It was a proud moment for UTAR Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF) Master of Philosophy student Britney Bong Sue Fun when she was awarded the Diamond Award in the Final Year Project and Postgraduate: Research and Innovation Poster Competition (FYPP: RIPC) Series 2 / 2023.

Held on 19 September 2023, the competition was held virtually for individual and group project submissions.

Supervised by FBF Department of Marketing Lecturer Dr Tan Chi Hau and FAS Department of Psychology and Counselling Lecturer Dr T’ng Soo Ting, Bong clinched the diamond award for her thesis project, titled “Prestige Unleashed: Illuminating the Journey of Academic Engagement in Malaysian Private Universities through Psychological Capital and Career Expectations” under the category of Master Social Sciences and Humanities.

Organised by the Mediate Nexus and Nurture a Fast Network (MNNF Network), FYPP: RIPC Series 2/2023 is a platform for students to present their final year projects and thesis or dissertation in the field of science, engineering, technology, mathematics, social sciences and humanities.

Aimed at providing a platform for students to present and share their final year project, thesis or dissertation, the FYPP: Research and Innovation Competition also encouraged research and innovation culture among students.

Bong enthused, “Guided by my supervisors, I have understood the value of building networks and honing research skills. The MNNF Network competition was an excellent platform to exhibit research and creativity. Winning the award was a pleasant surprise, and I attribute it to the research skills instilled by my supervisors. This achievement fuels my enthusiasm for further academic exploration and motivates me to contribute meaningfully to the faculty. I look forward to leveraging this experience for future endeavors and encourage fellow scholars to embrace opportunities for growth and recognition within our academic network.”

Dr Tan said, “The competition was an excellent platform for postgraduate students to showcase their research and innovation skills. It fosters healthy competition and encourages students to excel academically. I feel proud and thrilled about my student’s victory. The winning entries were truly exceptional. The wow factor lies in her ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and deliver tangible results that have the potential to make a significant impact. The competition motivates my student to strive for excellence, pushes her to think creatively, and encourages her to engage in in-depth research.”

Meanwhile, Dr T’ng added, “Britney was given an opportunity to participate in this competition. Her participation in this competition undoubtedly enriches her overall learning experiences.  This award signifies her passion, resilience, diligence, and innovative spirit. What truly impressed me was her problem-solving ability. She is always able to seek solutions effectively. This winning award has served as an impetus for her to continue seeking a more holistic understanding of her research study. I sincerely hope she can aim higher and achieve greater milestones in her academic and professional journeys. This competition should be continued to encourage more students to foster their skills which can contribute to their overall academic excellence.”