- MOVERS & SHAKERS -

CONTENTS The Sunway Education Group SPARKING CONVERSATIONS No. 2, Jalan Universiti 47500 Darul Ehsan T: 603-5638 7176 E: [email protected] sunway.edu.my/college

Sunway University T: 603-7491 8622 E: [email protected] sunway.edu.my/university

Monash University Malaysia T: 603-5514 6000 E: [email protected] monash.edu.my

Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences T: 603-5514 6000 E: [email protected] Movers & Shakers med.monash.edu.my 03 Sparking Conversations Sunway International School 05 Seek Your Own Path T: 603-7491 8070 08 The Future Is E: [email protected] sis.sunway.edu.my 13 Introducing SQL Accounts Winners of the AUSMAT Pitch Competition 2018 15 Encouraging Critical Thinking Sunway College Bahru 17 Where Everyone Is Significant T: 607-359 6880 The Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) Pitch Competition 2018 held recently 19 6 Challenges In Monash Science Cup E: [email protected] attracted a total participation of 81 students from various international and sunway.edu.my/jb private schools. Each participant had to submit a video of their 3-minute speech 10 Celebrating Goodbyes And Change Sunway College Ipoh in the preliminary round before proceeding to the finals. T: 605-545 4398 Face To Face E: [email protected] For the finals of the AUSMAT Pitch Competition held at Sunway College, the top 04 No Substitute For Hard Work sunway.edu.my/ipoh 10 finalists had to deliver a 3-minute speech based on their submitted video to 06 Exposure To More Sunway College Kuching a panel of judges comprising Vanitha Satchithanadan, Director of AUSMAT; 09 Wielding A Sabre T: 6082-451 221 / 573 251 / 573 252 A. Alagarani, lecturer of Victoria University (VU) Undergraduate Programme, Sunway College; and Professor Stephen Hall, Head of Centre for English 12 The Right Amount E: [email protected] swck.edu.my Language Studies (CELS), . 14 Ruled By Mathematics 16 The Art Of Adult-ing Sunway-TES Priyaa Thiruventhiran Centre for Accountancy Excellence Aimed at spreading prodigious ideas to spark conversations and arouse curiosity 18 Accelerated ACA Pathway T: 603-7491 8622 through succinct, powerful, persuasive dialogues; seven consolation prizes of Social Report E: [email protected] RM5,000 bursaries each for the AUSMAT programme were given out that day. sunway.edu.my/college/sunwaytes 07 I-Care Focus On PAWS Claiming third place with a RM10,000 bursary for the AUSMAT programme, Sunway International Business Megan Elizabeth Teoh-John from Heads Up Academy spoke on “Education”. & Management Believing exams to be a culprit that hinders true learning, Megan emphasised T: 603-7493 7023 the importance of an education system that encourages, inspires and provides E: [email protected] students with the right tools. This will enable them to proceed with what they love sibm.com.my and help to nurture their interests. Shanghai Sunway Financial Training Co. Ltd. UP2 or UPP or Uniquely Purposeful Programmes is a quarterly publication that represents a Coming in second with his speech, “Am I Stupid?”, Marcus Chai Zhen Yang progressive Sunway College. Owned and governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, this T: 603-7491 8622 leading private institution of higher learning is forging ahead towards the next level E: [email protected] from Nobel International School said, “Instead of telling us to memorise, make of excellence. sunway.edu.my/college/ssft us understand it. Instead of telling us to get an A, tell us why we should. Instead of making us study hard, make us fall in love with studying”. In urging Malaysian Marcus Chai Zhen Yang Sunway Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Advisor : Dr Elizabeth Lee UP2 is published by Sunway College Culinary Arts educators to revamp the education system, he won a RM15,000 bursary for the Editorial & : Jerrine Koay T: 603-5632 1188 AUSMAT programme. Photography Team Katherine Kee Should you have any comments, E: [email protected] Tan May Ling kindly contact: lecordonbleu.com.my Winning the heart of the judges with her speech “Stereotyping Body Image”, Concept & Design : Writers Ink The Public Relations Department Priyaa Thiruventhiran of Sri Desa Learning Centre spoke of the increased Printer : Gloverin Sunway Education Group Jeffrey Cheah Institute on Southeast Asia No 3 Jalan SR 3/7, T: 603-7491 8622 T: 603-7491 8622 dissatisfaction with their bodies being on the rise for adults and young people. Taman Serdang Raya 4, Seksyen 3 E: [email protected] jci.edu.my Asking society to stop putting people down for the features that make them 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor www.sunway.edu.my/college unique, Priyaa made a plea to end body image stereotyping in order to put a stop to the increase of dysmorphia. As champion of the AUSMAT Pitch Competition, the Year 10 student took home a full scholarship to pursue the Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed AUSMAT programme at Sunway College. or implied in UP2 are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of All ten finalists were given a certificate of commendation and individual trophies. Megan Elizabeth Teoh-John the Sunway Education Group. 03 - FACE TO FACE - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

SEEK YOUR OWN PATH NO SUBSTITUTE FOR HARD WORK Gathering at the Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) graduation to witness 430 achievers complete their first step on the education pathway, students, lecturers, parents, friends and well-wishers were on hand to congratulate the Having made a visit to England when he was 11 years old, the dream to study in Oxford is now a reality for 20-year old graduates of the May cohort. David Lau Wen Chung. Heading to St.Hilda’s College in Oxford to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Jurisprudence (Law) end of September, David hopes to spend the next three years being part of something bigger than himself. David Amongst all MUFY providers worldwide, MUFY Sunway College topped all eleven subjects offered with Kee th hopes to make a positive difference in the world one day as the development of law over the centuries and modern Pei Jiin receiving the MUFY Excellence Award for achieving the Highest Overall Score of 98.63% worldwide. Now in its 19 law intrigue him. He believes law is his calling as he has always loved reading and writing from a very young age. year at Sunway College, MUFY has had more than 13,000 students embrace the vibrant, holistic learning environment offered at the Sunway College campus. For David, the A-Level was a big step up from SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia). The OPEN Day visits David made The academic accomplishments of 206 students have made them eligible for Monash University scholarships in to HELP, Taylor’s and Sunway helped him to decide on Sunway as he liked the overall feel of the campus, the Malaysia or Australia as they achieved an overall High Distinction score. The Monash University High Achiever Awards for available facilities plus the friendly and knowledgeable student volunteers. outstanding academic performance were given to 85 students who maintained an average score of 89% and above. With Psychology being his favourite For emerging top among all providers worldwide in their respective subjects, 47 students from the May cohort were given subject, David enjoyed the lessons Awards of Excellence. taught by Ms Ida Ngui as the classes were kept interesting for In his speech, Lee Thye Cheong, Director of MUFY spoke of the tireless efforts made by the MUFY Student Council in students were often asked to probe building the spirit of community through the MUFY Cup, MUFY Talent Quest and MUFY Games. Proud of MUFY students beyond the syllabus and to get to for using their talents to improve the lives of others through MUFY Sharity Day, inventing a device for the visually impaired the crux of any issue. Having learnt via the Monash Innovation Challenge and through launching a book to inspire others, Lee encouraged the students to a lot from both his fellow classmates continue to apply themselves to making a positive difference. and lecturers, David began In her speech to the graduating cohort, Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and preparing for the examinations a Sunway University gently reminded the graduates to be mindful of the words of wisdom that have been shared. As they few months earlier by drawing up a celebrate their achievements, Dr Lee shared her concerns about the myth of a ‘perfect life’ which is often showcased study timetable, making notes plus via social media. consulting friends and lecturers on topics he was unsure of. With a focus on learning that is relevant to the world, Dr Lee hoped the graduates have come to understand their role in community with the help of their friends and lecturers. Requesting the graduates to chart their own course in life, Dr A Sunway scholarship recipient in Lee spoke of how graduation is the promise of new beginnings and asked that they be fearless and courageous in their the A-Level, David chose to quit pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. the football team as the rigorous demands of his studies meant he On behalf of the graduating cohort, valedictorian Matteus Lim thanked the lecturers for being the Most Valued Players had less time for football training. (MVPs) in their quest for success. Appreciating the strong support structure provided by Sunway College, he urged his Spending up to ten hours of study fellow graduates to continue stoking the fire within themselves so that they may continue to shed a light for themselves every day during the two months and others on their paths through life. before his examinations, David felt the results of his efforts were worth it as he scored 3A* for Mathematics, Economics and Psychology plus an A for Law.

Whilst waiting for his results, David spent four months of his time working for a lawyer. By following the lawyer in his daily routines, David learnt to deal with clients, draft letters, reading through Kee Pei Jiin receiving the MUFY Excellence Award Valedictorian Matteus Lim contracts and it was an opportunity from Dr Elizabeth Lee for David to experience the world of legal practice, outside of law textbooks and lectures. David also worked for RC Deaf Missions which gifted him with a newfound appreciation for the resourcefulness and optimism of those who have hearing challenges.

Having learnt much during his gap year after completing his A-Levels, David believes that to go far in life, there is no substitute for hard work. Very much looking forward to beginning his time in Oxford, David aspires to be the best person he can possibly be as he wants to always challenge and spur himself on to greater heights as a lawyer, a friend and a member of society. MUFY Award recipients 04 05 - FACE TO FACE - - SOCIAL REPORT -

EXPOSURE TO MORE I-CARE FOCUS ON PAWS

PAWS, a non-profit animal shelter in Petaling Jaya recently received an injection of funds from the students and lecturers in the Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) programme. Through their yearly charitable drive at AUSMAT I-Care day, the students and lecturers of AUSMAT chose to focus their efforts on contributing the proceeds of the day to the welfare of over 500 dogs and cats under the care of PAWS. With so many different things happening every day, Sunway Special Scholarship Director of the AUSMAT Programme, Vanitha Satchithanadan commented on the excitement and buzz generated at 2017 recipient Rachel Goh Pei Shyuan this year’s I-Care Day. Thanking the team of lecturers, Organising Chair and Senior Lecturer Hanushia Palpanavan plus appreciates the important role her the AUSMAT Student Council for their efforts, the 7-km AUSMAT I-Care Run kicked off at 7am on a Saturday. Campus Foundation in Arts (FIA) lecturers have security and auxiliary police personnel were on hand to assist with the AUSMAT I-Care Run. played in helping her to prepare for her undergraduate studies in Sunway Attracting more than 600 participants, boxer and mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter André Loh-Max placed first in the University. AUSMAT I-Care Run. Currently in his first semester at AUSMAT, this self-confessed animal lover was happy to participate as Andre wanted to contribute to a good cause. To help enhance and make a clearer pathway for herself, Rachel chose the In planning and executing the I-Care Run, President of the AUSMAT Student Council Yap Yi June cited teamwork and one-year FIA programme as aspects communication as essentials to getting things done. Balancing her studies with her Student Council role, AUSMAT I-Care like the syllabus, the study environment, Day has aided her in sharpening her time management skills. the campus and the people caught her eye. Knowing how to adapt to Secretary of the AUSMAT Student Council, first semester student Olivia Bong Kah Wai shared the Council had fun different environments proved to be a planning and organising the entire event from the I-Care Run to the bazaar. Throughout the day, AUSMAT students challenge for Rachel, but the exposure volunteered as first aid workers, route marshals, photographers and provided manning for the seven booths at the to both academic and practical based bazaar. The booths offered t-shirts for sale, food and beverage plus a photo booth. assignments allowed FIA students like Rachel to experience planning events, Passionate about educating and raising social awareness among AUSMAT students for a chosen charity, Olivia shared visiting an orphanage and appreciating that the Student Council was looking forward to further collaborations with other non-governmental organisations Sunway workers, the “kakak” and (NGOs), like a refugee learning centre. “abang” who helped make the campus cleaner and better.

Becoming more independent and mature, Rachel has learnt to better manage her studies, her piano sessions and the extra activities which required many meetings and planning. More patient and understanding of other cultures now, Rachel was on the FIA student committee and a committee member of the Sunway Ambassador Leadership Trek (S.A.L.T.) handling public relations. S.A.L.T taught Rachel to frame the public relations for this event as part of a bigger picture and enabled her to look AUSMAT students selling t-shirts at one of the booths during the at different perspectives. Being involved in Participants of the AUSMAT I-Care Run I-Care charity drive S.A.L.T made her feel like part of a family, working together with her team members and being there for each other.

Having shared her success in “My Sunway Story” feature, Rachel has used the opportunity to contribute her personal story and give tips to other aspiring students through social media and being featured on the cover of the Sunway Special Scholarship 2018 magazine.

With all the ups and downs she has experienced in her year in the FIA programme, Rachel believes the FIA lecturers are the most nurturing teachers on campus so it is only natural she would advise future FIA students to listen to the lecturers. Be truthful, be thankful, be grateful for the people around you and for yourself is Rachel’s advice; as she envisions that when she looks back on this in future, she will treasure all these moments.

A recipient of the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship, Rachel has chosen to pursue the 3-year BA (Hons) in Communication programme. In making this her choice, Rachel hopes to learn more, excel more through experiencing new kind of things along with getting to know more people with different backgrounds and stories. She hopes to be happy and satisfied with her choice ten or twenty years into the future as Rachel is hopeful this pursuit is right for her.

All set for the AUSMAT I-Care Run

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THE FUTURE IS WIELDING A SABRE

Believing that every win and every loss is a part of a greater plan, 18-year old Natania Tai formerly from the Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) at Sunway College has been involved in competitive fencing since 2012. Now specialising in sabre which is aggressive, fast and requires split-second decision making; Natania clinched the gold medal at SUKIPT 2018 (Higher Education Institute Sports Meet), the gold medal at MMU (Multimedia University) Championship 2018 and a bronze medal at the 2nd ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) Fencing University Championship 2018.

For Natania, Sunway always seemed to be the best choice for college and university because of opportunities like sporting support, useful facilities, and a healthy college environment (smoke free campus). Attracted to CIMP because of the grading system and the subjects she had interest in, Natania shared she works better with coursework, rather than exams as she has the time to prepare to the best of her abilities.

Citing her breakfast club friends as the best bits about CIMP, Natania thinks CIMP taught her to be creative and manage her time, as the teachers tended to assign tests and coursework at the same time. Having to train about eight hours a week at the fencing club, Natania has also had to schedule her school work around her fixed training SUNMUN Secretariat times. In fencing, the competitive culture is filled with respect for the In the span of one and a half months before the fourth Sunway Model United Nations (SUNMUN) conference, the opponent as evidenced by saluting Secretariat members toiled away at making this year’s conference a noteworthy success for the delegates and your opponent before commencing participants. Choosing to be a voice for the youth of Malaysia, SUNMUN 2018 was the result of the efforts by a small the bout and unmasking before shaking but passionate community of people who believe in a better Malaysia. Gathering a total of 280 delegates, this year’s hands after the bout. At times, it still SUNMUN “The Future Is” got off to a promising start as the official opening by Yang Berhormat Michelle Ng Mei Sze gets extremely hot for Natania under all inspired many with her New Malaysia speech. that protective gear, in spite of the air- conditioning in the competition venue. Over the next 3 days of SUNMUN, the debates by the represented councils were lively, productive and occasionally chaotic. “The Hague International Model UN” format (THIMUN) councils included The United Nations Human Rights With her dad being her biggest Council (UNHRC), the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the United Nations Women Council (UNWC) and the supporter from the very beginning, World Health Organisation (WHO). UNHRC had a discussion on sex workers and their legalities, as well as human rights Natania has him to remind her that in the context of businesses whereas UNGA discussed issues of biological warfare and the issue of nuclear proliferation although winning is great, the fact she in the Middle East. UWNC discussion was on the prevention of rape culture and equality in education whereas WHO enjoys her competitive fencing makes covered issues of child malnutrition and mental health, as well as the stigmas associated with mental health. him happy. For Natania, screaming at her fencing matches reminds her of her The “Harvard Model UN” format (HMUN) councils differed from the traditional THIMUN councils as the debates purpose in life which is to fight for those conducted were controlled by the delegates, instead of the Council Chairs. The HMUN councils included the United who have given her the opportunities Nations Security Council (UNSC), the European Union (EU), SUNMUN’s unique United States Senate x Youth Assembly in life. From her coach and team who (USSxYA) and the crisis council in the form of United Nations Futuristic Security Council (UNFSC). UNSC discussed the have pushed her to improve beyond Rohingya Crisis and the situation in South Sudan whereas EU discussed the reform of the Eurozone and the creation of her limits to her family for their moral an EU army. USSxYA discussed the reform of gun control in the United Nations and the UNFSC took on a hypothetical and financial support to her religious situation where the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had been compromised by an unknown threat in the year 2050. beliefs, Natania believes her growth as an athlete has come from the principles On the evening of day two, the delegates were treated to socials in the evening where games, performances and all she learnt at home and in her activities. sorts of merriment were created to help the delegates relax before commencing the final day of SUNMUN. Currently prepping for her next bout On the final day of SUNMUN, inspired closing speeches by the Secretary Generals moved the delegates and awards for of competitive fencing, Natania thinks Best Delegate and Social Kings were given out by the SUNMUN Secretariat. After a thrilling three days of SUNMUN’s “The she will probably stay in Sunway to Future Is”, the conference came to a close and will remain a beacon of wonderful memories for many of the delegates. complete her first degree. For Natania, working on her school work in every spare moment and not letting the work pile up has enabled her to manage her year in CIMP. She advises future CIMP students to take subjects that interest them as the passion for the subject will help them to pull through in their studies.

EU UNHRC UNGA Lobbying

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The Maple Leaf Award was given to Raja CELEBRATING GOODBYES AND CHANGE Imran Shah Raja Amin in recognition of his strong academic performance and active participation in extra-curricular activities. A state level football player in the Selangor PKNS Football Club, Raja Imran participated in the National under-19 football league.

A celebration of the times they have had, Sunway College CIMP valedictorian Yashwenee Selvaraju requested her fellow graduates to use the graduation as an opportunity to change their perception of goodbyes before they embark on greater adventures.

Sunway International School celebrated their first batch of Ontario Grade 12 programme graduates by awarding Nyugen Thu Thao Graduates pose for a group photo with Subject Awards for English, College Preparation and Mathematics of Data At the recent Canadian International Matriculation Yashwenee Selvaraju and Ethan Schewaga with Puan Sri Susan Cheah and Her Excellency Ms Julia Bentley Management together with the Jeffrey Cheah Programme (CIMP) graduation ceremony, more than Scholastic Award. 300 Sunway College and Sunway International School (SIS) students took to the stage to receive their Ontario Volunteering 115 hours for teaching, reading Secondary School Diplomas (OSSD). 137 students and writing to students in a Special Education received the Ontario Scholar award and 65 students Programme, Maeesha Farzana Seraj received took home the Community Service award. the Community Service award. The Vice President of the Grade 12 SIS Student Council, In her welcome remarks, Senior Executive Director of Maeesha also assisted at the SIS Library Sunway Education Group and Sunway University, Dr and volunteered in her native country of Elizabeth Lee commented, ”At Sunway, I am happy Bangladesh at a medical college. to say that when it comes to community service, most of our CIMP and SIS students make the effort to go the Presented with the Maple Leaf Award, extra mile, with quite a few committing more than the President of the Grade 12 SIS Student Council required 10 hours.” Nicholas Loke Sai Kit served as an active member of the Futsal Club and SIS Model Garnering the most awards for the day was Livia Alfian United Nations. A peer tutor for Mathematics of the CIMP who received the Governor General’s and English at SIS, he also volunteered as an Medal for Academic Achievement; Subject Awards English teacher at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bukit for Analyzing Current Economics Issues, English 4C and Lanjan, working with children of the Temuan Mathematics of Data Management; the Jeffrey Cheah people (an orang asli community). Scholastic Award and the Jeffrey Cheah Entrance Livia Alfian receiving the Governor General’s Medal from Scholarship by Sunway University in collaboration with Her Excellency Ms Julia Bentley Valedictorian for SIS, Ethan Schewaga asked Lancaster University. Maeesha Farzana, recipient of the Community Service Award with Heath Kondro his fellow graduates to focus on setting the path for change and be examples of the To receive their OSSD, students are required to change that they want to see in the world. complete a minimum 10 hours of volunteering. The graduating cohort contributed an average 30 hours Joining in the celebrations for the completion individually. CIMP students raised RM28,677 during their of the Ontario Grade 12 Programme were ‘Sales Day’ on campus for INSANI (Inisiatif Sokongan their teachers, family and friends. Guests for Autisme Nouri) Autism Charity, in support of the the ceremony included Her Excellency Ms development of autism centres for low-income families Julia Bentley, High Commissioner of Canada as part of the Business Leadership Community Project. to Malaysia; His Excellency Mr Mohamed CIMP students also participated in this year’s Multiple Beram, Ambassador to Libya and his family; Sclerosis Walk where they volunteered and helped Puan Sri Datin Seri (Dr) Susan Cheah, EXCO create awareness of the disabling disease on the Member, Sunway Group; Dr Elizabeth Lee, central nervous system. Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University; Professor Pua For volunteering 684 hours in the past year, Alexa Cheah Eng Chong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Sunway Shen Mae received the Community Service award for University; John Mackle, Director, Canadian organising the Annual Youth Camp, being the Youth International Matriculation Programme, Leader and Mentor in the Worship Team and Trainings, Sunway College and Heath Kondro, Principal being an active member of the Organising Committee of Sunway International School. for the Youth Conference (Generation Now) and for her participation in the Youth Ministry of SIBKL (Sidang Injil Borneo Kuala Lumpur). Raja Imran, recipient of the Maple Leaf Award Alexa Cheah Shen Mae with Dr Elizabeth Lee with John Mackle 10 11 - FACE TO FACE - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

THE RIGHT AMOUNT INTRODUCING SQL ACCOUNTS

Having a brother who had done the Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) and having listened to friends who did the same programme, choosing Sunway College was a no-brainer for JPA (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam) government scholar Siveshan Silvam. The facilities, the talented lecturers and the way the assessments were divided throughout the whole year had Siveshan thinking constant revision throughout the year would enable him to better recall the things he learnt.

Discovering AUSMAT to be an amazing course with many benefits, Siveshan had five lecturers within AUSMAT who made lessons fun and interesting. Time management was tricky for there were many assessments within that one year but Siveshan counts the time hanging out during lunch, free periods and after college with his friends as some of his best experiences in AUSMAT.

For Sivesham, studying just the right amount is necessary and crossing that limit does him very little good. Hence, he got involved in becoming a Chemistry and Physics student mentor. In this role, he would station himself at the AUSMAT hub to do revision and assist any students who had questions related to the subjects or work on Chemistry worksheets and test papers with the assigned mentees.

Sivesham also participated in the International Medical University’s Science Discovery Challenge with two of his friends. They managed to be the only Sunway College AUSMAT group to make it to the semi-final round of this quiz competition. Sivesham also volunteered through Sunway Student Volunteers (SSV) and remembers fondly having to wake up as early as 3am one morning to help organise some of the events conducted by SSV. He had a lot of fun participating in the Ausmazing Race and he thoroughly enjoyed Teachers’ Appreciation Day and I-Care Run organised by the AUSMAT student council. (from left) Ong Bee Wei and Desmond Law Hoe Yen of EStream Software pose for a photo with Teo Ee Sing and Lillian Liew of Sunway College His time in AUSMAT has enabled him to set priorities, appreciating Working together with EStream Software, Sunway College is the first institution in the Sunway Education Group to his parents, lecturers and friends for introduce the SQL Accounts computing software into their Diploma in Accounting programme. To be utilised in the their help. Studying a little every day, teaching of the ‘Computerised Accounting System’ subject, SQL Accounts is Malaysia’s number one accounting making simplified notes, attempting software catering to small and medium enterprises. practice questions, pasting notes on the bedroom wall and jotting down The memorandum of understanding (MOU) for introducing SQL Accounts was signed between the Executive Director questions to ask his friends or lecturers of Sunway College, Teo Ee Sing and Managing Director of EStream Software, Desmond Law. Signed in May this year, the next day has been some of the MOU was witnessed by Director of Sunway Diploma Studies, Adawiah Norli Yusuf; Head of Diploma in Professional the methods of study Sivesham Accounting and Finance, Sunway Diploma Studies, Lillian Liew in the presence of EStream Software Marketing Manager, employed during AUSMAT. Christopher Liew; Education Advisor of EStream Software, Ong Bee Wei; lecturers and students of the Diploma in Accounting programme. His efforts during that one year has seen Sivesham achieving an ATAR The ‘Computerised Accounting System’ syllabus covers the full set accounts, in-depth practices, zero-rate Goods of 98.8 for the Western Australian and Services Tax (GST) implementation plus Sales and Services Tax (SST) calculations, handling of foreign currency Certificate of Excellence (WACE) transactions, stock control accounts and payroll accounts. More than 180,000 companies and over 600,000 accounting in 2017. Sivesham is excited to and business professionals use the flagship products of SQL Account and SQL Payroll in their daily operations and business pursue the Bachelor of Medicine transactions. and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in Monash University Malaysia. The Diploma in Accounting programme at Sunway College is designed to equip students with functional and personal On a full government scholarship, competencies while providing a broad business perspective relating to the needs of business organisations. The students Sivesham shared his family is thrilled are to receive a Certificate of Completion from EStream Software upon successful completion of the ‘Computerised that he is able to fulfil his childhood Accounting System’ subject. dream of becoming a doctor and being able to help those who need Students who successfully complete the Diploma in Accounting can either pursue professional accounting qualifications help. Hoping to eventually become offered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or Institute of Chartered Accountants in England a specialised surgeon, Sivesham and Wales (ICAEW). Students can opt to pursue the Bachelor of Business, Victoria University at Sunway College or the BSc thinks learning to be more sociable (Hons) in Accounting and Finance at Sunway University or other business-related degree programmes. and managing his priorities better in AUSMAT are key to his doing well in Monash University.

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RULED BY MATHEMATICS ENCOURAGING CRITICAL THINKING

Emerging a happier person, more outspoken and more confident, 20-year old Mok Siao Chi from Selangor credits Sunway College A-Level for transforming her life tremendously. A JPA (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam) bursary scholar, Siao Chi learnt about Sunway College when she represented Catholic High School in the Maths and Logic Challenge. Siao Chi came for the Open Day and was impressed by the numerous Physics and Chemistry demonstrations in the laboratory.

Having always wanted to pursue an academically challenging pre-university programme, Siao Chi was surprised to achieve Top in Malaysia for Cambridge International A Level in Chemistry and Physics; and First Place for Best Across Three Cambridge A Level in the November 2017 Cambridge Assessment International Education. Winners of the Math and Logic Challenge 2018 with Dr Elizabeth Lee, Cheng Mien Wee, Ruth Cheah Wong Lei Lei, Lee Lip Seong and lecturers from the A-Level programme, Sunway College Finding Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Further Mathematics really interesting, Siao Chi Now in its twelfth year, the Sunway College derived the greatest satisfaction from solving Math and Logic Challenge attracted a the challenging, exotic questions in her Further total participation of 345 students and the Mathematics tutorials. For Siao Chi, Further involvement of 76 teachers from 61 schools Mathematics helped her to hone problem-solving from , Johor, Perak, , , skills and enabled her to think out of the box. Pahang, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Negeri Sembilan in the initial State Challenge. A yearly To excel in all subjects, Siao Chi relied on thinking event to promote excellence in mathematics and understanding every single detail of the amongst secondary school students, the subject matter. Attempting past papers and trying National Challenge finally narrowed down the to make sense of the suggested answers in the number of competing teams to 174. marking scheme was another method of study she used. She chose to consult the lecturers for Those present for the National Challenge included their assistance when unsure and for Mathematics Cheng Mien Wee, Director, Pre-University Studies, subjects, she chose to comprehend the theorems, Sunway College and Executive Director, Sunway then learnt to apply them. International School; Ruth Cheah, Director, A-Level Programme and Chairperson of the Liking Chemistry theories for explaining many Sunway College Math and Logic Challenge; things in everyday life, she found the best bits Wong Lei Lei, Director of Marketing, Sunway First Runner-Up duo Lim Gao Tek and Lim Chuen Tek about the A-Level were the caring, friendly and Education Group and parents. with their teacher and Dr Elizabeth Lee highly experienced lecturers. Preparing for A2 examinations in 3 months was a challenge as Siao Chi and her friends had to submit their university At the National Challenge, the participants were judged based on their individual challenge and the 2-member team applications and prepare themselves for university challenge scores. The top three teams from each participating state took home a certificate of commendation. The admission interviews at the same time. second runner-up team came from Hin Hua High School, . Both Lim Ying Chuan and Lim Li Xiang each took home an individual trophy, a certificate of commendation plus a Sunway College A-Level bursary worth RM10,000 and or Outside of class, Sunway Robotics Club was an a Sunway University degree bursary worth RM24,000 for studies in Actuarial Studies or Financial Analysis or Financial opportunity for Siao Chi to learn some basic Economics. Hin Hua High School, Klang received a cash prize of RM500. programming and robotic design. She also participated in the Kangaroo Maths Competition, SMJK Sin Min, Sungai Petani received a cash prize of RM600 for being First Runner Up for this year’s Math and Logic Australian Maths Competition, Universiti Malaya Challenge. Their students Lim Gao Tek and Lim Chuen Tek each took home an individual trophy, a certificate of Competition for Young Mathematicians (UMCYM), commendation plus a Sunway College A-Level bursary worth RM15,000 and or a Sunway University degree bursary worth Euclid Maths Competition and Olimpiad RM30,000 for studies in Actuarial Studies or Financial Analysis or Financial Economics. Matematik Kebangsaan (OMK). The AAA Night musical resonated with Siao Chi as it was a hilarious reflection of the A-Level journey she experienced. Adding an additional RM800 cash prize for Hin Hua High School, Klang this year were the champions of 2018 Math and Logic Challenge. Both Kuan Kwok Yong and Kong Yue Xuan each took home an individual trophy, a certificate of At the moment, Siao Chi is currently applying for scholarships. Intending to pursue a Mathematics degree, Siao commendation plus a full bursary for Sunway College A-Level and or a Sunway University degree bursary worth RM45,000 Chi would particularly like to study at Imperial College London as it offers a rigorous programme comparable for studies in Actuarial Studies or Financial Analysis or Financial Economics. to Oxbridge. Impressed by the Chinese University of Hong Kong for their strong academic profile which includes Nobel Prize Winners and Fields Medallist affiliations, Hong Kong is her next preferred option after London. Thanking the students, teachers and school representatives from Peninsular Malaysia for their enthusiastic response to the challenge, Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group and Sunway University also thanked the Sunway College A-Level math lecturers led by Senior Lecturer Lee Lip Seong for helping to set the challenging questions.

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THE ART OF ADULT-ING WHERE EVERYONE IS SIGNIFICANT

Discovering the Victoria University (VU) Bachelor of Business programme at Sunway College to be a well-balanced programme with helpful lecturers, 22-year old Jason Tan Yie Jiat from Puchong chose to major in Banking and Finance and Financial Risk Management. Deciding on Sunway College through a process of elimination, Jason factored in the proximity of the college to his home, the variety of food available here and the reputation that Sunway produces excellent graduates in Accounting and Finance.

Loving the challenge of the Professional Development module where students had to pitch their presentations to an external panellist, Jason Top achievers of the FIA and FIST programmes with Professor Peter Heard (second row from left), Professor Hew Gill, Cheng Mien Wee, discovered business conditions Dr Elizabeth Lee, Professor Graeme Wilkinson, Professor Pua Eng Chong and Suzanna Ahmad Ramli were always changing and that could translate into The most recent graduation ceremony for the Foundation in Science and Technology not always having a ready (FIST) and Foundation in Arts (FIA) had a total of 212 students enter the next phase of their answer when questioned education journey. Witnessing the students’ achievements were Dr Elizabeth Lee, Senior by the panellist. This pinch Executive Director of Sunway University and Sunway Education Group; Professor Graeme of experience in starting a Wilkinson, Vice-Chancellor; Professor Pua Eng Chong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor; Professor business enabled his team Peter Heard, Provost; and Professor Hew Gill, Associate Provost (Student Experience) of mates and himself to work Sunway University; Cheng Mien Wee, Director of Pre-University Studies and Suzana Ahmad together on a practical level, Ramli, Acting Director of Sunway Foundation Programme, Sunway College. making it fun for them. Provided a full scholarship under the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship, 19-year On a Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah old Tan Suk Meng from the FIST programme shared that subjects like Academic Writing Continuing Scholarship, taught her to write research papers and this has prepared her for undergraduate studies. Chikonjiwe Zulu the combination of both Advising future students not to procrastinate on assignments, Suk Meng’s efforts earned coursework and examinations her the Certificate of Academic Excellence. in the programme had offshore lecturers dropping Awarded to exceptional individuals who have performed well and obtained excellent in from VU Melbourne over results throughout their time in the foundation programmes, the Certificate of Excellence weekends. Helping students was also given to Loh Wan Chin from the FIA programme. A former SMJK Hua Lian like Jason to better prepare their topics, assignments and sitting for the examinations, Jason believes VU suits the student, Wan Chin also received the Vice-Chancellor’s Subject Award for Introduction preference of a lot of students as it offers options that fits the needs and budget choice of the students. With to Business: World of Finance, Macroeconomics: The Global View and Mathematics options for exchange in Melbourne, Australia to summer school in Hansung University, South Korea Jason chose for Actuarial Studies. Having acquired soft skills through training from experienced the 3+0 pathway to complete his studies. lecturers and from the assessments in the programme, Wan Chin believes these skills will help students like her to transition smoothly into her undergraduate studies. She will be A member of the Victoria University Business Club (VUBC), Jason is very grateful for the opportunity to experience continuing her studies in the BSc (Hons) in Actuarial Studies at Sunway University, with a full Loh Wan Chin carrying out small yet meaningful tasks which connects people and makes a whole event come to fruition. With scholarship under the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship. the VUBC members dedicating 2 semesters to organise the VU Prom, Jason was very touched to see everyone enjoying the night with their friends and rewarding themselves with a pat to their backs. Studying hard and Having earned a high distinction in FIA, valedictorian Chikonjiwe Zulu from Zambia and playing hard whilst juggling roles in a team and as a leader, learning new things outside the classroom has had the student representative for the Sunway Foundation Programme (SFP) July 2018 cohort Jason realising the importance of planning a future. is furthering her studies in BSc (Hons) Business Management at Sunway University as a recipient of the Jeffrey Cheah Continuing Scholarship. Through meeting and working with different people, Jason learnt to solve conflicts in a more mature manner like an adult. Having graduated in April 2017, Jason has now moved into the world of “adult-ing”. Currently working She spoke of how failure to be on time for her lectures taught her to manage her as a Credit Analyst/Management Trainee in Public Bank, his scope of work has him assessing loan applications time wisely. For her, she loved the wide spectrum of learning opportunities within the and recommending how to proceed with each application. For him, getting a loan approved for a customer programme as this allowed her to explore her strengths and weaknesses academically and to be greeted with a simple “Thank you” really makes his day. and personally. In her speech, she said “Everyone is significant. We have the power to decide where we stand on life’s scoreboard. Beyond the grades, figuring out who I am is core to the decisions I make and the directions I take in life.” Tan Suk Meng 16 17 - FACE TO FACE - - MOVERS & SHAKERS -

6 CHALLENGES IN MONASH SCIENCE CUP ACCELERATED ACA PATHWAY

Intending to complete the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Chartered Accountant (ICAEW ACA) qualification by September 2021, 19-year old Ilyana Ibrahim is on the accelerated pathway for school leavers designed by Sunway TES Centre for Accountancy Excellence (CAE).

By enroling herself into the Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB) programme at Sunway TES, fresh school leavers like Ilyana learn the fundamentals of finance, accounting and business. A former student of SMK Aminuddin Baki, Kuala Lumpur, Ilyana was awarded the Sunway- ICAEW Global Accountant Scholarship after obtaining straight As in her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) in March 2016. (from left) Ruth Cheah, Director of Cambridge A-Level programme; Esther Hoong Zi En; Joel Jong Lee Zher; Tan Jia Hui and Tsng Hao Yuen with Sharon Kong With the scholarship covering tuition and examination fees, The Monash Science Cup 2018 attracted a participation of 80 students from various colleges and institutions around the Ilyana credits her time in CFAB Klang Valley. Making up 20 competing teams for the Monash Science Cup 2018, each of the 4-member teams had to with helping her to build her solve 6 experiments within the given time limit. The Monash Science Cup 2018 offered medals, book vouchers, a trophy skills in communications and for the winning college and 35% bursary for the School of Science undergraduate course at Monash University Malaysia presentations. Clarifying that to each Grand Award winner. time management is key to mastering a subject within the Emerging as the Grand Award winner for the Monash Science Cup 2018 was the team of 4 students from the A-Level 3-month semester time frame programme at Sunway College. The first ever team from A-Level Sunway College to compete at the Monash Science in the programme, Ilyana cites Cup, Joel Jong Lee Zher, Tsng Hao Yuen, Esther Hoong Zi En and Tan Jia Hui had to complete six challenges dealing with Accounting and Tax as her Microbiology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Gene Technology, Food Technology and DNA Fingerprinting. To prep, favourite subjects. For her, the the 4 of them did their research together and decided to split the topics of study to fully cover the scope of skills for the lecturers in CFAB has been competition. Acting as their advisor, A-Level biology teacher Sharon Kong had the team members learning techniques extremely helpful as they have and the necessary how-to so they could conduct electrophoresis and genetic engineering experiments. the patience to answer all the The Microbiology challenge had the competing teams identifying the exact location of a disease outbreak from stories questions about the syllabus given by 8 members of a family. The Chemistry challenge involved experimental procedures and calculations. Utilising a and outside of class. The extra spectrophotometer to calculate the actual mass of Aspirin in an Aspirin pill, the teams had to plot a graph and come up materials, practice questions and with a final answer within 25 minutes. guidance from the lecturers have further aided students like herself The Environmental Sciences challenge involved identification of the concentration of nitrates and ammonia in 3 to develop a better understanding different solutions, whilst solving a crossword puzzle. The Gene Technology challenge required arrangement of DNA of their studies. sequences in the correct order before proceeding to the next segment which involved calculating the differences and the percentage of similarity in the DNA of 6 people. The Food Technology challenge in the fifth round required an A recent ICAEW World Prize winner, Ilyana is further developing her perspective in accounting as she received an experiment and answering 15 multiple choice questions simultaneously. The experiment had the teams determining the additional scholarship to complete her Professional Level tuition fees by September 2018. Other than concentrating best flour for making the largest possible dough. on her studies, Ilyana has kept herself busy by participating in the Sunway College Student Council (SCC). Her tenure in the SCC had her serving as Treasurer from January to June 2017 and being the Project Manager for Freshies Night The sixth and final challenge involving DNA Fingerprinting had subjective questions on the basic knowledge of DNA ’17, SCC’s largest annual event. Obtaining sponsorship from Staedtler for the Asia Leadership Conference 2017 was molecules. The competing teams had to identify the correct strands of DNA with sickle cell anaemia and draw the DNA one of the highlights for her when she served as one of the Sponsorship Executives. Fingerprint after the fragmentation of the DNA with sickle cell anaemia.

As completing her ICAEW ACA qualifications is her main goal, Ilyana finds the programme to be tough, but doable. Throughout the competition, the judges were impressed with the lab skills and the teamwork displayed as the team She recommends the programme for those who are keen to gain professional qualifications and her advice is members were the fastest and most accurate in all the 6 challenges. For Joel, learning to divide the tasks amongst the “Believe in yourself; have faith; work hard for it, then you’re able to overcome it. Always remember to enjoy yourself.” team members whilst learning to manage their time well in the Monash Science Cup was an important element to his learning about teamwork. For Hao Yuen, discovering that multiple tasks could be carried out simultaneously when working as a team resulting in increased accuracy and speed during the competition proved to be his takeaway from this competition. For Esther, the trust gained and the confidence to move on to the next challenge was her most memorable takeaway whereas Jia Hui learnt to stay positive in tough times when she was competing as part of the winning team in the Monash Cup Challenge 2018.

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