UTAR Ball 2018 Enchanté

A couple doing the slow dance

It was a simple yet beautiful night for those who attended the UTAR Ball 2018 Enchanté on 9 June 2018. The annual ball was held at T6 Lightgrey in Sungai Buloh, Selangor.

Organised by Student Representative Council (SRC), the event witnessed lines of lads and lasses in sharp suits and delightful dresses making their way to the exclusive event. Prior to the event, guests were served with light refreshments and drinks. The air was filled with chatter and laughter as students and staff mingle, getting to know each other and building networks among them.

Also attending the ball were UTAR President Ir Prof Academician Dato’ Dr Chuah Hean Teik, Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation Prof Ir Dr Lee Sze Wei, Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Head of Alumni Relations and Placement Department Foo Wai Wai, Head of Chancellery Department Lim Swea Jen, staff and students.

Jessica Lim (left) and Melvin Tan performing popular hit songs

At sunset, ellipsoidal lights and fog machine lit up the rustic minimalist space, giving it an enchanted forest touch, matching up with the theme of the event — Enchanted forest.

“An entertaining night like this bridges the gap and brings us closer as we talk, eat and laugh over dinner and entertainment. I am proud to see a large crowd here tonight to share the fun and enjoy the spirit of togetherness,” said Prof Chuah in his welcome remarks.

Prof Chuah giving his welcome remarks

“UTAR Ball 2018 Enchanté is named after a French word. It means ‘nice to meet you’. The aim of this event is to welcome all UTAR students, seniors and freshmen, together in the spirit of education,” said UTAR Ball 2018 Enchanté Chairperson Tiu Casii.

Tiu giving her opening speech

Tiu also shared about the approach and concept of the event that was noticeably different from the preceding UTAR balls, “(The first) UTAR Ball started (as a one-night event) in a ballroom. It slowly changed into a two-day-one-night concept in various resorts and hotels. This year we have decided to bring back the one-night concept by incorporating ball night and cocktail party together with the hope of encouraging social interaction among the students.”

Students socialising with one another

Students looking sharp and classy for the night

She also stated that she was proud with the committee for putting up an affordable yet opulence event. They reduced the cost of the night by renting an event space, seeking their own food caterer and decorating the event space by themselves.

Committee members setting up decorations and audio system (Photo credit to - UTAR BALL 2018 Editorial team)

The event also saw an award presentation ceremony for outstanding students. The winners received a crystal trophy and a certificate each. The list of winners is as follows:

Award		Winner
Best Student Leader Award		Chua Chung Li
Most Talented UTARians		Soon Yong Wei
Sportsperson of the year		Yee Li Zheng
Best Society Award (Course based)		Chinese Medicine Society (Sungai Long Campus)
Best Society Award (Non-course based)		Wushu Club (Kampar Campus)

From left: Best Student Leader Award recipient Chua, Prof Chuah and Tiu

From left: Sportsperson of the Year recipient Yee with Prof Chuah and Tiu

The Best Society Award (Course-based) was won by Chinese Medicine Society (Sungai Long Campus)

Best Society Award (Non-course based) was won by Wushu Club (Kampar Campus)

Align with the cocktail party concept, a canapé buffet and assorted pastries for desserts were served aside from refreshing drinks. The excitement of the night continued with students waltzing and dancing through the night.

Students enjoying the variety of food

“Unsteady” band illuminates the dance floor with beautiful songs

Students waltzing away with their partners