Limkokwing University’s Fashion and Retailing Students on the Global University Campus programme in Limkokwing London attended a lecture by Patricia van den Akker at the University of the Arts London (UAL) on 8 Sept.

Patricia van den Akker is a Director for The Design Trust, an online business school for designers. She is also an adviser, trainer, coach and mentor who specialises in business development, sales & marketing to train and support creative entrepreneurs.

Patricia has worked with numerous organisations and universities to coordinate creative business development workshops. She has worked at the Crafts Council, Design Nation/New Designers in Business, Studio Levien, Cultural Industries Development Agency (CIDA) and Pembridge Partners. Her 15 years’ experience include training over 100 small creative businesses, policy makers as well as social entrepreneurs.

Her workshop focused on the seven aspects of costing and product pricing, entrepreneurial skills, calculating overhead costs and hourly wage, trade price vs retail price as well as marketing and promotion.

Students learnt tactics to help them raise their design profiles and credibility to attract more clients. They also learnt to balance financial cost for sustaining their businesses. 

“These sessions are very useful for designers and design students,” said Fashion and Retail student Lee Lay Chien. “We need to know who our clients are and what relationships we want with them.” 

Limkokwing University regularly conducts workshop sessions with industry professionals in various countries to promote career growth and networking opportunities. These industrial insights allow graduates to lead their own business ventures after completing their studies.

Date: 4 December 2015
Time: 7 00 PM - 10 00 PM
Venue: Pavilion KL, Centre Court

10 graduating diploma students from the Faculty of Fashion & Lifestyle Creativity will be presenting their final-year collections based on different inspirations derived from the theme ‘Virtual Reality’. Their futuristic designs will be showcased by 45 models from over 15 countries.

The night will be livened up with entertainment from the University's Performance Arts and Sound and Music students alongside Christmas songs sung by our International Goodwill Ambassadors.

The evening will also showcase the designs of Limkokwing’s award-winning students from the Degree of Fashion and Retailing graduating class.

Creativity in Motion Graduate Exhibition

In conjunction with the Creativity in Motion fashion show, the graduating class will be holding an exhibition at Starhill Gallery, just opposite the street from Pavilion KL.

The collection of student work featured in the ‘Creativity in Motion Graduate Exhibition’ represents the depth and breadth of the Degree of Fashion and Retailing course.

Date : Friday, 4 December 2015
Time: 10:00am - 10:00pm
Venue : South and North Wings, Adorn Concourse, Starhill Gallery

The 2nd Malaysia International Healthcare Innovation Conference and Exhibition (MIHICE) was held at Limkokwing University to raise healthcare awareness on 30 Nov.

Officiated by the Malaysia’s Minister of Health YB Datuk Seri Dr. S Subramaniam, the two-day Conference and Exhibition enabled healthcare professionals to share new ideas and techniques on how to innovate the industry.

“Creativity and innovation is much needed in the healthcare industry,” Health Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr. S Subramaniam. “This could lead to discovering alternative solutions and inexpensive approach to health issues.” 

“New ideas need not be dramatic,” he said while adding that new technology could revolutionise the industry through innovations such as awareness campaigns, digital tools and mobile apps.

Limkokwing students had the opportunity to participate in the exhibition by designing application programmes to assist healthcare professionals.

One such programme was the “Insta-Health”, an application device that was created by Arslan Saleem from the Faculty of Communication, Media and Broadcasting.

This app allows patients to schedule online appointment with their doctor while keeping their health records for other doctors with their medical needs. It also has a panel or channel that allows patients to consult available doctors to help them with their treatment.

“We can create new technology to improve people’s health,” said Zarish Saleem who is studying Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Event Management from the Faculty of Communication, Media and Broadcasting.

“By focusing the digital technology, we can help by creating apps that are beneficial to people,” she said.

Limkokwing University is an institution that is committed towards creating a better future for students and society. Students are encouraged to participate in activities that enable them to develop their networking skills through industry exposure.

Faculty of Multimedia Creativity’s Games students presented their final projects to a panel of local and international industry professionals on 1 December.

The panel of guests included industry experts from Codemasters, Lemon Sky Games and Animation, Sherman3D, Streamline Studios, Inspedia, 99works, Back Bone Entertainment and Silver Ant PPI, to name a few.

A total of 43 students from Semester 2 to Semester 6 pursuing Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Games Art Development, Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Games Design and Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Games Technology participated in the games showcase.

The showcase aimed to expose students to industry critiques and practices by encouraging active discussions with industry practitioners. 

It also created a platform for students to present their portfolios and promote their talents to the games industry –creating employment and startup opportunities once they graduate.

“The industry panel is made up from professionals who know the standards of games and how it should be made. We get feedback to improve our games and learn more about working in the real field,” said Adrian Belano, a final semester student from Indonesia.

He felt that this is a great opportunity to get hired by one of the top industry players.

The final projects required students to work in teams and play different roles to achieve a common goal, which is designing a complete game. Despite their multicultural mix in each group, students were able to communicate their ideas effectively with one another.

Peyvand Arabi, a Semester 5 Games student from Iran, expressed that the diversity in her class brings in new ideas as different things are popular in different countries.

“By getting to know different groups of people and cultures, I can now design a game which everyone might enjoy playing. The fact that we are all from different countries and cultures but we pursue the same interest is what makes us work better together,” she said.

The industry guests added useful insights to the students’ games and ideas during the presentation as they were given detailed feedback in different areas in their projects. The interactive session allowed exchange of knowledge and ideas between experienced practitioners and young creative minds.

A Technical Art Trainer from Codemasters, Ivon McCall Smith said that being a student is a good opportunity because one can be very indulgent and passionate but there are high possibilities of losing track in the process of producing any content; games, music or art.

“The need for an industry voice to wake them up a bit more so that they will know the industry requirements to become a game artist is inevitable,” he explained.

According to Smith, external perspective is important for talent development as well as to achieve commercial success in the games industry.

“We need innovative thinkers with great ideas and the talents to back them up and produce quality games. Given the current trend, there are years of potential growth where we need to focus in talent development to be ahead in the field,” he added.

Limkokwing Fashion and Retailing students on the Global University campus programme in Limkokwing London attended an industry workshop with Emma D’Arcey on 23 Oct.

Emma D’Arcey is the co-founder of ‘ao textiles consultancy’, a design consultancy that creates bespoke fabric for fashion and interiors. Her consultancy was founded to research and develop textiles which offer craftsmanship and environmental sustainability.

D’Arcey creates hand marbled silk fabrics and papers that are suited for reproduction on couture, interior and installations. Her nature-inspired style uses marbling techniques on fabrics such as leather, ceramics and silk. Her work has been featured in British magazines such as Homes and Gardens, Livingetc and Vogue.

Students were taught to apply ‘eco-printing’; a process that utilises natural materials to create works of art reflecting naturally occurring patterns, for example spirals, which occur naturally in galaxies, hurricanes or seashells. These patterns have been imitated to create staircases, corkscrews and pumps. Other patterns could be imitated from nature include flowers, ferns and leaves to create unique seasonal prints.

This ‘eco-printing’ process enables students to create sustainable pattern which could be implemented onto designs that offers limitless variety. This process allows students to customise their designs to suit their individual taste while accommodating the latest trend in the fashion industry.
 
Limkokwing University utilises the ‘Indusity’ learning concept which combines academic and industry collaboration to conduct research and development. The collaboration enables students’ to participate in projects with industry professionals to promote their products and services.

Graduating diploma students from Limkokwing University’s Faculty of Fashion and Lifestyle Creativity presented their final-year collections during the Creativity in Motion Fashion showcase at Pavilion KL shopping mall on 4 Dec.

Themed, ‘Virtual Reality’, the fashion show presented collections of 10 Diploma in Fashion & Retail Design graduates from seven countries showcased by 45 models from over 15 countries. These include the United Kingdom, United States of America, Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, China, Tajikistan, Namibia and Kenya.

Attending the event were Joao Reino, Brazil Embassy’s Cultural Attaché; Zhou Ai Lian, Vice President of China Model Association and Chancellor of Beijing Shengji Arts School (Fashion Design School); Vivy Yusof founder of Fashion Valet; and Zaihani Mohd Zain Malaysia’s fashion and lifestyle veteran.

The fashion showcase provided students with industry exposure and a platform to begin their careers. 

“All universities need to expose their students to industry practises,” said Vivy Yusof, founder of Fashion Valet who attended the event as an industry guest.

“This event lets graduates become aware of the industry so they could expand their ideas and produce designs that suit industry standards to remain competitive,” she said.

For graduating student from Indonesia, Cary Pancis, the publicity of the event allowed her to increase her profile with other industry players.

“This exposure has taught me to conduct myself in professional manner while competing in fashion shows and manage backstage activity,” she added. “Not only that, Limkokwing University’s multicultural and creative environment allowed me to think artistically.”

“Events such as these allow our graduates to receive more exposure to the industry,” said Naintara Sarfraz Raja, Faculty of Fashion Lifestyle and Creativity lecturer. “They develop skills to work as a team while competing in a multicultural society.”

The University also announced the launch of the Master of Art in Fashion Brand Management which is available to students at its Malaysian campus. The programme is the first Master in Fashion course that offers academic research and analysis of the fashion industry.

Limkokwing University encourages industry exposure as part of its educational programme. Students are immersed in a real world learning experience enabling them to establish networking opportunities with industry professionals while promoting their designs to the public. 

A look at the life of fashion designer Alexander McQueen has given Limkokwing's Fashion and Retailing students on the Global University Campus programme in Limkokwing London new perspectives on the Fashion industry.

On Wednesday 7 October Limkokwing University took its Fashion and Retailing students to the Theatre Royal Haymarket to see ‘McQueen, The Play’.

Lee Alexander McQueen (1969-2010), was one of the UK’s top designers. Not only was he awarded the prestigious CBE by Queen Elizabeth II, he also won the ‘British Designer of the Year’ award four times and the ‘International Designer of the Year’ award once.

After leaving school at the age of sixteen, McQueen secured an apprenticeship at Saville Row tailors, Anderson and Sheppard, and from there the world of fashion truly become his. McQueen’s design tended to rail against the norm of high street fashion by throwing into question commonly accepted notions of beauty. He used grotesque red lips on his models and employed materials that gave an air of dirt rather than high-end fashion. Needless to say, his bold and unconventional designs brought him widespread attention and ushered in a new direction for fashion.

The Fashion and Retailing students in the Global University Campus programme in Limkokwing London are at the beginning of their own journey of inspiration and exploration. From the play, the students were tasked with using the fundamentals of fashion that they have learnt in class and to connect those fundamentals with unconventional ideas as embodied by McQueen in their final project designs. 

Student Annabelle Sue Ngieng cited memorable quotes from the play when presenting her design ideas: “What is a dress? When you look in the mirror it makes you happier. It’s what you are and who you might be. It’s exactly who you were and who you’re gonna be.” Annabelle said that she wanted her creations to be able to help people see the beauty in life and to live another day, no matter what life throws in their ways.

One of the most important aspects of McQueen’s life that the students gleamed in the play was strong emotional connection people have with clothes. Using this emotional aspect in their designs, the Fashion and Retailing students were taught to use this emotional connection to further their creation’s brand marketing. By establishing bonds with consumers and eliminating insecurities through fashion, brands will have the power to maintain loyalty from their customers.

Limkokwing University welcomed delegates from the Central China Normal University to discuss collaboration opportunities on 8 Dec.

The delegates University included Dean/ Professor and Doctoral Advisor Xiao Geng Xu, PhD; Deputy Director Zhang Shuu, International Students’ Affairs Office Deputy Director/College of International Cultural Exchange Deputy Dean Zhou Bo and College of International Cultural Exchange Admission Office Fang Rui.

The discussion between the delegates and Limkokwing University representatives focused on establishing an internship/summer camp programme, conducting academic exchange and a Masters of Art / Post Graduate Studies programme.

The Central China Normal University was established in 1903 and is one of the three top normal universities in Mainland China. The University engages in a wide range of international academic exchange and maintains academic links with more than 20 universities, colleges and research institutes in America, Germany, Russia, Ukraine France, Italy, Britain, Japan, Switzerland, Bulgaria and Brazil.

The university comprises of 25 schools and departments with more than 60 research centres. It was one of the first university in China to enrol students overseas and has a graduate employment rate of 95% since 2001.

Industry professionals from over 80 companies attended the Huereka Multimedia Exhibition 2015 to review final projects by graduating students from the Faculty of Creative Multimedia (FMC) on 3 Dec.

The companies include some of the prominent industry players like Axis Films, Backbone Entertainment, KL Post, IP Studios and Orange Works to name a few.

The term ‘Huereka’ was inspired by the fun-loving side of multimedia. The logo features a game controller formed by different color hues along with the shape of a ‘play button’ sign at the center that represent all four departments under FMC and the variety of projects showcased at the exhibition.

Over 45 graduating students from 15 different countries pursuing Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Animation, Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Games Art Development and Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Creative Multimedia; featured their final projects and portfolios at the exhibition.

According to Marvy Sotto, a senior lecturer from FMC, graduate showcase was the result of their perseverance and exhilarating experience through the course of their journey at Limkokwing University.

“The exhibition show a wide array of the students’ competencies, talents and skills through their works,” he added.

Animation student, Ahmad Hazim was delighted to be a part of the industry showcase as the President of Huereka.

“Learning and sharing different knowledge together opened our minds and made us believe that creativity is limitless,” he said.

The showcase provided him with industry exposure and a platform to begin his career. The experience also allowed him to network with industry professionals while gaining more work experience.

Kang Chun Yih from Creative Multimedia, felt that Huereka truly represented the Class of 2015 as it showed the multifaceted and talented students who are ready to explore the new world.

“Our showcase is filled with creativity and skills that we learned from each other. Our cultural differences influence us to come up with unique ideas,” he added.

The showcase also featured an industry talk given by Shigeki Ao, a professional modeller from Silver Ant PPI Studios.

Silver Ant PPI is a joint-venture company of the Malaysian Silver Ant Studios and Japan’s Polygon Pictures.

Born in Japan, Shigeki has worked in different studios across Japan, North America and Europe before settling in Malaysia. Some of his notable work include ‘The Great Gasby’ (Digital Artist), Knowing (Senior Modeller), Happy Feet 2 (Senior Modeller) and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole (Senior Modeller).

He had an interactive session with the students about employment opportunities in various fields of the industry. He advised students to become specialists as companies prefer artists with more focus and specific skills, not generalists.

“Studios nowadays look for specialists who are able to produce quality work and stay focused compared to generalists who have diverse skills yet don’t have a specific expertise,” he explained.

Every semester, Limkokwing University organise exhibitions and industry reviews to showcase graduates’ skills and capabilities through their projects and works. The University believes in bringing the industry to the campus to give a better understanding to students on how the real industry works.

Over a thousand graduates from 67 countries received their scrolls during the Limkokwing University Graduation Ceremony held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) on 19 Dec.

Students from Africa; the Americas’ Europe and North Eurasia; Middle East and Central Asia and Asia earned their Post Graduate, Bachelors’ Degrees as well as Diplomas to begin their prospective careers.

Following this year’s theme, “Empowered To Make The Impossible Possible”, the ceremony defines the University’s graduates for their calibre and mind-set that are young people with a global outlook and trained to use new media technology.

The ceremony was graced by member of the Malaysian Royal family, Her Royal Highness Sultanah Pahang Sultanah Hajjah Dr Kalsom, Chancellor of Limkokwing University.

Also attending the graduation ceremony was Honourable Dr Mahali Phamotse, Minister of Education and Training from the Kingdom of Lesotho; YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Haji Mohamed Apandi Ali, Attorney General Malaysia and Yang Di Hormati (YDH) Inspector General of Police (IGP) Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Khalid bin Abu Bakar. 

Other VIP guests included embassies and high commission representatives from Swaziland, Jordan, Sudan, Brazil, Zambia, Namibia, South Africa, Qatar, Korea, United States of America, Maurutius, Yemen, Botswana, Ukraine, Laos, Azerbaijan, Iran, Lesotho, Morocco, Syria and Nigeria.

During the ceremony, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Khalid bin Abu Bakar was conferred Honorary Doctorate Degree of Leadership for his services to the Malaysian Police Force. This recognition reflects his dedication to create new approach in law enforcement to combat crime. He has engaged social media and online technology to develop cybercrime awareness, national security and safeguarding peace.

The graduation ceremony highlights the dedication which Limkokwing University has continuously strived to provide opportunities for students for a conducive multicultural learning environment.

For graduate such as Malaz Elnaiem (Master in Digital Film and Television), Limkokwing University has given her a unique opportunity towards a better future.

She came from a troubled country and grew up through challenging conditions. Her experience at the university has taught her the importance of friendship, perseverance and hope.

“I made amazing friends that have stood by me through some of the hardest times,” she said. “I am grateful that the University has made it possible for me.”

“Being able to learn with students from other culture and nationalities has allowed me to dream bigger and think outside the box,” said Botswanan graduate Boitumelo Joy Lebodi who is graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science).

“The University fosters a good relationship between students and lecturers to allow students to be more comfortable with their field of studies,” she added.

“Limkokwing University has developed my confidence and taught me to work with people from different cultures,” said Indonesian graduate Edwin Dimitri Suwono, a graduate in Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Animation. “I hope to start work as soon as possible and create my own animation company.”

Limkokwing University is a diverse and multicultural learning institution with students from 150 countries. Students learn through participation charitable initiatives and industry exposure to enhance their learning experience. 

Limkokwing Fashion Club unveiled a new collection designed by graduating students from the Faculty of Fashion and Lifestyle Creativity at Midvalley City shopping mall on 12 Dec.

The Fashion Club is the first fashion label by a university with stores in Cyberjaya Limkokwing University campus; Midvalley Megamall and Publika Solaris Dutamas in Kuala Lumpur as well as Seminyak Village in Bali, Indonesia. It features designs and accessories created by students from the Faculty of Fashion and Lifestyle Creativity.

Held in conjunction with the ‘Education and Further Studies Fair’, the fashion showcase featured 21 graduate-designed collections inspired by Asian culture and heritage.

The showcase was organised to provide graduates with a platform to display their designs to the public and to develop their portfolios.

“Limkokwing University gave me the opportunity to promote my design,” said Fashion and Lifestyle graduating student Jegel Pedran Mirsadejhi.

“Through this event, I was able to publicise my own brand designs while attracting potential entrepreneurial partners,” he added. 

Students from Sound and Music Academy were also able to demonstrate their music and performance skills which attracted onlookers from the education fair.

“It helped build our confidence and allowed us understand our audience better,” said Charlotte Ardelle Feliy who is pursuing Foundation in Communication from the Faculty of Communications, Media and Broadcasting.

“This exposure will help us to familiarise ourselves with performing in front of a live audience,” she said.

Limkokwing University encourages students to take part in activities as part of the university’s industry exposure learning approach. Students learn to develop networking opportunities through exhibitions, events as well as performances.

Fashion students presented their final projects to a panel of industry experts at Limkokwing London on 2 Dec.

The final-presentation concluded the recent Limkokwing University Global Campus Programme, a three-month study course through cultural immersion, in-depth research and exploration in London.

Seven students in their final semester conducted a magazine-style presentation followed by a 30-second television commercial which describes their marketing strategy and brand-specific sales tactics to a panel of industry experts.

These industry experts included MDesignLab Senior Artist Jake Morton, ATHE Chief Strategic Officer Joshua Jones, ‘ao textiles’ Director and Designer Emma D’Arcey and L Saha luxury fashion brand Founder Laboni Saha.

Fashion and Retailing students were tasked on 7 Sept to design a fashion brand with a realistic business plan to meet various industrial and ethical challenges.

They presented their product branding from inception and growth towards international recognition. The presentation described detailed proposal for each individual’s ethical brand, market research, business plan and projections for the company.

One example is ‘Allure,’ an organic brand that was created by Umi Aishah Abu Samah based on her market research.

She learned that 80% of her Malaysia based respondent’s preferred organic cosmetics while 78% chose Halal-certified cosmetics. She designed her products to meet customer requirements while sourcing organic materials to create long-lasting make-up.

I have gained so much in experience and knowledge,” said Lee Lay Chien. “The classes and industry visits have provided me with an informative learning experience.”

The three-month study programme enable Fashion and Retailing students to acquire relevant industry-related skills for their future business ventures. These included material production, market research as well as product presentation techniques through the university’s workshop sessions, research tours and industry talks.

Fashion and Retailing students also gained industry exposure by participating in career-focused programmes such as ‘Communication, Presentation and Performance Workshop’ by Marika Rauscher; ‘Video Editing and Fast Tracking Digital Video Editing and Story Telling in Motion’ by Dave Walker; and ‘Magazine Design and Layout’ by Rob Bye.

Students studied brand specific sales and marketing strategies that could be implemented for the international market. These brands were conceived to emphasise the importance of a sustainable business plan while attracting new consumers from a globalised environment.

The final-presentation allowed students to assess their own individual learning outcomes while improving their presentation skills to establish their own personal branding. This will enable them to enhance their career portfolios after completing their studies.

Limkokwing University emphasises a learning approach that exposes students to industry experts. Students are taught to understand their audience while developing their networking skills to compete in a globalised industry.

Hon. Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad, the Secretary General, Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia, paid a courtesy visit to Limkokwing University on 7 January 2016.

Hon. Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah’s arrival was warmly welcomed by Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr. Lim Kok Wing, President and Founder of Limkokwing University, and senior University staff. She was then taken on a campus tour to be familiarised with the University ecosystem. During the visit, she was quite impressed by the Branding Gallery, a display of students’ original creative design for Malaysia’s local brands, as well as Presidential Library, a showcase of projects done by Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing.

Hon. Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah became the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia, Malaysia in December 2014. As a social planner and gender expert, she has been actively involved in promoting gender equality both at national and international levels. She has played a key role in the strategic planning and programme-designing to ensure that gender perspectives are integrated and mainstreamed into Government policies and plans. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Institute for the Empowerment of Women (NIEW) in 2006.

NIEW has collaborated before with Limkokwing University to conduct several programmes in empowering women not only in Malaysia but also in NAM member countries.

With Hon. Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah’s visit to Limkokwing University today, it is hoped that such collaboration will continue in the near future.

Scholarship opportunities worth RM10 million are available to 200 Malaysian students annually at Limkokwing University under the Mahasiswa Sultan Ahmad Shah Scholarship Fund.

The scholarship fund is an initiative of His Majesty Sultan of Pahang, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Abu Bakar Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mu’adzam Shah to provide opportunity for talented students.

The scholarship allows eligible receivers to fulfil their creative potential and contribute to strengthening the national resources of creative and innovative capital. These include individuals with visual/hearing impairment and physical disability.

“My wish is for Malaysian of all races to take advantage of this opportunity through this foundation to create a bright new future for themselves” said His Majesty. 

The Mahasiswa Sultan Ahmad Scholarship Fund was first introduced on 19 Dec 2014 during the University’s Graduation Ceremony. Currently, six students have received the fund with 20 more eligible receivers to be announced on 14 Jan.

“The purpose of this scholarship is to allow Malaysians with talents to have the opportunity to further their studies here at the University,” said Dato Fajura Juffa Mohd Mustafa Kamal, Limkokwing University Vice-President, Corporate Affairs and Relations.

Students eligible for the funds must be Malaysian citizens with at least 3 credits for Diploma Programmes or 5 Credit for Degree Programmes or fulfilled Level 3 Skills Courses (SKM) based on interest and passion. Students with strong curriculum record such as sports, art or performances will be considered.

For more information, contact Limkokwing University via phone at 03-83178923 or email to enquiry@limkokwing.edu.my. Please visit the University’s website at www.limkokwing.net to learn more about events, programmes and courses available.   

Limkokwing University once again hosted the International Day for Tolerance celebration at the Plaza on 21 December 2015.

Officiated by YB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Kurup, Minister from the Prime Minister’s Department, the event saw the official launch of ‘Uniti’ (Unity), a theme song written by Limkokwing University’s Sound and Music Design Academy. With lyrics emphasising unity, the theme song was written to promote tolerance, respect and understanding both within Malaysia and the international community.

“Tolerance requires us to be more understanding and sympathetic, appreciative of differences and attitudes,” said Professor Emeritus Dato’ Ar. Parid Wardi Sudin, Limkokwing University’s Vice Chancellor in his opening speech. “It smoothens relationships where friendships are sustained.” 

He explained that tolerance allows harmonious livelihood among different cultures and nurtures creativity through diversity, thus leading to a highly progressive nation.

The International Day for Tolerance is an annual observance declared by UNESCO in 1995 to generate public awareness of the dangers of intolerance. It is officially observed on 16 November. The International Tolerance Day celebration in Malaysia was first introduced at Limkokwing University in November 2014.

During the previous launch, Limkowing University’s President and Founder Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr Lim Kok Wing was recognised as Malaysia’s ‘Goodwill Ambassador’ by the Prime Minister’s Department.

YB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Kurup in his officiating speech said that “Malaysia is a multi-racial, multi-religious, multi-cultural and democratic society. The country has benefited from the positive interaction and synergy between various communities.”

Limkokwing University has been chosen as the celebration venue because of its multiculturalism.  Regarded by many as Malaysia’s United Nations, Limkokwing University is a myriad of different cultures, faiths and traditions where all are shown equal respect and where tolerance and understanding is all pervasive. In a year which has sadly seen an upsurge of conflict and unnecessary death and destruction, the University’s unshakeable commitment to building bridges between East and West has never been more vital and relevant.

This multiculturalism aspect of the University is by design: it is vital in teaching tolerance and combating prejudice among youths of different nationalities and cultures while promoting equality, inclusiveness and equitable learning environments on campus. This will bring out the best in students and give them the confidence, experience and empowerment to successfully make the transition from University to the world of work.

Students will have a greater understanding of the intricacies of conducting business abroad, which makes them more competitive and viable when doing business across borders. It will bring new perspectives and ideas to their careers and students will see opportunities that they may not have seen otherwise.

During the launch, Limkokwing University also revealed the ‘World Tolerance Day’ Pledge Poster signed by students from 65 countries. This Pledge Poster was presented to the Minister as a gift to commemorate the event. 

His Royal Highness Sultan of Pahang presented 19 scholarships under the ‘Mahasiswa Sultan Ahmad Shah’ Scholarship Fund at Limkokwing University’s Hall of Fame on 14 January.

The Mahasiswa Sultan Ahmad Shah Scholarship Fund is an initiative of HRH Sultan of Pahang, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, to provide an opportunity for talented students to fulfil their potential to become creative, capable and highly skilled individuals, thus boosting the human resource capability in areas necessary to raise the competitive edge of the nation.

The first batch of six scholarships were handed out to students during the class of 2015 graduation ceremony on 19 December last year. These students will begin their academic year in the next intake on 15 February.

The scholarship will cover their full time tuition fees for diploma and degree programmes at the University. For this first batch of students, the scholarship given out was worth RM1.3 million. Worth RM10 million and to be given out annually, the scholarship fund is expected to cover between 200 - 250 Malaysian students yearly.

Hailing from Pahang, 18-year old Eisah Asmai Husna binti Muttadin said she was really happy when she got to know that she was chosen for the scholarship.  She said “I’m really grateful that the Sultan of Pahang gave me the scholarship. This scholarship will lessen the burden for my family and will help me achieve success.”

Chee Howe Herr from Jinjang, Selangor, echoed what Eisah said. Howe Herr said that she felt really lucky to be one of the recipients of the scholarship. This 19-year old lass is active in the martial arts of Wushu, and dreams of becoming a teacher. “With this scholarship I hope to be able to learn how to teach and be a good teacher in the future.”

HRH Sultan of Pahang said “My wish is for Malaysians of all races to take advantage of this opportunity to create a bright new future for themselves, one which will also benefit the nation to achieve its aspirations and to truly become a world class creative economy.”

Through Limkokwing University, HRH Sultan of Pahang wants all recipients to experience studying in a multinational environment where there is strong emphasis on creativity and innovation.

Limkokwing University has been recognised as the Global University of Malaysia, and is the only University with campuses in 10 countries across three continents. The University has adopted innovative methods to empower a new generation of entrepreneurially minded individuals to move their ideas forward.

Apart from the University’s specialised courses, students will benefit from the unique ecosystem that builds their confidence and improves their skills through industry integration which is a vital core of Limkokwing University’s education philosophy. Students will gain seamless transition into the industry should they choose to work upon graduation or even opt to set up their own businesses.

The University’s creative and innovative eco-system is recognised by senior government officials, industries and academic organisations from all over the world. Furthermore, Limkokwing University is Malaysia’s University of Edu-Tourism, and is one of the world’s most global universities with 9000 students from 150 countries in its Cyberjaya’s Flagship Campus.

For further information and to apply for the Mahasiswa Sultan Ahmad Shah Scholarship Fund, please contact 03-83178923 or via email through enquiry@limkokwing.edu.my.

The United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Michelle Gyles-Mcdonnough, paid an official visit to Limkokwing University on 15 January.

Prior to joining the UN, Gyles-McDonnough served as the first resident Legal Advisor to the Embassy of Jamaica in Washington, D.C. She holds a law degree from Columbia University School of Law, with Honours in International and Foreign Law, and a Masters in Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Upon her arrival, she was welcomed by both staff and students then taken on a campus tour to give her a glimpse of the University’s unique ecosystem.

During the campus tour, Gyles-McDonnough was introduced to refugee students who are pursuing their Professional Diploma with full scholarships from Limkokwing University in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The refugee students were happy to express the experiences they gained from participating in various events and activities at the campus.

“Limkokwing University prepares us for the real world. With the exposure and skills we gain here, we are prepared to face the real world when we start working,” said Arslan Saleem, a refugee student from Pakistan who has been residing in Malaysia since 2011.

Gyles-McDonnough hopes that the students will use this opportunity well in order to support their families and help other less fortunate refugees.

“Out of the 148,000 refugees, you are the lucky 30. Being able to mix with students from all over the word will help bridge understanding and hopefully eradicate the misconceptions surrounding refugees,” she explained.

Limkokwing University believes that nurturing young talents in a multicultural ecosystem will promote peace and understanding among its students who come from diverse communities. The University is committed to helping talented refugee youths to realise their potential, and lift themselves and their families from poverty and social discrimination.

Annually, selected refugee students will be receiving full scholarships to pursue Professional Diplomas in Event Management, Web and Interactive Design as well as Hair Design.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Mohd Salleh bin Said Keruak launched Limkokwing University’s Malaysia Digital Innovation Centre as the National Training Centre for Digital Media on 20 January.

Introduced in conjunction with the Malaysia Social Media Week Soft Launch, the Centre serves as a platform for government employees to learn and develop skills for new media technologies.

The Centre is equipped with modern digital facilities and professional trainers specialising on social media efficacy as well as content creation to confront social media abuses within the country.

According to Limkokwing Senior Vice President Dato’ Raja Aznil, the University was compelled to establish the National Training Centre for Digital Media in response to the urgency of the current evolving social media landscape.

The digital media facility, Malaysia Digital Innovation Centre, was designed to incorporate academic excellence with industry innovation through a concept of industry within university.

“We have to adopt a guerrilla tactic kind of mind set and empower those who need to react quickly to the change that is taking place in the world today.”

“From the areas of security to disaster management, education, trade to entertainment, information and technology itself, we need to keep up to stay ahead,” he added.

Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Salleh also expressed the importance of social media in the way communication and behaviour are influenced.

“The drastic change of technologies that we have at our disposal today is something important for us to adapt in in order to be on par or more advance with the global arena,” he explained.

He also added that the government is very keen to raise awareness of the dangers that lie in the world of the internet especially with social media platforms.

This initiative will set a foundation to bridge the technology gap that exists in the government sector. The first batch of trainees are expected to be received on February 2016.

Limkokwing University is actively involved in nation building initiatives through digital innovation and creative development. The University regularly cooperates with the Malaysian Government to produce digitally-trained workforce to maintain the country’s cyber-security.

Previously, the University received a “Silver Award of Distinction for Cybercrime Website” under the Government and Computer/IT category in the 20th Annual Communicator Awards 2014.

Eighteen South Korean Students from Chosun University concluded a 4-week English Winter Camp programme at Limkokwing University on 29 Jan.

During the programme, students were exposed to local cultures at iconic locations such as Malacca, Kota Kinabalu and Langkawi. They learnt to hone their English proficiency and communication skills by sharing experiences through group discussions, presentations and class activities.

“The best part about this whole experience is that I was able to meet people from all over the world,” said 27-year old Lee Na-Ri. “Malaysia has very relaxed atmosphere and this made it easier for me to make new friends while learning a new language.” 

For 19-year old student Choi Hwa-Won, Malaysia’s tolerance and respect for diversity has left an impression on her especially in regards to the country’s approachable hospitality.

“Everyone here is very accepting of each other regardless of their race,” she said. “Malaysia has a diverse culture with a friendly atmosphere.”

“My best experience here was being able to see different culture living together as a single community,” she said while adding that exposure made English easier to learn and communicate.

The English Winter Camp programme is an immersive English language course that provides lessons which focuses on student participation to achieve fluency, accuracy and confidence. Classes are interactive with activities that focus on speaking, pronunciation, listening, grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing.

For more information about Limkokwing University, contact the Limkokwing English Centre at +603-83178855 or via e-mail at pb.antarabangsa@limkokwing.edu.my.

Limkokwing University Global Campus organised the ASEAN UK Business Forum (AUBF) in association with Generation Corporate (GenCorporate) in London, United Kingdom to discuss the empowerment of ASEAN youths on Jan 27.

The “Empowerment of the ASEAN Youths & Student” is part of an annual international gathering that aims to promote pro-active engagement against socioeconomic and global issues to youths in the ASEAN community. The issues covered are community development, trade & commerce, science & education, diplomacy, labour & employment, culture & society as well as youth welfare. 

In attendance were representatives from the ASEAN diplomatic corps in London including High Commissioner of Brunei Dato’ Haji Aminuddin; High Commissioner of Malaysia Dato Ahmad Rasidi Hazizi; Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia T.M Hamzah Thayeb; Embassy of the Republic of Myanmar Deputy Chief of Mission/Counsellor Kyaw Htin Lin; Royal Thai Embassy Counsellor Porpot Changywa and Global Campus students and staff.

During the discussion, AUBF President Dato S.K Lingam stated that youth is ASEAN’s greatest assets with 60% of the population under 35 years old. This presents opportunities for ASEAN youths to engage new challenges while maintaining a global mind-set and a vision for developing countries.

“It is up to 360 million ASEAN youths to build the future through cooperation, consensus and consultation among various nations,” he concluded.

Limkokwing University is committed to youth empowerment through industry exposure and multiculturalism. Students gain valuable knowledge and experience while studying at the Global Campus in London, United Kingdom. 

“The University is great in doing what it is doing now,” said Khanh Minh Ho from the ASEAN UK Business Forum (AUBF). “Particularly its real-life learning approach as well as business visits instead of just lectures and course books.”

Head of Digital & Business Development from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) & UK-ASEAN Business Council (UKABC) Max Coleman also added that London is a unique creative hub with a global multicultural city with new ideas for start-up business to multinationals.

“It is important for the University to involve itself with start-ups and corporates,” he said. “Accessing start-ups and communities is as important as corporates to bring knowledge to ASEAN countries.”

Previously, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint 2015 was outlined in 31 Dec 2015 that aims to work towards economic and social integration, free flow of skilled labour and removal of trade barriers in ASEAN countries. Other issues that would be added in the future include 76 million people living in poverty, high infant mortality rate, inaccessible clean drinking water, maritime and territorial issues, endemic corruption, income disparities, languages issues and talent drain.