Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany jointly organised an educational film screening

Third from left: Dr David Tneh, Prof Dato’ Ewe, Ms Ulrike Wolf and Mr Thomas Müller with participants

An educational film titled “Three Minutes: A Lengthening” was screened at Sungai Long Campus on 22 June 2023 for the students and staff of UTAR. Jointly organised by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Kuala Lumpur and UTAR, the event saw more than 100 participants including 30 students from the German School Kuala Lumpur who were led by their history teacher Mr Thomas Müller. The event provided the participants with an opportunity to explore events of the past and discuss their implications.

Also present at the film screening were the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Kuala Lumpur Deputy Head of Mission Ms Ulrike Wolf, UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) Dean Dr David Tneh Cheng Eng, guests from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Kuala Lumpur, students from German School Kuala Lumpur, UTAR students and staff. The film screening and the Q&A session were moderated by FCI academic Foo Mei Lee.

From left: Ms Ulrike Wolf, Prof Dato’ Ewe and Dr David Tneh delivering their speech

At the screening, Ms Ulrike Wolf said, “Thank you to UTAR for organising this event. The event today honours the victims of the war in the past. The lessons of the past teach us to do everything we can to ensure they are not repeated. We believe that it is important to have respect for others. I want to thank each of you who are here today for remembering and honouring the victims of the war.”

Prof Dato’ Ewe welcomed the participants and said, “The film today explores historical events. By understanding the historical context, we can work towards preventing recurrence. It is through education and dialogue that we build bridges, promote empathy, and create a society that values diversity, peace, and justice. May this film screening be a reminder of our collective responsibility to learn from the past and work towards a peaceful and understanding world.”

Dr David Tneh said, “Today’s screening will be sombre but definitely educational, eye-opening and enlightening. Despite the sadness, there lies hope in future. No matter how challenging the circumstances are, do not give up hope. Hope is a luxury not many have. Our experiences in the past will guide how we respond to the future. If you could erase all the mistakes of your past, you would also erase the wisdom of your present. Remember the lesson, not the disappointment.”

The film screening and the Q&A session took place after the speech.

Students sharing their views during the Q&A session

Ongoing film screening

From left: Mr Thomas Müller, Ms Ulrike Wolf and Foo during the Q&A session

Souvenirs exchange ceremony