Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77961

Silver at PAM exhibition


The team with their prize

A team of 38 Architecture students from Studio One, Two and Three of the Department of Architecture & Sustainable Design (DASD) took home Silver in the Best Display Booth Award for their pavilion design titled “Coming Together” at the 11th Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) Annual Architecture Student Works Exhibition 2016 held at 1Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya from 5 to 9 October 2016.

Themed ‘ARCHInteraction’, the exhibition aimed to showcase students’ best architectural works from all of Malaysia’s public and private institutions. Under one of PAM’s guidelines, each participating institution was required to exhibit their designs according to the theme and specification of being within 2-meter in width by 2-meter in depth by 2-meter in height.

“Our pavilion design is an interactive spherical system in three ascending curvilinear facades merging into a blobitecture. It also lights up momentarily when a person assumes a sedentary position on the customised chair,” said DASD Lecturer and Exhibition Advisor Tew Bun Teck.

The structure was held together through wooden joints in the timber panels, such as dado and mitre joints, without the help of adhesives or fasteners such as nails and glue. The structure can also take multiple forms or be repurposed into domestic furniture such as a bookcase, wine rack or clothes rack.

Based on the visitors’ interpretations, the pavilion was also dubbed a space station, a cocoon or a bird nest. Furthermore, remnants from timber flooring were used to make bracelets and necklaces as well as interactive board games such as Tic-tac-toe. Hence, the pavilion aptly served its purpose as an interactive architectural development thematically.

“The team proved themselves to be very effective and efficient in managing this project, a skill that is very important for architects,” Tew said.

“From the perspective of design, the overall model could be better with more precise calculations of the joint angles, as well as replacing some of the erroneously cut panels since we still have many left over,” said Studio One Leader Chen Bing Wei.

“This experience will definitely come in handy in the future. I’ve learnt how to communicate better and better manage my time, and made friends that could enhance my future career,” said Studio Two Leader Yap Chi Wen.

Besides Chen and Yap, the 38 student team also consisted of Bong Jie Si, William Chen Sin Khoon, Cheng Hui Wen, Chuah Li San, Dorcas Lee Xian, Foo Yee Ping, Liew Yu Qian, Lucas Peh Zi Fong, Oh Xiao Li, Phoon Yi Kit, Shaun Tan Yong Kiat, Siew Kin Chung, Tan Xuan Xiang, Tan Zheng How, Teoh Huoy Shwu, Wong Chuan Seng, Wong Shi Weei and Yap Wei Hung, from Studio One; Ananrajs a/l Selvam, Chen Lit Ying, Chin Cheng Yue, Goh Suk Vei, Heng Vee Yi, Hor Yan Qi, Jonathan Tiong Khoong Ming, Koay Eugene, Evans Khor Yan Chun, Law Tze Yong, Lee Kai Yuan, Looi Chia Wei, Martin Lu Zhi Yie, Samantha Teo Yee Hui, Sue Ann Wee Tze Li, Steve Ting Kee Ping and Wee Zhi Shan, from Studio Two; as well as Chin Hongrui from Studio Three.

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77969

Japanese Students Interaction Tour to UTAR Kampar 2016


FEGT and SIT lecturers with the students

A Japanese Students Interaction Tour to UTAR Kampar 2016 was jointly organised by the UTAR Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology’s (FEGT) Department of Construction Management (DCM) and the Department of Architecture and Building Engineering from the College of Engineering of Shibura Institute of Technology (SIT), Tokyo, Japan, held from 6 to 16 October 2016 at the Kampar Campus.

Unlike the usual leisurely semester break, 26 UTAR Construction Management students and 24 SIT students spent a productive 10 days at the workshop that was part of the interaction tour. They were guided by experienced academics from both institutions; from UTAR were DCM Head Dr Wai Soon Han, DCM Lecturer Tan Zi Yi, and FEGT Department of Environmental Engineering Lecturer Prof Dr Naoto Mine, while from SIT were Prof Dr Kanisawa Hirotake, Dr Shite Kazuya, and Malaysia Satellite Office of Shibaura Institute of Technology and Visiting Lecturer at Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT) Hiroyuki Ishizaki.

The workshop acted as a platform for information exchange and international networking. It taught them new knowledge on Construction Management and gave them the chance to try out the new 4D simulation software known as Navisworks. A special series of programmes planned by FEGT lecturers and SIT students also enabled the UTAR students to learn about the cultural differences between Malaysia and Japan.

UTAR hoped that the workshop will help foster a close relationship with SIT, which believes it will pave the way for potential collaborations in the future.

Learning was not limited to the indoors as they were brought on a site visit to a nearby village where students, separated into groups of four, studied the traditional wooden houses. The students conducted various measurements on the houses and analysed the structures and landscapes for their house modelling project later on.

The SIT students had an eye-opening experience at the site visit and were surprised to learn of the differences in construction compared to the wooden houses built in Japan.

Recalling her experience, SIT student Fuuka Takahashi mentioned, “I am surprised to see Malaysian traditional wooden houses elevated from the ground, with pillars below supporting the entire structure. In Japan, where earthquakes are common, an additional wooden pillar is inserted diagonally between pillars for extra support. It is interesting to learn that Malaysian traditional wooden houses do not use that structure.”

Despite differences in culture and knowledge, the workshop saw the students working cohesively to complete their house modelling projects. They began with 4D simulations of their house models, worked on to the actual building process and beautification of the house models, and finally presented their project on the last day of the workshop.

Each group explained the processes involved when completing the project and interestingly, at the end of each presentation, members from each group shared their experiences and lessons learnt throughout the entire workshop.

“The workshop was a good experience for me and I had a great time working with the UTAR students. They were friendly and helpful, and from them I learnt more about Malaysian culture. Dinner was the best moment where we could interact freely with everyone and get to know each other more, while enjoying the local delicacies prepared. I also would like to thank the UTAR lecturers and students for their hospitality. If given the opportunity, I will participate in the workshop again and recommend it to my juniors,” said Takahashi.

“Even though we had some language difficulties but were able to get along very well. We worked great as a team, and from the SIT students I learnt new skills and knowledge that were not taught in UTAR. In the end, we were able to effectively complete the house models. I am thankful for their willingness to share their knowledge and skills to us UTAR students,” said Construction Management student Chong Ting Jie.

The workshop ended with Prof Mine presenting his closing remarks and expressing his gratitude to all those who were involved in making the workshop a success.


Students analysing the structure of the wooden houses


Students working hard to complete their house models


Students explaining the construction of their house models

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77972

Five shine in Hai-O Youth Literature Award

Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Lecturer Dr Wong Lih Lih, Biotechnology alumnus Tay Yi Lun and Chinese Studies graduates Tan Jee Chin, Wong Siew Jye and Lee Xuan Chun were proud winners at the First Hai-O Youth Literature Award Presentation Ceremony (第一届海鸥青年文学奖) held at the University of Malaya on 15 October 2016.

Organised by The Writers’ Association of Chinese Medium of Malaysia and sponsored by the Hai-O Foundation, the event aimed to nurture more promising young writers and successors for the Malaysian Chinese Literary circle.


Dr Wong (second from left) receiving the Judge Award from Executive Chairman of the Board of Hai-O Enterprise Bhd Tan Kai Hee

Dr Wong’s winning entry titled “At a Place Named Alzheimer Sea (《在一个叫阿兹默海的地方》)” earned her a Judge Award in the Modern Poetry category (新诗组). She walked away with a trophy and cash prize of RM2,000.

“A Place Named Alzheimer Sea” was inspired by her grandmother and her Alzheimer’s disease. She started writing this poem when her grandmother was still alive, but completed it only after she had passed.

She mentioned, “The feeling of writing poetry is akin to playing the childhood game of hopscotch, while winning this award is reminiscent of the happiness of hitting one of the blocks. I appreciate the comfort and bountiful rewards gained from poetry writing.”

As a lecturer-cum-poet, she expressed, “The literary atmosphere of UTAR is not rich, but there are still many lovers of literature quietly working for it. For example, ICS students long ago began to establish their own campus publications for circulation among students, such as Man Yan (《漫延》), Dao Cao Ren (《稻草人》) and Wen Chuang Sen Lin (《文创森林》). The UTAR Chinese Studies Society is also planning to organise the UTAR Chinese Literature Week and UTAR Intervarsity Chinese Literature Award next year to further cultivate the creative writing environment among students.”

Previously, she also won an international award from Taiwan’s 10th Ye Hong International Women’s Poetry Competition.

ICS lecturer shines in poetry competition


Tay Yi Lun

Biotechnology alumnus Tay Yi Lun’s winning entry titled “Mamak Stall (《嘛嘛克》)” earned him the First Prize in the Modern Poetry category. He walked away with a trophy and cash prize of RM5,000.

His winning poem was written during his internship at Taiwan’s National Cheng Kung University. He was inspired by the cultural environment in Taiwan but as time passed, started to miss his time in Kampar and the happy moments with friends at mamak stalls which are not found in Taiwan. The poem also framed the transition in mindset from the shift from student life to working life.

For him, his studies in UTAR were full of dreams, happiness and freedom. “Every day you see the blue sky and white clouds and unspecified birds around the campus. How could there be no literature among such beautiful scenery? Science and literature, these two seemingly parallel disciplines are intertwined around my life. Both are what I love and wish to implant on UTAR’s land by writing poetry.” As a student of science, his advice for juniors was to “create regardless of your programme. Literature is not the sole domain of language students. Try to realise it if you have ever dreamt of creating literature.”

His poetry anthology “If The Time Has Not Been Worn《如果时间尚未磨损》)”, which commemorates his three years of university study, collects all his poems and will be published in December 2016. He also took this opportunity to send his gratitude to his academic advisor Deputy Dean of Faculty of Science Dr Tee Chong Siang for writing the preface poem for his first publication.


Tan Jee Chin

Chinese Studies alumnus Tan Jee Chin’s winning entry titled “The Time Killing Epic (《弑时史诗》)” clinched him a Judge Award in the Modern Poetry category. He walked away with a trophy and cash prize of RM2,000. He is currently pursuing his postgraduate studies in Taiwan’s National Tsing Hua University.

His winning poem was about how to keep the freshness of love alive through literature. It stimulates the reader to think of how to protect their loved one when the decay of time comes to threaten their life together, with the ambivalent struggles reminiscent of an epic poem.

He shared his views on poetry writing, saying, “Winning an award is a boost that builds up the confidence for continuous writing, and encourages us to ponder on new themes to explore.” Not forgetting to send his gratitude to his lecturer Toh Teong Chuan, he said, “He is a teacher that puts a lot of heart into nurturing young writers. I really appreciate and am thankful for his encouragement throughout my writing journey.”

It is worth mentioning that Tay and Tan were proud winners at the 13th Sin Chew Hua Zong Literature Newcomer Award for the Modern Poetry category in year 2015.

Check here to read the news.

First prize in Newcomer Literature Award


Wong Siew Jye

Chinese Studies alumnus Wong Siew Jye’s winning entries titled “Long Journey (《远行》)” and “Requiem (《安魂曲》)” earned him Judge Awards in the Novel and Prose categories respectively. He walked away with two trophies and cash prizes totalling RM4,000. He is famous as a local Chinese songwriter and writer.

His winning novel “Long Jouney” is a story on leprosy patients, aimed to record the history behind this fading disease before it disappears before our eyes. Meanwhile, “Requiem” is his favorite piece of work, written about the people and things that he has met since his teenage years, and his stories on songwriting and rock music.

Wong has been a talented writer since his secondary school days and started taking part in literary competitions since his second year in UTAR. He has competed in the First UTAR Chinese Literature Awards, the National Intervarsity Chinese Literature Awards, the Xingyun Literature Awards, and the Southern Literature Awards, and achieved good results. Hailing from the first batch to graduate from the Chinese Studies programme, he still remembers fondly of the assistance and encouragement given by his teachers Ng Bung Chen, Dr Khor Boon Eng and Tiong Ee Ping.

His advice was to “read more, look more, observe more, and most importantly to live with an open heart to enhance your writing journey.”


Lee Xuan Chun

Chinese Studies alumnus Lee Xuan Chun’s winning entry titled “Drive Slowly (《慢速行驶》)” earned him a Judge Award in the Prose category. He walked away with a trophy and cash prize of RM2,000. As with Wong, he is a famous local writer and has achieved wins in various literature awards.

His winning prose is a touching story of him and his late father, concerning how his father faced the end of his life, the sadness he was left to face and how his life returned to normality after the death of his father. He said, “I wish to use this award to mourn my father. The award brings the opportunity for the prose to be more widely read, and, more importantly, for readers who have had the same experience to feel comforted.”

“I started to get actively involved in literary writing, reading and studies during my time in UTAR. I have really appreciated the guidance, enlightenment and inspiration shed by my teachers as the experiences accumulated during those times have shaped my attitude and view of life, and also enriched my literary journey.”

For juniors keen on writing, he advised, “A capable writer needs to have deep-rooted knowledge in writing, and the way to build up your knowledge is to read with sincerity, observe your surroundings carefully, and to be humble to all around you. A good piece of writing will reflect truly the glories and disgraces, the environment, era and atmosphere of the place we live in. Most important of all if you choose to pursue a life of writing is to nurture and treasure you writing ability and manage it well.”

The Hai-O Youth Literature Award was previously known as the Hai-O Literature Award. In order to coincide with the Malaysian Chinese Literary Festival, the writing competition reformed from an annual event to a biennial one, with the inclusion of an age limit of below 35 years old.

Click here to read “At a Place Named Alzheimer Sea (《在一个叫阿兹默海的地方》)”, “Mamak Stall (《嘛嘛克》)” and “The Time Killing Epic (《弑时史诗》)”.

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77978

Three wins in taekwondo


From left: Kong, Tan and Choong showing off their medals

Quantity Surveying student Tan Pei Lin, International Business student Choong Poh Yee, and Building and Property Management student Kong Wai Jian took home a Gold, Silver, and Bronze medal respectively at the 3rd Majlis Sukan IPTS Malaysia (MASISWA) – Taylor’s Taekwondo Championship 2016 held at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus on 4 and 5 November 2016.

“Their overall performance was better than the past year, although the number of medals decreased compared to last year​. The winners will also get a chance to be selected to represent Malaysia in the upcoming ASEAN University Games (AUG),” said Department of Student Affairs (Sungai Long Campus) Sports and Recreation Unit’s Ganavenoth Karunakaran.

Bronze medallist Kong said he was happy to be able to maintain his performance and promised to train harder, especially for next year’s Sukan Institusi Pendidikan Tinggi (SUKIPT) games.

Over 25 private universities and colleges took part in this competition. This championship was organised by MASISWA.

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77980

UTAR hosts second National Wushu Open Championship

In line with one of UTAR’s pillars of education — Physical and Mental Health — the university recognises that sports and recreational activities are an imperative part of a well-balanced lifestyle and integral to a well-rounded collegiate experience. Therefore, with the aim to inspire UTAR students to learn beyond the classroom, the UTAR National Wushu Open Championship 2016 was successfully held at Kampar Campus from 12 to 13 November 2016.


From left: Wong, Chin, Prof Choong, Ch’ng, Au, Pang and Cheng officiating the championship

Held for the second year running, the championship which saw more than 200 participants was initiated by the Perak Non-Islamic Affairs Unit, and organised by the UTAR Kampar Campus Wushu Club with technical support from the Wushu, Dragon, and Lion Dance Federation of Perak.

This year, the championship saw a total of three events, namely the sanda and taiji tuishou as well as the traditional taolu, which was introduced for the first time. The championship was aimed to introduce Wushu to the public as a form of martial arts. Apart from that, it also aimed to raise the standard of Wushu and to enhance networking between Wushu enthusiasts from other universities and associations, as well as to exchange knowledge and expertise on Wushu.

The two-day championship was divided into four categories — Junior Male (age 15 to 18), Senior Male (age 19 to 35), Junior Female (age 15 to 18) and Senior Female (age 19 to 35). The taiji tuishou was open to both males and females aged 15 and above while there was no age restriction for traditional taolu. On the other hand, the sanda event was open to both males and females and were categorised based on different weight categories.

Administrative Officer of Non-Islamic Affairs of Perak Ch’ng Teng Leong represented the guest of honour, Perak State Executive Council Member Dato’ Dr Mah Hang Soon, to officiate the opening ceremony.

Also present at the opening ceremony were UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Vice President of Wushu, Dragon, and Lion Dance Federation of Perak Au Kam Thin, Sanda event Head Judge Chin Kin Thong, Taiji Tuishou event Head Judge Cheng Chen Fuk, Traditional Taolu event Head Judge Wong Wai Leng, Advisor of UTAR Wushu Club of Kampar Campus Lee How Chinh, Co-Advisor of UTAR Wushu Club of Kampar Campus Lee Yu Jen and Organising Chairperson Pang Li Wen.

In his opening speech, Ch’ng enthused, “On behalf of Dato’ Mah, I would like to congratulate the organising committee for making this UTAR National Wushu Open Championship a success. It’s also heartening to see that UTAR students not only excel in academics but also are proactively involved in sports and other fields which make them well-rounded individuals.”

He added, “Sports and physical education is essential to the early development of children and the skills learned during physical education and sports contribute to the holistic development of young people. Through participation, youngsters learn about the significance of fundamental values such as honesty, teamwork, respect for themselves and others. It also provides a platform for youngsters to learn how to deal with competition and to cope with both winning and losing. These learning aspects highlight the impact of physical education and sports on a child’s social and moral development in addition to their physical skills and abilities.”

Prof Choong said, “On a mission for excellence in the advancement and dissemination of knowledge and expertise, UTAR always emphasises on nurturing the holistic development of the individual. Today’s wushu championship not only provides the students a platform to showcase their talent in martial arts, but also enhances their appreciation for Chinese culture, develops their soft skills especially in building confidence and discipline, boosts students’ interpersonal skills, and encourages the habit of lifelong learning. These are valuable learning opportunities outside the classroom which students should acquire as part of their education in the university. I hope the experience will encourage all students to be better achievers and contributors to society.”

Wushu Club Advisor Lee said this year’s championship was expected to draw more participants with the introduction of the traditional taolu event. He added, “Due to the standardisation of Wushu with only the sanda and taiji tuishou competitions found at international championships, many have forgotten about traditional Wushu. Hence, this is one of the efforts on our part to promote traditional Wushu.”

UTAR National Wushu Open Championship 2016 Organising Chairperson Pang added, “On behalf of the organising committee, we would like to thank all the parties who have supported and sponsored in the organising of this meaningful event. Through this event, we truly hope that we will be able to promote Wushu to the public. We believe that the sportsmanship and spirit of Wushu culture will convince you to practice them in your daily life for better health.”

The two-day championship was a hard fought tournament among all the teams. Nineteen out of 26 participants in the UTAR Wushu team won a total of 26 medals — two gold, 13 silver and 11 bronze.

The gold medallists were Foundation student Lee Yon Qing and Environmental Engineering student Yee Li Zheng in the Men’s Junior sanda event under 70-kg and in the Men’s Open sanda event above 95-kg respectively. The silver medallists were Industrial Engineering student Chua Wee Li, Chemistry student Kelvin Lau Ching and Biomedical Science student Loke How Wai in the Men’s Traditional taolu event under 30 years old; Biotechnology student Lim Yee Jin in the Women’s Open sanda event under 52-kg, Entrepreneurship student Hoe Jun Jian in the Men’s Open sanda event under 52-kg, Logistic and International Shipping student Chua Ling Wen in the Men’s Open sanda event under 52-kg, Psychology student Yaw Kah Yipp in the Men’s Open sanda event under 52-kg and Entrepreneurship student Danny Cheong Zian Zern in the Men’s Open sanda event under 52-kg.

The bronze medallists were Business Administration student Yap Peggy in the Women’s Traditional taolu event under 30 years old, Master of Science student Ng Wen Guang in the Men’s Open sanda event under 60-kg, Electronic Engineering student Tan Li Kar in the Men’s Open sanda event under 70-kg, Marketing student Choong Wing Onn in the Men’s Open sanda event under 75-kg, Entrepreneurship student Wee Chuan Chiu in the Men’s taiji tuishou event under 65-kg, Financial Economics student Lum Yong Sheng in the Men’s taiji tuishou event under 80-kg to 85-kg and Business Information Systems student Wong Weng Keen in the Men’s taiji tuishou event 85-kg.

The UTAR National Wushu Open Championship 2016 was sponsored by a generous assortment of businesses and philanthropists.


Athletes at the oath taking ceremony


Ng (in black) thrashing his opponent


UTAR athletes Yap (top) and Wee Li (bottom) during their traditional short weapon taolu routine


Traditional taolu sparring competition in progress


Sanda participants after the prize giving ceremony


Taiji Tuishou judges and athletes


Taolu judges and athletes after the prize giving ceremony

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=77989

MoU with Tianjin Chengjian University


Prof Li (left) and Prof Chuah with the signed agreements

UTAR and Tianjin Chengjian University (TCU) officially inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Kampar Campus on 18 November 2016.

The MoU will see UTAR and TCU exploring a wide spectrum of areas including collaboration on teaching and research, student and staff exchange, and programme development.

Signing on behalf of the parties were UTAR President Ir Prof Academician Dato’ Dr Chuah Hean Teik and TCU President Prof Li Zhongxian.

Delegates from TCU present at the ceremony were Dean for Academic Affairs Office Prof Mao Cui, Vice Dean for School of Civil Engineering Prof Yang Aiwu, School of Economics and Management Assoc Prof Wang Xiao and Section Chief of International Cooperation Office Wang Li; while the delegates from Brunsfield International Group were Director of Human Resources Goh Siew Chin, President of Brunsfield America Vincent Lim and Senior Manager of International Business Shirley Tan.

Also present at the ceremony were UTAR Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation Prof Ir Dr Lee Sze Wei, Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Director of Institute of Management and Leadership Development and Division of Community and International Networking Prof Dr Cheng Ming Yu, Faculty of Science Dean Assoc Prof Dr Lim Tuck Meng, Faculty of Information and Communication Technology Dean Assoc Prof Dr Liew Soung Yue, Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Dr Ng Choon Aun, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Dr Lai Soon Onn, Faculty of Business and Finance Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Peter Tan Sin Howe and UTAR staff.

Prof Chuah expressed his warm welcome to the delegates and gave a brief introduction of UTAR, Malaysia’s education system and the Chinese community in Malaysia. He said, “It is worth mentioning that UTAR is a not-for-profit and comprehensive university with affordable tuition fees whose growth was contributed by the Chinese community.” He added, “In recent years, the relations between Malaysia and China have become closer under The Belt and Road Initiative. Thus far, we have 33 higher education institutions from mainland China among our 230 collaborative partners.”

He also conveyed his gratitude to Brunsfield for bringing together UTAR and TCU. “I would like to send my gratitude to Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Ir Gan Thian Leong for the support and sponsorship to UTAR throughout the years. Brunsfield sponsored the endowed chair in Civil Engineering, bringing us new technologies to conduct research and development activities, and introduced us to potential collaborative partners.”

Impressed by the Kampar Campus’ beautiful scenery and UTAR’s rapid growth in a mere 14 years since its inception, Prof Li said, “I believe the success of UTAR is the culmination of the continuous efforts of UTAR staff and students, and is a model of educational excellence.”

He also gave a brief introduction about Tianjin, TCU and its programmes during the ceremony. He said, “TCU and UTAR offer similar programmes, such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Material Engineering, Business and Finance. Our visit to UTAR lays the cornerstone of our understanding of Malaysia’s educational landscape and the institutions that serve its people. We dearly cherish it and look forward to working closely with UTAR.”


Prof Chuah (left) and Prof Li delivering their remarks

The ceremony reached its highlight with the signatories being invited to sign the documents and subsequently ended with a souvenir presentation session.


From left: Wang, Prof Yang, Goh, Lim, Prof Mao, Prof Li, Prof Chuah, Prof Lee, Prof Choong, Tan and Prof Wang


Souvenir exchange between both parties

The ceremony was followed by a discussion on collaboration attended by the delegates and representatives from UTAR faculties.


The discussion on potential collaborations chaired by Prof Chuah and Prof Li


Prof Chuah introducing the history of UTAR to Prof Li and Lim


Prof Cheng (third from right) explaining the layout of UTAR Kampar Campus


The delegates at Dewan Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik during the campus tour

Tianjin Chengjian University (TCU), founded in 1978, is a regular university under the administration of the Tianjin Municipal Government. In order to serve the urbanisation and urban modernisation of China, TCU has constructed a mutually supportive development disciplinary system, consisting of six discipline groups, namely urban planning and architecture, urban construction, urban ecology and environment, urban economics and management, digital city, and urban culture.

Brunsfield International Group, founded in 1990, is recognised as a premier global property development and real estate investment and management group. Brunsfield Professor of Civil Engineering endowed chair was set up at the UTAR Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science on 18 March 2010 to conduct research and development activities in civil engineering.

Any fresh grads in degree accountancy looking for audit job in Singapore. Interested part may PM me.

can anyone comment on biotech course of utar?
I was shocked when I saw the total fee and I think my family will be able to afford this

This degree is held on Kampar Campus

Environment is good, but not sure about teaching qulity since I am not student for this course

You may have a look on lecturer profiles for this course on this link:
http://www.utar.edu.my/staffDirSearch.jsp?...&searchResult=Y

how about living expenses at kampar?the rental fee is acceptable for me but I not sure about expenses on food.

Not sure, since I am Sungai Long Campus student

In Sungai Long, estimated around RM5-RM8 per meal

I see,thanks for the info

hi guys, i am from sungai long and i am moving to kampar next sem. i've heard that the parking is complicated. I am wondering if i failed to get the sticker from the ballot draw, is there other ways to drive to school??

There are quite a lot of eateries in Kampar, ranging from budget to premium. The economy rice in the university's canteens and the ones outside (notably 33, 新街场 etc.) can be relatively affordable for an average meal of say, 1 meat + 2 veggies at ~RM5-6 or so

Most students with a car would still drive to school, just that the cars have to be parked outside of the gates. There are plenty of parking space outside of both the East and West gates, which one to park at depends on where your faculty is. That said, you will still need to walk a bit (~100-300m)

I happen to be a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Science, Kampar
Although I'm not in the Biotechnology department but I did study Biotech for both my degree and phD. Most of the biological courses are often interrelated.

Biotechnology is a great course to study as it covers a wide range of topics/technologies- a good pick if you are still undecided which area of biological sciences you would like to specialize in later on. However, the course is more suitable for one who has an interest and passion in science, and is okay with doing research (which sometimes involve sitting in the lab for long periods of time )

Science-related job prospects for biotech students include, research officer, lab officer, consultant, researcher, and many more (depending on which area you specialize)

For those who decide to pursue the subject further could opt for postgraduate studies- Master or phD. Job prospects include research officer, lecturer, professor etc.

Many of the techniques learnt during the course could be applied for commercialization as well, which is why we have quite a number of successful scientist-turn-businessman, well, businessman

Thanks for the sharing!

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=79045

Students named top ten


From left: Lee, Yan, Lim, Young and Chin with their prize, a Khind toaster

A team comprising Broadcasting students Young Yen Qi, Lee Kwan Li, Jonathan Lim and Chin Jia Pei were named as a Top Ten Finalist in the Khind Delivering Happiness Video Contest Prize Giving Ceremony held on 25 November 2016 at the Khind-Mistral office, Shah Alam.

Their video titled “Right tools for the right job” featured a comical approach used to outline the selling points of the Khind air fryer. It depicts an individual attempting to cook chicken nuggets with a hair dryer. Frustrated, the individual bought an air fryer and was seen enjoying his food at the end of the video.

“I’m very proud of their achievements. I believe what they’ve learned most throughout the contest was management skills, especially in the planning and coordination of the production shoot,” said Yan Yew Loong, the team’s advisor from the Department of Media, Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI).

“We barely knew each other as it’s our first time working on the same project together. Our idea came spontaneously and it turned out to be quite successful. Contests like this give us a hands-on opportunity to apply what we’ve learned in class,” Lee said.

Regarding improvements, Chin said their post production could have been better, especially the colour grading and lighting. The contest was part of an ongoing rebranding effort by Khind Malaysia. A total of 77 entries were submitted from several higher learning institutions in Malaysia.

The video can be viewed on YouTube here.

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=79048

Alumnus shines at business awards



UTAR alumnus Lee Ti Chou, currently the Executive Director at New Yew Seng Diesel, has received the Product and Service Excellence Award at the Sin Chew Business Excellence Awards 2016 and was named an Excellent Eagle at the most recent Golden Eagle Award.

Lee has won the two awards for two consecutive years since 2015. Besides, the alumnus also received several other small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) awards such as SME Young Entrepreneur Award 2015 from SME Association of Malaysia, Young Entrepreneur Award (Special Mention) from Star Outstanding Business Awards 2015, and SME 100 Fast Moving Award 2015 from SME Asia.

“It has been 11 years since I completed my studies at UTAR. As soon as I started my career, I have worked from ground up in order to comprehend the operations of a diesel trading business. Those days in training have made me an entrepreneur today,” said Lee, who graduated in 2005 from the pioneer batch of Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) students from UTAR Faculty of Accountancy and Management.

Lee enthused, “I am very proud to be a UTARian and I hope my achievements today will inspire my fellow juniors and that I can be a good role model for those who intend to pursue an entrepreneurial dream.”

“I would like to express my gratitude and dedicate my achievements not only to my family, but also to all my lecturers and tutors at my alma mater. I am thankful that UTAR has provided a holistic education in teaching, shaping, guiding and influencing me in both my academics and life. I believe UTAR has certainly impacted many other individuals out there and inspired them to excel in many ways,” Lee emphasised.

Lee is also a member of the Malaysian Business Champions Club Programme by Secretariat for the Advancement of Malaysian Entrepreneurs (SAME).

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=79049

Researchers receive MTSF grant

Researchers Dr Tee Shiau Foon from the Department of Chemical Engineering, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) and Dr Tan Ji from the Department of Agriculture and Food Science, Faculty of Science (FSc) each received a Year 2016 Malaysia Toray Science Foundation (MTSF) Science & Technology Research Grant at the InterContinental Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on 6 December 2016.

Funded by the Toray Science Foundation, Japan, Dr Tee and Dr Tan received the grants that carry RM20,000 and RM25,000 respectively. They will fund Dr Tee and Dr Tan’s research projects respectively titled “Association between DNA methylation of HTR24 gene and cognitive function in schizophrenia demonstrated using multiplex families” and “Molecular taxonomy of spiny-backed orb-weavers (Araneae; Araneidae) and related genera in Peninsular Malaysia”.


From left: Dr Tee, Dr Tang, UTAR Adjunct Prof Academician Prof Emeritus Dr Yong Hoi Sen, UTAR President Ir Prof Academician Dato’ Dr Chuah Hean Teik, Dr Tan and Dr Ong

“I would like to thank my research collaborator Dr Tang Pek Yee, family members and the love of my life because I could not have achieved this without their endless support and encouragement,” Dr Tee said.

Dr Tee’s research aimed to determine the role DNA methylation of the HTR2A gene plays in schizophrenia susceptibility. It has been reported to be upregulated in the brain or platelets of schizophrenic patients and has a central role in the circuitry of cognition and emotions, where the psychobiological domains are usually altered by schizophrenia.


From left: Dr Ong and Dr Tan with his grant

“I feel very lucky and privileged to be able to receive this grant considering the huge spike in applications this year. I also feel grateful to my co-supervisor Dr Ong Ching Ang and my mentors for their valuable advice and guidance,” Dr Tan said.

“My study focuses on a unique group of spiders in Malaysia known as spiny spiders. These spiders possess long and pointed spines on their abdomen and are often strikingly coloured. The study will apply the genetic data obtained to better understand the evolutionary relatedness of various species of spiny spiders within the region,” Dr Tan said.

“I also hope that the results of this grant would encourage more people to learn and better understand spiders, which may eventually lead to greater discoveries in our time,” he continued.

Source: http://www.utar.edu.my/econtent_sub.jsp?fc...contentid=79074

Campus Beautification: FBF, FICT and FEGT

The Kampar Campus is undergoing a transformation as open spaces around the campus are turned into makeshift canvases for rotating art installations created by students and faculties to beautify the surroundings. The project is all part of a larger effort in both campuses to create a sustainable, environmentally-friendly and vibrant learning hub for all.

Initiated by the late UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Assoc Prof Dr Teh Chee Seng, the first three instalments in Kampar Campus were done by the Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF), Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FICT) and Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT).

At FBF, students are greeted with a large poster featuring three inspirational quotes from renowned entrepreneurs. They are iflix Group COO and iflix Malaysia CEO Azran Osman-Rani, AirAsia Founder and Director Tan Sri Anthony Francis “Tony” Fernandes, and Jobstreet Bhd CEO and Founder Mark Chang Mun Kee.


Inspirational quotes greeting students before they enter their classes

Located behind the bicycle parking area, the large poster was the collective idea of the Faculty Management Committee (FMC), and was carried out by FBF Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Yew King Tak and FBF Lecturer Kuek Thiam Yong. They believed that the poster will be a source of inspiration to instil students with the “can do” spirit, as they venture into the business field after they have graduated.

FICT on their part had 20 posters placed at the ground floor of its block for the beautification project. Quotes from Information Technology (IT) visionaries feature on each poster, including those from the late Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO of Apple Inc. Steve Jobs, CEO of Hewlett-Packard (HP) Carly Fiorina, Founder and Executive Chairman of Alibaba Group Jack Ma, and Co-Founder of Microsoft Paul Gardner Allen.


Some of the quotes found at the ground floor

Themed ‘A History of the Internet’, the idea was to create awareness and a sense of appreciation among students for the beauty and influence of ICT in their daily lives through these posters. “We started by collecting good quotes from faculty staff and their response was overwhelming. They were very supportive of the project and we received many ideas from the FMC. We then selected the best 20 quotes which reflected the main theme of the project to be place at specified locations,” said Project Leader FICT Head of Postgraduate Degree Programmes Dr Khor Siak Wang, who was assisted by Lecturer Lim Ean Heng, and Tutor Tan Lyk Yin.

In addition to that, FEGT’s part of the project was themed ‘Engineering and Technology for a Better World’, and incorporated three major components, namely ‘Environmentally Friendly’ mural art, motivational posters and inspirational stickers, which impart knowledge in various disciplines, such as environmental awareness, recycling, motivational quotes and calories burned walking up stairs.

The project was carried out by Dr Khor Soo Cheen and Tan Zi Yi, lecturers from the Department of Construction Management parked under FEGT.

Dr Khor enthused, “We want to create a beautiful environment for our students, guests, staff and our community. We also aimed to spread knowledge on what is right for the environment. We believe the beauty of the campus enhances the learning experiences of our students.”


The ‘Environmentally Friendly’ mural art welcoming students and staff


Stairs labelled with the count of calories burned taking the stairs to encourage exercise


Some framed quotes found at the ground floor of FEGT