Faculties of Sungai Long Campus host e-convo celebration for 2020 graduates

Four faculties and two institutes from UTAR Sungai Long Campus organised celebratory activities for graduates of the March and August 2020 Convocation. The faculties include Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, Faculty of Creative Industries, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Faculty of Accountancy and Management. The activities, which were conducted online, were participated by respective faculty dean, deputy deans, heads of departments (HODs), academics, staff and graduates.

Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science

Nine departments from Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) hosted homecoming e-gathering for graduates via Microsoft Teams on 14 August 2020. The nine departments were Department of Architecture and Sustainable Design (DASD), Department of Chemical Engineering (DCL), Department of Civil Engineering (DCI), Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (D3E), Department of Internet Engineering and Computer Science (DIECS), Department of Mathematical and Actuarial Science (DMAS), Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering (DMME), Department of Mechatronics & Biomedical Engineering (DMBE) and Department of Surveying.

Prof Goi congratulating graduates for their achievement

LKC FES Dean Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min said, “Dear UTARians, your convocation is a day worth to celebrate. I hope your accomplishment in UTAR will give you the encouragement to excel and achieve further. On behalf of LKC FES, I wish you all a successful career and life. Congratulations and well done!”

Teaw Khin Boon performing “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus using piano and guitar

Head of Department of Civil Engineering Dr Ling Lloyd congratulated the graduates and said, “This is the first time for us to do this e-gathering with all our graduates. It is indeed a special year and a special moment for all of us. I’m very proud of your achievement up to this point and this marks the beginning of challenges in your lives. I wish all of you the very best in the future. Keep in touch and do come back to UTAR.”

Gan emphasising the importance of having the right attitude in the workplace

Fusionex Director of Big Data Analytics Gan Chun Yee congratulated the DIECS graduates and said, “Don’t be afraid to fail. Dare to dream big but dream with goals. I urge all the graduates and students to aspire to make a difference in life and I wish all of you a remarkable life and career ahead.”

DIECS also saw motivation messages from alumni representatives, namely Teoh Wan Ching and Chin Kai Xiang. Teoh who is currently working as a software developer shared her experience of working in Singapore. She said, “Warmest congratulations on your graduation. As you build on your career, you will notice that having technical skills alone is not sufficient, we need to continue to learn as we grow in order to adapt and to stay relevant in the industry. To all the graduates, I hope you get the job that you want as there is plenty of opportunities out there, although it may take some time. Take care and stay safe.”

Chin sharing his study experience

Chin Kai Xiang said, “I’ve learnt a lot during my tertiary studies and also during my internship as well as the final year project. Working as an intern enabled me to learn more about the business skills aside from technical skills which we cannot learn from the textbook. When I went for a competition, I realised that UTAR had equipped me with relevant knowledge and it served as a solid in that competition. It’s important to strike a balance between studying and exploring other knowledge outside the classroom.”

A piano performance by Ang Kien Yi, playing “The Truth Untold”

The celebration was followed by a sharing session by the invited guests from the industries alumni representatives. Another sharing session about postgraduate opportunity was also held by the Department of Surveying (DS).

Sr Chong sharing his experience as an industry practitioner

Director of KOS Consult Sdn Bhd Sr Chong Tze Hen shared his experience of being an industry practitioner in his congratulatory speech and said, “Most of you will begin a new chapter in your life; get prepared to join the industry that you have been working hard for. Your result and exposure during the internship might just be the right criteria for the employer to shortlist you. However, this is just a chance for you to be interviewed. Your success in a career very much depends on your attitude and effort.”

Adam Chow sharing his personal working experience

Project Coordinator of Northcroft Lim Perunding Sdn Bhd Adam Chow Wen Yan, who is also the vice-chairman of RISMYQS of 2020/2021, spoke about “How to go to work: Moving from student to professional” during the sharing session. Sharing his personal working experiences, he said, “Going to work is an enormous, life-changing moment. When you start to work, it is impossible to avoid from making a mistake. Everyone does mistake, however it depends on how you learn from the mistake. Whatever your future holds, it is important to commit to it from the beginning.”

Dr Chia encouraging graduates to further their studies

UTAR Head of Programme for Master of Project Management Dr Chia Fah Choy was also invited to give a speech during the sharing session. Citing a quote, he said, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” According to him, the best of times indicated the achievement of students, completing their studies after four years of hard work; the worst of times referred to the sad occasion for not being able to walk across the stage to receive the scroll for graduation. He shared his journey of studying and then working, and encouraged graduates to further their studies if they wished to pursue higher education.

Dr Jeffrey explaining what research is

Ir Ts Dr Jeffrey Yap Boon Hui, who is currently a lecturer in the Department of Surveying, shared his 19 years of working experience in the building construction industry. “Prior to joining the academia, I was actually in the industry with both engineering consultants and property developers,” he said. He explained to graduates—what is research, and said that graduation is not the end of the route, but a new journey. “If knowledge is power, then learning is a superpower,” he said.

Sr Lim sharing her advice

Sr Lim Vin Pei, who graduated from UTAR in 2015, now works as a senior estimator in Pekat Solar Sdn Bhd. Sharing her advice, she said, “Learning is a continuous process. You should keep learning and hold onto your goals even when you stumble here and there. Learn from your lesson. We should strive to try, not just to survive.”

Shaun highlighting the importance of teamwork

Shaun Yeong Wai Kitt who graduated from UTAR in 2016 currently works as a senior contract executive in EK Build Sdn Bhd. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of teamwork, and said, “In your working life, you have to deal with consultants and clients. Teamwork is important to make the project successful. You may face many difficulties and obstacles during the process, but you just keep moving on until the project ends.”

Chairperson of IChemE Student Chapter Allan Chong Han Lin congratulating graduates for completing their studies

Institute of Chinese Studies

A simple but warm graduation ceremony was organised by the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) via Microsoft Teams on 15 August 2020. Themed “The Starting Point of Dream”, the ICS E-Convo Celebration 2020（“梦想的起点” 2020中华研究院毕业生云典礼）saw the participation of ICS’s March and August 2020 graduates, alumni, staff and students from both campuses.

Dr Chong congratulating the graduates

On behalf of the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), ICS Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei delivered his appreciation to the lecturers and congratulated the graduates. He wished them a happy and memorable graduation ceremony. He said, “As the Chinese saying goes ‘live long, learn long’ (活到老，学到老), the spirit of learning and upgrading ourselves should be carried out even as we age. There is no limit to learning as knowledge is endless and boundless (学海无涯，学无止境). We must continue to learn throughout our lives, so as not to be eliminated by the torrent of the times. Moreover, no matter how big the difficulties and challenges may be in the future, I hope everyone can face them bravely as Mencius said, ‘when Heaven is about to place a great responsibility on a great man, it will first frustrate his spirit and will, exhaust his muscles and bones, expose him to starvation and poverty, harasses him with troubles and setbacks so as to stimulate his spirit, toughen his nature and enhance his abilities (天将降大任于斯人也,必先苦其心志,劳其筋骨,饿其体肤,空乏其身,行拂乱其所为,所以动心忍性,增益其所不能). ”

“ICS has cultivated 1,748 undergraduates, 107 masters and 15 doctoral students since it was founded. We always welcome our alumni to visit their alma mater more frequently to support the university and ICS’s activities, and use their strength to improve the University, ensuring that the university will continue to thrive. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank people from all walks of life who have given support to the Department of Chinese Studies since its establishment, from being affiliated to the FAS, FCI, to the establishment of ICS,” he concluded.

Wong welcoming graduates to join and support AADCS

The Alumni Association of the Department of Chinese Studies (AADCS) Chairperson Sandra Wong Foong Kiew congratulated the graduates and welcomed them to join the AADCS. She also made a brief introduction on AADCS and the activities held by AADCS. It was followed by graduates’ speeches. Cho Xin Yu represented the undergraduate students, Goh Wee Meng represented the master graduates and Foong, Kao Ching I represented the doctoral students.

Cho, Goh and Kao delivering their speeches

A flute performance was presented by Year One Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Chinese Studies student Tan Zi Jun to congratulate his seniors. The songs he played were Gu Su Xing (姑苏行) and Fang Cao Bi Lian Tian (芳草碧连天). There were also sharing sessions conducted by ICS alumni on working and entrepreneurship, and an introduction to ICS’s postgraduate programmes by Head of Postgraduate Degree Programmes Dr Tan Ai Boay. The graduation ceremony ended with exchange and virtual photography sessions.

Flute performance by Year One Chinese Studies student Tan Zi Jun

Faculty of Creative Industries

The departments from the Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) hosted their live graduation ceremony via Microsoft Teams. Among the FCI departments were Department of Mass Communication, Department of Game Studies, and Department of Multimedia Design and Animation. Best wishes were given by heads of departments and lecturers to congratulate graduates on their accomplishments.

FCI Dean Dr David Tneh Cheng Eng was invited by the Department of Multimedia Design and Animation to deliver a speech for the graduates. During the live ceremony, he said, “Completing your study is not about getting a degree, it is about becoming a better person. This is not the end, this is just a beginning.” He added, “You must have faith in your future and in what you do.” Furthermore, Department of Multimedia Design and Animation Head Ts Dr Yuen May Chan also presented her congratulatory message to the graduates and expressed her appreciation to the organisers for conducting such an event.

In her congratulatory speech, Department of Mass Communication Head Cynthia Lau Pui-Shan said, “Although this year’s ceremony is different with the digital tools, it is a special way to celebrate the graduation safely and make positive memories for all. Congratulation and we are very proud of the hard work you put into completing your study. The lecturers here have seen you grow all the way up from Year One as a fresher to Year Three. We hope that in your next chapter, you will continue to be successful.”

Department of Game Studies Head Tan Han Keong, on the other hand, urged the graduates to not forget the alma mater when they become successful. He congratulated the graduates and advised them to stay connected with UTAR. Besides, Department of Early Childhood Studies and Department of Media also sent their congratulatory messages to the graduates via uploaded video.

HoDs and lecturers from FCI Department of Multimedia Design and Animation, Department of Mass Communication and Department of Game Studies presenting their best wishes to the graduates

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS) celebrated its e-convo celebration on 17 August 2020 at Microsoft Teams to recognise its students’ accomplishments and success in UTAR. FMHS Dean Emeritus Prof Dr Cheong Soon Keng said, “On behalf of FMHS, I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to all the graduating class of March and August 2020. Your hard work, conscientiousness, perseverance as well as spending countless hours during internship or clinical have finally paid off. You have made it! The entire FMHS family is very proud of you. Now everyone, let’s go and build a better future.”

Prof Cheong (left) and Prof Ng (right) congratulating the graduates

FMHS Deputy Dean for Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Prof Dr Ng Teck Han congratulated the graduates, “This is a special and meaningful event to mark and celebrate the success of our graduates. Your hard work, effort and conscientiousness have paid off and I wish you all the best in your future undertakings. Do enjoy the celebration made for you and happy graduation.”

Sopia (left) and Ng (right) sharing their thoughts after graduating

Physiotherapy graduate Ng Jia Wei said, “The busy schedule in life, at times, makes us wonder the real purpose of pursuing Physiotherapy in the first place. You will question yourself if you are capable of managing the job. I took up Physiotherapy because I can add value to other people’s lives; that’s my reason. It really doesn’t matter if you don’t excel academically; the knowledge, skills and confidence that matters. Just keep staying hungry for knowledge and skills to be a better person to achieve greatness and give back to society.”

MBBS graduate Sopia Novalina R Guk Guk Surjanto said, “Continue what it takes. Always remember why you started in the first place. Down the road, there are plenty of challenges that you will face. This exam does not define who we are. It is the persistency and consistency of becoming who we always wanted to be. It’s never about the speed. The man who graduates today and stops learning tomorrow is uneducated the day after. So, never stop learning.”

FMHS students performing “I lived” by One Republic

The celebration was followed by a series of webinars by experts from the field and industry advisor. Hospital Kuala Lumpur General Surgeon Dr Irina Hanis binti Ishak presented the first topic, “Housemanship: Expectations and Survival Tips.” “It is important to understand your job scope. Apply what you have learnt and familiarise yourself with the procedures in the ward and master those procedures. Do finish your work before you go back. Get to know your patients and organise your documentation systematically. Have the right attitude at work and communicate well. Also, be sincere in your work. It may be overwhelming, but take it day by day. Get help if it’s too overwhelming,” said Dr Irina.

Synapse Physiotherapy Chartered Physiotherapist Director Marc Jonathan Daniel spoke on “True Challenges as a Novice Therapist”. He said, “Congrats to everyone. It’s time to party now. There’s more to life than just working nonetheless, when you start to work, there would be a different priority. Getting a job in the new normal is not easy but the job opportunities are abundant. My advice is to get as much experience as possible if you are looking for a job. Clinical experience that you’ll get from the hospitals will outweigh the clinical experiences that you’re going to get in a private clinic.”

Prof Dr Efstathios S. Gonos shared “The role of PG for RD Development” where he expressed his opinions based on his vast experience on how to undertake research. He said, “When you choose a project, choose something that you like. You may lack the experience to judge the project perfectly but your supervisor will guide you to the best situation of choosing a suitable project and sometimes even a grant that supports the PhD. No matter how experienced we are, the discoveries come from people who are very young who provide fresh ideas. Check on the research and see the gaps and go for the gap, find a meaningful and scientific experimental approach to tackle the areas that have not been addressed.”

Clockwise, from top right: Marc, Prof Efstathios and Dr Irina during their sharing session

To celebrate the joyful occasion, the faculty organised a Graduation Portrait Competition with the theme “Wonderful Graduation”. Edward Low Koon Yei won the Champion while Chan Qing Yan won the first runner-up and the second runner-up. All winners will receive their printed portrait with a signature from FMHS Dean Emeritus Prof Dr Cheong Soon Kheng.

Edward’s portrait

Chan’s portrait

Institute of Postgraduate Studies

Dr Yong (far left) with the IPSR team

Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research (IPSR) Director Assoc Prof Dr Yong Thian Kok said, “I would like to express my heartfelt congratulation to all the graduating class of 2020. Your hard work and perseverance through the years have finally paid off. You have made it! We are happy to celebrate your graduation and we are proud of your accomplishment. I wish all you the best.”

Faculty of Accountancy and Management

The Faculty of Accountancy and Management (FAM) put up a video that featured congratulatory messages from deans, deputy deans, lecturers, students, alumni and staff. The video, titled “Memories” was displayed on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gDmEahP4bY&feature=youtu.be on 15 August 2020.

FAM Dean Dr Sia urging graduates to stay connected with the alma mater

“Congratulations to the graduating class of 2020. We hope your academic journey will not end here today. Do continue to engage with our alumni connections. Always remember that leadership and achievement shine the brightest during the challenging time. Once again, congratulations!” said FAM Dean Dr Sia Bee Chuan.

From left: FAM Deputy Deans Dr Hen Kai Wah and Dr Pok Wei Fong congratulating the graduates

Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes Deputy Dean Dr Hen Kai Wah said, “I believe these few years would have presented you with the most colourful and meaningful study life here at UTAR. Let me take this time to wish you all the very best for your future undertakings. Good luck!”