THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019

POSTGRADUATE

Towards better research efforts

Malaysia has come a long way in diverse research fields, but more intensive endeavours
are needed from all parties to ensure the country stands tall in its knowledge output.
2 Postgraduate
When discovery
is your job
By NGEH CHEE YEN
MALAYSIA likes to be thought of as being
on its way to becoming a developed
country, especially when it comes to
advancements in science and technology. In
fact, it was so much so that it was among
the ideals of Vision 2020 launched by Prime
Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in
1990.
How far have we really come since then?
Prof Tan Sri Zakri Abdul Hamid, Science
Adviser to the Prime Minister, shared an
eye-opening narrative in his opinion piece
Where are the Malaysian scientists? on a
local news portal. He cited several
occasions where research on biodiversity
was conducted in South-East Asia and
Malaysia itself, but not by local researchers.
His concern was further supported by
other instances of local issues brought
overseas to be researched and solved.
One recent example occurred just last
month, when The Japan Times – Japan’s
largest and oldest English-language
newspaper – released an article titled Japan
scientists win backing for work on potential
Nipah virus vaccine.
First identified in Malaysia and
Singapore in 1999, the nipah virus outbreak
caused more than 100 deaths. Spread by
infected bats, flying foxes and pigs, the
virus has since spread to other countries
and caused worse outbreaks in Bangladesh
and India. For a virus originating from and
impacting Malaysia, it was disheartening to
see a research opportunity right in our
backyard being given to someone else.
With these incidences, what is causing
the repression of the full potential of our
researchers, and how does this affect the
future of potential full-time researchers in
Malaysia?
Gauging the situation
Zaipul Anwar Zainu, executive council
member of Environmental Management
and Research Association of Malaysia, says
the bulk of Malaysian researchers work in
the field of science and technology.
He explains that this is because the
Homegrown achievements
While Malaysia faces the issue of brain
drain for its researchers, there is still hope
as it has been proven that achieving
marvellous results on Malaysian soil is
possible.
One such example is Dr Magaret
Sivapragasam, a Universiti Teknologi
Petronas postdoctoral research scientist,
who was chosen as one of the Periodic
Table of Younger Chemists by International
Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry.
An article by Bernama says, “One of her
projects includes the removal of dye from
industrial wastewater produced by the
batik-dyeing industry in Malaysia, for
which she won several awards including
Stage Two of the Shell Ideas 360
Innovators Challenge and an honourable
mention in the Yale University Green
Chemistry Challenge.”
Another scientist worth mentioning is
Prof Dr Ng Kwan Hoong from University of
Malaya’s Faculty of Medicine, as the first
scientist from a developing country to
receive the Marie Sklodowska-Curie
Award.
According to an article titled Malaysian
scientist does nation proud published in
The Star last year, the award honours
scientists who have contributed to the
advancement of the profession and
education and training of medical
physicists, students and health personnel.
Prof Ng's core research is in breast
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
In terms of overall quality
of university education as
measured by international
rankings, Malaysia’s position
has improved within the
region but is still far from the
top 100 universities of Asia
or the world.
majority of funding provided by both the
Government and industry players are in this
particular field.
However, this majority does not seem to
be enough. Last year, Women, Family and
Community Development Deputy Minister
Hannah Yeoh announced that Malaysia
needs seven times more scientists and
engineers by 2020.
Speaking at the launch of the Women’s
International Conference on Science,
Engineering & Technology, she said the
National Council of Science, Research and
Development found that Malaysia needed
about 500,000 scientists and engineers by
2020, but Malaysia falls short of that
requirement.
Zaipul agrees, saying, “We need so many
researchers because the areas of science and
technology are huge and constantly change,
grow and expand.”
He explains a few of the barriers holding
Malaysia back:
l Lack of human resources – Over the
past 30 years, there is a lack of human
resources in the areas mentioned.
l Fewer interested students – Two main
reasons have deterred students from being
interested in science and technology: the
perception that the previous government
provided insufficient financial aid for
education, and that science and technology
are difficult subjects.
> TURN TO PAGE 4
cancer screening and involves the use of
artificial intelligence for computer-aided
diagnosis.
Zaipul Anwar Zainu, executive
committee member of Environmental
Management and Research Association of
Malaysia, has great hopes for the future of
Malaysian researchers.
“They have a great future if the
challenges mentioned are solved, and a
better environment is created for
researchers. Five of our research public
universities have successfully inculcated
research culture and innovation in their
work environment, proving that we are
able to produce influential researchers
and produce excellent publications that
surpass even Singapore and Thailand in
output.”
He also shares that Malaysian university
researchers have even been recognised as
World’s Most Influential Scientific Minds.
A 2017 article titled Ten Malaysians among
world’s most influential scientific minds
published in The Star stated that these
researchers were ranked among Clarivate
Analytics’ top 1% (by citations) in the Web
of Science.
That said, while challenges do exist in
the career pathway of a full-time
researcher in Malaysia, it is not impossible.
If you are willing to take on the challenges,
interesting things await you in your
research journey.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 3
4 Postgraduate
Barriers in research
and development
> FROM PAGE 2
l Brain drain phenomenon – Many
graduates, especially those who specialise in
science and technology, leave the country
because of the lack of job opportunities and
lower salaries compared with what is offered
to them in other developed countries.
Besides that, there is also the issue of
whether Malaysian universities are
producing skilled graduates for the research
and development industry. In 2016, the
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development (OECD) released a report,
Reviews of Innovation Policy: Malaysia 2016
on the quality of graduates in Malaysia.
The OECD states, “In terms of overall
quality of university education as measured
by international rankings, Malaysia’s position
has improved within the region but is still
far from the top 100 universities of Asia or
the world, according to the QS World
University Rankings.”
In terms of scientific performance, the
report shows that although Malaysia has
dramatically expanded its number of
scientific publications over the last decade,
publication is focused among just a few
universities, and the quality of publications
remains low compared with that of countries
such as Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and
South Korea. Hence, there is a need to ramp
up the quality and impact of Malaysian
research.
Balancing the options
There are quite a few challenges on the
horizon for people who wish to continue
their research even after they have
completed their postgraduate degrees.
Propel yourself ahead with sound knowledge and qualifications
FIRST City University College (First City UC)
has been at the front line of producing
thousands of quality graduates across
various fields of study for almost 30 years. It
offers a vast range of undergraduate and
postgraduate programmes in various fields.
Graduates who want to pursue
postgraduate study may find the Master of
Business Administration (MBA), Master of
Design Management, Master of Software
Engineering and Master of Engineering
Management programmmes interesting.
Offered in both full-time and part-time
modes, working students can juggle work
and study without having to compromise
their working hours.
MBA
First City UC’s MBA programme is
strengthened through education
partnerships with universities in the United
Kingdom and Switzerland. These
partnerships have led to the MBA
programme being validated and recognised
by UK institution Anglia Ruskin University
(ARU).
MBA student Ang Chong Wui finds the
lectures highly effective in teaching both the
theoretical and practical aspects of business
studies.
“I can see the lecturers putting substantial
effort in making our learning experience
interesting. They inspire us to become
successful entrepreneurs, and I feel
motivated each time I attend class,” Ang
shares.
Fellow MBA student Derek Wong Chee
Yean, says, “I find the institution’s track
record convincing. I’m looking forward to
receiving a master’s qualification that is
validated and recognised by ARU, as it will
be an added advantage for me.”
Master of Design Management
First City UC’s Faculty of Design and Built
Environment warmly welcomes designers
Zaipul, a researcher in his own right, says,
“Researchers and organisations alike face
different barriers in improving the research
and development industry in Malaysia. Some
challenges include:
l Difficulty in getting funding or research
grants, especially in the private sector, where
the culture of research and innovation is still
not too well established.
l Lack of skills, technology or capabilities
in areas such as advanced manufacturing
technology, information and communications
technology, medicine and agriculture.
l Increasingly challenging environment
for research as academics are burdened with
academic work such as long teaching hours,
overseeing the delivery of multiple subjects
and handling paperwork, instead of focusing
on research work.
l Insufficient or outdated research
facilities and equipment in many research
institutions throughout the country.
l Excessive emphasis on academic
qualifications deter researchers who have
industry experience but not the academic
qualifications needed for research in
universities.”
If these challenges do not deter you and
research remains your passion, then a career
in research is still worth pursuing. Zaipul
adds, “Industries and universities do actively
seek researchers, and there is a sizeable
number of positions available in any
university, research institution and industry
that does research.”
A local newspaper reported last year in an
article titled Job opportunities abound for
researchers that the current job market offers
many options for those who seek career
opportunities in and outside of research.
These include research positions in
With a stimulating environment, solid curricula and qualified teaching staff, First City UC
ticks all the boxes for well-rounded postgraduate programmes.
who want to complement their design
portfolios with a solid master’s degree to
enrol in the Master of Design Management.
It comprises comprehensive design,
management, entrepreneurship and
branding module content.
Master of Design Management programme
student Jacky Loke Zhao Lin shares, “This
programme is unique as it incorporates
business and design and encourages
creativity in students to look for gaps and
niches in the market to source new
opportunities and ideas.”
Pradiipa Khor Pooi Hiang, who is also
enrolled in the same programme, says, “The
fusion of business and design in the syllabus
equips students with an edge in turning
design ideas into tangible products.”
commercial companies, public bodies or
non-profit organisations, or research-related
positions areas such as research
policymaking and administration. The article
also states a need for more researchers for a
vibrant, technology-driven economy.
Suiting up for the job
While full-time researchers in Malaysia
are in for a tough time, it is also through
overcoming these challenges that the current
crop of researchers will grow and produce
better results. Besides, what better way to
contribute to the direct needs of the country
than through research and development?
Zaipul says, “My advice is for them to
equip themselves with the relevant skills
Master of Software Engineering
and Master of Engineering
Management
Students enrolled in the Master in
Software Engineering programme will gain
technological problem-solving skills as well
as skills in management, administration and
planning. Meanwhile, students enrolled in
the Master in Engineering Management
programme will be taken through a course
syllabus that combines the technological
problem-solving of engineering with the
organisational, administrative and planning
abilities of management.
Faculty of Engineering and Computing
dean Assoc Prof Dr Christine Lee shares,
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
before they enter the field of research and
development, such as enrolling in research
methodology courses.
“Next, they have to determine what really
excites them to do research. High
commitment and long working hours are
needed when doing research. Without
immense interest in the area, the researcher
can easily become bored and quit their
research, so make sure you determine which
area you’re really interested in.
“Lastly, learn about new technology,
especially information technology, that can
help you manage and enhance your
research. Do not be lazy to learn and adopt
new technology because this is how you can
stand out from others in your areas of
research.”
I can see the lecturers
putting substantial effort
in making our learning
experience interesting.
They inspire us to become
successful entrepreneurs,
and I feel motivated each
time I attend class.
“The cross-disciplinary syllabi of the Master
of Software Engineering and Master of
Engineering Management programmes are
unique features as they enable students to
experience blended learning. Students will
get to expand their understanding and out-
of-the-box thinking. Hence, their learning
curve is not restricted to a narrow, specific
field.”
First City UC is strategically located in the
modern township of Bandar Utama, Petaling
Jaya. The eco-friendly urban campus is well-
equipped with state-of-the-art facilities,
which include a wide array of recreational
and learning and teaching facilities.
Postgraduate students receive a boost of
convenience and comfort as the Centre for
Postgraduate Studies is exclusively for their
use. The centre comprises modern lecture
halls, classrooms, a lounge and spacious
discussion areas.
First City UC is open every day in April for
registration. The May intake is in progress
for diploma, bachelor’s and postgraduate
programmes.
n For more information on the
programmes, scholarships and incentives
offered by First City University College, call
03-7727 3200 or visit the campus or www.
firstcity.edu.my
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019 5
6 Postgraduate
Research
in Malaysia
WHETHER we realise it or not, we engage in
research daily to solve problems or avoid
potential ones. A simple example of how we
solve problems with research is when we
study people around us to understand how
to use a new gadget. Research can also help
us detect potential issues, such as when we
check reviews for a product online before
deciding to purchase it.
While these examples illustrate research
on a small scale, research is an important
phase of any project. Research findings have
the potential to change the way we think,
feel and act. Here are some examples of
research that have greatly impacted
Malaysians.
Question of life and death
Research helps fight or cement theories.
Debunking baseless yet commonly accepted
ideas may even save lives. Take the case of
the flying fox (giant fruit bat) for example. It
is one of Malaysia’s bigger bat species that
has been exterminated from orchards and
even killed because it was assumed to be a
pest.
However, observations of a team that
researched this bat in Malaysia show that
the flying fox is actually an important
component to the ecosystem. Contrary to
popular belief, the animals do not cause
damage. In fact, they do the opposite – they
are effective pollinators.
The study highlights the correlation
between the flying fox population and
production of durian and found that these
animals are crucial to the durian pollination
ecology. Though they don’t act as the sole
pollinators, there is reason to believe that
their declining numbers may be directly
proportional to poor durian crop yield.
Sheema Abdul Aziz is the principal
investigator of Project Pteropus: the first and
only project in Malaysia focused on flying
fox ecology and conservation. If she is
funded, she wishes to pursue research on
durian pollination ecology and whether the
loss of a primary pollinator can affect fruit
production despite the availability of
substitute pollinators.
The study is of especial interest to
Malaysians as the disappearance of flying
foxes could deprive the nation of its beloved
king of fruits. As for the flying foxes, they are
being considered for a spot on Act 716 of the
Wildlife Conservation Act 2010’s “totally
protected species” list – a bump up from the
“protected species” list – legally keeping
them safe from being hunted in Malaysia.
Explore the unknown
We still have a long way to go in figuring
out how the world works. One way that
brings us closer is through the study of our
environment.
The discovery of a new species can benefit
us through the new solutions they may
bring. For example, snake venom has
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
revolutionised aesthetic medicine. Needless
to say, the discovery of new species is
always thrilling, especially when it is one
that has been under our noses for so long.
One such discovery was the Sacoproteus
nishae, a species of sea slug endemic to the
Indo-Pacific region. Discovered by marine
ecologist Leena Wong from Universiti
Putra Malaysia, the species was long
thought to be synonymous to its cousin, the
Stiliger smaragdinus. This lengthens the list
of Malaysian fauna, reflecting its status as
one of the few most biodiversity-rich
countries in the world.
By correctly identifying the sea slug, we
not only know how to study the species
better, but also make advancements in
understanding complex sea territories. To
put this in perspective, we have better
knowledge of the moon than we do our
oceans. One small step for man, one giant
leap for mankind, indeed.
No use crying over spilt milk
Cheap and highly versatile, palm oil is in
high demand and is an important source of
income for producer countries. With the
rise in awareness about environmental
welfare, the industry is under fire for its
less-than-environmental-friendly ways.
Being the second-largest producer globally,
this is a concern to Malaysia.
Dependence on this industry means that
boycotting palm oil is not a viable option.
On the other hand, the ill effects are far too
pronounced to be ignored. The solution to
this economy-versus-ecology debate?
Recycling.
Though an obvious answer, recycling
has not been a viable solution because we
lack the necessary knowledge and
technology to properly treat the water used
in palm oil production, which is heavily
laced with complex, harmful compounds
by the end of the process.
Since palm oil production contributes to
water pollution, the best way forward is to
look at how the process can be made
sustainable. International Water
Association board member Dr Norhayati
Abdullah understood this when she set out
to find a solution to this problem.
One of the concerns is the amount of
water used in the production of palm oil.
Dr Norhayati, a recipient of the L’Oréal-
Unesco award for Women in Science 2018,
suggested recycling said water by breaking
down the compounds present in the
wastewater into simpler ones with the help
of microorganisms, rendering the water
safe for reuse in palm oil milling or plant
irrigation.
While Malaysia is proud of these
research contributions, the country is still
lagging behind in research work compared
with its neighbours, according to Social
Sciences Citation Index. It is thus important
to encourage our scholars to be more
proactive in their work.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
Focus on intellectual exchange
MANAGEMENT & Science University (MSU)
recently launched its Congress of Optometry
and Vision Research (COVR) 2019, themed
“Current Outlook on Visual Rehabilitation”.
Designed to encourage interprofession
education among MSU students and future
graduates, COVR 2019 is a sharing platform
facilitating the intellectual exchange of
scientific knowledge, ideas, practices and
research findings in the field of visual
rehabilitation.
Initiated by the MSU Optometry and
Vision Science Exhibition and Seminar
series organised by the Optometry and
Vision Science Department, COVR 2019
supports the United Nation’s Sustainable
Development Goals, which focus on health,
wellbeing and quality education. The event
was co-organised by the Health Ministry’s
Low Vision and Visual Rehabilitation
Committee.
Welcoming participants at the launch of
COVR 2019 was MSU president Prof Tan Sri
Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid.
“The COVR 2019 theme very much relates
to and jives well with MSU’s blindness
prevention project. COVR is an opportunity
for the discovery and synthesis of new
knowledge across multidisciplinary areas of
research. Encouraging contributions to
knowledge through the culture of research
in a creative learning experience, COVR is a
part of MSU’s continuous effort in creating
multidisciplinary students and graduates.”
Participants included members of the
Health Ministry, King Fahad Medical City
(Saudi Arabia), optometry schools from
Indonesia and the Philippines, Universiti
Kebangsaan Malaysia and Universiti Islam
Antarabangsa. The event saw 32
presentations, comprising eight oral
presentations and 24 poster presentations.
Plenary guest speakers included Prof
Christine Dickinson from University of
MSU president Prof Mohd Shukri (centre) with participants of COVR 2019, which was
designed to encourage interprofessional education among MSU students.
Manchester, Hasan Minto from Brien
Holden Vision Institute Pakistan, Prof
Datuk Dr Rokiah Omar from Universiti
Kebangsaan Malaysia and Dr Duratul Ain
Husin from Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
MSU also inked Memoranda of
Understanding on optometry and vision
sciences with the Health Ministry, Manila
Central University, Centro Escolar
University and Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu
Kesehatan Medan.
The event also saw the announcement of
new collaborations from the Schools and
Students Optometry Network of Asean
(SSONA), aimed at fostering collaboration
among Asean optometry schools and
students. SSONA runs educational
programmes, leadership training, research
and community engagement projects on
sight.
Present at the launch was Health
Ministry Allied Health Sciences Division
director Che Ruhani Che Jaafar, MSU’s
Medical and Health Sciences Cluster vice-
Postgraduate 7
president Prof Dr Nabishah Mohamad and
the deans of MSU’s International Medical
School, School of Pharmacy and Faculty of
Health and Life Sciences.
MSU offers specialised programmes at the
postgraduate and undergraduate levels in
the areas of medicine, health sciences,
pharmacy, information sciences,
engineering, business management and
professional studies, education and social
sciences, hospitality and culinary arts,
music, and fashion.
MSU’s postgraduate programmes are
crafted to cultivate leadership and real
research contributions that address
industrial hands-on challenges at the
highest management level. Because of the
tremendous and exciting state of flux within
business and management communities,
top management must adapt rapidly to stay
competitive, relevant and strategically
positioned to tackle global trends by
possessing the relevant postgraduate
qualifications.
MSU offers advanced degrees at the
master’s and doctorate levels, covering a
wide range of areas, including business
administration, accounting/finance,
management, educational management and
leadership, education (Teaching English as a
Second Language), international business,
fashion business, international hospitality
and tourism management, early childhood
education, counselling and guidance,
computer science, food service technology,
biomedicine, biomedical sciences,
information technology, clinical pharmacy,
engineering, pharmacy, applied science,
design and medical physiology.
n For more information on postgraduate
programmes offered at MSU, call 03-5521
6868, email enquiry@msu.edu.my or visit
www.msu.edu.my
8 Postgraduate
Shifting to a brighter future
WORKING in shifts is common practice
in a wide range of fields and industries,
including healthcare, security, military, law
enforcement, hospitality, media and
transportation services. For those affected,
irregular hours are just the nature of the
job. Working outside the normal nine-to-
five schedule means adjusting to different
sleeping and travelling patterns while also
managing changes in one’s family and
social life.
There are plenty of advantages for
shift workers. Among others,
they can avoid rush-hour
traffic, run errands
at off-peak times and enjoy a calmer and
more focused work environment. More
importantly, shift workers have ample
learning opportunities, whether on the job
or on part-time basis. This allows them to
find time to engage in various activities for
personal enrichment. This is crucial not
only for professional development, but also
to achieve work-life balance. Just as
workers are expected to perform well at
their jobs, so should they be given the
chance to improve other aspects of their
lives.
A 2018 report by TalentCorp Malaysia
found that the majority of employers
surveyed are not only supportive of
improving work-life balance, but encourage
it as a means to improve staff productivity.
By allowing employees to pick up new skills
and upgrade their qualifications,
organisations can expect to nurture
talent and, in turn, boost employee
retention. In fact, many agree
that employees across all
industries need to upskill to
keep up with rapid
developments in the
working world.
According to a
2017 Khazanah
Research
By PROF
DATUK DR
MANSOR
FADZIL
Institute report, 54% of the jobs in Malaysia
now will be displaced by artificial
intelligence and robotics in the next two
decades. Coupled with the growing
emphasis on soft skills and multidisciplinary
knowledge, this clearly indicates that those
hoping to stay ahead of the curve will need
to find ways to remain relevant. Whether
hoping to be considered for a promotion or
looking for a career change, one of the
avenues that would best suit the educational
needs of shift workers is part-time studies.
At Open University Malaysia (OUM), a
blended learning approach ensures that no
matter their work hours, learners can keep
their jobs and study at the same time.
Learners decide when and where they can
best learn as multimedia-rich learning
materials can be accessed on any device.
Meanwhile, tutors and peers can be reached
via online forums, helping create a sense of
community even when each person is on
her own.
Classes and seminars take place only on
weekends, which allows greater flexibility
for those who are busy during the week. As
an alternative, OUM offers several fully
online programmes, which allow learners to
complete their studies entirely through
e-lessons. Many of our learners have proven
that varying work schedules do not hamper
their ability to study. Among shift workers
who have benefited from the open and
Master your career
IF you’ve just completed your undergraduate
studies, you may have started the slow climb
up the career ladder. Or if you’ve worked in
a certain field for a time, you may feel that
your motivation has waned as compared to
when you started your job.
If these situations sound familiar, a good
next step is to pursue postgraduate study, as
it would not only open doors to more senior
positions but could also let you gain entry to
different industries.
However, unlike many undergraduate
programmes, postgraduate courses are
narrower in scope, hence the plethora of
programmes to choose from. Below are
some postgraduate specialisations and fields
that are in demand in the Malaysian job
market.
The virtual world
Thanks to the Fourth Industrial
Revolution, technology is incorporated in
almost every industry, creating huge demand
for information technology (IT) experts.
According to Jobstreet Education general
manager Simran Kaur, the most in-demand
positions are in technology-oriented fields;
namely, data science and cybersecurity.
There is a zero-unemployment rate for
cybersecurity and data science professionals,
and this demand is expected to only rise.
If you are an IT professional stuck in a rut
in your career, pursuing a specialised course
in either field will lead to new challenges
and better employability.
Dealing in business
Simran shares, “The two job positions
with the next highest employability rates are
in digital marketing and sales and
marketing.”
Digital marketing is a good area of
specialisation for individuals who don’t have
a technical background. Businesses are
shifting towards digital media and they need
experts who can employ marketing
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
Fifty-four per cent of the
jobs in Malaysia now will
be displaced by artificial
intelligence and robotics
in the next two decades.
Coupled with the growing
emphasis on soft skills and
multidisciplinary knowledge,
this clearly indicates that
those hoping to stay ahead
of the curve will need to find
ways to remain relevant.
distance learning approach are those in the
nursing profession. Thus far, more than
3,500 nurses have successfully obtained
their Bachelor of Nursing Science
qualification from OUM, proving that with
determination and discipline, even those
working in shifts can succeed in their
learning endeavours.
Ultimately, whether you are a stay-at-
home mother, retiree or one of the 15
million in the Malaysian labour force,
studying has the same goal. It is an
investment towards a brighter future. With
the right institution, the right programme
and an environment most conducive to
learning, everyone can indeed make their
dream a reality.
n Prof Datuk Dr Mansor Fadzil is the
president and vice-chancellor of OUM.
Digital marketing is a good
area of specialisation for
individuals who don’t have
a technical background.
Businesses are shifting
towards digital media and
they need experts who can
employ marketing techniques
specific to that media.
techniques specific to that media.
Postgraduate programmes in digital
marketing focus more on marketing
techniques rather than technical skills. On
the other hand, if you have a technical
background, a postgraduate business degree
specialising in sales and marketing can open
up more career paths since people with IT
skills and business acumen are coveted by
employers worldwide.
Crunching numbers
The accounting industry will always be
relevant, but you could raise your
employability should you choose to
specialise. Registering with recognised
bodies such as Chartered Institute of
Management Accountants or getting a title
such as Certified Public Accountant is just
the beginning.
There are several sub-specialties in
Malaysia, which range from forensic
accounting and investment banking to
information systems auditing, that merge
technology and accounting.
Make your mark as a professional by
finding your niche. However, don’t forget to
consider your interests and passion before
enrolling in a postgraduate course.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
For future dental practitioners
THE Postgraduate Diploma in Implant
Dentistry (PGDID) programme delivered by
International Medical University (IMU) is
Malaysia’s first and the only one of its kind
accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications
Agency.
Since its inception in 2016, it has
successfully trained two cohorts to be able
to carry out safe, effective and independent
implants. The programme has a unique
learning model, which offers flexibility
through its outcome-based modular
structure delivered through blended
learning. The highlight of this programme is
its curriculum, which is benchmarked
against Royal College of Surgeons of
Edinburgh’s Diploma in Implant Dentistry
examination. This ensures students get
exposure to develop their clinical skills.
The PGDID is delivered by a highly
qualified and experienced faculty and has
developed a special implant clinic for
correct implant referrals and clinical
supervision. It is specially tailored to suit
practitioners with minimal to no implant
dentistry experience. Coming to IMU for
face-to-face teaching/learning sessions once
every two months is something all students
look forward to as they meet the teaching
faculty for direct teaching and practical
sessions.
IMU’s School of Dentistry associate dean
for postgraduate programmes Prof Seow
Liang Lin says close clinical supervision is
provided by teaching staff to ensure
students obtain the required competencies
to perform implant placement and
restoration. For instance, one-on-one patient
supervision is provided during treatment to
ensure student learning is optimal. Besides
the academic staff at IMU, the teaching and
learning activities are also complemented
with the various national and international
Postgraduate 9
To those who are beginners
or already at an advanced
level, this course is just the
thing to help you develop
your skills and update
your knowledge in implant
dentistry. IMU has provided
great support, with facilities
such as online journal
subscriptions, the latest
academic books and learning
materials.
speakers the university invites every now
and then. IMU's PGDID is taught by highly qualified and experienced faculty members and delivered
Dr Kong Siew Mii, a student from the through blended learning.
second cohort of IMU’s PGDID, says, “This is
a great programme in getting you started in to help you develop your skills and update located in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, with
implant dentistry as it covers all the basics. your knowledge in implant dentistry. IMU branch clinical schools located in
IMU provides one of the best facilities. There has provided great support, with facilities Seremban, Kuala Pilah, Batu Pahat and
are ample resources and helpful mentors to such as online journal subscriptions, the Kluang.
guide you through the programme.” latest academic books and learning IMU offers other postgraduate
Another student from the same cohort, Dr materials.” programmes in fields such as public health,
Nursuriati Muhamad Zahari, says, “Studying IMU is Malaysia’s first and most analytical and pharmaceutical chemistry,
the PGDID at IMU has been a highlight in my established private medical and health molecular medicine, pharmacy practice,
implantology journey. I’ve always loved the sciences university, with more than 26 years health professions education, and diabetes
university environment, classes, lectures and of dedicated focus in healthcare education. management and education, as well as two
seminars. At IMU, I was able to do and learn Established in 1992, IMU pioneered the by-research programmes at master’s and
more with the best team of multidisciplinary world’s first Partner Medical School doctorate levels.
specialists. It has truly been an invaluable programme and has since gained
learning experience for me and improved international recognition with more than 30 n For more information about this or other
my knowledge in implant dentistry. To those world-class university partners in Australia, postgraduate programmes offered by IMU,
who are beginners or already at an New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Canada, call 03-2731 7272, email postgraduate@
advanced level, this course is just the thing Ireland and China. IMU’s main campus is imu.edu.my or visit www.imu.edu.my
10 Postgraduate
AS early as 2020, 22% of Malaysia’s
dirty, dangerous and difficult jobs
could be automated. Industry 4.0,
also known as the Fourth
Industrial Revolution, will see the
growth of intelligent systems and
robotics that can work longer
hours than the humans they
replace.
However, the challenge for
Malaysia is not the lack of jobs, but
the lack of skills needed in jobs of
the future. Thus, universities will
play an important role in nurturing
the kind of high-skill talent the
country needs for sustainable
economic growth.
Prof Mahendhiran Nair, chief
executive officer of Monash
Malaysia R&D Sdn Bhd and vice-
president (research and
development) and professor of
econometrics and business
statistics at Monash University
Malaysia, shared the following
insights in his keynote presentation
at Finance Accreditation Agency’s
(FAA) Institute of Higher Learning
Forum, which was held in Kuala
Lumpur.
FAA is an independent body
supported by Central Bank of
Malaysia and Securities
Commission Malaysia. Its aim
is to create highly skilled,
internationally mobile
professionals in the financial
services industry.
How Industry 4.0 will
shape economies
Industry 4.0 was originally a
term used in the context of
Germany’s manufacturing field.
Today, it describes the current
trend of automation and data
exchange in manufacturing
technologies and powers
developments in other sectors of
the economy and society.
What makes it distinct from the
Third Industrial Revolution is
Industry 4.0’s cyberphysical
systems (CPS) and integrated
networks. CPS are controlled by
algorithms networked with the
Internet, and, in turn, control
physical operations. An example of
CPS is the autopilot system that
controls an aircraft. It assists the
human pilot, who can then focus
on other operations.
A concern surrounding Industry
4.0 is that humans will lose their
jobs to automation – and not only
in the manufacturing sector. For
instance, said Prof Mahendhiran,
“We may no longer need managers
who sign off on everything. That
can be done by rules and
algorithms. Fintech, legal,
agriculture – all sectors are
touched by this new revolution.
Routine jobs will be replaced by
intelligent systems.”
In the new revolution, thriving
economies will be driven by
Monash University Malaysia is led by experts such as Prof Mahendhiran, who holds his own in the research and development field.
How universities should
prepare for Industry 4.0
We may no longer
need managers
who sign off on
everything. That can
be done by rules and
algorithms. Fintech,
legal, agriculture – all
sectors are touched
by this new revolution.
Routine jobs will be
replaced by intelligent
systems.
Prof Mahendhiran Nair
information, ideas and innovation.
Many of the innovative endeavours
will be enabled by CPS. In contrast,
traditional economies that depend
merely on land, labour and capital
will suffer a loss of jobs and
competitiveness if they do not
adapt to the changing global
economic landscape.
Therefore, countries who wish to
adapt should develop a dynamic
national innovation ecosystem
with the 7i elements, which are:
l Infrastructure and
infostructure – To connect with
the global economy
l Intellectual capital
development – Continuous
knowledge creation and knowledge
transfer
l Interaction – Developing
smart partnerships that create
value to organisations and others
in the ecosystem
l Incentives – Both fiscal and
non-fiscal incentives that foster
innovation
l Institutions – To promote a
knowledge culture and adherence
to global best practices
l Integrity – In managing
resources for the benefit of all
stakeholders in the economy
Countries and organisations with
highly developed blueprints based
on the 7i elements will be able to
adjust to changes in the global
economy. In fact, some of these
organisations and countries are
initiating rapid changes and
becoming global pacesetters.
The role of universities in
the new economy
Universities need to adjust to
global changes by updating their
programmes to ensure that the
next generation of talent meets the
needs of firms of the future.
Prof Mahendhiran observed that
in many pacesetting countries, it is
universities that are key drivers of
development. These universities do
so by partnering with the industry
and other stakeholders in the
country.
“Universities are not only
suppliers of talent for the
workforce, but also at the forefront
of solving problems for industry
and the community,” he stressed. A
university must become a one-stop
knowledge centre for firms,
industry associations, government
agencies and community
organisations.
“Perhaps this is what educational
institutions should be nurturing
among future graduates. Give them
the context and expose them to the
tools of enquiry that enable them
to solve problems and create new
systems to improve the socio-
economic well-being of people
around the globe.”
What skills can universities
nurture to prepare graduates for
the new economy? Prof
Mahendhiran described the
creative worker as having these 10
skills:
l Critical thinking – To
challenge the norm, find
alternative ways of doing things
and work under constraints that
lead to more efficient solutions.
l Sound information and
communications technology
(ICT) literacy – To not only use ICT
systems, but also analyse the
strengths and weaknesses of
existing systems.
l Good technical skills – To
operate across multiple systems
and diverse industrial sectors.
l Communication skills – To
articulate creative ideas clearly
and persuasively.
l Sound multidisciplinary and
interdisciplinary knowledge – To
have depth within a discipline and
breadth of knowledge in other
disciplines.
l Learnability – Ability to pick
up new skills quickly.
l Strong power of association
– To combine different ideas and
create value through innovation
(recombinant innovation).
l Identify opportunities for
experimentation – To try different
things and troubleshoot current
practices (fostering a culture of
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
Prof Mahendhiran
Nair.
risk-taking).
l Problem-solving and
observation skills
l Leadership skills – To be a
dynamic leader who is a
purpose-maximiser, not a profit-
maximiser.
The role of universities is not
merely to usher graduates into
current jobs, but also to develop
employees of the future and
enable some of them to power
next-generation industries.
Prof Mahendhiran cited
examples of job areas that may
grow in demand: market
analytics, artificial intelligence
design, Internet of Things
engineering, game and app
development, robotics and
drones, environmental science
and precision farming.
“We may not have control over
the technological revolution, so
we should focus on what we can
do to support students and
professionals alike by nurturing,
upskilling and preparing them to
be more agile in the changing
economic landscape,” he said.
n For information on
programmes available at Monash
University Malaysia, visit www.
monash.edu.my
THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019
Boost your Uni-state partnership
career potential
WORKING professionals and students
planning to pursue a Master of Business
Administration (MBA), Doctorate in Business
Administration (DBA), Doctor of Philosophy
(PhD) in Business Administration, Master of
Science or PhD in Science can enrol in Quest
International University Perak (QIU) in Ipoh.
The structure of the MBA programme
enables students to complete their MBA
within 18 months. Working professionals
studying part-time would generally take
about 2.5 years.
For those who already have a master’s
degree in a business and management-
related field, the QIU DBA is highly
recommended. Both the MBA and DBA
programmes are claimable under the
Human Resources Development Fund.
The PhD in Business Administration is an
excellent platform for candidates to develop
a disposition for deep critical thinking and
discourse.
QIU’s Faculty of Business and Management
is a member of the Association to Advance
Collegiate Schools of Business while QIU is a
member of the International Association of
Universities and Association of
Commonwealth Universities.
The Master of Science (MSc) and PhD in
Science are both offered on full-time and
part-time basis. This is ideal for graduates
and working professionals who are
motivated to upgrade their qualifications
and employability while still pursuing full-
time careers.
“Our programmes are aimed at equipping
students with the required managerial and
technical tools that will prepare them to
Postgraduate study could be the perfect
answer for better career prospects.
excel at work,” says QIU chief operating
officer Nicholas Goh.
Prof Dr Vilasini Pillai, Centre for Research
and Innovation director and Faculty of
Science and Technology dean at QIU, is
confident that the MSc and PhD in Science
programmes can be undertaken in any
principal area of scientific research and will
open opportunities for graduates to find
employment.
Recently, researchers and students from
QIU’s Faculty of Science and Technology
swept 18 awards at the Malaysia Technology
Expo 2019.
n QIU’s postgraduate programmes are open
for registration. For details, call 05-249 0500,
email enquiries@qiup.edu.my or visit www.
qiup.edu.my
Postgraduate 11
CURTIN University Malaysia (Curtin
Malaysia) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
(Unimas) are set to strengthen their ongoing
partnership established under Memoranda
of Understanding (MoUs) signed in 2013 and
2015.
A dialogue was held at the Curtin Malaysia
campus recently between senior executives
of Unimas and Curtin Malaysia to explore
new ways in which the two universities can
collaborate.
Representing Curtin Malaysia at the
meeting were deputy pro-vice-chancellor
Prof Beena Giridharan, chief operating
officer Pieter Willem Pottas, Faculty of
Engineering and Science acting dean Assoc
Prof Vincent Lee, Faculty of Business acting
dean Assoc Prof Pauline Ho, and corporate
communications manager Nicholas Leong.
Heading the delegation from Unimas was
vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Mohamad Kadim
Suaidi. He was accompanied by Research
and Innovation deputy vice-chancellor Prof Prof Mohamad Kadim presenting a token
Wan Hashim Wan Ibrahim, Student Affairs of appreciation to Prof Beena at a dialogue
and Alumni deputy vice-chancellor Prof that was held at the Curtin Malaysia campus
Mohd Fadzil Abdul Rahman, Faculty of recently.
Resource Science and Technology dean
Assoc Prof Siti Noor Linda Taib, and Unimas InTEX19 will be held on Jul 24 and 25 at
Research, Innovation and Enterprise Centre Imperial Hotel, Kuching.
director Prof Lo May Chiun. According to Prof Lo, it will provide an
Both Prof Beena and Prof Mohamad ideal platform for inventors, researchers and
Kadim shared the latest achievements and designers to exhibit their inventions, designs,
future plans of their respective universities. prototypes and products to potential
Curtin Malaysia is looking forward to the investors, manufacturers, distributors and
completion of its new online Stock Market marketers seeking new ideas.
Trading Room, Engineering Research Prof Beena said Curtin Malaysia was
Laboratory and Centre for Excellence and pleased to support the event. Curtin Malaysia
Innovation, while Unimas is setting up its is also keen to showcase its faculty-based
teaching hospital. research activities and new research
During the dialogue, the Unimas prospects at the Sarawak government’s
delegation extended an invitation to Curtin BioValley Park biotechnology research
Malaysia to be an event partner and facility at Curtin Malaysia, which is set to
exhibitor at the upcoming Unimas open later this year.
Innovation and Technology Exposition 2019
(InTEX19), which Curtin Malaysia readily n For more information on Curtin Malaysia,
accepted. visit www.curtin.edu.my
12 Postgraduate THE STAR, TUESDAY 16 APRIL 2019

Will you be able to get a job after uni?

WHEN you go to university, you do so in

hopes of getting a well-paid job once you
complete your studies. You may also expect a
degree to help your career develop faster
than it possibly would otherwise.
Given this, it was disappointing to see an
article on The Star Online published Mar 25
that said, “Only half of those who graduate
are able to secure a job, while a quarter are
jobless six months after getting their scrolls.
Of the graduates who have secured a job,
about half are earning less than RM2,000.”
The six-month timeline is important as it is
based on a widely recognised survey that
looks at whether graduates are employed or
have gone on to further education within six
months of graduating.
There are many reasons graduates cannot
get jobs: there may be a downward trend in
the availability of graduate jobs (although I
find this difficult to believe), it may be that
the degrees fresh grads enrol in are not
suitable for the vacancies that exist, there
may be oversupply in certain skills such as
pharmacy and law, or it may be that soft
skills are lacking.
The reason I find it hard to believe that the
opportunities for graduates is falling is based
on our own survey data. Twice a year,
University of Nottingham Malaysia surveys
those that graduate at our February and July
convocations. The survey contains responses
from hundreds of students, so we accept that
it is representative of all those that graduate
from University of Nottingham Malaysia.
The graphic shows the two sets of data
from the past five years (we are still waiting
to complete the 2018 survey for those who
graduated in July 2018).
It is noticeable that we have not seen a
downward trend in our graduates being
Take advantage of universities’ open days to find out not only your course options, but also how the university can prepare you for life after
graduation.
employed after six months. If anything we was 75% in 2015, with an aspiration to
observe an upward trend, with an average raise that figure to 80% by 2025. University
around 90%. This is encouraging and among of Nottingham Malaysia is proud that it
the highest graduate employment rates in already achieves that ambition and has
Malaysia. Indeed, it is competitive across the been doing so since at least 2014. Of course,
world, as many other countries use the same we cannot rest on our laurels and we are
metric to measure how well their students always looking for ways to increase the
are doing six months after graduating. employability of our students through
It is also worth noting that in Malaysia’s mentoring, internships, soft skills training
Education Blueprint 2015-2025 (Higher and more.
Education), the graduate employment rate In previous articles I have stressed the
importance of soft skills for graduates. In
University of Nottingham Malaysia the same newspaper article referred to
graduate employment rate above, it says, “There were several reasons
cited for the lack of employability of local
February survey July survey graduates. Topping the list is a mismatch
2014 95.7% 2014 88.6% between the training provided at
universities and skill sets required by the
2015 88.2% 2015 86.1% employers. The employers contended that
the current university curriculum does not
2016 87.1% 2016 88.0%
reflect the current skill requirements.
2017 94.4% 2017 89.1% Employers also cited the graduates’ lack of
communication skills as another major
2018 96.1%
setback.”
I like to think that those graduating from
University of Nottingham Malaysia leave us
with not only the necessary technical skills,
but also the ability to communicate well in
all its forms, including written, verbal and
presentation. I believe that there are
graduate jobs out there, and companies are
desperate for people with the right skills,
both technical skills and soft skills.
Of course, it is beholden to the universities
to provide the right courses, but the
corporate sector also has a responsibility to
work with universities to help them develop
their courses and additional offerings to
students, such as internships and being on
advisory board. Indeed, students themselves
must also seek out the right universities,
choosing those that will give them the best
chance to land their dream jobs.
n Prof Graham Kendall is the chief executive
officer, provost and pro-vice-chancellor of
University of Nottingham Malaysia.
Twitter: @Graham_Kendall

Never too late to continue studying

LIM Khai Hong, 34, is a businessman in his
final year of the Bachelor of Occupational
Safety and Health Management with
Honours (BOSHM) programme at Open
University Malaysia (OUM).
The father of two boys says he initially
had doubts about studying because he
thought it was too late for him to get a
bachelor’s degree. “I always thought I was
too old to study, so I kept procrastinating.”
Nevertheless, Lim finally took the plunge
and became an OUM learner in 2016
through the accreditation of prior
experiential learning (APEL). Though he
did not possess Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran
Malaysia or A-Levels qualifications, APEL
allowed him to cite his work experience to
be assessed for enrolment.
“Without APEL, tertiary education would
be impossible for people like me and I don’t
think I would ever be accepted into any
other university. This flexible entry system
opened the door for me to achieve my
dreams,” Lim says.
OUM strives to make higher education
available and accessible to everyone by
providing career-relevant programmes and
a learner-friendly approach, which are
especially useful for working adults who
study on a part-time basis. The university
leverages on e-learning to make teaching
and learning truly flexible. MyINSPIRE,
OUM’s all-in-one learning management
system, hosts e-modules, e-forums, video
lectures and unlimited access to various
digital library resources, providing an
engaging and enriching learning experience
for everyone.
“E-learning has made my life easier
because it doesn’t require me to be on
campus. Soft-copy modules are provided,
which are easy to read and even help reduce
my study expenses,” says Lim, who enjoys
reading and has found an interest in science,
history and philosophy.
OUM’s flexibility and accessibility also
come in handy as his job requires him to
travel on occasion. “When exam dates fall on
the days I am out of town, I can request to sit
for my papers at other learning centres in
other states. This is of great convenience for
me because OUM has campuses throughout
Malaysia.”
The university has established 33 learning
centres nationwide, which are located in
strategic locations close to key areas and
equipped with facilities designed for an
environment conducive to learning. Lim
believes that the BOSHM programme has
helped enhance his professional knowledge OUM’s flexible entry let Lim work towards
as courses are taught by OUM academics his dream of pursuing further study and
who are qualified and well versed in their soaring higher in his career.
respective fields.
“Many BOSHM tutors are experienced medical assistants and more.”
Green Book holders (those certified as Safety Lim obtained his Green Book in 2017 and
and Health Officers by the Occupational is now a registered Safety and Health
Safety and Health Department), so I have Officer. If all goes well with his degree, he
enjoyed a lot of sharing sessions during wishes to enrol in a PhD programme some
tutorials rather than just traditional day.
classroom-style teaching,” shares Lim.
“The programme has also expanded my n For more information on OUM’s
social circle as I have met fellow learners programmes, call the speed line at 03-2773
from various career backgrounds, including 2121, email enquiries@oum.edu.my or visit
police officers, firefighters, flight attendants, www.oum.edu.my