and the foyer where we use to study, are all fond memories. – Rachmat Junaidi and Larisa Siah

We are very excited and happy to be back. It reminds us of the good old days. We are tremendously surprised at how much things have changed here. It has been a good journey for me and there are many memorable times shared with the lecturers, students and staff here. Everyone is so good here and they have helped us especially when we did not know something. It is good to come back and see all of them again. – Fransisca Agustiono and Suanny Junus

Last time we sat on this ‘bare’ thing, no cushions like we have now. We graduated because of Yanty. Victoria University is a very good university. – Dennis William and Stanley Tan

The campus is very different now, very modern. The environment is very good. When we had exams, we were very stressed, I remember that. – Agung Kurniawan

I am happy to be here with father. Yes, I would like to study here one day. – Jeremy, son of Agung Kurniawan

Friends! This is the best part. I get to meet all of them here again – for 12 years we never met and after meeting, everything clicked together. – Irwan Limpah

4 good friends – Suanny, Yanty with son Delmond, Suan Ling and Francisca

Vinson Ng with Mrs Irene Teoh, Paulina Yunita, Mitsuroyya and Doris

Cutting the Welcome Home Cake

Mr Tee, Alex Teh, Puan Haslinda, Dr Jason Cheok, Rachmat Junaidi, Irwan Limpah, Celine Phang, Yeoh Suang Ling and Chee Wei Yen

ADDING COLOUR TO ACADEMIA

- FACE TO FACE - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

12 13

A former auditor who believes that it is never too late to create new beginnings, 25-year old Lee Sheung Un formerly from the Sunway TES Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) programme has been a radio producer with BFM for the past three years.

As a producer for the Morning Run programme belt, his day in the studio can start as early as 5.30am. He mentions coffee is a great help for the early starts to the day. In his editorial role, Sheung Un helps to drive the business news agenda which includes sourcing stories (local and international, analyst reports, Bloomberg terminal), research, securing guests, conducting interviews, scripting, editing and post-production.

REINVENT TO CREATE NEW BEGINNINGS

When panelling in-studio as part of the technical aspects, Sheung Un has to monitor audio quality, and ensure that everything runs on time as scheduled to the second. These include everything from interviews, ads, promos, news bulletins to featurettes for time is money, especially in a medium like radio.

One of the crazy moments Sheung Un remembers is the time when someone in the studio accidentally cursed on-air. This crazy split second moment had him pushing the ‘Dump’ button and that hair-raising moment got wiped off before it went on-air. “So stay alert, for things happen when you least expect them to.”

Citing BFM as possibly the only place CEOs of listed companies in suits, entrepreneurs in slacks, musicians and quirky comedians all come under one roof, Sheung Un is aware that his interactions with them has helped shape his world view and notions of business and politics.

Sharing the story of currently the 40th richest man in Malaysia on BFM proved to be a memorable moment for Sheung Un. Maha Sinnathamby, Founder and Chairman of Greater Springfield Land Corporation shared his story about growing up in a rubber estate in Negeri Sembilan, building his fortune in Australia, going through multiple bankruptcies, sour deals and described his lowest point as standing in line to collect unemployment benefits.

On his wish list for future BFM interviews, Sheung Un hopes to one day interview the stalwarts like Warren Buffet, Li Ka-shing, George Soros, Carl Icahn along with the likes of Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Ma.

As for his days in the ACCA programme, Sheung Un is grateful for the discipline and the analytical skills instilled in him as a result of the programme. He believes these skills have served him extremely well as a radio producer with BFM and would like to remind future ACCA students to pay attention in class, study hard, take the trial exams seriously and remember that passing the ACCA exams is just the first step in building a career or profession.

At the recent graduation ceremony for the Sunway College Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP), a total of 201 graduates received their internationally recognised Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). 85 of the graduates that day obtained a CGPA of 80 percent and above. Amongst them, 20 scored a CGPA of 90 percent and above.

Gracing the graduation ceremony were Her Excellency Judith St. George, the Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia along with Puan Sri (Dr) Susan Cheah, EXCO member of the Sunway Group; Professor Peter Heard, Provost of Sunway University; Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University; Cheng Mien Wee, Director of Pre-University Studies; and Bill Ironside, Director of the Canadian International Matriculation Programme.

In her speech, Dr Lee hoped the time the students have committed allowed them to not only reflect on the difference they can make in the community, but also help them gain a greater understanding of their role in society and the impact of their contributions towards those in need. In her valedictorian address, Caitlin Ung Yue Wen thanked her teachers for adding colour to the world of academia with their enthusiasm and colourful personalities. Having earned the Maple Leaf Award for being an exemplary CIMP student, excelling academically and being active in extracurricular activities, Caitlin shared that Sunway’s CIMP is the true manifestation of the phrase “work hard, play hard”. Urging her peers to utilise the skills and knowledge they have gained, to continue to grow and become successful lifelong learners, Caitlin is continuing on at Sunway University with the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biology with Psychology.

An important component in the completion of the OSSD, CIMP students are required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of volunteering. Students from the Business Leadership class raised RM6,100 and the funds were donated to PAWS, a non-profit animal shelter.

With the aim to create awareness of modern day slavery and human trafficking, 8 students led by Nicholas Yap Chien Shing participated in the 24-Hour Race and organised a month-long fundraising project. Recipient of the Community Service Award, Nicholas shared that he learned a lot from volunteering, being part of different communities and meeting different kinds of people. “You may pick up new skills, just as I did, and gain more confidence and self-esteem, thus encouraging your self-belief.”

During his time in the CIMP, Nicholas contributed a total of 394 hours for community service. Nicholas plans to take a year off before continuing his studies in Business and Social Sciences at the University of New South Wales. With plans to take a gap year, Kristen Cheah Ke Ting had learnt not to limit herself when it comes to choosing her career path. She believes one should learn and try different things.

Sheung Un (right) at a recent networking session with listenersCaitlin Ung Yue Wen receiving the Maple Leaf Award from Bill Ironside

Nicholas Yap Chien Shing receiving the Community Service Award

The Morning Run Crew

With Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz

- FACE TO FACE - - FACE TO FACE -

14 15

Lai Sok Yee, Senior Lecturer Australian Matriculation Programme (AUSMAT)

Having the passion and a dream to impart knowledge to others, Sok Yee has been teaching at Sunway College for the past five and a half years. A Mathematics specialist in AUSMAT, Sok Yee finds the work challenging and rewarding. She believes in making a point to always teach with a smile and in an upbeat mood.

Citing her homemaker mother as her role model, Sok Yee believes in the power of nurturing her students. In fact, she was happy to receive this note of appreciation from her student Bhumika Vijaye.

“Thank you so much for being a guide for me throughout AUSMAT. You built my courage up and you always believed that I could make it. Thank you for the times you stayed back in class to talk to me about life and for cheering for me every time I do well in my studies. You are my inspiration and the sole reason I push myself every day. It truly is so warming to see a smile on your face, and I trulyhope I made you proud! I love you very much and thank you for the best experience!” - Bhumika Vijaye

Being an educator, Sok Yee hopes to see her students do well in life - following her lessons and doing well in their examinations.

Greeja Hemalata De Silva, Director, Victoria University (VU) Bachelor of Business Programme

Having had more than 20 years of teaching experience, Greeja looks forward to the challenge of each day being different. As the director of the programme, she has had the opportunity to interact with a variety of people, and various groups in and out of college.

Motivated by the students’ interests, the confidence of the management, the assistance and support from her team and peers, Greeja loves the challenge of trying to juggle the diverse demands of the various stakeholders involved.

Deriving the greatest joy from seeing how her young wards blossom and contribute to society by making a difference in the lives of others, Greeja remembers fondly the time she accompanied the VU Bachelor of Business students for the Yokohama University International Summer School in 2015.

A one week trip with both educational and non-educational elements embedded, she had the opportunity to experience Japanese customs, culture, educational systems plus the opportunity to network with participants from various countries.

Greeja hopes to continue being able to influence young minds so that they become better human beings with noble values who can give back to society.

TEACHING IS MY LIFE!

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS

home to Malaysia to serve her four years as a JPA (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam) scholar.

The positivity and the enthusiasm of the people in the United States is something Shin Yee appreciates culturally. For now, Seattle is still her favourite city and she enjoys the United States for the no fuss attitude and the freedom of speech.

academic foundation in the A-Level and discovered Economics in MUFY. Her advice to students is that grades may be important but do not forget to experience other wonderful things in life. Focus when you are doing anything and everything so that you can be much more efficient.

Asides from work and her role as a student in the University of Washington, Shin Yee has managed to explore the three states on the West Coast of the United States and even managed to visit Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada. She intends to visit the Grand Canyon and New York City before graduating and returning

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science majoring in Economics at the University of Washington, Seattle, 22-year old Looi Shin Yee really loves the Pacific Northwest landscape of Seattle with the majestic Mount Rainier, an abundance of sea, lake, rivers and pine trees.

Her only regret is there is virtually no Malaysian food around here but this KPM (Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia) scholar chose to study at a university in the United States as she admits she does not enjoy the examination system of United Kingdom universities. With a preference for the United States system of having multiple exams, quizzes and assignments which sometimes has participation count toward the final grade, Shin Yee finds the course material at the University of Washington quite challenging.

Currently in her second year, Shin Yee shares that the university uses the quarter system, where there are 10 weeks of classes per quarter which is immediately followed by a week of final exams. Since there are no study breaks, pulling all-nighters are almost inevitable during finals week.

Asides from studying, Shin Yee is also working part-time at the on-campus catering company. Learning about financial independence, time management, humility (washing dishes), obedience (listening to your manager), responsibility and accepting criticisms are all part and parcel of her college life.

A former A-Level and Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) student in Sunway College, Shin Yee gained a solid

IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Sok Yee with her husband and parents

At the University of Washington

- MOVERS & SHAKERS - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

16 17

In December 2016, the graduating Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) class chalked up another impressive academic performance with 188 students achieving an average High Distinction score of at least 80% to be eligible for the Monash University Scholarship Awards.

For achieving an outstanding average score of 99.8%, Loo Hooi Leong received the MUFY Excellence Award. This award is given to the one who scores the highest average mark among all providers of MUFY worldwide. For achieving the highest score among all providers of MUFY worldwide in their respective subjects, the December 2016 MUFY graduating class took home 17 out of 22 Subject awards.

As part of a growing community of over 11,000 students who have chosen MUFY at Sunway College as a pathway to a world class university education, Lee Thye Cheong, Director of MUFY congratulated the cohort for a job well done. Asking them to never lose the desire to learn from mistakes as mistakes often offer important lessons about success and often act as a springboard to greater heights of achievement, Lee reminded them that good fortune happens when preparation meets opportunity, therefore be willing to strive always.

In quoting ‘Harapkan persahabatan kita bagai aur dengan tebing’, graduating valedictorian Ryan Ng Chor Yee asked his fellow graduates to never forget the friends made in MUFY as their time together has helped them build an unbreakable friendship which can withstand hardships. Taking a moment to thank their parents and the lecturers for their guidance, efforts and hard work, Ryan was quick to share that their wonderful year in MUFY had taught his peers and himself to never back down from challenges and obstacles.

Having accomplished much in MUFY, the graduates were urged by Lee to pursue success for the purpose of making a difference in their lives and the lives of others.

BREEZE OR STORM, MUFY GRADUATES SHINE AGAIN

In congratulating the students, Vanitha Satchithanathan, Director of the AUSMAT programme thanked the AUSMAT academic team for their passion and their inspiring work ethics. She hopes the graduating class will continue to use the skills learnt in AUSMAT to give back to their family, community and country.

Of the graduating cohort, the eight students who achieved ATAR 99 and above were Adrian Wong Chee Seng, Gan Rachel, Chan Pei Harn, Ong Cyii Cheng, Mika Low Quan Wei, Nicholas Low Kah Yean, Cheah Huey Lee and Vilashini Saravanan.

For Adrian Wong, the key to his success in achieving an ATAR score of 99.85 lies in saying no to skipping classes, paying attention in class, seeking help from lecturers when in doubt, sharing knowledge with your peers in order to understand the topic better, finding the right friends and participating in extra-curricular activities when applying for university. He is thinking of continuing his studies in electrical engineering at Monash University Malaysia while Gan Rachel who achieved ATAR 99.5 is headed to Seoul National University to pursue Computer Science and Technology.

At this AUSMAT Achievement and Appreciation Awards ceremony, Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University gently reminded the graduates to thank their lecturers for shaping them and to attribute their successes to parents, guardians and friends who have stood by them.

Around 96% of the 2016 cohort are eligible for entry into the best universities worldwide. Nine students were awarded Special Certificates of Excellence. The Certificates are awarded only to the top 0.5 percent of candidates based on the examination marks. Five certificates were given out for English as an Additional Language or Dialect; two certificates for Business Management and Enterprise, and one certificate each for Accounting and Finance, and Psychology.

Vilashini Saravanan plans to pursue pharmacy at International Medical University (IMU) after scoring ATAR 99 whereas her twin sister, Vanashri is headed to Penang International Dental College (PIDC) for dentistry after scoring ATAR 98.6. Although twins, Vilashini and Vanashri did not study together but both did their revision daily.

Asking his peers to spread their wings and embark on a new journey, Mika Low took the time to thank the lecturers for their support. Having achieved ATAR 99.2, Mika advised new students to stay awake in class, play hard, work hard and to cherish every moment in the programme.

Early January this year turned out to be a time of great celebration for the students who sat for the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) 2016 examination. At the Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) Achievement and Appreciation Awards, a total of 177 students achieved ATAR 90 and above, and 380 with ATAR 80 and above.

STARTING THE YEAR WITH A GREAT CELEBRATION

MUFY Award recipients

MUFY Excellence Award recipient Loo Hooi Leong with Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University

AUSMAT high achievers

Twins Vilashini (left) and Vanashri Saravanan

Adrian Wong with Vanitha Satchithanathan and Dr Elizabeth Lee

- MOVERS & SHAKERS - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

18 19

Awarded the Grand Prize for the Most Outstanding Club and Society (Non-Sports) for the second consecutive year at the Club and Society Appreciation Ceremony organised by the Student LIFE department, the Sunway CPA Australia Student Charter (SCSC) aims to promote CPA Australia amongst Sunway students as well as to enhance students’ experience in related fields of Accounting and Finance. Celebrating their tenth year in 2016, SCSC was formed by Associate Professor Dr Foo Yin Fah in 2007 before he joined the Sunway University Business School.

In 2016 alone, SCSC organised and participated in a total of 43 events. Among the events organised by SCSC was the yearly ‘Beyond Camp’ and the ‘M.A.D’(Make A Difference) corporate social responsibility event where they collected funds for the Phyllis Caring Home, a home for the aged and elderly.

“Surprised by their win, the members of SCSC were busy preparing for the ‘Beyond Camp’ when the results were announced. Having won in 2015, we did not expect to win again in 2016,” according to Yap Yen Lee, President of the SCSC club. During her two years with the club, Yen Lee has learnt to communicate effectively with various people from different backgrounds, cultures and personalities. “We try to give our members the opportunity to learn different skill sets and gain more exposure by encouraging them to learn new things.”

A final year student in the Sunway College Victoria University Bachelor of Business programme majoring in Financial Risk Management and 2016 SCSC Vice-President William Chang shared that his involvement in helping to organise the ‘Beyond Camp’ with his fellow club members has helped him build leadership skills and improve himself.

Agreeing that participation in the club has helped him improve his communication skills, Vincent Tan Aik Hau, Secretary of the SCSC agrees communication skills also involves understanding others and communicating with various people in different ways. Vincent believes his time in SCSC has helped him become more receptive to other people’s opinions in order to make things work.

The SCSC club advisor, Fong Yen Foon, is very proud of the club’s achievement as the students actually performed beyond the classroom, excelling in their studies and at the same time, perform very well in co-curricular activities. According to Fong, the “Ohana” spirit in the club has helped the team work effectively and overcome challenges together. Keeping in touch with the alumni, the current members have also benefitted from the advice and guidance given.

WINNING TWICE THE MOST OUTSTANDING CLUB AND SOCIETY

Over the years, students of the Sunway College A-Level programme have been consistently achieving a pass rate of 98% and above. At the recent February 2017 gathering of the A-Level High Achievers Award Ceremony, over 80 Sunway College students turned up with their family and friends.

Ang Yi Fang from Chung Ling Butterworth High School scored 4A* for Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Economics and Physics. She received the Cambridge International AS Level Top in Malaysia award for Economics in the June 2016 Cambridge International Examinations. Intending to further her studies in Actuarial Science or Mathematics, Ang has received offers from University of Manchester; City, University of London and the University of Southampton.

Having achieved 3A* in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, Meera Selvarajah looks forward to pursuing Psychology at International Medical University (IMU) starting end of February.

Having scored 3A* in Mathematics, Physics, Economics and 1A in Further Mathematics in the June 2016 Cambridge International Examinations, Clinton Wee Yuan took home the Cambridge International AS Level Top in the World award for Mathematics. He is currently tutoring Form 1, 2 and 3 students in Mathematics, Form 4 and 5 students in Further Mathematics and coaching Form 1 and 2 students for debate back in his hometown of Kuching, Sarawak. Headed to Cambridge to read law next year, Clinton shared he is very happy with his results. His family and his teachers in SMK Sungai Maong, Kuching are very proud of him.

Another top scorer heading to Cambridge is Chew Zi Yang from Muar High School, Johor. Zi Yang who achieved 3A* in Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and 1A in Further Mathematics will be starting classes in October this year. He will be studying Natural Sciences Tripos and plans to major in Physics. Currently he is a tutor at a kindergarten in his hometown of Muar.

Formerly from Muar High School, Quek Zhen Yi Darryl with a score of 4A* in Further Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics hopes to pursue Engineering at the University of Nottingham or National University of Singapore. Together with his brother Zhen Han and sister Jia Yee, his mother Yeo Moy Kim came all the way from Muar to see him collect his award.

Having travelled from Kuantan, Pahang was Hamidah Shawkkathali who came to celebrate the occasion with her daughter Nur Wafiah Yusof. She was very proud and happy with her daughter’s results. The KPM (Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia) scholar achieved 2A* for Biology and Chemistry with 1A for Mathematics. Pursuing medicine with plans to specialise in Anaesthetics at Monash University Malaysia, Nur Wafiah enjoyed her time at Sunway College as she had the opportunity to mix with people from different cultures and backgrounds, and the lecturers were very helpful, even answering her questions via whatsapp at night.

See Zheng Hong formerly of Chung Ling High School, Penang has yet to make up his mind on where he will be headed to pursue Law. Zheng Hong who scored 1A* for Chemistry and 3As for Economics, Mathematics and Physics expressed he will most probably choose the University of Manchester. Currently tutoring primary and secondary school students in Bahasa Malaysia and Mandarin, he described his experience at Sunway College as unforgettable, as he learnt how to cook and how to be independent, living away from his family.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

Sunway College Awesome A-Level students

William Chang, Yap Yen Lee, Fong Yen Foon and Vincent Tan