Psychology book launch

The authors and the audience

The Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS) launched a book titled Move On  (《彳亍向前》) which was a collaboration by FAS’ Departments of Journalism, Psychology and Counselling, and Languages and Linguistics. Involving both lecturers and postgraduate students, the book aimed to share psychology knowledge with the public.

The book launching ceremony was held in Kampar Campus on 25 August 2016.  The special guest for the launching ceremony was Chairperson of Centre for Applied Psychology Dr Tan Chee Seng.

Ribbon cutting ceremony

From left: Loh, Hoi, Tan, Dr Lee, Dr Tan, Dr Siah, Ang and Cheng

The team of authors comprised Head of Master of Psychology Programme Assoc Prof Dr Siah Poh Chua, FAS Deputy Dean for R&D and Postgraduate Programmes Assoc Prof Dr Kok Jin Kuan, lecturers William Hoi Wei Yuan, Ang Siew Mun, Cheng Siew May and Tan Swee Mee, retired lecturer Dr Lee Mah Ngee and postgraduate student Loh Hui Qian.

Loh expressing her wish for the book to be a companion book for younger readers

Move On’s associate editor Loh Hui Qian represented the authors to deliver their thanks to the publisher KS Copier Sdn Bhd and designer for their sponsorship and support. “The book consists of seven short stories from five topics which specially targets adolescent readers. Hence, we wish that it will be a companion book for younger readers and adults who wish to know more about psychology.” In the sharing session, she said, “Do not easily give up when facing difficulties or failure. The most important thing is to ‘move on’ from your current situation. Other opportunities may be waiting for you in the future.”

Clockwise, top left: Dr Siah, Dr Lee and Hoi delivering their remarks

The ceremony was followed by Dr Siah, Dr Lee and Hoi’s remarks. As editor of the book, Dr Siah echoed Loh’s remarks saying, “We wish to disseminate the knowledge of psychology through the short stories as this is a popular way to share more about psychology.” He conveyed his gratitude to all the authors for their hard work and cooperation that has led to fruition.

Dr Lee then shared on her experiences during her doctoral studies. She believes that “life has a purpose” and encouraged students to never give up after setbacks but to persevere to overcome them bravely. It is worth mentioning that Dr Lee and another author, Ang are both English educators, but with the help of a translator, produced their own short stories in Chinese successfully.

Hoi, the photographer of the book, shared on the process of preparation. “The book took one year to be completed, and we worked hands-on from the composing and proofreading all the way to the photography process.” He added, “Providing positive energy to students and adults who are missing a direction in life is one of the purposes of our publication.”

Autograph session

The book launching ceremony ended with an autograph session. The book is available in UTAR Kampar Campus’ Main Library to be lent to interested parties.