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THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

COURSE FOCUS
BUSINESS, ACCOUNTING & FINANCE

Forming new perspectives


From managing people to understanding consumer behaviour and crunching
numbers, the field of commerce is diverse and dynamic. Undergraduates thus need
to equip themselves with the right skills and knowledge to meet industry demands.
2 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Breaking into
the biggest field
BUSINESS-RELATED studies such to understand how a business
as finance, marketing, human works or if a degree in business
resource management and studies can teach you how to do
economics are among the most business.
popular choices offered by higher There have been people in the
learning institutions and are past who were successful in
pursued by students from all business without needing further
around the world. study but times have changed and
The Telegraph ranks business so have the ways businesses are
and management studies at conducted today.
number two on a list of most A degree in business studies
popular and most pursued higher would give you the edge that can
education courses. help you stay a step ahead in your
The biggest reason for this is career.
that people with a degree in For Komathi Shumugum, a
business-related studies are professional working in application degree in business studies coupled tedious process to be able to human resource manager and
sought after by many industries. support at OCBC Bank Malaysia, with her years of professional develop a rare enough shine to be business development executive.
Business is one field of study pursuing Master of Business experience can give her an edge considered valuable. Apart from the above, you
that can open a world of Administration with a major in over others in the field. Similarly, even if you understand can also become an
opportunities for you, from management was a decision based A degree in business studies can how a business works, the process entrepreneur. If you have a
working in coveted companies on a need to thrust her technical help you understand the basic of studying for a degree in business marketable, profitable idea, you
that pay well to starting your career forward. principles of business management and years that you spend learning can apply your business
own business. The reason is that “The reason I chose an MBA from small details such as how to about different aspects of business knowledge and expertise gained
regardless of the type of programme was career handle everyday finances to bigger management can give you the from both studies and
organisation, the business will progression. I believed that I details such as how to conduct shine you need to run the business experience to create your own
always need people who know needed extra certification apart market research to help draw successfully in this highly start-up and ultimately become
how the sector works. from my engineering degree to customers to your business. competitive market. your own boss.
If you are looking to be your build my career. The truth is that business studies Your career choices in the field The pathway to getting your
own boss or eyeing a high-salary “I had been working in a enable you to become a more are endless. You can work in dream career with business
job with a successful company, technical team for nine years and refined professional. It is like the finance, accounting, marketing, studies is quite straightforward.
business studies may be your felt that I should move on to difference between a polished and advertising, human resource You need to complete a pre-
answer. diversifying my career portfolio,” unpolished diamond. management or even in a university course and then enrol
says Komathi. A raw diamond found in a mine combination of different in an undergraduate
Give your career a push She had previously completed
her Bachelor of Engineering
is valuable, but needs proper
cutting and polishing before its
specialties.
Positions you may qualify for
programme in a university to
study for a degree in business.
You may wonder if you really (Computer Engineering) but she beauty is apparent. It must also go include sales manager, sales
need a degree in business studies believes her new postgraduate through a long, gruelling and executive, account manager, > SEE NEXT PAGE
THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018 Course Focus 3

Demystifying the world of commerce


> FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Many universities have reputed,


To work at any
globally recognised business corporation as a
trained business
schools that you can choose.

Attributes for success professional,


This is the era of intelligent
workers, not of hard workers. You
you need a basic
must find ways to get work done business degree to
efficiently yet effectively, since time
is of the essence in the business get you through the
world today.
A business degree can help you
interviewer’s door.
hone your skills of working faster
and better than others so that you
are always a step ahead of your or industry uses. For a business to
competitors. Some attributes that be successful, you need to work
can help you in this endeavour well with people.
include: It is important to understand
l Thinking out of the box – how to inspire people to work
This is one of the main attributes towards the goals of an
companies look for when hiring organisation or business and
employees with business degrees. ensure they are appreciated in
In this highly competitive market, their efforts, subsequently making
it is important to constantly them happier to work for you and
innovate to challenge old notions with you.
with new-age thinking and
revolutionary ideas. l Analytical skills – As enough to the point that you can be helpful as well. Observing how others is not your thing, a degree
someone who runs a business or discard a long-standing way of a big corporation runs itself can be in business studies can help you
l A visionary streak – People oversees major business processes, doing things to cater to emerging helpful when you develop your there as well.
who do not just have ideas but take you need to have an eye for detail demands of the ever-changing own processes and strategies, as is Malaysia is apparently one of the
the extra step to work on those yet also be able to see the bigger business scene. building relationships with people best countries to run your own
ideas are the ones that are most picture. You must be able to Formal business training and whose services could be beneficial business, according to US News &
needed in businesses. Hence, if you analyse situations closely and standards of qualification can help to starting and maintaining your World Report’s Best Countries to
are not only a thinker but also a make decisions based on your you learn when to bend and when business in future. Start a Business rankings, so local
doer, a degree in business studies analysis. to be steadfast in your professional Of course, to work at any business graduates can breathe a
can open multiple doors of Business studies can train you to processes. corporation as a trained business sigh of relief.
opportunity in and out of the field. pay attention to certain aspects in a professional, you need a basic Along with the fact that
business that you may otherwise l Entrepreneurial skills – If business degree to get you through Malaysia’s small and medium
l People skills – Businesses are miss if untrained. your ultimate aim is to run your the interviewer’s door. enterprises industry is booming,
essentially run by people, own business, nurturing there is no better time to become
regardless of how much technology l Flexibility – Businesses today entrepreneurial skills while If entrepreneurship is what you an entrepreneur right here at
or artificial intelligence a company need people who are flexible working at other organisations can are aiming for, if working for home.
4 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Fulfilling the need The MMMC


campus in Muar.

for doctors
THERE has been a lot of adverse MMMC ensures its students
press recently about the number of get a thorough grounding
medical graduates inundating the through its Bachelor of
Malaysian health sector, but the fact Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
remains that our nation is still short (MBBS) and Bachelor of Dental
of the 1:400 doctor-to-population Surgery (BDS) programmes
target ratio to be achieved by 2020 as with the assumption that its
set by the Malaysian Government. students already have an eye
Worsening this state of affairs is on postgraduate qualifications
the severe shortage of medical after they graduate.
specialists all around the globe, with The college also provides
some estimating that Malaysia is preparatory courses for the
facing a shortage of 7,000 medical Professional Linguistic
professionals. Assessments Board test and
It has become imperative that United States Medical Licensing
students who harbour aspirations of
pursuing a career in healing choose
Examination at its Melaka campus.
MMMC has been at the forefront
ensure that students have the
benefit of pre-clinical training in the
clinical skills in hospitals in
Melaka, Johor and other
MMMC has
the right medical school. None is of medical education since its Manipal Campus in India before government hospitals while been at the
forefront of
more highly recommended than the inception in 1997 and celebrated returning to Malaysia to improve dentistry students hone their
Melaka-Manipal Medical College 20 exceptional years last year. their clinical skills. clinical skills in MMMC’s
(MMMC). Its twinning degree programmes MBBS students perfect their on-campus dental clinic.
The MBBS is the flagship of
medical education
MMMC that saw its first cohort since its inception
in 1997 and
in 1997. In this particular
twinning programme, students
complete two and a half years of
pre-clinical basic science studies celebrated 20
at the Manipal Campus.
They then return to Malaysia
exceptional years
for another two and a half years last year.
of comprehensive clinical
training.
MMMC has delivered high-
quality medical professionals basic anatomy and physiology,
with 3,700 doctors having basic pharmacology, forensic
graduated from the college to science and oral biology.
date. Many are now practising Scholarships of up to 100%
all over the globe. coverage for the FIS programme
With the full allocation of are now being offered to
RM150,000 from the National students with straight As in last
Higher Education Fund (PTPTN) year’s SPM and GCE O-Level
available for MBBS applicants, examinations. Even those with
those who hesitated to apply for 7As are eligible for financial
the MBBS in the past can now incentives.
look forward to fulfilling their The facilities in both the
dreams. Manipal and Malaysian
Launched in 2009, the BDS at campuses are second to none.
MMMC measures up to the Both campuses are equipped
performance of a similar with various teaching and
programme offered by the learning facilities including
Manipal College of Dental auditoriums, lecture halls,
Surgery – the latter having been classrooms, multidisciplinary
among the top dental schools in laboratories, clinical skills
India for the past few years. learning centres, fully equipped
PTPTN loans are also available libraries and computer
for BDS applicants though the laboratories.
terms and conditions differ from Other amenities include
that of MBBS applicants. student hostels, cafeterias, a
Manipal University, founded gymnasium, a swimming pool, a
in 1953, is recognised for sauna, squash courts, a football
imparting high-quality field, a basketball court and
professional education and has simulated games.
been the preferred study MMMC’s campus ensures
destination for students from that its students are inspired to
over 57 countries for the past 65 pursue studies with zest and
years. passion.
The university has 20 Its facilities cater to teaching
constituent colleges that offer and learning as well as fulfilling
over 195 courses across 14 recreational requirements by
streams including medicine, providing amenities for
dentistry, engineering, nursing, students’ comfort and well-
allied health sciences, pharmacy, being.
life sciences, hotel management, In addition, every classroom,
regenerative medicine, lecture theatre and laboratory is
geopolitics and cultural studies. well-equipped with appropriate
The MMMC’s Foundation in facilities to provide both
Science (FIS) is a one-year teachers and students with the
pre-university programme best learning ambience.
conducted fully at the Melaka MMMC’s information
campus. technology system and facilities
This programme is designed are regularly updated and made
to provide students with a sound accessible to students because
academic foundation, especially the college has created a highly
for those aiming to further their tech-savvy environment for
studies in medicine, dentistry students in line with its belief
and other health sciences that modern technology is a key
programmes at MMMC. factor in facilitating the teaching
Unlike the pure sciences and and learning process.
mathematics offered in general
foundation programmes in n For more information, call
Malaysia, MMMC’s FIS is 1800 226 662, e-mail
embedded with pre-clinical info@manipal.edu.my or visit
introductory subjects such as www.manipal.edu/melaka
THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018 Course Focus 5

A critical role in development


WITH the world population
projected to cross the 10 billion
mark by 2050 and 70%
Monash
expected to live in urban areas, University has
recently started
the issue of sustainability has
never been more pressing.
Sharing the powerful tale of
Sunway City’s meteoric rise working with the
were staff from Monash
University Malaysia, Sunway
Sunway Group
University and the Jeffrey to see how the
Sachs Centre on Sustainable
Development during a traffic situation
networking session titled
“Sunway City – Wasteland to
can be improved
Wonderland (ST3: Climate in Sunway City.
Responsive Cities)” at the ninth
gathering of the World Urban Assoc Prof Edwin Tan Chee Pin
Forum in Kuala Lumpur.
Sunway Sustainability Task
Force’s group head Cheng Jew
Keng took the audience ease congestion. Given the
through the transformation complexity of the problem,
of Sunway City from a tin we have adopted a
mining wasteland in the multidisciplinary approach Prof Mahendhiran Nair at the World Urban Forum 2018.
1980s to a vibrant community to tackle these problems,” he
under the leadership of explained.
Sunway Group’s founder and “We hope the results will
chairman Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey increase the capacity of
Cheah and its aspiration to Sunway City in handling more
become a role model of traffic and people so there can
sustainability for other be greater economic
townships in the country. development. These outcomes
“We have put in a lot of clearly align with several
effort to ensure all our SDGs.”
business units’ operations are Monash University
aligned with the United Malaysia’s head of discipline
Nation’s 17 Sustainable (civil engineering) Prof Khu
Development Goals (SDGs),” Soon-Thiam highlighted his
said Cheng, adding that the project in a presentation titled
group has won several “Sunway City River of
accolades, including being Sustainability”.
named the green township of The civil engineer is working
Malaysia and recognised with on a 48-month project with a
the Low Carbon City Award by team at Monash to improve a
the Malaysian Institute of canal that runs through the
Planners. township so that it functions as
While Sunway City has a smart and sustainable river
grown by leaps and bounds that benefits Sunway City’s
in the past 30 years, the community.
group is still taking steps Dr Daniel Kong, an
to improve the sustainability engineering lecturer at Monash
of its township by engaging University Malaysia,
the help of researchers introduced the innovative
from Monash University work that he is doing with the
Malaysia. Sunway Group on solar pavers
Three Monash University during the second session titled
Malaysia projects related to “Sunway City: Powering
managing traffic congestion Sustainable Energy”.
and environment pollution, While solar panels are
sustainable river management, usually placed on roofs, he
and energy sustainability explained that his team’s idea
within the Sunway City were was to replace some of the
showcased at the forum. traditional means of generating
Quoting research by Frost electricity.
and Sullivan, Assoc Prof Edwin Prof Pervaiz, who moderated
Tan Chee Pin, discipline head the session, noted that the key
(mechatronics) at Monash underpinning of the showcased
University Malaysia’s School of projects is the multidisciplinary
Engineering, said traffic teams that bring diverse
congestion was ranked the perspectives and expertise to
leading cause of frustration tackle complex issues using
among 41% of Malaysians. sound scientific and
He spoke during the first behavioural methods.
panel session titled “Sunway Monash University
City – Building a Model, Smart, Malaysia’s vice-president
Sustainable City”, which was (research) Prof Mahendhiran
moderated by Prof Pervaiz Nair summarised that
Ahmed, deputy head of the sustainability of any initiative
School of Business, Monash required visionary leadership
University Malaysia. that takes a strategic approach
“Monash University has to understand and nurture the
recently started working with blueprints of the ecosystem
the Sunway Group to see how that exists within it.
the traffic situation can be The other panelists from
improved in Sunway City,” said both sessions included Jeffrey
Assoc Prof Tan. Sachs Centre’s deputy director
The township sees four Prof Leong Choon Heng, the
primary modes of transport – centre’s senior fellow for green
motor vehicles, elevated transportation, green energy
walkways, an elevated Bus and carbon footprint reduction
Rapid Transit and bicycles. Dr Fun Woh Peng and Sunway
“One approach that we University’s Assoc Prof Dr Yap
are going to take in our work is Kian Meng.
to see how we can propose
methods to integrate or modify n For more information, visit
these modes of transport to www.monash.edu.my
6 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Chasing professional qualification


THERE is a huge demand for Islamic University of Malaysia. practical and requires you to
professional accountants in our He is currently pursuing his fifth think of solutions in the shoes of
developing nation. The skills gained and final module of the MICPA- a professional accountant.
from a professional qualification CAANZ programme while “Practising with past-year
help develop versatile and adaptable obtaining the required three examination papers really
professionals who have the years’ practical experience at helped. The examinations are
capabilities to lead in various BDO Malaysia. open-book so it is not necessary
capacities, evidenced by the number “As the programme is based to memorise everything but you
of CEOs who are professional on real-life business scenarios, need to be prepared and ensure
accountants by trade. whatever I learn can be applied you have understood the
Though rewarding, the path to to my work. This has naturally material well,” shares
achieving a professional helped me cope with my work Karnenderan.
qualification is daunting. and study while still allowing me All three candidates agree that
That is why it is so important to the time to do what I want to they have no regrets taking up
choose a professional programme do,” he shares. the MICPA-CAANZ programme
that checks all the boxes. It has to be Ammar Fahmi Tajudin. Karnenderan Radha Krishnan. Ivy Chuah, a graduate of and highly recommend it to
prestigious, develop well-rounded University of Queensland, anyone keen to become a well-
professionals who possess critical Chartered Accountants Australia and (Malaysia) and Chartered Australia, is an audit senior in rounded professional accountant
thinking and application skills, have New Zealand (CAANZ) since 2009, Accountant (Australia and New Deloitte Malaysia and completed with a global career.
a strong passing rate and provide the MICPA-CAANZ is a joint Zealand). They also gain access to the MICPA-CAANZ programme
flexibility in how it is undertaken programme that admits its graduates the Global Accounting Alliance that within three years. n For more information,
without compromising on quality of into both bodies through one set of provides membership support from She was recently named the call 03-2698 9622, e-mail
learning outcomes. common examinations. 10 premier accounting bodies across Gold Medal winner for achieving info@micpa.com.my or visit
A unique collaboration between Graduates would then be able to 11 countries. the top score in Malaysia for www.micpa.com.my
The Malaysian Institute of Certified use the professional titles from both Ammar Fahmi Tajudin is a Capstone – the final module in
Public Accountants (MICPA) and bodies – Certified Public Accountant graduate from the International the programme.
“Experience is a key
advantage as a professional
Ivy Chuah.
employee. Professional industry
training and concurrent study
made me a competent
professional who can think
analytically and apply
theoretical knowledge to real
life,” she adds.
Karnenderan Radha Krishnan
is a graduate of Curtin
University, Australia, who
completed the programme
within two years and is now
working with PwC Singapore. He
was the Gold Medal winner for
Capstone in 2016.
“The MICPA-CAANZ
programme curriculum is

Who says
accounting is boring?
WHEN it comes to accounting, as Manchester United needs
people usually associate it with many accountants to deal with
numbers, mathematics, counting the financial aspect of business
and other boring stuff. Now, is it including its budget, cash flow
true that being an accountant and payroll.
means you lead mundane life You will probably be working
that requires sitting in an office in seasonal schedules and need
just to put numbers into boxes? to be flexible with your time and
As soon as someone mentions mobility.
that he is an accountant, you
may immediately think, “Wow, l Entertainment accounting
you must be good at counting!” – Receiving backstage passes,
It might surprise you that not all attending movie premieres and
accountants are good at getting to watch stars on set are
mathematics or know how to do some of the perks you get as an
your taxes. entertainment accountant.
Accounting is a broad field With their busy schedules,
and its individual branches can celebrities need someone to take
be interesting depending on care of their earnings, bills and
your interests. Below are a few expenses. Sometimes, you may
lesser-known branches in even need to advise your client
accounting: on contract offers.
l Forensic accounting – If Of course, in order to work
you are interested in financial with celebrities, you have to
crime, this branch is your calling work hard behind the scenes for
as forensic accountants work in a few years to gain enough
state or federal law enforcement experience while also earning
to investigate fraud or the respect and trust of people in
embezzlement. the industry.
The main responsibilities of
forensic accountants include There is more to accounting
analysing data, tracing funds, than what people generally
identifying assets for recovery think. Take a deeper look and
and testifying in court to help you will see that beneath the
identify white-collar crimes or stereotypes surrounding
civil cases. accounting, it can be an exciting
and dynamic field of work.
l Sports accounting – As long One thing is for sure – it is
as you have a passion for sports, highly unlikely that you will end
you will be able to blend in with up all alone in an office with a
a sport team’s financial calculator, regardless of the type
management processes. of accounting you choose to
For instance, a big team such pursue.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018 Course Focus 7

Ticket to a brighter future


AS an internationally connected
university, HELP University’s
American Degree Program (HELP
ADP) has transferred students to
hundreds of universities in the
United States, Canada, Australia
and the United Kingdom.
HELP students have also
transferred to reputable and highly
ranked universities worldwide
including New York University
(NYU), Princeton University, The
University of Chicago, Duke
University, University of Toronto,
University of Waterloo (UW), The
University of British Columbia,
York University and Lakehead
University (LU).
HELP ADP has maintained close
relationships with its partner
universities, which allow students
to maximise the number of
transfer credits and planned
articulation pathways leading to
those partner universities. (From left) HELP ADP's assistant manager Francis Ooi, Lee, Ting, Dr Stevenson, HELP deputy vice-chancellor Dr Khong Kim Hoong, Dr McPherson, HELP
The programme also uses an ADP's department head Dr Gerard Boey, HELP ADP's senior manager Naini Rosline and HELP marketing executive Kerina Khiudin during LU’s visit to HELP.
American-style approach
specifically designed by experts in Furthermore, students have the years in HELP ADP if they decide not this month.
various fields that allows its
transfer credits to be accepted by
Apart from option of continuing locally with
HELP’s business, psychology or
to transfer to a US or Canadian
university. n For more information, call
more than a hundred of the best the academic communications degree HELP ADP has four intakes a 03-2716 2000 or visit

aspect, a
universities around the world. programmes after completing two year with an intake in progress www.help.edu.my
“When you are in ADP, the most
important thing is whether your
credits can be transferred to
number of
universities in the US. I realised extracurricular
activities
that HELP ADP has one of the most
transferable credits. For an ADP
student, that is really important,”
says Brendan Yap, a former ADP are planned
student at HELP who transferred to
NYU through the Securities
throughout the
Commission Scholarship Award. year.
Recently, a team of delegates
from LU comprising former
university president and former
vice-chancellor Dr Brian Stevenson, where nearly a hundred
interim president and vice- HELP ADP students have
chancellor Dr Moira McPherson transferred to pursue their
and LU International regional actuarial science, data science
relations managers Sherlyn Lee and other mathematics-
and Adrian Ting visited HELP related degrees.
University. HELP has also collaborated
The representatives from both with UW on several occasions
institutions discussed future to conduct mathematics
arrangements for credit transfers workshops.
and pathway options for HELP Students who wish to
ADP students to study at LU. transfer to UW are offered
Attractive scholarships are the opportunity to complete
another perk LU provides to one year of their studies at
HELP ADP students. LU will be HELP before transferring to
awarding Visionary Scholarships the UW’s co-operative
worth C$2,000 (RM6,075) to 10 programme to complete their
accepted applicants from HELP degree.
ADP in addition to Entrance UW is a public research
Scholarships worth up to C$30,000 university located in
(RM91,125) for four years, Waterloo, Ontario. The
depending on the students’ university is most famous
academic average (Canadian for its co-op education
equivalent). programme that allows
HELP ADP signed a students to integrate their
Memorandum of Understanding education with relevant
with LU last August. The two work experience. It also
institutions mutually agreed to operates the largest post-
provide a transfer pathway for secondary co-op programme
HELP ADP students. Students will of its kind in the world.
commence studies at HELP and HELP ADP offers an
complete their remaining three established and accessible
years at LU in Ontario, Canada. transfer pathway for students
LU is a public research through scholarship
university with campuses in opportunities and transfer
Thunder Bay and Orillia in options to several universities
Ontario. The university has been worldwide.
ranked No.1 in Canada for The department also offers
research in the category of a wide range of subjects to
undergraduate universities by enable students to develop a
Re$earch Infosource since 2015. well-rounded understanding
LU is also the proud host to nine of the world.
Canada Research Chairs and Apart from the academic
revolutionary facilities such as its aspect, a number of
world-renowned Paleo-DNA extracurricular activities are
Laboratory and Biorefining planned throughout the year.
Research Institute. HELP ADP involves two
LU offers a broad range of years of study that prepares a
programmes in business student to complete their
administration, education, bachelor’s degree in the US or
engineering, natural resources Canada.
management, health and Upon completion of
behavioral sciences, medicine, law, most general education
science and environmental studies, requirements and some pre-
social sciences and humanities and major courses, students can
graduate studies. apply to transfer to a US or
HELP ADP also has a long- Canadian university of their
established partnership with UW, choice.
8 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Exposing students to nature


THE biggest concern of most students remote sensing and geographic information
graduating from secondary school is to find systems.
a good university that offers the course of The BSc Hons Environmental Science
their choice. However, there are also those programme is spread over three years, with
who are still unsure about what career they the first year focusing on different modules
would like to pursue. of environmental studies that form the
If you are undecided on the pathway of foundation of the course.
your career, why not consider becoming an In the second year, students can choose to
environmental consultant or a travel to the UK or China campus for two
conservationist? With growing threats to our semesters or both campuses for one
environment, the need for experts in this semester each, gaining international
field is increasing. Moreover, Malaysia is Dr Wong Ee exposure. Otherwise, they can continue their
located in a region of biodiversity hotspots Phin (left) says studies at the Malaysia Campus and choose
and is recognised as one of the top 17 students get to from a variety of topics offered.
megadiverse countries in the world. conduct field In the final year, they are required to
Nottingham University Malaysia offers the research as part undertake a research project that allows
carefully thought out Environmental Science of their them to specialise in an area of their interest
BSc Hons degree to address all the undergraduate and independently put what they learnt into
environmental issues that demand our programme. practice under the guidance of a supervisor.
attention. The topics include computational research
As all Nottingham courses are distributed using geographic information system and
by the main campus in the United Kingdom, in Environmental and Geographical Sciences education system, we also expose them to remote sensing, social questionnaires to
the quality of the syllabus is comparable to at Nottingham University Malaysia and is what is happening in Malaysia. understand importance of resources to
that offered in the UK but with a local currently an assistant professor for the “If you live in Malaysia but do not know communities, and biological studies of
perspective. undergraduate programme, says, “Our the environmental issues concerning the animals in the field. Students with good
Dr Wong Ee Phin, who received her PhD students not only get the benefit of the UK country, you are missing a big part of your ideas of what they want to do can also come
education.” up with their own topics and propose their
As Nottingham University Malaysia is ideas to their supervisors for consideration.
amidst the lush greenery of Semenyih and The first two years of the programme
close to nature, the campus provides an focus on knowing the different aspects of the
excellent advantage for students of the environment and how to carry out research.
School of Environmental and Geographical This learning experience provides a taste of
Sciences. what students can choose to focus on as part
In addition, students are encouraged to of their final year project.
participate in activities and not just focus on Alumni of the BSc Hons Environmental
classroom studies. Wong adds that monthly Science programme work as environmental
talks, seminars and conferences are often officers in corporate houses, conservationists
held at the campus in Semenyih and in non-governmental organisations, research
Nottingham’s Kuala Lumpur teaching centre associates or enrol in master’s or PhD
throughout the semester to ensure students courses. Many are also active in youth
receive the complete academic experience. movements including the Malaysian Youth
These events allow students to listen to Delegation for United Nations Climate
leading experts of conservation and other Change Conference.
related fields from all over the world. “In Nottingham, you learn to study. It is a
They are also encouraged to participate in skill. You learn how to run your projects and
conferences and seminars outside the be independent – these are widely sought
campus, both locally and internationally, to skills you will carry with you when you go
gain additional skills in the area that they out to work,” says Dr Wong, who
are interested in and to build confidence in appreciates the lessons she learnt when she
engaging with the scientific community. was a student of Nottingham University
As lecturers of the BSc Hons Malaysia, lessons she hopes to pass on as a
Environmental Science programme are lecturer.
involved in active science research and To learn more about the BSc Hons
projects such as Management & Ecology of Environmental Science programme and
Malaysian Elephants, they can impart their University of Nottingham Malaysia, attend
first-hand knowledge regarding conservation the Open Day on March 24 from 10am to
and biology to students. 4pm.
As a result, students become well-versed
in environmental issues and technology such n For more information, visit
as climate change, pollution, water quality, www.nottingham.edu.my

Shift in marketing styles


AS we undergo modernisation, providing the means to synchronise
characteristics and trends change, including all purchase channels so consumers
the way we behave as consumers. have the option of accessing a service
Generally, modern consumers consider through any compatible digital device they
four unprecedented factors when own.
choosing a purchase – personalisation, Take Disney’s MagicBands offered at its
convenience, human connection and brand theme parks, for instance. It is a tool for
reputation. ordering meals, paying for merchandise,
It is essential for companies to accessing the theme park and hotel room
acknowledge and embrace this shift in and planning your experience.
consumer culture for them to grow and All platforms for the MagicBand – from
sustain revenue. the website and mobile application to the
For instance, companies that do not very physical electronic band wrapped
incorporate digital marketing in their plans around your wrist – are interconnected and
to suit present-day demand usually end up synchronised in real time.
declining as they fail to cater to and This means that the MagicBand enables
communicate with newer, younger an omnichannel facility throughout your
consumers. stay at a Disney theme park, making it more
The rise of consumers’ preference to convenient and giving you ease of mind to
purchase items through the Internet, usually better enjoy the experience.
via mobile applications, has forced According to The Effortless Experience
companies to design omnichannel assessment by Corporate Executive Board,
experiences for consumers. convenience is deemed the new basis for
brand loyalty.
Personalisation and convenience The well-researched framework deduced
that the simpler customer service processes
Many companies often mistake are, the more consumers are likely to
omnichannel to simply mean an offer repeatedly choose your service and
of multiple sales channels, which is company.
false.
An omnichannel experience involves > TURN TO PAGE 11
THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018 Course Focus 9

Fast track to
STUDENTS planning to pursue
an accounting or finance
programme can enrol in the
accountancy programme at

necessary qualifications
Quest International University
Perak (QIUP) in Ipoh, a
university that is fast gaining
recognition for its quality
programmes.
The accountancy programme
is offered at the diploma and
degree levels. Graduates
completing the Bachelor of the Securities Commission as a
Accountancy (Hons) will now qualification to apply for the
have dual benefits. Investment Advisers licence and
Graduates of the four-year the Capital Markets Services
programme may apply for Licence.
exemption from certain papers Besides exemptions,
in the Association of Chartered undergraduates will be taught to
Certified Accountants (ACCA) make complex and difficult
and Chartered Institute of decisions using modern finance, The accountancy
Management Accountants accounting, investment and programme
(CIMA) professional management analysis methods. offered by QIUP
examinations. Focus on case studies is is unique in that it
The Bachelor of Accountancy emphasised to allow students to focuses on the
(Hons) is now an ACCA- apply their knowledge to real- application of
accredited programme and has world situations to prepare theoretical
secured exemptions for them to be job-ready when they framework of
graduates of the programme graduate. accountancy
from nine ACCA Knowledge- In their third year, students rather than the
and Skills-level examination can major in either banking, framework itself.
papers. Islamic finance or financial
“Accreditation by the ACCA planning.
puts a stamp of approval on our Both programmes are offered
programme. It also benefits under the Faculty of Business
students because they study at a and Management, which has
level that meets standards attracted some of the best
developed by experts in the academicians in the nation.
field. No doubt the strongest pillar
“Students choosing our of the university, its lecturers
programme will gain a are passionate, industry-savvy,
competitive edge in the job highly acclaimed and highly
market. We are proud to be intelligent. Students will benefit
associated with ACCA, one of the tremendously from their
world’s leading bodies for knowledge, experiences and
professional accountants,” says network.
Nicholas Goh, chief executive The dean of QIUP’s Faculty of
officer of QIUP. Business and Management Prof
Besides ACCA, the graduates Dr Abdul Latif Salleh has vast
of the Bachelor of Accountancy experience in teaching,
(Hons) will also have the benefit research, and administration of
of exemption from seven CIMA academic departments at the
papers. university level.
This exemption was obtained Prof Abdul Latif received his
after vigorous evaluation of Bachelor of Economics (Hons)
the QIUP Bachelor of from the University of Malaya,
Accountancy (Hons) syllabus, MBA from Sheffield University
which was found to be on par and MA and PhD from Duke
with CIMA’s international University.
standards. He spent 25 years working at
Besides exemptions from University of Malaya and during
professional examination his long tenure, taught at
papers, the accountancy different academic levels
programme offered by QIUP is including the executive diploma,
unique in that it focuses on the first degree, and postgraduate
application of theoretical programmes while holding
framework of accountancy various administrative positions.
rather than the framework Prof Abdul Latif has been
itself. actively involved in consultancy
This creates graduates who work for various government
are job-ready as they meet the departments and agencies
needs of the industry for including the Tourism and
technically competent Culture Ministry,
accounting graduates. Communications and
On the other hand, QIUP’s Multimedia Ministry, Social
three-year Bachelor of Finance Institute of Malaysia and
(Hons) programme equips Malaysian Palm Oil Board as
students with the knowledge well as for private companies
required to excel in the field of including Panasonic Malaysia,
finance. Petronas and Proton.
They will be exposed to There are five faculties and
relevant financial concepts and one centre at QIUP – Centre for
strategies and acquire Graduate Studies and Research,
leadership skills in the financial Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of
services industry. Integrative Sciences and
Graduates of this programme Technology, Faculty of Business
will be granted four modules’ and Management, Faculty of
exemption from the Registered Social Sciences and Faculty of
Financial Planner (RFP) Pharmacy – offering
professional examinations. This programmes at foundation,
provides graduates with a diploma, degree and
shorter route to obtain their RFP postgraduate levels.
licences after graduation. QIUP’s interim campus is
RFP certification is awarded strategically located in Ipoh,
by the Malaysian Financial away from the distractions of
Planning Council. The RFP bustling city life, providing
designation is also approved by students with a optimal learning
Bank Negara Malaysia as a environment and lower cost of
qualification to apply for the living.
Financial Advisers’ Licence and
Financial Advisers’ n For more information, call
Representative Licence. 05-249 0500, e-mail
Furthermore, the RFP enquiries@qiup.edu.my or visit
designation is acknowledged by www.qiup.edu.my
10 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Your best
bet after SPM
BUSINESS degrees continue to be in outdoor activities and visit malls
the most popular choice for students such as Vivacity and The Spring.
pursuing higher education. With At Swinburne Sarawak, the Prof John
many universities to choose from, university offers business courses Wilson.
how do you decide where to study? that are developed based on
Rankings are a strong indicator of industry input and regularly Since the introduction of the
research activities within a updated to ensure graduates’ ACCA Accelerate programme,
university, but at the undergraduate employability. Swinburne Sarawak’s students have
level, it is also important for the Undergraduate students may mix accomplished outstanding results,
university to have an expert and and match subjects from different achieving passing rates that surpass
supportive faculty, industry streams to suit their interests and the world pass rate.
collaboration and strong graduate employment preferences. In October last year, the
outcomes. They can pursue a Bachelor of university scored a 57% passing
Swinburne University of Business majoring in accounting, rate, surpassing ACCA’s world pass
Technology has all the above. finance, human resource rate of 53% for the Professional
Having graduated more than management, international Level paper examination – Paper P1
150,000 students from all over the business, management or Governance, Risk and Ethics.
world since 1908, Swinburne should marketing. Further analysis of the pass rate
be your first choice for a world-class Alternatively, they can opt for a shows that 75% of its students
Australian business degree. double major degree in accounting earned a cumulative grade point
With campuses in Melbourne and and finance or management and average of above 3.00.
Kuching, students have flexible digital media. In a result announced this year,
learning options to suit their Double majors broaden students’ the university achieved a pass rate
different budgets and preferences. study experience and make them of 64% for Paper P3 Business
“The Sarawak campus is a more desirable to employers. A Analysis, surpassing the world pass
fantastic option for students who double major is generally only one rate of 56%.
want an Australian degree from a year longer than a single degree and As the ACCA examinations
world-ranking university with students will be awarded two rigorously test students’ skills,
strong graduate outcomes,” says degrees upon graduation. abilities and competencies,
Swinburne University of Technology At Swinburne Sarawak, the Swinburne Sarawak’s students are
Sarawak Campus’ deputy vice- multidisciplinary and multicultural well-prepared for a rewarding
chancellor and chief executive team of academics possess industry career as a qualified and ethical
officer Prof John Wilson. experience and professional finance professional.
“Due to close collaboration with qualifications that contribute to One of the advantages of pursuing
the Sarawak government, our fees their strong teaching background. a business degree is gaining
have remained accessible to a large They focus on developing transferable skills for employment.
section of the public and we’re students who are aware of the Graduates develop knowledge
proud to be able to support broader socioeconomic and skills in operational strategy,
students’ career aspirations by environments, volatile business interpreting and using financial
providing them a launch pad for markets and current trends. data, managing projects, problem-
success.” The Faculty of Business, Design solving, communication, and
The Sarawak campus is located in and Arts ensures the courses are analytical, critical and logical
the heart of Kuching on 16.5 acres carefully monitored for their thinking.
(6.7ha) of land, with buildings academic quality, career relevance, Graduate outcomes are a key
designed to meet the teaching and and compliance with Malaysian and focus of Swinburne. In the most
learning needs of degrees in Australian qualifications standards. recent graduate tracer study,
business, engineering, science, As a result, the courses are graduates from several business and
design and computing. accredited and recognised by CPA engineering majors reported a 100%
Just 10 minutes’ drive from the Australia, Chartered Accountants employment rate within six months
airport and city centre, the campus Australia and New Zealand, the of graduation. The overall
is surrounded by a private hospital, Chartered Institute of Management employment rate of graduates
modern shopping malls, public Accountants and the Association of surveyed come in at a high 94%.
amenities and housing areas. Chartered Certified Accountants The career office in the university
Getting to Swinburne in Kuching (ACCA). frequently organises clinics and
is easy with direct flights from One of the university’s most training for final year students in
Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Baru, popular programmes is the resumé creation, interviewing skills
Kota Baru and Kota Kinabalu. accounting and finance course. and on-the-job performance tips.
In addition, moving around Under the ACCA Accelerate Swinburne scholarships are
Kuching is easy with public programme, the university’s second- available for deserving students in
transport options and the year accounting or double major addition to external scholarships,
availability of ride-sharing services accounting and finance degree EPF withdrawals and PTPTN loans.
such as Uber and Grab. students can sit for the ACCA The April foundation intake is
Launched in 2000, the university Professional Level papers. open for applications and classes
is home to more than 4,000 students This allows students to pursue a begin on April 9.
from 50 countries with on-campus degree and a professional
accommodation options. qualification at the same time n For more information, call
Kuching provides a balance of instead of having to wait till 082-415 353, e-mail
modern city life and closeness to graduation to sit for the study@swinburne.edu.my or visit
nature, where students can indulge examination. www.swinburne.edu.my

Students can enjoy a balance of


city life and intimacy with
nature at Swinburne Sarawak.
THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018 Course Focus 11

The future is in your hands


BRICKFIELDS Asia College (BAC) is (Business), which offers students a digitised work environment.
an award-winning institution that choice of more than 65 degrees Recognising the need for
has established itself as the fastest ranging from the common business students to adapt to the
and smartest way to more than 300 management and accounting dynamic challenges of the Fourth
degree programmes awarded by courses to the more Industrial Revolution, BAC (in
universities in the United Kingdom unconventional business with collaboration with the Industry 4.0
with its pre-university courses. marketing management, marketing Academy) offers its students one-
Students have a choice of degree communications and advertising day seminars and short courses in
programmes with 3+0, 2+1 or 1+2 and public relations and marketing core areas such as blockchain
options from 25 universities in the programmes from 12 world-class technology, financial technology,
UK. universities. data science, cybersecurity,
BAC’s pre-university Internet of Things and cloud
programmes are stepping stones
that lead to degrees in diverse
Best of British education computing.
By exposing business students to
fields including accounting, To offer students an exceptional the basic principles of Industry 4.0
actuarial sciences, biomedical alternative to pursuing a degree and its disruptive technologies,
sciences, business, computing, overseas, BAC – together with BAC gives its students a strong
dentistry, economics, English, Aberystwyth University – has foundation to navigate the Fourth
finance, human resources, media launched four versatile degrees Industrial Revolution while
studies, medicine, public relations Dr Richard Cornes from University of Essex shares insights into studying in that can be completed entirely in developing soft skills and instilling
and veterinary science. the UK at the BAC UK Education Fair. Malaysia as follows: confidence to ride the wave of
l BSc (Hons) Accounting and change in an increasingly
Solid pre-university offers including biology, chemistry,
physics, law, economics,
The Foundation in Law is a
comprehensive programme
Finance with Law
l BSc (Hons) Business and
globalised environment.

courses accounting, English literature, designed to provide students with Management with Law
Affordable education
further mathematics, business, the knowledge and skills needed to l BSc (Hons) Economics with
The Cambridge International medicine, finance, engineering and pursue a degree in law or its Law The BAC Education Fund grants
Examinations A-Levels is the communication. related fields. l BSc (Hons) Marketing with financial and merit scholarships
world’s most recognised pre- BAC also offers the Foundation This course gives students a solid Law worth up to RM10mil to assist
university programme. BAC in Arts that focuses on grounding in core legal subjects deserving students in achieving
provides a wide range of subjects interdisciplinary studies. This such as criminal law, contract law, These diversified degrees their dreams.
in the arts and sciences while programme provides an tort law and the English legal offer a complementary blend
offering students the option of alternative route that forms the system while developing skillsets to of knowledge and highly Registration for courses is now
choosing either the express route basis for any further study or help them succeed in any career. transferable skills that will enable open.
(11 months) or the standard route career and has been designed to Upon completing their pre- students to become confident,
(18 months). provide a learning experience university programme, students forward-thinking and highly n For more information, call
Students can select from a wide strongly focused on the can choose to pursue the UK employable graduates in an 1800 881 222 or visit
range of A-Levels subjects that BAC development of academic skills. Transfer Degree Programme increasingly globalised and www.bac.edu.my

New trend in
personalisation
> FROM PAGE 8 A strong emotional
connection between the
The assessment also assumes consumers and the company
that most consumers want will help to establish a bond of
everything to be fast and loyalty that will significantly
simple, preferably obtainable support and groom the
within a few clicks or taps – as company in the long run.
seen with Uber. This is why brands that value
Failure of existing companies emotional connections with
to grasp this concept will result their consumers such as Apple,
in their consumer base looking Tesla and Google thrive.
for other organisations that can
provide what they want.
The current consumer market
Keeping up with trends
is also crazy for personalisation, For companies to match
if the huge global success and dynamic, ever-changing
popularity of Coca-Cola’s “Share demand, they must pay close
a Coke” campaign as well as the attention to consumer
myriad customisation services behaviour and use the data
offered across every industry is gathered wisely.
to be believed. Hence, companies need to be
strategic in developing their
The human connection omnichannel strategies and
rectify problems as soon as they
Similar to the law of scarcity are identified to preserve and
where inadequacy of something grow revenue.
increases its worth, the less- Due to the overwhelming
than-ready availability of competition, simply meeting
human interaction and rise of the preferences of modern
digital interface or artificial consumers do not guarantee
intelligence-powered customer your success unless you make
service processes have yourself stand out among
contributed to the increase in the crowd and garner the
value of human connection. attention of public by coming
In addition, for millennials up with something out of
who grew up surrounded by the box that serves as a wow
digital technology, a 2006 study factor.
in American Sociological Review
suggests that they feel lonelier
compared to other generations,
making them more likely to
crave and appreciate human
connection.
It is crucial for companies to
not only focus on machine-
based development but also
genuine and sincere human
interaction to cater to such an
issue.
12 Course Focus THE STAR, TUESDAY 20 MARCH 2018

Real-world exposure to share trading


AS one of Malaysia’s premier knowledge he gained from the
institutions of higher learning, programme will provide him with
Tunku Abdul Rahman University a solid foundation when he steps
College (TAR UC) has made a name out into the working world.
for itself as a leading provider of “Through the programme, I am
professional business education in exposed to many aspects of finance
Malaysia. and this allows me to gain
Established in 1971 as the School knowledge on different types of
of Business Studies, the TAR UC investment, financial management,
Faculty of Accountancy, Finance setting up an enterprise and
and Business (FAFB) has not only Equipped with taxation of income from business
proven itself to be the preferred and investment,” he says.
real-time
choice for professional accounting FAFB currently offers
share market
programmes but has also accounting, business and finance
established itself as a leading simulation programmes at the diploma,
finance learning centre. software, TAR undergraduate and postgraduate
To provide truly hands-on UC students levels.
learning for finance students, can gain Furthermore, FAFB’s academic
TAR UC has set up an advanced hands-on collaboration with Coventry
Investment Share Trading Room in training on University, and Sheffield Hallam
FAFB. Simulating a financial share market University, in the United Kingdom
trading floor, the room enhances trading. offers dual-award programmes to
the effectiveness of classroom students that give students two
teaching with an interactive share qualifications – one from TAR UC
trading experience for students to The Investment Share Trading their learning experience. this software, I now have some and another from TAR UC’s partner
learn from. Room also caters to investment- “The simulator is a great knowledge on basic stock institution – that will greatly
Students from Bachelor of related courses such as Principles teaching tool since it is able to indicators such as moving average, enhance students’ career prospects
Finance and Investment (Hons) of Investment, Investment and demonstrate many market-related Relative Strength Index and how to in both Malaysia and abroad.
and Bachelor of Banking and Financial Analysis, Equity Analysis terminologies using real-life study a technical chart. Attractive scholarships such as
Finance (Hons) can now use the and Portfolio Management. examples,” says the FAFB “To me, coursework or practical academic merit and sibling
room during tutorial classes. With 32 terminals equipped with Department of Finance associate lessons are far more important discounts are available from TAR
Through this experience, real-time share market simulator dean Chai Ming Perng. than final examinations. By UC for eligible students.
students can have hands-on software, students can hone their Student Law Ken Kiet considers incorporating this software into TAR UC is holding an Open Day
experiences on how shares are skills and get industry-relevant himself fortunate to be part of the our syllabus, students can learn from 9am to 5pm from now till
traded using the live feed of share exposure in finance and pioneer batch of students to use and understand the process and April 1 at TAR UC campuses
prices from Bursa Malaysia. investment. this software simulator during not just memorise and regurgitate nationwide. TAR UC
In addition, students learn the “The Investment Share Trading their lessons. information without learning representatives will be present at
practical side of share trading Room makes teaching more “This facility helps equip anything,” says Law. major education fairs.
such as buy-sell spread, order exciting as students show great students with hands-on experience The third-year Bachelor of
type, price adjustments, liquidity enthusiasm when engaged in real- in stock market trading rather than Banking and Finance (Hons) n For more information, visit
and commission. time trading. It has also improved just relying on books. After using student also shares that the www.tarc.edu.my

Lucrative career prospects


AT Infrastructure University Kuala
Lumpur (IUKL), the Faculty of
Business and Accounting is
renowned for offering quality
education and business experience
to ensure students are equipped
with values and skills that today’s
employers look for.
A business degree will provide
you with various skills for your
career in numerous fields. You will
be equipped with communication,
presentation, writing, problem
solving and critical and creative
thinking skills.
A background in business
will open doors to business
opportunities worldwide.
IUKL’s Bachelor of Business IUKL is the foremost
Administration (Hons) is unique in infrastructure university in
its approach to management, Malaysia that focuses on the
leadership and entrepreneurship integration of both hard and soft
in the business profession. There aspects of infrastructure and
are 10 majors to choose from: aspires to produce technopreneurs
l Entrepreneurship and skilled manpower with
l Finance and Banking outstanding communication,
l Human Resource Management technological and managerial
l Islamic Finance and Banking skills.
l International Business As a subsidiary of Protasco
l Marketing Berhad, IUKL is committed to
l Management engineering the future of
l E-Commerce Students will be able to apply their knowledge in real-life situations to meet the demands and challenges globally. tomorrow’s leaders. For 20 years,
l Logistics and Supply Chain IUKL has been providing quality
Management by helping them develop entertainment to medicine. It is Accountants (MICPA). education and excellent
l Economics and Finance fundamental skills and introduce one of the most necessary lines of Graduates of the programme will professional services in various
new ideas in the marketplace, work globally. be granted examination exemption infrastructure fields.
Students are exposed to various allowing them to be the leaders of IUKL's Bachelor of Accountancy from nine ACCA papers, six CIMA IUKL is open weekdays from
skills that will be essential in their tomorrow in just two years. (Hons) educates students on papers, six Certified Public 8.30am to 6.30pm and weekends
career such as teamwork, Additionally, IUKL offers Master specific knowledge of accounting, Accountant papers and one MICPA from 10am to 4pm until April 1.
leadership and negotiation through of Business Administration and finance and taxation to produce paper. Walk-in registration is available.
hands-on activities in group work Doctor of Philosophy in Business competent and dedicated IUKL also offers Diploma in The IUKL Info Day will be held
and class presentations. Administration, which are courses accountants who possess attributes Accounting, which provides from 10am to 4pm on March 24
This learning structure allows designed for further study. and skills required in all functional students with the opportunity to and 25. Students who register on
students to make beneficial Those who wish to be areas of accounting. learn important principles and the spot will be entitled to a
relationships and build contacts marketable and relevant in any The programme is recognised by concepts of accounting, taxation, RM2,000 rebate and an IUKL Lucky
with people who strive to make the industry can also choose to pursue professional bodies such as auditing, finance, costing, 20 kit in conjunction with IUKL’s
world go around. accounting programmes. Association of Chartered Certified management accounting and 20th anniversary.
From management to Accounting is one of the oldest and Accountants (ACCA), Chartered economics. The programme also
information technology, IUKL's most respected professions in the Institute of Management covers communication, n For more information, call
Diploma in Business world and accountants can be Accountants (CIMA) and Malaysian information technology and 1800 88 STUDY (78839) or visit
Administration nourishes students found in every industry from Institute of Certified Public human resource management. www.iukl.edu.my

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