mba edge postgraduate studies

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POSTGRADUATE

PP17103/09/2012 (030736) 2012 Issue 9 July/August 2012 RM7.00

mbaedgeTM

Stud

iesTHE GENESIS OF THE PURPLE OCEAN STRATEGYTan Sri Dr David Lai

MRCA

Industr y Centre of Excellence (ICoE)

DATO’ NELSON KWOK

ICT CAREER & EDUCATION IN MALAYSIA with

• Dr Liew Soung Yue • Professor Dr Jamilin Jais

• Dr Jasmine Seng

Redefining the PUBLISHING

INDUSTRY withRODNEY TOH, KIM & KERRIE SDN BHD

Talent is Never Enoughin PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

EDDIE TANG, MAH SING PROPERTIES SDN BHD

ISSN 2232-0342

9772232034009

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Supporting Universities

Nationwide

Your Future is Our Business

As seen in stores and

universities

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Stud

iesPOSTGRADUATE

SETTING UP OF THE INDUSTRY CENTRE OF ExCELLENCE (ICOE)Dato’ Nelson Kwok

President of MRCA

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Competition Ad - Final 01.pdf 7/8/2012 11:51:36 PM

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Stud

iesPOSTGRADUATE

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Competition Ad - Final 01.pdf 7/8/2012 11:51:36 PM

TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGHEddie Tang

COO, Mah Sing Proper ties Sdn Bhd

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CORPORATE

Managing Director: Steven Shim

Office Manager: Vicky Shim

Key Accounts Manager: Wong YW

Finance Manager: Bonnie Bang

EDITORIAL TEAM

Senior Editor: Janet Tay

Writers: Nurraihana, Mohd Amil

Contributors: Dr Hendry Ng, Senerath

De Silva, Lenny Chiah

Photographer: Tang Weng Kit, Brandon

Leow

Graphic Designer: Tony Lam

PUBLISHER

Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M) Sdn Bhd

(866716-P), Wisma Wawasan,

19-2 Jalan PJS 8/12, Dataran Mentari,

Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya,

Malaysia

Tel: 603-56301802, Fax: 603-6301803,

Email: [email protected],

[email protected]

Website: www.pwn.com.my

PRINTER

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Lumpur

All rights reserved by MBA EdgeTM and its publisher. While every care has been taken, the publisher, writers, and editors will not be held liable for errors, inaccuracies or commissions. Unsolicited material is submitted at sender’s risk. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of copyright owner. The scanning, uploading and distribution of this magazine via the internet or any other means without the permission of publisher is illegal by law.

EDITOR’S NOTE

ICT – the way of the present, and the future

ICT is a well-known acronym

but what does it mean exactly?

ICT stands for Information and

Communication Technology,

and includes products that

will store, retrieve, manipulate,

transmit or receive electronic

information in a digital

form, i.e., digital data. We are

talking about computers,

digital televisions, email and

even robots. Even with this

definition, ICT is a broad and

fast-changing subject. Malaysia

is keeping up with the advent

and evolution of ICT through

the offering of ICT courses in

various universities.

In this issue, we interview Dr

Liew Soung Yue, Dean of the

Faculty of Information and

Communication Technology

at Universiti Tunku Abdul

Rahman (UTAR) about the

various ICT courses offered

at the university and the

Dean of Computer Science/IT

Department of KLIUC, Professor

Jamilin Jais, on ICT courses at

KLIUC. Dr Jasmine Seng, Head

of Computer Science and

Networked Systems at Sunway

University talks to us about the

trends in IT courses and the

different programmes offered

at the university. We also

feature a dialogue between

Ms Elizabeth Lee and Professor

Chang Pao-long about the

partnership between Sunway

University (Malaysia) and Feng

Chia University (Taiwan), a

collaboration that will surely

bring ICT to new heights in this

country.

Our cover story features Tan Sri

David Lai, CEO of Bandacaya

Group, who talks to us about

his challenging early years

and how he discovered his

business philosophy, the

Purple Ocean Strategy. We

also interview Dato’ Nelson

Kwok about the launch of the

Industry Centre of Excellence

which will providing 8,000

internship opportunities to

university students.

In our business segment, we

speak to Rodney Toh of Kim

& Kerrie Sdn Bhd about how

e-publishing will redefine

the publishing landscape in

Malaysia. Eddie Tang dispenses

advice on how to find and the

right talents in organisations.

We are also happy to

announce the latest MBA Edge

business competition, Season

3, on “The Salient Points of

Creating a Powerful Personal

Brand in the Malaysian Context

Today.” The winner of the MBA

Edge business competition

Season 2 is Nicholas Cheng Yi

Yang, many congratulations!

Our interview with him is also

included in this issue.

If you have any suggestions

on what you would like to see

in this magazine in relation to

postgraduate studies or have

any comments about our

current issues, please email us

at: penerbitwawasan@gmail.

com.

Happy reading!

Janet Tay

mbaedgeTM 9

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TAN SRI DAVID LAI, THE GENESIS OF THE PURPLE OCEAN STRATEGY, Chief Executive Officer, Bandacaya Group

MALAYSIA RETAILER-CHAINS ASSOCIATION, Dato’ Nelson Kwok LAUNCHING OF THE INDUSTRY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

ICT EDUCATION & PROSPECTS IN MALAYSIA with Dr Liew Soung Yue

Interview with Dean of Computer Science/IT Department, KLIUC PROFESSOR DR JAMILIN JAIS

ICT PROGRAMMES AT SUNwAY UNIVERSITY, DR JASMINE SENG, Head of Computer Science & Networked Systems

NICHOLAS CHENG YI YANG, Profile of the winner of the mbaedgeTM Business Competition Season 2

MBA from Strathclyde Business School A TRIPLE-ACCREDITED UNIVERSITY

PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SUNWAY UNIVERSITY (MALAYSIA) & FENG CHIA UNIVERSITY (TAIwAN) The Dialogue Between Ms Elizabeth Lee) and Prof Chang Pao-long

BUSINESS MODEL GENERATION Somachandra Senerath De Silva and Dr Hendry HS Ng

Interview with MR VIGNESwARAN, Head of Department, After-Sales, Quill BMW

UTAR and Building Management Association of Malaysia sign MoU

SUNwAY UNIVERSITY AND FENG CHIA UNIVERSITY SEAL PARTNERSHIP

MMU, UTAR Hosts Conference on High-Impact Technology

A TRIPARTITE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT(MoA) SIGNING CEREMONY BETWEEN UM, ACCA AND SUNwAY TES

Event: Award-giving Ceremony of SIN CHEw EDUCATION FUND AwARDS

Speech by YB Dato’ Dr Hou at the Award-giving Ceremony of SIN CHEw EDUCATION FUND AwARDS

THE MBA EDGETM Business Competition Season 3

Redefining the PUBLISHING INDUSTRY HOW THE ADVENT OF TABLET PCs AND EPUB 3.0 FORMAT WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF PUBLISHING IN MALAYSIA RODNEY TOH, Kim & Kerrie Sdn Bhd

TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGHAn Exclusive Conversation with EDDIE TANG, MAH SING BHD

COVER STORY

PROFILE

BUSINESS SEGMENT

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Q. Tell us about yourself and your life principles.

I completed my degree in the

UK in quantitative surveying

in 1992. After a few years

working in Malaysia, I spent

some time working in China.

I came back to Malaysia in

1997 and set up my own

company, P&M Construction

Sdn Bhd. Unfortunately,

Malaysia was in a recession

in 1997 and it took more

than one year before the

company won a tender for

a project. Meanwhile, I did

many odd jobs, like selling

stainless steel tanks, filters,

stationeries, and was even

involved in direct selling

schemes, just to make ends

meet. Our first construction

project was a school in Bangi.

After that, I decided to move

into property development

instead of construction and

formed Bandacaya Holding

Sdn Bhd. I decided to develop

properties on Malay reserved

land.

I grew up in a small kampong

among many Malay people.

We understand the Malay

culture well, and in fact, my

father’s business was involved

in providing products and

services for Malay weddings

and festival celebrations.

I spent a lot of my time in

Lantau Panjang at a mamak

coffee shop to mingle around

with the local folk there.

Almost everyday from 10am

to 10pm I would chat with

the local customers and

try to propose my ideas to

the landowners for me to

develop their land in return

for profit sharing. After a

period of time, I managed to

close a deal and proceeded

to develop a piece of land.

To do so, I needed to get an

official government approval

which took from two to three

months to more than 12

months. Nothing happened

during that time as I couldn’t

develop the land without

a permit. It was tough and

I worked hard to find a

solution. Eventually when

the permit was approved, I

started pitching tents and

setting up a display for the

property to promote sales to

the kampong folk. For two

weeks from 11am to 6pm,

there was not a single visitor

to the display tents.

I decided to go directly to the

customers instead of waiting

for them to come to me. I

printed some brochures and

went knocking door to door

to sell them the property.

I did this for three months.

It was really tough work.

From 9am to 12 midnight, I

would go to every potential

customer’s office or home

to present to them. On

average, to close a sale, I had

to visit and service a potential

customer about six times.

Slowly but surely, I managed

Tan Sri Dr David Lai, founder of Bandacaya Holding Sdn Bhd, talks to Postgraduate Studies MEB about his challenging early years and how he discovered his business philosophy, the Purple Ocean Strategy.

Tan Sri Dr David Lai and the Genesis of the Purple Ocean

Strategy

“”

I grew up in a small kampong

among many Malay people.

We understand the Malay culture

well

COVER STORY

ME Cover Story : Tan Sri Dr David Lai & the Genesis of the Purple Ocean Strategy

mbaedgeTM 11

to sell all the units. Although

it was tough work, I was very

motivated and energised by

the results.

The landlord became a

millionaire and he started

to recommend his family

members who owned land

to work together with my

company. That was how I

grew my business in 2002

until 2006. All went very well

and I worked very hard trying

to do everything. Then came

that fateful day of 7 May 2006

when I suffered a stroke at the

age of 38. Half my body was

paralysed. For four months

until September 2006, the

whole business stopped. I

tried to do everything and

when I collapsed, everything

stood still. No one knew

what to do; there was no

continuation. I was not wise

enough then to build a

team and create a perpetual

business system.

The four months I spent

recuperating and recovering

from the stroke was perhaps

the most important turning

point in my life. I started to

think deeper about how I did

business. I started to search

for a model. I studied the

Blue Ocean Strategy concept

made famous by Chan Kim

and Renée Mauborgne. I

thought I didn’t want to be

in the Red Ocean business

as I was trying to avoid price

competition. I thought there

must be a space between

the idea of the Blue Ocean

and Red Ocean. One day,

while being involved in my

children’s painting activities,

I noticed that when red was

mixed with blue, the resultant

purple colour made an

impression on me. I took that

as a sign to explore further

what the acronym P.U.R.P.L.E.

means to me.

Slowly, I worked out a set

of principles using the

P.U.R.P.L.E. acronym and

fleshed out what would

eventually become the

foundational principles upon

which I built my business.

Then came that fateful day of 7 May 2006 when I suffered a stroke at the age of 38. Everything changed.

Cover Story : Tan Sri Dr David Lai & the Genesis of the Purple Ocean Strategy ME

12 mbaedgeTM

I would like to share my idea

of the “Purple Ocean”.

Purple to me stands for:

P: Prepare for change

U: Umbrella System

R: Reformation

P: Price

L: Lifestyle

E: Evolution

Prepare for Change:

To prepare for change you

have to start with your

thinking, your mindset.

I was deeply involved in

developing Malay reserved

land and I had to rethink

whether to proceed in

this area or diversify into

other areas. I decided to

stay put and grow in this

area as there are not many

players. Furthermore, based

on the Tenth Malaysia Plan

then, the focus on building

infrastructure was a plus point

as with proper infrastructure

it was easier to position

developments in those Malay

reserved land as accessibility

is always a challenge. I was

prepared for change by

rethinking my focus. Once I

was really sure I was on the

right track, everything else

fell into place. I refocused all

efforts into this area.

Umbrella System:

An umbrella protects you

from the rain. The umbrella

system is the idea of

protecting the customers.

Many developers do not

refund clients who fail to

secure loans for properties.

I refund fully as I want to

protect the customers. For

P: Prepare for change

U: Umbrella System

R: Reformation

P: Price

L: Lifestyle

E: Evolution


When our customers come to collect their set of keys to their house, I present them with an expensive key box with all the keys properly labelled and hung in the box for them. They will always remember that experience!

mbaedgeTM 13

those buyers who qualify for

the loan but do not have the

10 per cent down payment,

I provide interest-free two-

year instalment plans to

assist them. I produce the

‘Buku Panduan’ to show our

customers, step by step,

everything they need to

know about buying a house.

When our customers come

to collect their set of keys to

their house, I present them

with an expensive key box

with all the keys properly

labelled and hung in the box

for them. They will always

remember that experience!

We educate our customers

on the need to care for the

environment by providing

talks for them and we also

provide recycle bins for them.

We hire consultants to talk

about how to be smart about

servicing loans and how to

save on interest by managing

their loans well. Because I

think first of the customer

and their well-being, I created

a win-win situation. I earn

their loyalty and they not only

buy more but also refer more

customers to me.

Reformation:

Reformation to me starts

from inside. When I recovered

from my stroke, I started to

hire people to help

me. I started to focus

on building a team.

I changed the office

hours to 9am to 5pm.

I not only wanted

my staff to work hard

but also for them to

have time to do other

we also reformed our

concept. This point is linked

to the next point on Price.

Price:

Price is always a problem.

Too expensive, and you

will sell less. Cheap and

you can’t make a profit.

So I bypass the need to

be cheap by changing my

product concept. Instead of

building single storey terrace

houses, which is very normal,

I changed the concept by

provide a lifestyle “Resort

Living Concept”. We build

Because I think first of the customer and their well-being, I created a win-win situation. I earn their loyalty and they not only buy more but also refer more customers to me.

things after work. Some had

children they needed to

pick up from school. Some

needed to attend night

classes. I encouraged these.

Slowly I changed everyone’s

mindsets and focus them

on achievements. ISO

9001, ISO14001, Malaysia

Book of Records, etc. These

achievements made them

proud. I wanted to build an

outstanding company and

it had to start with internal

reformation. We always

think of doing extraordinary

things. Recently we gathered

400 Malay families to learn

Chinese calligraphy. And that

was a great achievement.

Besides internal reformation

solar systems, swimming

pools, place security guards in

the gardens, build auto-gate,

and provide LED lighting.

Extraordinary values for

money! Our tagline is “Kami

Membina Kelainan”. Our

pricing is mid-level because

we want everyone to be able

to afford to buy.

Lifestyle:

Our customers are 35 years

old and below. These are

young people who have a

different mindset. They want

lifestyle. That’s why my new

concept terrace houses are

reconceptualised to focus

on lifestyle. Swimming pool,

auto-gate, LED lighting,

Tan Sri David holding the ‘Buku Panduan’ produced to show

customers everything they need to know about buying a house.

Cover Story : Tan Sri Dr David Lai & the Genesis of the Purple Ocean Strategy ME

14 mbaedgeTM

fingerprint door lock, etc.

are all lifestyle elements we

incorporate into our design

and concept. We change

to meet changing needs.

Our projects are all sold out

before every launch!

Evaluation:

We have to constantly

evaluate what we are doing

and see who has changed.

Competitors always copy

and learn from us. We have

to evaluate ourselves and

change and progress. You

cannot stay still and be

complacent. You have to

continuously progress and

improve.

Q. What is your advice to young entrepreneurs facing a first failure?

I don’t like to use the word

failure because every problem

we face is just another

experience. It is not a failure;

it may be that the situation,

the conditions, and the

timing are not right. To be

an entrepreneur, you need

courage and confidence to

face difficulties. You need

to be able to take risk and

have the energy to persevere

through hardship. Learn to

create opportunities and

don’t wait for opportunities

to come knocking. During my

difficult years, I went around

selling filters, stainless steel

tanks, etc. to supplement my

income. Basically, when the

buyers don’t come to you,

you have to go to the buyers.

You have to pick yourself up

and turn things around. That’s

my advice.

Q. What about fresh graduate entering the market place?

You have no experience, you

have no track record and you

are fresh entering the job

market. First and foremost,

don’t be calculative about

salary. Learn as much as

possible from others who

have more experience than

you. When I started work after

my degree, I took a RM1,200

salary job in a place that was

a 20- minute walk from my

house. I initially asked for

RM600 because I wanted the

job for the experience and

because I walked to work,

I could save a lot. But the

owner decided to pay me

RM1,200. I discover later that

my pay was the lowest; even

lower than a normal clerk. But

I didn’t mind because I told

the owner I would take the

job provided he would teach

me. This he did, and I worked

very hard. Eighteen months

later, I went for an interview

for another job and asked for

RM600 more than my current

pay which was then RM1,700.

The interviewer suspected

I was not qualified for the

job because I was asking

for a lower than expected

Tan Sri Dr David at his Head Quarter


“”

You have no experience, you

have no track record and

you are fresh entering the job market. First and foremost, don’t

be calculative about salary.

mbaedgeTM 15

pay rate for the position

I was applying for. Then I

told the new employer that

if he was willing to try me

for three months, he could

decide whether to keep me

or not and at the RM2,300

salary I requested. If I did

not perform, I would just

leave on my own accord.

He couldn’t resist the deal

and took me on. From

there, in a short few years,

I proved myself again and

again to my employer. Three

years later, my salary was

RM9,200. My advice is, don’t

be calculative about salary.

Work for the experience and

prove yourself first. You are

still young and have plenty of

time! ME

Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) David LaiChief Executive OfficerBandacaya Group

16 mbaedgeTM

PROFILE

Q. How did the idea of the internship programme come about?

As chain store operators, we

don’t only operate one or

two stores; we have between

20 and a few hundred outlets.

In fact, many of our members

have outlets overseas as well

and are continuing to expand.

For any growing retail

concern, having adequate

and qualified human

resources is important. It

is always a challenge to

ensure that we have enough

manpower to grow. And

since there are stricter rules

controlling foreign workers,

the issue becomes more

pertinent. Because the chain

store retailers are facing a

shortage of manpower, I have

been receiving feedback on

the need to address this issue.

The idea of offering more

than 8,000 interns to work

in the retail industry arose

from this need. MRCA is

collaborating with SEGI and

UUM to offer their students

this internship programme.

Q. What are the objectives of this internship programme?

Basically, we want to provide

an opportunity for university

students to have a taste of

the retail world. Secondly,

MALAYSIA RETAILER-CHAINS

ASSOCIATIONDato’ Nelson Kwok

THE 8,000 INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME FOR LOCAL GRADUATES AND THE LAUNCHING OF

THE INDUSTRY CENTRE OF ExCELLENCE

ME Profile : Dato’ Nelson Kwok, President of MRCA

Postgradute Studies MEB interviews

Dato’ Nelson Kwok, President of

MRCA, on the recent collaboration

between MRCA, SEGI and UUM to

offer 8,000 internship opportunities

to university students through the

setting up of the Industry Centre of

Excellence (ICoE).

mbaedgeTM 17

we hope to attract qualified

candidates to eventually

join our industry. We want

to expose students to real

life work environment. And

finally, we need to expand

our business. Without fresh

blood, we cannot do so

and will be limited by this

constraint.

We want parents and

students to be aware of

the career opportunities in

the retail sector. Students

normally enrol for courses

in marketing, accountancy,

economics or business

administration. There are very

few who are interested in

retail management. Many do

not know the ample career

opportunities in the retail

sector.

In the modern retail industry

today, retailers need modern

managers, new blood

and fresh graduates to fill

vacancies. The internship

programme allows young

graduates to spend between

two and four months working

in the retail environment

to gain much needed work

experience that will be

useful even if they join other

industries eventually.

Q. Is this arrangement endorsed by MOHE?

Yes, in fact the Minister of

Higher Education, YB Dato’

Seri Mohamed Khaled

Nordin, himself was present

to witness the MOU signing

together with representatives

from SEGI University College

and UUM.

Q. Why work with SEGI and UUM?

SEGI and UUM were the

first to respond to our call

to encourage students

to participate in the retail

sector. They are open to

and supportive of the idea.

Thus we agreed quickly

to a mutually beneficial

arrangement where the

retailers have interns to cope

with manpower shortages

and the universities gain

opportunities to expose

students to real life work

scenarios. Students, in fact,

will be more employable.

We accept students from

any business-related field

of studies like marketing,

management, mass

communication, economics,

accounting, and human

resource.

Q. What can the interns expect?

The interns will work in the

headquarters initially and

will be briefed and trained

in the company history, the

organisation culture, product

knowledge, the performance

expectations and business

model. Then they will be

assigned to an outlet nearest

to their home. There they will

have hands-on experience

under the supervision of an

experienced staff for three

months. Constant monitoring

and feedback will ensure all

the interns perform well.

They will learn interpersonal

skills. They will learn how to

engage with customers, how

to work in a team, and how

to achieve targets. At the

end of the internship, each

intern will receive a letter

of testimony which will be

very valuable to them when

they eventually enter the

marketplace fulltime.

“In the modern retail industry today, retailers need modern managers, new blood and fresh graduates to fill vacancies”.

Profile : Dato’ Nelson Kwok, President of MRCA ME

Participants at the launch of the Industry Centre of Excellence (ICoE) event together with the Minister of Higher Education, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled

18 mbaedgeTM

ME Profile : The Makings of an Intellectual

Q. What is your personal advice to the 8,000 interns?

I believe this is a great

opportunity for the students

to learn. Many young people

dream of being rich but are

not ready to work hard for

it. Money doesn’t fall from

the sky. There is no short cut

to success. You must work

hard, be focused, and strive

for success. During university

life, take this internship

opportunity to upgrade

your skills and learn to be

adaptable. Expose yourself to

how business people work

and make money. Don’t

be calculative and don’t

be discouraged by minor

setbacks. Use this internship

programme to show that you

can perform, to show that

you are reliable and that you

are trustworthy. We need

people with these qualities

to work with us and we offer

very attractive career paths

and opportunities that will

enrich you personally and

also financially. ME

Retail Sector Pay Range

• Retail Assistant level: Pay range - RM 1,500 to RM 3,000.

• Retail Supervisor level: Pay range - RM 3,000 to RM 5,000.

• Retail Executive and Retail Manager level: Pay range - RM 5,000 and above.

• Director of Operations, Part Owner, Franchise, Joint Venture - Unlimited.

Dato’ Nelson KwokPresident of MRCA

mbaedgeTM 19

20 mbaedgeTM

ME ICT THEME

Dr Liew Soung Yue is an associate professor at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), which he joined in August 2003. He was appointed as the Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology at UTAR in August 2009. His research interests lie in network algorithms and protocols, wireless communications and applications, provision of QoS guarantee, distributed computing and algorithms, etc. Dr. Liew has also been the

ICT EDUCATION & PROSPECTIVE IN

MALAYSIAwith Dr Liew Soung Yue

recipient of two Science-Fund projects under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation since 2008.

Postgradute Studies MEB speaks to Dr Liew about the various ICT programmes offered at UTAR.

Q. What are the popular programmes in ICT today?

Basically all ICT programmes must cover such ICT

basics as programming, database, networking,

etc. For the knowledge and skill at the advanced

level, the popular programmes are:

Computer Science - focused on programming

and algorithm developments to solve specific

problems;

mbaedgeTM 21

ICT THEME ME

Computer Engineering -

focused on software and

hardware integration to

provide unique solutions;

Network Engineering -

focused on internetworking

among computers and

solving the issues, such

as security, that arise from

communications;

Information Systems

Engineering - focused on ICT

system developments and

applications, especially for

enterprise solutions; and

Software Engineering

- focused on software

developments and

applications for specific

problems.

However, to help Malaysia

achieve the next level of

nation’s high-income goal,

we need not only the

skilled programmers and

ICT system developers, but

also innovators and creators

for new ICT applications

and solutions. That is why

the UTAR ICT postgraduate

programmes focus more

on the research and

development (R&D) that can

generate new ICT knowledge

and cutting-edge technology.

Q. What is the trend in computer science/IT enrolment?

Although the past few years

have seen an increasing

enrolment of ICT students,

it has not been at the same

growing pace as that of

the ICT job and business

demands. Therefore the

Malaysian job market is

currently facing a serious

shortage of ICT specialists.

Q. What’s the ratio of male/female enrolment in IT in UTAR?

Males still dominate the

programming-intensive ICT

undergraduate programmes;

however, for disciplines

such as Business Information

Systems, we see more

female than male students.

For UTAR ICT postgraduate

programmes, the ratio of

male to female is about 5:1

Q. Should IT courses be strongly orientated technically or should there be elements of “business” studies as well?

Definitely, elements of

business are essential for all

ICT disciplines, as ICT must

be service- and application-

oriented. At UTAR, we

emphasise not only the

technical skill of students,

but also train students to

process entrepreneurial

and managerial skill.

Basically there is no conflict

between a technically sound

programmer and a successful

technopreneur. In fact, they

should come together.

Q. What is the ratio of lab-based instructions to theoretical instructions?

At UTAR, we emphasise a lot

on lab training because we

believe it is more effective for

students to learn if they can

practise their knowledge and

skills in the lab. For instance,

most of the technical subjects

are lab-oriented, and are

associated with intensive

practical training so that

students will acquire sound

programming, database,

“The Malaysian job market is currently facing a serious shortage of ICT specialists”.

22 mbaedgeTM

ME ICT THEME

and networking skills after

they complete the degree

programmes. Having said

so, we do not neglect the

theoretical training either as

this provides students with

the fundamental knowledge

base in order to extend

their knowledge, to perform

research and to further create

knowledge in the future.

The ratio of practical to

theoretical contents of UTAR

ICT degree programmes is

about 1:2. For research based

postgraduate programmes,

postgraduate students

are required to propose

a solution to a specific

problem from the theoretical

aspect, and then verify the

solution by implementation.

This requires both sound

theoretical knowledge and

good practical skill.

Q. Is there a stronger emphasis on ‘software’ (programming, design, languages) rather than ‘hardware’ (engineering, circuitry) courses?

Different ICT programmes

have different emphases.

As mentioned, Computer

Engineering focuses on

the software-hardware

integration, while all other

degree programmes focus

more on the software.

Q. What are the facilities available for IT students in UTAR?

At UTAR, we are working

closely with the industry,

and thus we are setting up

teaching labs like Huawei

Networking Lab, Intel IC

Design and Computing

Lab, Microsoft Software

Engineering Lab, Cisco

Network Academy Lab,

Enterprise Systems and

Database Lab, Analogue Lab,

Digital Lab, etc. In addition,

we also have a Final Year

Project Lab for students

to work on their final year

projects. For

postgraduate,

lab space and

equipment are

located in the

Postgraduate

and Project Labs

for postgraduate

students to

conduct R&D.

Q. Why study Computer Science/IT at UTAR?

At UTAR all ICT

programmes

are carefully designed with

international benchmarks and

market-driven contents. From

the technical aspect, students

will keep abreast with the

new ICT trends and be

trained with lab facilities that

meet the industrial standards.

Most of the technical subjects

are associated with intensive

practical training so that

students will acquire sound

programming, database,

and networking skills after

they complete the degree

programmes.

On the other hand, the two

UTAR ICT postgraduate

programmes, namely Master

of Computer Science and

Doctor of Philosophy

(Computer Science),

focus on the research and

development (R&D) that

can generate new ICT

knowledge and cutting-

edge technology. The two

postgraduate programmes

offer a unique combination

of scientific and engineering

appeal, with the aim to equip

students with the ability to

perform professional problem

analysis, literature search,

solution design, system

implementation, verification,

documentation, etc., to

conduct in-depth R&D in the

ICT field.

To facilitate the postgraduate

R&D activities, lab space and

equipment are allocated, and

financial aid is also in place on

project basis for postgraduate

students to apply. There is

also a wide variety of areas

of interest, such as Wireless

Communications and

Networking, Cloud and P2P

Computing, Computer Vision

and Digital Image, Machine

Learning and Algorithms,

Embedded and Intelligent

Systems, Multimedia and Web

Technologies, Knowledge

Management and Data

Mining, etc. Throughout the

programmes, students will

be encouraged to participate

in enhancement courses

such as training, seminars

and workshops, and publish

their research outcomes in

Dr Liew Soung Yue is an associate professor at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR).

conferences and journals.

Q. What is your advice for fresh IT graduates entering the job market today?

In order to become

innovative and creative

computer scientists,

students (undergraduate

and postgraduate) are

advised to broaden their

knowledge base through

reading and writing; develop

their strong ICT skills, such as

programming, networking,

etc. through practice;

cultivate critical thinking

in order to review existing

solutions and identify new

applications; and always strive

to find out how things can be

done in a more efficient and

effective way. ME

mbaedgeTM 23

Article : The Science of Generalisation in Qualitative Research ME

24 mbaedgeTM

Q. What are the popular programmes in IT today?

Software development with

elements of Network, Software

Engineering, Information System,

Multimedia & Web Application and

Computer Security.


Overall trend of IT enrolment is

stable as almost all universities and

colleges offer IT programmes. For

specialised programmes, the number

of enrolments is increasing.

Q. Whats the ratio of male/female enrolment in IT in KLIUC?

Roughly 7:3, male to female students

Q. Should IT courses be strongly orientated technically or should there be elements of ‘business’ studies as well?

Both elements should be in

the IT courses; however the

percentage of IT elements is

higher.


It depends on the

programme/subject offered.

Programming courses: 2:1

Networking courses: 2:1

Others: 1:1


Again, it depends on the

programme. If it is a software

engineering programme,

the software elements must

be there. For networking

programmes, hardware

elements will be emphasised

more.

Q. What are the facilities available for IT students in KLIUC?

1. Computer Lab at KLIUC:

a) General Lab – students

general use (assignment,

project, etc)

b) Program specialisation

– Wireless Lab (CWNA),

Network Lab (CCNA), Unix

and Linux Lab, Multimedia

lab, Microprocessor lab.

c) Language lab (English)

All computer labs are

equipped with internet

connection.

2. Other Facilities:

a) Library

b) Sports Centre

c) Cafeteria

d) Discussion rooms etc.

Q. Why study Computer Science/IT at KLIUC?

There are a number of unique

features in our programme:

The IT programmes/

curricula in KLUC are well

designed with areas of

specialisation (Software

Engineering, Network and

Computer Science) with IT

entrepreneurial elements.

Programmes offered at

KLIUC will enable students

to take certified courses such

as Cisco Certified Network

Associate, Software Testing,

Requirements Engineering

etc.

At end of the programme,

students will be sent for

Industrial Training with

Company to prepare them for

real life work environments.

Students are trained to have

good communication skills.

Our lecturers are highly

qualified with professional

certification (e.g., Ethical

Hacking, Digital Forensic,

CCNA, MCSE, Requirements

Engineering, Software Testing

and Linux)

Q. What is your advice for fresh IT graduates entering the market place today?

Besides good academic

achievements, the student

must have good

communication and soft

skills amd a positive attitude

together with a willingness to

learn and work. ME

Inter view with the Dean of Computer Science & IT

Depar tment, KLIUC Professor Dr Jamilin Jais

ME ICT THEME

Prof Dr Jamilin Jais has been in teaching profession since 1980. He obtained his Bachelors and Masters in Computer Science from Northrop University in the USA, and received his PhD in Management Information System from University Putra Malaysia. He is now the Dean of the Computer Science/IT Department.

Postgraduate Studies MEB speaks to Professor Dr Jamilin about the IT courses offered at KLIUC.

mbaedgeTM 25

Master in Information TechnologyKP/JPS(N/481/7/0018)12/15

Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)KP/JPS(KR9432)8/13

Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)in Network TechnologyKP/JPS(KR10119)3/14

Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)in Software EngineeringKP/JPS(KR10578)7/14

Diploma in Information TechnologyKP/JPS(KR9431)4/14

Diploma in Network and Mobile TechnologyKP/JPS(KA9430)2/14

Diploma in Software EngineeringKP/JPS(KA9429)1/14

SchoolÊofÊInformationÊTechnologyÊInfrastructure

26 mbaedgeTM

Q. What are the popular programmes in IT today?

Masters in Information

Technology and Computer

Science is a popular course

we offer to IT professionals

who are interested in

advancing their careers.

Professionals who are

involved in Information

Technology and Computer

Science know they must stay

up to date with the latest

trends to keep their careers

on track and to support the

technological and economic

advancement of their

organisations.

Sunway University currently

offers the Master of Science

in Computer Science

(by research) and PhD in

Computing programme

to individuals who are

interested to advance their

research skills and ability

in the field of Computer

Science. The individual may

already possess a Bachelor’s

degree in computer science

and computing. The PhD

programme at Sunway

University provides an

excellent opportunity to

develop the person’s research

career. Sunway University

is among the few local

private universities providing

these programmes with the

added advantage of a strong

research-based staff.


The trends in Computer

Science/IT enrolment

appear to be on the rise,

although this increase will

most likely not reach the

heights seen in the late 90s

and the beginning of this

century. In the ever increasing

reliance on information and

technology, the services

of Information Technology

professionals are always in

demand.

Q. Should IT courses be strongly oriented technically or should there be elements of ‘business’ studies as well?

The orientation of computing

courses will definitely be

technically inclined. However,

if by elements of business

studies you mean subjects

that are not directly related

to computing, then yes, there

should be some subjects

such as communication and

basic management skills

that should be included in IT

courses to produce graduates

who are better prepared

for the industry. One of our

primary goals is to meet

the needs of the industry

for technically competent

graduates to ensure that

they are not only employable

but are able to contribute

towards the workforce. To

achieve this, we work closely

Dr Jasmine Seng is currently a Professor at Sunway University and is also the Head of Department of Computer Science & Networked Systems. She and her colleagues have established a research centre called Affective & Assistive Technology Research (AAT) Centre in Sunway University. Two research priority groups called Pervasive Computing Research (PCR) Group and Intelligent & Visual (IVC) Research Group have also been formed. Postgraduate Studies MEB speaks to Dr Seng about the trends in IT courses and programmes offered at Sunway University.

DR JASMINE SENGHead of Computer Science & Networked Systems

ICT PROGRAMMES AT SUNWAY UNIVERSITY

ME ICT THEME

mbaedgeTM 27

with representatives from

industry.


MSc Computer Science

and PhD in Computing

programmes in Sunway

University are conducted on

a research basis. The work

produced by students will

have a balance between

the theoretical and practical

elements. It is important

that graduates from these

programmes are able to apply

the theoretical knowledge

gained in the labs.


There is a strong emphasis

on software in computing

programmes. Hardware,

however, is the emphasis of

an Engineering programme.

Having said this, as the

students have to programme

for hardware, the students

ought to know what they

are programming. Hence, a

little hardware knowledge is

important.

Q. Why study Computer Science/IT at Sunway?

The Master of Science

Computer Science

programme in Sunway

University is affiliated with

Lancaster University, a highly

ranked university in United

Kingdom. Upon completion,

the graduate will be

conferred with two Master’s

degrees – one awarded by

Sunway University (certified

by the Ministry of Higher

Education) and another by

Lancaster University, UK.

The PhD in Computing

offered by Sunway University

is solely developed by

Sunway University’s dynamic

team of faculty members.

Upon completion, the

graduate will be conferred

with a Doctoral degree from

Sunway University certified

by the Ministry of Higher

Education, Malaysia. The

areas of research at Sunway

University include, but are

not limited to, the following:

(a) Ubiquitous and Pervasive

Computing, (b) Networking,

(c) Database Systems, (d)

Image Processing and

Computer Vision, (e) Artificial

Intelligence, (f ) Data Mining,

(g) Affective Computing, (h)

Biometrics.

Both programmes are

designed to produce

graduates who can actively

contribute in organisations

that thrive on developing

innovative software solutions

for various industries, can

provide cutting-edge

software products and

services and are leaders in

their chosen niches and

specialised sub-disciplines

in a more academic and

scholarly setting.

To facilitate student progress

towards the completion of

the degree, the programme

has built into its course

structure two compulsory

courses: directed readings

and research methodology,

which give students the

necessary underlying

knowledge to commence

their research work. Sunway

University practises a close

collaboration and mentoring

relationship between faculty

members and students.

This can be seen from the

participation of students

in various projects led by

faculty members. Through

such participation, students

learn the co-authoring and

collaboration process of

actual research work.

Q. What is your advice for fresh IT graduates entering the market place today?

In a nutshell, Computer

Science/IT graduates must be

dynamic and able to embrace

and accept change. As they

create and innovate, it is the

other disciplines that follow in

their wake. With its constantly

evolving nature, the IT

industry constantly needs

more people to not only

handle more specialised tasks

but also new technologies.

IT graduates must anticipate

change by studying trends

and keeping themselves

informed of new disruptive

technologies, as well as

advising users how to adopt

and to adapt to existing ones.

Career opportunities reflect

these expectations and the

sky is indeed the limit. ME

“”

With its constantly evolving nature, the IT industry constantly needs more people to not only handle more specialised tasks but also new technologies.

ICT THEME ME

28 mbaedgeTM

mbaedgeTM 29

Email: nicholas.cheng.yy@

gmail.com

Currently Pursuing: MBA

University Name: University of

Strathclyde

Current Job Role Title:

Solution Architect

Brief Description of Current

Role: Designing, architecting

and implementation of

software and system solutions

to meet their functional and

non-functional requirements.

Q. Why did you choose to study the MBA at the current institution?

The Strathclyde MBA is a

well-known MBA and is listed

in the Financial Times Global

MBA top 100 rankings. It also

widely regarded as the most

value-for-money, locally-

taught MBA in Malaysia.

Q. To a prospective MBA student, how should he/she prepare before starting the programme? What should he/she be aware of? What are the pitfalls to avoid?

I would say that prospective

students need to be able

to adopt a learning attitude

- there is nothing more

inhibiting than a mindset in

which one believes that he or

she already knows everything,

and does not need to know

more. I personally believe

that there is always more to

be learnt, regardless of who

you are.

Q. The MBA is not for everyone. Who should not pursue the MBA?

An MBA is a very generalised

Masters degree, as it trains

you to be a generalist instead

of a specialist. If one intends

to be a specialist instead, a

subject-oriented Masters

degree may be more ideal.

Q. What do you find most rewarding about the MBA?

Apart from the knowledge

gained through the high-

quality programmes taught,

I have gained a few close

friends with whom I worked

quite closely throughout

my course, who have been

more than just classmates

and group mates. Networking

is naturally another huge

reward, as one’s classmates

are usually influential people

in diverse industries. This

is particularly important

in today’s world where

opportunity favours the well-

connected.

Q. What do you find toughest during the programme?

Managing my time is

definitely the hardest -

particularly having to juggle

work, family and studies.

However, this has turned out

well, as I have now come to

see how valuable time is, and

I should make the most of it.

Q. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Within the next five years,

I plan to make the most of

whatever opportunities that

are available – but mostly,

I want to do the best I can

and know that I’m making a

difference.

Q. What is your motto in life? What is your favourite quote?

Motto: The happiest people

don’t necessarily have the

best of everything but they

make the most of everything

Favorite quote: “Stay hungry,

stay foolish” – Steve Jobs

Profile of the winner of the mbaedgeTM

Business Competition Season 2

Nicholas Cheng Yi Yang

Left ot Right: Mr Soon (CEO of CDC Management Development, Teoh Wei Yi, Nicholas Cheng Yi Yang, Lew Man Wai, Mr Steven Shim (MD of PWN)

Profile : Postgraduate Students ME

NICHOLAS CHENG

30 mbaedgeTM

Embarking on an MBA

programme is a huge

commitment in terms

of both time and money

spent. As such, an individual

seeks to acquire the most

out of their commitment

by receiving a high quality

education. Accrediting

MBA bodies such as the

Association of MBAs (AMBA),

the European Quality

Improvement System

(EQUIS) and the Association

to Advance Collegiate

Schools of Business (AACSB)

ensures the quality of an MBA

programme and provides

individuals with peace of

mind, knowing that they are

participating in an excellent

quality and meticulously

tested programme.

These accrediting

institutions make certain

that the student gets the

highest return on their MBA

investment. Organisations are

looking for future managers

who have acquired the

best possible education.

Attending an accredited

MBA programme ensures

that the education meets

the demands of the business

world.

Strathclyde Business School

(SBS) is internationally

respected as one of the most

innovative business schools

in Europe with one of the

largest academic faculties.

Strathclyde is accredited by

AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB, and

is one of only 55 in the world

to have such a distinction.

In fact, less than 1% of

business schools in the world

hold triple accreditation

status. In Scotland, no other

business school is accredited

so highly. Attaining the

accreditation from each of

these accrediting bodies

assures that all aspects of the

school have been evaluated

and the school meets

the highest educational

standards.

Being ranked 3rd in the

world for Corporate Strategy

by Global MBA Ranking,

Financial Times in 2009 and

more recently, Strathclyde

Business School was ranked

top 100 in the world, top 20

in Europe, 1st in Scotland and

2nd in the world on Value

for Money by the Financial

Times Annual Global MBA

survey in 2011. SBS has been

rated top in Scotland and

rated in the top 10 UK-wide

scores in the recent Research

Assessment Exercise, the

major quality monitoring

process of research in the

UK. This affirmed the school

as a leader for ‘world leading

and internationally excellent’

research, with 65% of our

MBA from Strathclyde Business School

A TRIPLE-

ACCREdITEd

UNIvERSITy

Strathclyde is accredited by AMBA,

EQUIS and AACSB, and is one of only 55 in the world to have

such a distinction.

Strathclyde campus

ME Profile : Strathclyde University

mbaedgeTM 31

submission rated world

leading/internationally

excellent.

The Strathclyde MBA has

been developed and fine

tuned since 1966 and can

be studied in the UK or via

International Centres such

as Switzerland, Greece, Abu

Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Oman,

Hong Kong, Singapore and

Malaysia. Participants have the

flexibility to switch between

different modes of study,

depending on their location

and lifestyles.

The programme is designed

for ambitious, talented and

well-qualified individuals with

solid business experience.

Also, the programme is based

on collaborative learning

where work experience,

knowledge, understanding

and applicable skills are

shared, worked with and

reflected on.

The integrated programme

comprises compulsory

modules supported by a

selection of optional in-depth

functions – allowing students

to tailor their MBA to suit their

career aspirations. Students

spend time working on and

building a corporate strategy.

Strategic analysis and

strategic thinking are central

to the programme and run

throughout the modules.

The programme seeks to help

students develop ways of

grappling with opportunities

and problems in the

practice of management

by developing as reflective,

open-thinking, adaptive

learners. The team-work

approach fostered at

Strathclyde is an important

aspect of the course and

ensures that the extensive

range of people from

different backgrounds are

brought together to learn

from each other in a truly

diverse work experience.

Strathclyde academic staffs

have a multidisciplinary

outlook and build on the

extensive

expertise of

academic staff

from other

business faculty

departments.

Our academics

have particular

expertise in the

areas of strategic

management,

leadership

and scenario

planning. Staffs

also undertake a broad range

of consultancy activities both

in the UK and internationally.

The School places particular

importance on strategic

management at the level of

developing strategy in the

organisation, big or small,

departmental, or divisional.

“For further queries, please

visit our website at www.

cdc.edu.my or contact us at

03-76608950 ext. 111 Cristina

Magat”

Strathclyde Business School Building

Malaysia Centre

Profile : Strathclyde University ME

32 mbaedgeTM

“”

Studied Postgraduate at: Universiti Tunku Abdul

Rahman (UTAR)

Year graduated: 2011

Occupation: Software

Engineer

Brief description of job scope:

Involved in development,

analysis, design and support

of new and existing software

products (conferencing)

using an Agile/Scrum

methodology. I am part of a

diverse team of developers,

architects, DBA’s, business

analysts, outsourced contracts

and team leads in a global

team environment to deliver

mission critical products and

services for both internal and

external customers

Q. What do you consider the best take away value from your Masters/PhD?

The best take away value is

the diversity of knowledge

from multidisciplines. It

may or may not applicable

to the current job, but it

opens the mind to different

perspectives on a field study.

It encourages the student to

leverage the knowledge and

apply it in real life.

Q. What is your advice to prospective MBA students to prepare them for the Masters/PhD?

Learning is a life process

regardless of age.

Postgraduate studies is a

good opportunity for an

individual to excel, in addition

to the experience that we

gain through real life work

experience. Postgraduate

studies provides wide

exposure and information

on current trends in the

industry via book knowledge,

case studies, group

assignments and discussions.

Be determined once you

have made the decision to

pursue postgraduate studies.

Understand the personal

objectives of pursuing further

Mak Chee Meng

ME Profile : Postgraduate Students

studies and be ready face

the difficulties, especially for

those who need to juggle

work, family and studies.


I would like to apply

and enhance my skills in

programming and cross over

to technical management. I

hope to be able to provide

sound technical advice or

consultation when solving an

issue or planning a roadmap.

Sharing knowledge is crucial,

especially in a corporate

environment, as it encourages

the improvement of groups’

competency and skill levels.

Q. What is your motto in life?

Water in a container can spill

out when it continuously fills,

but the knowledge in our

mind will not spill out as we

continuously pursue it.

Postgraduate studies is a good opportunity for an individual to excel, in addition to the experience that we gain through real life work experience.

mbaedgeTM 33

FAIZUL RIDZUAN

23 properties by 30A story of What to find? When to find? Where to find?

ISBN 978967594106

WARNING!THIS BOOK MAY MAKE PROPERTY INVESTING LOOK TOO EASY!Faizul Ridzuan knows how to invest. And he makes it look easy. This regu-

lar employee turned RM2,000 in seed capital into a multi-million property

portfolio in just five years, with 23 properties purchased to date. In this book, he tells you how he does this, with vivid details from his very own experience. In this book, he shares his unique stories on how he:• Purchased properties using zero or little money

• Made over 1,000% returns on capital in less than three years• Is consistently able to identify properties that give double-digit rental yields • Made RM100,000 in profits over 18 months without putting a single sen• Created a million-dollar portfolio • Created an investment framework that allows investors to invest systematically, and • Saved thousands in seminar or education fees. “On Faizul’s recommendation, I bought my first investment property in Casa Mutiara five years ago

and that was really an eye-opener. That investment has given me over 600% returns to date and is

one that I look upon fondly. I got hooked on real estate investments and my most recent investment in

Axis SOHU units has been very profitable and I have bought four units there on his recommendation

as well!”Ryan Khoo, a banker who has bought 14 properties to date“Faizul has an exceptional ability to spot property with great returns. First recommendation was to

purchase Titiwangsa Sentral condo for RM250 000. I sold it for RM480,000 two years later. A must-

read to discover his secrets!”Dr. Isa Naina, a medical doctor and lecturer at University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)“Faizul’s insightful analysis, detailed research and sharp strategies are very useful to those interested in property investment. I am glad to have met Faizul and thanks to him I have gained more than 10% rental ROI and good appreciation from a recent investment based on his recommendation.”Cheong M.Y., real estate agent

WARNING!THIS BOOK MAY MAKE PROPERTY INVESTING LOOK TOO EASY!

Faizul Ridzuan knows how to invest. And he makes it look easy. This regular employee turned RM2,000 in seed capital into a multi-million property portfolio in just five years, with 23 properties purchased to date. In this book, he tells you how he does this, with vivid details from his very own experience. In this book, he shares his unique stories on how he:

• Purchased properties using zero or little money• Made over 1,000% returns on capital in less than three years• Is consistently able to identify properties that give double-digit rental yields • Made RM100,000 in profits over 18 months without putting in a single sen• Created a million-dollar portfolio • Created an investment framework that allows investors to invest systematically, and • Saved thousands in seminar or education fees

“Faizul’s insightful analysis, detailed research and sharp strategies are very useful to those interested in property investment.”

A Publication by Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M) Sdn Bhd

Available in bookstores nationwide

ISBN I978967594106

34 mbaedgeTM

The purpose of the partnership

Eliz Lee:

Sunway University wishes to position itself as a global player. Since our inception, we have established strategic alliances with renowned institutions of higher learning in the UK, Australia, USA and Canada. It is high time we also engaged top Universities in Asia in our quest to open more doors and provide opportunities for our students for higher studies.

In view of the emergence of China, a demand of graduates proficient in the Chinese language, in addition to English, is anticipated in future. The well-regarded Feng Chia University of Taiwan is chosen in this respect, to enhance our list of credible international Universities, which our American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP) Students can opt to transfer to. Apart from ADTP, our two universities can collaborate on staff and student exchanges, and conduct joint research projects as well.

Prof Chang:

The mission of Feng Chia University is to be widely recognised for teaching excellence and achievements of focused research in Asia-Pacific region. FCU’s purpose of academic collaboration is to expand its global vision through academic exchange programs and bilingual environment. FCU has topped the first Times Higher Education Ranking of the 100 best universities under the age of 50.

Feng Chia University has been awarded the top recipient of Excellence in Teaching and Learning Project by MOE for four consecutive years. We are one of the top five technology transfer and licensing universities in Taiwan, one of the six flagship universities achieving “Outstanding in industrial outreach” by MOE, NSC and MOEA, among more than 160 universities.

Sunway University was awarded a rating of “Excellent” in the national SETARA rating system. This excellent university attracts

not only local but also international students from other countries to pursue its programmes totally taught in English. Our partnership will benefit both our faculty and students, since we can learn from each other.

The benefits of this collaboration to both parties

Eliz Lee:

I believe that we share a similarity with Feng Chia University which encourages community service among its students. Sunway University is 100% owned and governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, and is therefore guided by the belief of the Founding Trustee of the Foundation, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah to give to the community through education. With our common ideals, I trust that our partnership will have great potential to blossom.

Prof Chang:

Feng Chia University is a private comprehensive university and just celebrated its 50th anniversary. We

are one of the top funded universities by our Ministry of Education due to our excellent academic achievements and industry-outreach. It is indeed that we share a similarity with Sunway University. On that account, I truly believe our cooperation with Sunway University will pave the way to a prosperous outcome in academia and culture.

Is language a barrier?

Eliz Lee:

The Senior Academic and Management Staff whom I have met speak impeccable English. I understand that most of them have been educated in the USA. However, while some of the courses at Feng Chia University may be conducted in English, most of the programmes are taught in Mandarin. Needless to say, our students who opt to transfer to Feng Chia University must have an appreciation of and minimum proficiency in the Chinese Language.

ME Dialogue: Partnership between Sunway Univeristy & Feng Chia University

dIALOGUE Between Ms Elizabeth Lee of

Sunway Universit y and Prof Chang Pao-long of Feng Chia Universit y

THE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN SUNWAY UNIVERSITY (MALAYSIA) & FENG CHIA UNIVERSITY (TAIWAN)

mbaedgeTM 35

Prof Chang:

Feng Chia University is campus-wide wireless internet access with digital library RFID system and Blackboard e-learning system. FCU’s all engineering programmes are accredited by IEET (equivalent to ABET) and all business programmes are under AACSB evaluation. The accreditation increases the international mobility of the students. We provide several English-taught programmes to our international students, for example, IMBA, Bachelor of International Business Administration (BIBA), and Bachelor's Program of International Electrical Engineering. And our courses taught in English are increasing.

FCU currently has 1,200 international students, including about 600 degree seeking students from over 25 countries. FCU Chinese Language Center has an excellent Chinese language programme which attracts 650 students on average each year from 35 countries.

So exchange students from Sunway University can take professional courses taught in English and Chinese language courses at the same time.

Expectations for the next two years

Eliz Lee:

We hope that our partnership will see a healthy exchange of staff and students between the two Universities. Some of our ADTP students may opt to transfer their credits to complete their degree there and we would certainly welcome Feng Chia University students to take up some courses with us at Sunway too.

Prof Chang:

We would like to start with student and faculty exchange in the initial stage, then the 2+2 and 1+1 dual degree collaboration. In the next stage, develop joint researches in our focused

research fields. ME

Sunway University’s Graduate CentreSunway University’s Main Capus

Xue Si Building - Since 2008

Ren-Yan Building - Since 1993

Dialogue: Partnership between Sunway Univeristy & Feng Chia University ME

36 mbaedgeTM

ME Article : Business Model Generation

Dr Hendry Ng, Head of VU MBA programme at Sunway College may be contacted at [email protected]

3. Evaluating/selecting idea (solution)

4. Implementation

Business modelling is an iterative process for those from no engagement in the possibility of starting a business to active consideration and exploration of business start-up (Atherton 2007). It helps those who had not previously thought about starting a business inspired by an event (e.g. losing a job) or influence (e.g. a colleague starting a business); those who have thought about it in broad or general terms, but have not considered start-up as a genuine or realistic possibility, or have not explored the opportunity in detail; and those who have a strong desire or commitment to start a business and who want to explore how to undertake the start-up process and what is required.

Business modelling is needed for both new and old business innovation. While businesses may unlock latent creative value from new technologies, future returns from innovation remain unclear (Chesbrough &

Rosenbloom 2002). it may be better to consider innovating business models to complement, or in preference to, product or process innovation to reduce risk of costly failures (Amit & Zott 2012). In short, it is advisable for business firms to focus on ‘how they do their business’ rather than ‘what they do’ (Economic Intelligence Unit 2005).

Thus, the questions are: what are the critical elements of a business model? Is there a ‘thinking’ tool that prompts the designer to consider all components of a business? Such a tool/framework allows modelling of the components such that they interact favourably with each other to ensure the integrity of the whole model. The Business Model Canvas (BMC) of Osterwalder and Pigneur (2010) may shed some light on this.

BUSINESS MODEL CANVAS

With nine elements or building blocks of a business model as illustrated on a ‘canvas’ in Figure 1, Business Model Canvas (BMC) offers

BUSINESS MODEL GENERATION

Somachandra Senerath De Silva and Dr Hendry HS Ng

Sen De Silva, a VU MBA alumnus and an entrepreneur in green business, may be contacted at [email protected]

INTRODUCTION

The concept of a business model is a way to describe the ‘‘architecture of a business’’ (Ballon 2007). While a firm’s business strategy explains how it may perform better than its competitors, its business model must tell a story about how it works in order to achieve its goals. Modelling is the process of generating a business model by cutting a complex business idea into several manageable elements. These smaller elements are the business objects which are tangible (e.g., capital) or intangible (e.g., customer relationship). Similarly, as children or adults, we have much fun with assembling houses, or managing theme parks using components made of plastic, wood, metal, Lego-type bricks or computerised virtual objects.

A business model is emerging as a new unit of analysis that has the potential for providing a systemic or holistic approach towards explaining how organisations do business (Zott, Amit & Massa 2010). Also, it represents an organisation’s

capability for creating and capturing value within its value network (Shafer, Smith & Linder 2005). For instance, Wal-Mart’s low cost strategy is implemented through its business model which includes adopting economies of scale – such as purchasing in bulk – wherever possible to reduce costs. Also, the story-telling approach of Dell is to align its employees to the business vision by using business models for employee communication and motivation (Magretta 2002).

MODELLING is THINKING

Business modelling is thinking through an entire business to ensure all parts are considered and included. Bragg and Bragg (2005) attribute many real world business failures to the lack of thorough thinking for the businesses. They outline four developmental stages of a business opportunity – from the initial idea till the final form of the plan that is implemented:

1. Defining/framing opportunity

2. Idea generation (solutions)

mbaedgeTM 37

a framework for detailing how a business is going to achieve its objectives. It is a language-cum-framework that allows stakeholders to communicate with others about a new business, or to reengineer an existing business for improvement and adaptation to changing business scenarios.

SUMMARY

In the ever-changing business world, business modelling is not a static process because a business model will outlive its usefulness. It demands a continuous business innovation with frequent reviews of any existing model to achieve new levels of optimisation or adaptation.

Business modelling is a thinking and iterative process. It helps individuals who may move from no awareness or interest in business start-up to some awareness. For some, there may be a shift from some awareness and interest to actively testing

actual interest to start a business. It is crucial for those who are ready to move from exploration to active commitment to starting a

business. ME

Figure 1. Business Model Canvas (BCM) Source: Osterwald and Pigneur (2010)

REFERENCES

Amit, R. & Zott, C. 2012, ‘Creating Value Through Business Model Innovation’, MIT Sloan Management Review, vol. 53, no. 3, pp. 41-49.

Atherton, A. 2007, ‘Preparing for business start-up: pre-start activities in the new venture creation dynamic’, Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, vol. 14 no. 3, pp. 404 – 417.

Ballon, P. (2007) “Business modelling revisited: the configuration of control and value”, Info, vol. 9, no. 5, pp. 6-19.

Bragg, A. & Bragg, M. 2005, Developing New Business Ideas - a step by step guide to creating new business ideas worth backing, Glasgow, Pearson Education Ltd.

Chesbrough, H. & Rosenbloom, R. S. 2002, ‘The role of the business model in capturing value from innovation: evidence from Xerox Corporation’s technology spin-off companies’, Industrial and Corporate Change, vol. 11, no. 3, pp. 529-555.

Economic Intelligence Unit 2005, Business 2010: Embracing the Challenge of Change, London, The Economist, URL: http://graphics.eiu.com/files/ad_pdfs/ Business%202010_Global_FINAL.pdf, (25/05/12).

Osterwalder, A. & Pigneur, Y. 2010, Business Model Generation, Hoboken, John Wiley & Sons Inc.

Magretta, J. 2002, ‘Why Business Models Matter’, Harvard Business Review, May 2002.

Shafer, S.M., Smith, J.H. & Linder, J.C. 2005, ‘The power of business models’, Business Horizons, vol. 48, pp. 199-207.

Zott, C., Amit, R. & Massa, L. 2010, ‘The Business Model: Theoretical Roots, Recent Developments, and Future Research’, IESE Working Paper, WP-862, Revision 2010, URL: http://www.iese.edu/research/pdfs/di-0862-e.pdf, (15/05/12).

Article : Business Model Generation ME

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Studied at: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Perak Campus)

Email: [email protected]

Name of Postgraduate Programme: Master of Computer Science (Structure A)

Occupation: Tutor

Q. What do you consider the best take away value from your postgraduate programme?

The best take away value from the postgraduate programme is getting the opportunity to learn various research methods in the field of information and communication technology. Apart from this, the benefits of postgraduate study include enhancing our skills in time management, communication and presentation.

Q. What is your advice to prospective postgraduate students to prepare them for this programme?

Do not give up hope easily whenever you face difficulties in the journey of research, persist until you succeed.


I wish to be a lecturer who is able to provide good advice to the students in performing research and development in the field of information and communication technology. In order to excel in research, I plan to undertake PhD studies in the near future.


If you failed to plan, you have planned to fail.

CHEE CHIN HOONg

Studied at: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman

Email: [email protected]

Name of Postgraduate programme: PhD in Computer Science

Occupation: Lecturer


I strongly believe that the knowledge and skills attained during my PhD studies here will definitely be an advantage especially in an academic career. The experience and exposure of conducting fundamental research provides me with a platform on which I can build to advance in my career.


A person needs to be

independent while conducting research relating to his or her respective field. Experience in conducting fundamental research during previous study would be an added advantage. A highly motivated character is a plus, as it will make the study process interesting and exciting.


An established researcher exploring innovative life application ideas.


Trust in the LORD with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths

(Proverbs 3:5-6)

gaN MINg LEE

“”

The benefits of postgraduate study include enhancing our skills in time management, communication & presentation.


40 mbaedgeTM

mbaedgeTM 41


Studied at: Sunway University; Lancaster University

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Name of Postgraduate Programme: MSc in Computer Science (by research)

Occupation: Student


Learning the right method of research and the ability to publish high impact papers in prestigious international journals and conferences.


The most important thing is to find a research field

of your interest and create momentum. Learn to think in different ways, with different approaches, not just right or wrong. Remember in research you need to be patient and to appreciate all the possibilities that exist, known and unknown.


Pursuing my PhD in the area of wireless networking within a working environment that continuously challenges my abilities, stimulates my intellectual capabilities and promotes professional and personal development.


Give back more than you've taken, and listen more than you've said.

Studied at: Sunway University

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Name of Postgraduate programme: MSc in Computer Science (by research)

Occupation: Student


I think the most precious values I have learned from the programme are time management and proactivity in work.


My advice is: Find your real interest in a particular

research area/topic. This is the most important factor to maintain your passion throughout the research period. Also, be prepared to work independently.


I hope that in five years, I would have proven myself as a leader managing a team working in a research & development (R&D) related job. The most important thing is that I will continue contributing my efforts to face challenges in a rewarding environment.


A challenge is an opportunity to prove your ability.

HasaN a. a. aL-RawI OOI CHIEN sHINg

42 mbaedgeTM

Q. What is new with the all-new BMW 3-series?

It is available in three lines: Modern, Luxury & Sports. BMW Apps which is under the umbrella of BMW Connected Drive is also introduced in this new range. It is also the first 3-series with BMW Twin Power Technology which caters for the 4 & 6 cylinder and 8-speed sports automatic transmission. It is larger than all previous 3-series models and there is a wide range of accessorieavailable.

Q. When was the last time the 3-series was updated?

The E90 was launched in early 2006 and the F30 in early 2012.

Q. Please give us some key specifications upgrade for the new 3-series.

It is better in terms of engine performance. As for the 4-cylinder BMW Twin Power Technology engine, it is able to produce 350nm max torque at 1,250

ME Interview: QUILL BMW with the Head of After-Sales

“”

Our service level is among the best in the industry. This is expected as the BMW is the best in its class!

Conversation with vIGNESwARAN

Head of After-Sales QUILL BMW MALAYSIA

mbaedgeTM 43

Interview: QUILL BMW with the Head of After-Sales ME

Q. What are the common preventive maintenance measures car owners can undertake without difficulties to ensure the vehicle is in tip-top condition?

Regular oil change, preferably every 10,000km, regular check on tyre pressure, at least once every two weeks and wheel alignment and balancing, every 15,000 to 20,000km.

Q. What is the capacity of your workshop/service centres (Quill 9), i.e., how many cars can you service at a time?

We turn around about 20 cars a day. As a 4S centre, we provide the BMW Fast Lane Service which aims to provide a basic maintenance check in three hours or less so BMW owners save valuable time. ME

– 4, 800rpm, max output of 180kw/245hp/5,000 – 6,500rpm, 6.1 sec 0 to 100km/H (s), top speed of 250 km/h. Fuel consumption is 6.3 litre/100km and CO2 emission is 147g/km.

Q. Is after-sales service a key factor in the purchasing decision of the consumers?

Certainly. After-sales services, warranty and optional parts and accessories enhancements with original BMW parts by professionally trained technicians is a strong contributor to the buying decision process.

Q. What are the common feedback from clients when they come to see you for after-sales service?

The joy which is experienced while driving. Pleasant experience in terms of power delivery – performance, stability, comfort and safety. And also the fuel efficiency which exceeds their expectations.

Q. What is the mileage level for the first vehicle service?

8,000 – 10, 000km

Q. Is there a process for routine service/maintenance to ensure the vehicles are serviced efficiently?

Yes. It is called the ‘Condition Based Service’ which monitors the serviceable areas of the vehicle. Main areas are the engine oil, brake fluid, brake pads, micro filter, spark plug etc. As and when a service is required/due, the iDrive will indicate accordingly. This technology ensures that BMW drivers have peace of mind always.

Courtesy of www.bmw.com.my

44 mbaedgeTM

The Guru Guide

Choose them.

Rank them.

Tell us why.

• Makeapersonalselectofyourtopthreemanagementgurusyouconsiderasthegreatestofalltimes.

• Rankthem1,2,3.• Tellusinafewsentenceswhy.• Provideusyourname,email,university,courseyouarestudyinginandanicephoto.

• Wewillfeatureyouandyourselectionsinourmagazine!

• [email protected].

Here’s how . . .

ME Advertorial

mbaedgeTM 45

46 mbaedgeTM

jobs compared toany other job site

Look no further. Find your ideal senior level job requiring MBAqualifications on JobStreet.com.

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mbaedgeTM 47

jobs compared toany other job site

Look no further. Find your ideal senior level job requiring MBAqualifications on JobStreet.com.

1.8Million1.8

Million

MostJobSeekers

MostEmployers50,000

Active50,000Active

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in 2010195,700

in 2010

Visit www.jobstreet.com today to Sign Up for FREE.

Download the App Now! Visit:www.jobstreet.com/mobile-app

Find your Dream JobAnytime, Anywhere with theJobStreet Mobile App

or Snap the QR code with a QR Reader**Download a QR Reader to your smart phone.

JobStreetJobStreet

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48 mbaedgeTM

Studied MBA at: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman

Year graduated: ongoing

Occupation: Sales & Marketing

Brief description of job scope: Analyse, plan and implement marketing and sales activities

Q. What do you consider the best take away value from your MBA?

My interest in marketing and business operations inspired me to take up the MBA. The UTAR MBA comprises 15 different modules and a research project. It reinforces the strengths at work that I lack and helps me to open up a greater vision to explore and develop my full potential. I learn about business and managerial strategies, and conceptual skill, not just on paper, but through the research project, assignments, presentations, case studies, class discussions required in the MBA course. The MBA also teaches me how to structure and understand complex business situations

and critically appraise management theory in real life day-to-day business situations.

Q. What is your advice to prospective MBA students to prepare them for the MBA?

Education is the passport to the future and it is very important for an individual’s success in life. The MBA will equip us with better business knowledge, analytical and critical decision making skills, as well as interpersonal skills required in meeting the need of competitiveness of the business world. The MBA helps us to recognise economic and social patterns, and to respond to the unexpected. MBA is the best investment for the people and it will future-proof our career. I highly recommend the MBA programme offered by UTAR. Anyone considering this programme should go for it – you never know where it could take you!


In five years, I would see

ME Profile : Postgraduate Students

myself as being a more knowledgeable and skilled professional than I am today and would be able to successfully occupy a key position in management level, leading and managing teams effectively, earning a monthly five-figure income.


Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later.

Melissa Tan

Chiew Thing,

“”

The MBA will equip us with better business knowledge, analytical and critical decision making skills, as well as interpersonal skills required in meeting the need of competitiveness of the business world.

mbaedgeTM 49

HAPPENINGS

UTAR and Building Management Association of

Malaysia (BMAM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 8 June 2012 at the UTAR Petaling Jaya Campus.

Signing on behalf of both parties were UTAR President Ir Prof Academician Dato’ Dr Chuah Hean Teik and BMAM President Dato’ Teo Chiang Kok. Signing as witnesses were UTAR Vice President (Internationalisation and Academic Development) Prof Dr Ewe Hong Tat and BMAM Secretary General Prof S Venkateswaran.

Under the MoU, BMAM would recognise two UTAR

degree programmes - Bachelor of Building and Property Management (Hons) and Master of Business Administration (Building Management).

Prof Chuah said, “Through the UTAR Faculty of Accountancy and Management, the University will collaborate with BMAM in joint research, publication activities, organising training workshops and conferences, and curricular development in the area of building and property management”. He explained that such cooperation would ensure the quality of UTAR students and subsequently the supply of suitably qualified graduates as employees to the industry.

“Students who successfully complete either programme will be able to join BMAM as “Graduate Members” and eventually be admitted as “Registered Building Managers” upon satisfying the necessary criteria for registration”, said Dato’ Teo, adding that the property industry had been experiencing drastic development and buildings had become bigger and more sophisticated. He added that those were the reasons for the need for skilled and well-equipped building managers.

At present, UTAR has already ventured into many R&D projects including the application of green materials such as the collaborative

UTAR and Building Management Association of Malaysia sign MoU

Prof Chuah exchanging MoU documents with Dato’ Teo while (from left) Prof Ewe and Prof Venkateswaran look on.

project with Doshin Rubber Products (M) Sdn Bhd on an improved rubber base-isolator with greener, more sustainable and economical features, and the collaborative project with Ken Holdings Berhad on an energy-efficient design system for housing involving energy efficient roofing tiles, walling blocks and panels. UTAR’s partnership with BMAM will further strengthen the University’s position as a

research university. ME

Happenings ME

50 mbaedgeTM

ME Happenings

The Deputy Minister of Higher Education of Malaysia, YB Dato’ Dr

Hou Kok Chung, witnessed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Sunway University, Malaysia and Feng Chia University, Taiwan, R.O.C, recently.

This is the first MoU signing for Sunway University with a university from Taiwan. Both universities have agreed to promote the exchange of students and academic staff and to cooperate in education, particularly in the areas of research and social services as well as to foster relationships between them.

Sunway University has traditionally been linked with western universities but new

trends have emerged due to the emergence of Asian economies, particularly China. Through the years, Sunway University has grown from being just an educational institution to one that also brings a global brand of education to thousands of graduates. Through its partnerships with a Top 10 UK university, Lancaster University and Le Cordon Bleu, Sunway University degrees are benchmarked against these prestigious institutions to world-class standards.

“This MoU is meaningful to the Sunway Education Group, which Sunway University is part of, as the education group celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year. It also

Sunway University andFeng Chia University seal partnership

reaffirms our commitment to providing world-class education to our students and to enriching the learning experience and shaping a global mindset in our students”, said Mr Lee Weng Keng, CEO, Education and Healthcare Division of the Sunway Group.

“Exchanges between universities are important if a university aspires to expand its horizons and to achieve greater heights. In this increasingly globalised world, it is essential that universities disseminate and advance knowledge which is relevant not only locally but globally”, said YB Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chung.

YB Dato’ Hou added that the Ministry of Higher Education

Exchange of signed MoU papers between Professor Robert Bignall and Professor Pao-Long Chang witnessed by YB Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chung

mbaedgeTM 51

Malaysia has long been promoting and facilitating the internationalisation of Malaysian institutions of higher learning, both public and private ones. “It is the very part of transnational education which higher education players globally are talking about now”, remarked YB Dato’ Dr Hou.

Professor Robert Bignall, Vice-Chancellor was the signatory for Sunway University while Professor Pao-Long Chang, President signed on behalf of Feng Chia University. The delegates from Feng Chia University who attended included Malaysian alumni of the university.

Feng Chia University is a well-established, reputable university in Taiwan that constantly seeks to engage with the world. Like Sunway University, it has a strong relationship with its alumni who hail from all parts of the globe, and with their strong links and networks, alumni contribute their support and are ambassadors for their alma mater.

“I believe that we share a similarity with Feng Chia

University who encourages community service among its students. Sunway University is 100% owned and governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, and is therefore guided by the belief of the Founding Trustee of the Foundation, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah, of giving to the community through education. With our common ideals, I trust that our partnership will have a great potential to blossom”, commented Ms Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director of Sunway Education Group, when welcoming the delegates from Feng Chia University

earlier that morning. ME

Ms Elizabeth Lee, Executive Director of Sunway Education Group, welcoming the delegates from Taiwan prior to the signing ceremony.

Professor Pao-Long Chang, President of Feng Chia University, expressing his enthusiasm on working with Sunway University

Happenings ME

52 mbaedgeTM

Kuala Lumpur – Multimedia University (MMU) and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) jointly organised the 16th Pacific-Asia Conference on Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (PAKDD) from 29 May – 1 June 2012 at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

Spanning three days, the conference featured three keynote addresses by world-renowned data mining experts, HP Senior Fellow Chandrakant D Patel, Professor Dr Charles Elkan from the University of California at San Diego and Professor Dr Ian Witten from the University of Waikato.

The conference covered the field of Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (KDD), which is fast becoming the tool of choice for world-class business leaders for the purposes of business

decision support, customer relationship management as well as business development. KDD uses statistical, mathematical and IT methods to discover knowledge that is otherwise obscured in databases.

The Pacific-Asia Conference on Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (PAKDD) is one of the longest established and leading international series of conferences in the areas of data mining and knowledge discovery. It serves as an international forum for researchers and industry practitioners to share their latest developments, new ideas, original research results and practical development experiences from all related areas such as data mining, statistical and symbolic machine learning, databases, knowledge acquisition and automatic scientific discovery, data visualisation, and

knowledge-based systems.

“The choice of Malaysia as the host for PAKDD this year is a strong indication that the KDD community in the region recognises that their Malaysian peers are progressing actively in this area,” said this year’s Conference Co-Chair Professor Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Vice President (Internationalisation and Academic Development) of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman.

Conference Programme Co-Chair Associate Professor Dr. Ho Chin Kuan, Dean of Faculty of Computing and Informatics at Multimedia University, expressed his excitement about PAKDD 2012 being hosted in Kuala Lumpur. “KDD is an extremely useful tool that allows businesses to discover new knowledge that is currently hidden in their databases,”

he said. “It allows them to discover, among other things, the buying patterns of their customers, who their best customers are, and many other interesting patterns. The conference will provide a good opportunity for local data professionals to acquire cutting-edge knowledge in the field through the conference talks, tutorials and workshops, and to network and interact productively with the foreign participants.”

The other two conference co-chairs of the PAKDD 2012 were Professor Dr Philip S Yu, Professor and Wexler Chair in Information Technology, Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA and Professor Dr Lim Ee Peng, Professor of Information Systems and Director of Living Analytics Research Centre, Singapore Management University, Singapore. The other two

MMU, UTAR Hosts Conference on High-Impact Technology

Malaysian Businesses in Good Position to Tap KDD Strength For Growth and Business Support Systems

ME Happenings

mbaedgeTM 53

programme co-chairs of PAKDD 2012 were Associate Professor Dr. Pang-Ning Tan of the Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Michigan State University, USA and Professor Dr. Sanjay Chawla of the School of Information Technology, the University of Sydney, Australia.

PAKDD 2012 was jointly organised by Multimedia University (MMU) and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). The three sponsors of the conference were Telekom Malaysia Berhad, the Asian Office of Aerospace Research and Development, the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research and leader in business analytics software, SAS. It was supported by Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) and National ICT Association of Malaysia (PIKOM).

PAKDD had its inaugural debut in Singapore in 1997, and since then it has been hosted annually in various cities in the region before coming this year to Kuala Lumpur for the first time. The 16th PAKDD in Kuala Lumpur was from 29 May to 1 June 2012. Besides Singapore, which also hosted the conference again in 2006, the other cities were Shenzhen (2011), Hyderabad (2010), Bangkok (2009), Osaka (2008), Nanjing (2007), Hanoi (2005), Sydney (2004), Seoul (2003), Taipei (2002), Hong Kong (2001), Kyoto (2000), Beijing (1999), and Melbourne (1998).

In addition to the main conference, there were four workshops, three tutorials, and a doctoral symposium. The proceedings of the conference will be published by leading international publisher Springer under the Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence series. In

conjunction with this, a data mining competition with two different categories was also organized. The Open Category of the competition challenged participants to predict churn and win-backs in the telecommunication industry. The Student Category required students to use SAS data mining software to identify the correlation between the number of job applications and Malaysia’s economic indicators. The data for the student category was provided by JobStreet while the student category prizes were sponsored by SAS Malaysia.

As a respite to the intense and intellectually demanding sessions, PAKDD participants enjoyed several social activities such as a welcome reception on the first day, a conference banquet on the second day and a city tour to conclude the event on the third day. The conference attracted over 150 participants from more than 30 countries.

About UTAR

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) was established in June 2002 under the Act of Private Institutions of Higher Learning 1996 of Malaysia. With an inaugural intake of 411 students in June 2002, UTAR now has a student enrolment of over 19,000 and alumni strength of over 26,000. For more information, visit www.utar.edu.my

About MMU

Multimedia University (MMU) is a tertiary education institution set up through Universiti Telekom Sdn Bhd (UTSB), a wholly owned subsidiary of TM. MMU fulfills the noblest of corporate social responsibilities – taking up the challenge of educating the next generation of

the nation’s leaders and knowledge workers.

About PAKDD

The Pacific-Asia Conference on Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining (PAKDD) is one of longest established and leading international conferences in the areas of data mining and knowledge discovery. It provides an international forum for researchers and industry practitioners to share their latest developments, new ideas, original research results and practical development experiences from all KDD related areas including data mining, statistical and symbolic machine learning, databases, knowledge acquisition and automatic scientific discovery, data visualization, and knowledge-based systems. For more information, visit www.pakdd.org

About TM

Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) is Malaysia’s broadband champion and leading integrated information and communications group. TM offers a comprehensive range of communication services and solutions in broadband, data and fixed-line. As a market leader, TM is driven by stakeholder value creation in a highly competitive environment.

About AOARD/AFOSR

AOARD’s mission is to support the (United States) Air Force S&T community by identifying foreign technological capabilities and accomplishments which can be applied to Air Force needs; by providing liaison with members of the scientific and engineering community in Asia and Pacific Rim Region Countries; by encouraging open communication between Air Force scientists and engineers and their counterparts within the AOARD area of responsibility, and by supporting Asian research projects of interest to the Air Force. AOARD’s primary focus is on basic research with a secondary interest in applied research.

About SAS

SAS is the leader in business analytics software and services, and the largest independent vendor in the business intelligence market. Through innovative solutions, SAS helps customers at more than 50,000 sites improve performance and deliver value by making better decisions faster. Since 1976, SAS has been giving customers around the world THE POWER TO KNOW®.

Happenings ME

54 mbaedgeTM

The University of Malaya (UM), Association of Chartered Certified

Accountants (ACCA) and Sunway TES in the presence of YB Dato’ Devasamy a/l S. Krishnasamy, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Malaysia signed a Tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 14 May 2012 at the Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa.

The collaboration will provide an opportunity to the Bachelor of Accountancy students of UM to attain an ACCA Qualification through a unique fast-track programme. Selected students for this programme will have their ACCA course fees fully sponsored by participating employers which include the major accounting firms in Malaysia.

This public-private partnership will equip the students with qualifications and skills highly sought-after by employers and address the matter of talent shortages within the industry. It will also enable the students to graduate with an accounting degree from UM and an ACCA qualification simultaneously.

For the signing ceremony, UM was represented by Professor Datuk Dr. Rohana Yusof, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs), ACCA by Ms Helen Brand, Chief Executive of ACCA, and Sunway-TES by Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Founder and Chairman of Sunway Group.

ME

From left to right, Helen Brand, Professor Datuk Dr Rohana Yusof, YB Dato’ Devamany Krishnasamy, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Lee Weng Keng, CEO, Education & Healthcare Division, the Sunway Group; Assoc Prof Dr. Che Ruhana Isa, UM and Jennifer Lopez, Country Head, ACCA

A TRIPARTITE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT(MoA) SIGNING CEREMONY BETWEEN UM, ACCA AND SUNWAY TES

ME Happenings

Sealing the tripartite agreement – (Left to right) Helen Brand, Professor Datuk Dr Rohana Yusof and Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Jeffrey Cheah witnessed by Y B Dato’ Devamany Krishnasamy (3rd from left).

mbaedgeTM 55

56 mbaedgeTM

EvENT: AWARD-GIvING CEREMONY OF SIN CHEW EDUCATION FUND AWARDS

YB Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chung

ME Happenings

Petaling Jaya, 26 May 2012: Sin Chew Daily Education Fund project is now into its 9th year. The Fund is in the form of free courses offered by participating colleges and universities each year nationwide. The objectives are to enable needy students to pursue their dream of higher education and to help generate more human capital supplies for the nation. To Sin Chew Daily and the participating colleges and universities, this project is a way to give back to the society as one of their vital CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) deeds.

During the welcome speech, Lenny Chiah thanked the Deputy Minister, Yang Berhormat, Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chong, for gracing the occasion. She also expressed her profound gratitude to the representatives of the 27 participating colleges and universities for a collective amount of more than RM9

million worth of free courses for the year 2012.

In congratulating the recipients and their parents, Lenny reminded the academic recipients of the vision equally shared by Sin Chew Daily and the colleges and universities that through the higher education, the recipients are to diligently acquire academic knowledge and also to take the golden opportunity to learn and equip themselves with skills and techniques required to take on the leadership role in different fields and to be participative in nation building one day.

She reiterated that the recipients should also participate in the lives of others by helping those in need. It is important to do so, because the process of helping others to be successful should be continuous and ever-lasting, so that one good deed begets more good deeds, and

therefore many people can benefit from the process of serving others. Lenny touched on the Servant Leadership style and attitude – serve first to be a leader subsequently. She also urged the recipients to always remember to contribute to the well-being and personal growth of people and to give back to the society. As a result, they can be persons of greater morals, ethics and values, and can be more competitive and any of their success can also be more solid and enduring.

As a closing remark, she reminded the recipients to always be grateful and not to forget their parents who gave them their very first start in life, as well as the colleges and universities which gave them another start in life. Whenever they can, they should be brave to express their gratitude always. “There is no such thing as gratitude unexpressed. If it is unexpressed, it is just plain, old-fashioned ingratitude.” –

Robert Brault. ME

Lenny Chiah

Article contributed by: Lenny Chiah, General Manager for Corporate Communications Event Management, Sin Chew Daily

mbaedgeTM 57

SPEECH BY YB DATO’ DR. HOU KOK CHUNG, DEPUTY MINISTER OF HIGHER EDUCATION MALAYSIA AT THE SIN CHEW DAILY EDUCATION FUND 2011/2012 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD CEREMONY

YB Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chung

Happenings ME

Saturday, 26th May 2012

It was almost five months ago that I had launched this Education Fund by Sin Chew and today is a red-letter day for the applicants, as they step forward to receive the scholarship awards. For that, I like to thank Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad for providing me with this opportunity to meet with successful applicants and to personally present them with scholarships.

I also take this occasion to congratulate all recipients on their success to secure a scholarship to further their studies. While you may consider it a reward for all your hard work, you cannot rest on your laurels. There is still a journey to travel – a long and endless journey where challenges greet you at every step of the way. This scholarship award is another challenge overcome for you to continue that journey. You must strive to work hard to move up in the educational

value chain to make an impact for yourself and the society.

I am also very happy for the chance to be with the parents and guardians of the recipients. I believe the unwavering strong support shown by parents and guardians alike is vitally important to motivate students to attain excellence in their studies. While parents can maintain a certain degree of monitoring of their child’s progress, it is also equally important that students appreciate their parents’ watch over them. Students should never view the watch by parents as transgressing into their space, and instead value it as genuine parental concern.

Students today are a more fortunate lot, then say students 20 years ago. There seem to be an abundant of scholarship offers available today, so much so that I am told some students cannot make up their mind simply because they received more than one offer. This

development is healthy as long as the offers are genuine, and not turn out to be an entrapment laid out to students by institutions. After all, every private higher education institution desires to enrol quality students into their institutions to help boost their image and performance as a tertiary education provider. It is an open secret that the most effective method is to offer scholarships, full or otherwise, to students with good grades.

This is where I always like to caution students and parents to be fully aware of the “fine print” in the offers. I do not wish to see students get entangled in legal problems, which will eventually affect their parents as well, for the simple fact that they misunderstood or were misinformed of the terms and conditions of the scholarship offer. The Ministry has so far not received any complaints regarding scholarship offers, and I hope it will remain that way.

The Ministry on the other hand, has received an increase in the number of complaints from students against private higher education institutions on a related matter, i.e., concerning fees. In 2010, there were 74 fee-related complaints. This represented the third highest type of complaint received. This shot up to 129 or 74 per cent in 2012 which also saw fee-related complaints as the number one complaint for 2012. This year until April, the Ministry is handling close to 30 cases.

Most of the complaints are about fee refunds, whereby it is either not clearly explained or clearly spelt out by the institutions, resulting in students who for whatever reasons wanted to leave the institutions after registering, are caught in the ensuing tangle. From the investigations carried out, there were also instances where students or parents did not understand what was explained to them by the institution. The Ministry

58 mbaedgeTM

ME Happenings

has taken a facilitative approach in addressing this issue, and acted impartial to either party.

The success rate in resolving such complaints had been high, with only one or two cases which failed to be resolved ending up in the Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia (TTCM) operating under the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism. Cases going to TTCM are a last-resort affair, and instituted by students. Anyhow, the Ministry does not intend to allow fee-related complaints to further increase in numbers this year. Hence, the Ministry finds it necessary to address the issue head-on.

The Ministry has started undertaking a special project to contain, and if possible eliminate, complaints about fees. Towards this end, the Ministry has begun to engage with all private higher education institutions to come out with an easy to understand, as well as transparent format for easy reference regarding fees. This is done through a forum that is conducted in six Zones; Northern, Southern, Eastern, Central, Sabah and Sarawak. We have completed meeting the Northern Zone players,

comprising institutions from Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak. The next stop will be Sabah.

What I have just mentioned is also easily applicable to scholarships. While students and also parents can rejoice and feel elated to receive offers, especially those that come direct from an institution, it would be wise for you to study the offers thoroughly. If necessary, go to the institution to seek clarifications or even explanations. This is to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and misgivings, should something turn out to be not something the student or parent assumed it should be.

There are always terms and conditions laid out; there may be strict commitments students must fulfil, such as maintaining a certain minimum grade to continue receiving the scholarship, etc. The scholarship may or may not cover everything; there may be penalties which must be understood by students and parents alike, including repayment of scholarship for breaches of the terms and conditions, such as the student could be bonded by the scholarship provider.

Having said that, I would again like to congratulate all the successful scholarship recipients from Sin Chew Daily Education Fund. I would also like to congratulate their proud parents and guardians. I hope all recipients will appreciate this opportunity for a place to study, and know that they have contributed to ease their family’s finances. Study hard and study well. Reciprocate this opportunity by turning out, not only as exemplary students, but also as responsible sons or daughters, and just as importantly, responsible citizens.

I would also like to say thank you to all the private HEIs who have graciously contributed to give the Sin Chew Daily Education Fund another successful year. On behalf of the MoHE, I like to say a big thank you for your contributions which helped to fulfil our pledge to not only widen access for more students to acquire tertiary education in Malaysia, but also funding them.

Thank you.

”“

Study hard and study well. Reciprocate this opportunity by turning out, not only as exemplary students, but also as responsible sons or daughters, and just as importantly, responsible citizens.

mbaedgeTM 59

The MBA EdgeTM Business Competition Season 3

mbaedgeTM

When Tom Peters coined the term personal branding” in his 1997 article “The Brand Called You” in Fast Company, he had this to say: We are CEOs of our own companies: Me Inc.

Dan Schawbel puts it this way: Personal branding is the process of how we market ourselves to others. The way we manage our careers is changing, due to the rise in competition and the introduction of web 2.0. In order to extend our reach, visibility and networking capabilities, we must turn to personal branding as our savior. In the digital age, our name is our only currency.

Personal branding is like your fingerprint. It is unique to you. But how

does one create a powerful personal brand?

The MBA Edge Business Competition is now in its third season. For this season, prepare a powerpoint presentation (target audience 28 to 35 years old business executives) on “The Salient Points of Creating a Powerful Personal Brand in the Malaysian Context Today” with presentation notes for each slide.

Rules• Maximum 30 slides.• Proof of purchase

- a receipt for 1 copy of MBA EdgeTM Postgraduate Studies magazine.

• 3 winners will be judged by the impact, persuasiveness, and pragmatism of the advices.

• This is an individual competition open to current MBA students studying in Malaysia.

Entry SlipName of participant:

Email & Mobile:

University name:

University chop:

• All submissions will be blind judged by a panel of judges

• Winners will be contacted directly.

• Decisions of judges are final. No queries will be entertained.

• The Organizer reserves the rights to substitute prizes of equal worth.

• The Organizer reserves the rights to publish the entries submitted with due credits to the students.

PrizesEach winner will win a prize consisting:• Certificate of

achievement.• Faber-Castel Premium

Pens.• 1 session of

personality-style test by professional image consultant.

• Make up & hair styling (2 themes).

• Fashion styling.• 8 touch-up photos

(print).• 20 softcopy photos in

CD.

Submit by email to:

[email protected] before 15th November 2012 or by mail to: Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M) Sdn Bhd, Wisma Wawasan, 19-1 & 19-2, Jalan PJS 8/12, Dataran Mentari, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Bandar Sunway, MALAYSIATel: 603 - 56301802, Fax: 603 - 56301803

presents

Contest ME

60 mbaedgeTM

every industry needsstrong innovative

In today’s challenging economy,

Will you be one of them?leaders.

CERTIFICATE NUMBER QS6441‘we are an MSC status university’ABEST 21

5A TIER EXCELLENTSTATUSUNIVERSITY

www.msu.edu.my

* Fully Accredited by MQA, ASIC UK & ABEST21 Japan* Member of AAPBS Korea, EFMD, Belgium

. Dual Master’s Degree from Coventry University, UK & University of Newcastle, Australia

. Postgraduate Student Exchange Programme with Seoul National University, University of Applied Sciences, Fudan University, University of San Diego and others.

* Rated as an ‘Excellent University’ by Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia.* The 1st non Japanese University to be accredited by ABEST 21, Japan.* Accredited by Accreditation Services for International Colleges (ASIC), UK.

FOr more information, please contact :Graduate School of Management (GSM),

Management & Science University, Level 4, Stesen Sentral Kuala Lumpur, 50470 Kuala Lumpur

Tel : 03-2273 6410 . Email : [email protected]

Specialisation :

. International Business

. Global Marketing

. Project Management

. Organisational Leadership & more, visit

atMaster of Business Administration

KPT/JPS(K3614)11/13

MBA Earn your

mbaedgeTM 61

BUSINESS

SEGMENT

profiles of extraordinary people

SUBSTANCE, RELEVANCE, SIGNIFICANCE

62 mbaedgeTM

Redefining the

PUBLISHING INDUSTRY

HOW THE ADVENT OF TABLET PCs AND EPUB 3.0 FORMAT WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF

PUBLISHING IN MALAYSIA AMD THE REGION. AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT!

Rodney Toh spent almost 20 years in the book industry, analysed it inside out and travelled to UK and Japan to track the latest development in epublishing. He founded a tech start-up company, named after his two daughters, Kim & Kerrie Sdn Bhd.

Postgradute Studies MEB speaks to Rodney about the future of epublishing in Malaysia.

Q. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I have been in the book industry for more than 18 years,

starting from the frontline selling books, cashiering, and

cleaning book shelves to managing Malaysia’s largest

bookstores once upon a time overseeing more than 200 staff.

I graduate from Sunway University with an MBA degree from

ME BUSINESS SEGMENT: RODNEY TOH AND THE REDEFINATION OF THE PUBLISHING INDUSTRY

Rodney TohFounder & DirectorKim & Kerrie Sdn BhdEbook Specialist in Malaysia

mbaedgeTM 63

Victoria University, Melbourne.

I am an EPUB specialist and I

am the pioneer in EPUB eBook

publishing in Malaysia.

Q. What made you decide to venture into eBook publishing?

I remember clearly when I

was at graduate school I read

in a research paper on how

the talent of the organisation

is not something that is

stored in the organisation

but the talent walks out of

the organisation at the end

of each day. People are the

asset of the organisation. The

organisation only provides

the facilities and directions for

that talent to generate returns

to the stakeholders. Similarly,

when I venture into eBook

publishing myself, I bring with

me the knowledge, ideas, and

skills that have contributed to

my previous employer.

I have been following the

developments of eBook on

the global scene for the past

three years and learnt to

develop EPUB format eBooks.

One day I just decided I have

enough of the corporate

world. Since I single handedly

started the eBook publishing

division for my previous

company from scratch I

reckoned I can do it on my

own as well. It is a natural

progression.

Q. What are driving the growth of eBook publishing globally?

Amazon’s Kindle e-ink

eReader and the Sony e-ink

eReader were the early

devices that have provided

the impetus for the growth.

In recent years, the

introduction of the tablet PCs

by Apple (the iPad 1, iPad 2,

BUSINESS SEGMENT: RODNEY TOH AND THE REDEFINATION OF THE PUBLISHING INDUSTRY ME

eBook requires a revision

of the current processes to

expand the capacity to cope

with the changing times. We

assist publishers to put into

place a system and process to

publish eBooks beside their

traditional printed books for

the global market.

In collaboration with

Lightning Source (UK) we

link local publishers’ content

to a global network of

and iPad 3) and the rising of

the Android tablets (Samsung,

Sony, etc) provided the

second major wave of growth

as the number of tablet users

exploded.

I believe the third major wave

of growth will be driven by

the EPUB 3.0 format as it

allows for the publication of

enhanced eBooks.

Q. What is Kim & Kerrie’s mission?

We want to make Asian’s

literature available globally.

Today, if you go to any of the

renowned websites selling

eBooks you will immediately

notice all the contents are

Western contents. There is a

vacuum of Asian e-content

in terms of eBooks. Our

mission is to correct that

“discrepancy”. The mission

statement of Kim & Kerrie is

“Globalize Your Books Today”!

We want to make EPUB 3.0

and related technologies

common to Malaysia and

the region in a short time. I

believe our reading habits

have changed. As such

publishers must provide

content to suit this changed

in reading demand.

Q. What services do Kim & Kerrie offer?

Basically we are EPUB

specialists. We help publishers

to publish digital books. For

smaller publishers who do

not want to set up a separate

division, they can outsource

epublishing to us at very low

cost.

In Malaysia, traditional

publishing have been

entrenched in the current

processes for the past 25

to 30 years. This is similar

globally. The publishing of

resellers in our Jump-Start ePublishing Programme. In

this programme practical

step-by-step guidance will be

provided.

Lightning Source (UK) is

the world leader in eBook

aggregation and they provide

their customers access to

the most comprehensive

bookselling channel in the

industry in both the United

States, United Kingdom and

WWW.INDUSTRYGAMERS.COM

WWW.THEREGISTER.CO.UK

WWW.GADGETLITE.COM

64 mbaedgeTM

”“

decided to hire consultants

and spearhead a change

programme to improve the

design and ergonomics of

the typewriter. They cut cost,

improve processes, improve

materials, and improved

design. But sales continued

to decline until the company

was liquidated. What has

happened was the electronic

word processors and desktop

computers were replacing

the typewriter business. In

short, improving efficiency

didn’t solve their problem.

They needed to do what the

market demands. Similarly,

methods to improve the

printing publishing business

will not save the publishers

(This is improving efficiency.)

Moving into eBook publishing

will because the ebook

market is experiencing triple

digits growth and the printed

book market is facing single

digit decline globally.

Q. Do you mean that the printed book business will face an inevitable death?

Absolutely not. There is a

tectonic shift in the book

industry globally. The shift is

due to a shift in consumer

demand for eBooks. We

will reach a point where

we will stabilise into a new

equilibrium in terms of the

demand for printed books

and eBooks. This means there

will still be a demand for

printed books eventually. Ask

any other person who reads

you will find a big fraction

of them still prefers holding

the physical book. What the

emergence of eBooks has

resulted in is a new segment

of readers who perhaps never

pick up a printed book before

but who are eager consumers

of eBooks.

I know some booksellers

are downsizing to face

the “changing times”. I

believe they are making a

mistake. What most of the

booksellers are facing is a

result of their inability to

forecast what consumers

want. I say this because those

who are decision makers in

the industry are ironically

not book readers. They are

armchair merchandisers and

marketers but do not read

books! If you do not read

books how will you know

what readers will like? This is

something very fundamental.

Q. What is the global trend currently?

Globally, the printed books

market is facing an arithmetic

decline annually. It has been

so for a few years. In terms of

eBooks the global trend is a

geometric growth annually.

But we have to put these into

perspective. The slow decline

of printed books is from a

global figure of USD73 billion.

The geometric growth of

eBooks is from a low based

of about USD150 million.

These are 2011 figure. These

tell us that these trends will

continue for a few more years

and will eventually reach

a point where the two will

intersect or plateau.

Q. There are so many formats of eBooks around. Why choose to focus on EPUB format?

There are many formats

around but there are only

two major ones we have

to be concerned about.

All the rest do not have a

significant global impact. The

Amazon Kindle proprietary

AZM format and the

international EPUB format


I believe the EPUB 3.0 format will be a key driver for the futher growth of eBooks with more engaging and interactive features that will suit the publishing of textbook, children book and magazine.

a royalties base of up to

45%. Please contact them at

penerbitwawasan@gmail.

com

Q. Why should traditional publisher publish eBooks? Why not stick to their core competencies; publishing printed books?

That is a very good question.

I want to answer this by

telling you a story about

the typewriter. A once

flourishing typewriter

manufacturer was facing

declining sales and took

drastic measures to improve.

The top management

Australia and in Europe and

Asia as well.

Publishers can outsource the

conversion to us; we have a

team of people dedicated

in this to produce EPUB

2.0 and EPUB 3.0 ebooks of

international standard.

Q. What about self publishing? Do you provide any service to help first time authors?

Definitely. For first time

authors Kim & Kerrie has

partnered with the publisher

Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M)

Sdn Bhd to provide self-

publishing solution with

WWW.WIRED.COM

mbaedgeTM 65

RODNEY TOHFounder & Director of Kim & Kerrie Sdn Bhd

66 mbaedgeTM

the Google Android platform.

What this means is that if you

have a laptop, a desktop, a

table PC, a smartphone like

the Samsung Tab or Note,

or an iPhone or an iPad, you

can read EPUB eBooks with

the right softwares which are

free of charge. This is the best

format to adopt at this point.

Q. What can EPUB 2.0 do?

The one very unique feature

of EPUB 2.0 eBook is that it

allows text to reflow to fit

any screen nicely. Thus when

the font size of the text is

resized, the entire content

of the eBook will “adjust”

automatically to fit optimally

to any particular screen.

Furthermore, you can

embed videos, audios,

and images into the EPUB

eBook to enhance the

reading experience. And the

EPUB format allows for an

additional layer for a DRM

(digital rights management)

system if required.

Q. What about EPUB 3.0?

EPUB 3.0 is the format that

will be the next major shift in

eBook publishing. EPUB 3.0

will have further enhanced

features like the embedding

of vidoes, audios, interactions

and java scripts. These new

enhancements will allow

optimum experience for

the publishing of textbook,

children book and magazine.

Kim & Kerrie has the

technological know-how to

provide conversion services

for local publishers.

Q. What can we expect in the next five years?

This is the decade of the

three Es. Environment, Energy

and Epublishing. I am sure

the growth of eBooks will

continue. Kim & Kerrie will

provide the impetus for Asia

to enter the global arena in

terms of the third “E”.

We have a major strategic

plan in progress which I will

reveal in due time. In Asia this

is an uncontested space. The

solutions in the marketplace

for this region thus far are

piecemeal solutions. We will

attempt to provide a better

solution. I don’t want to

reveal too much at this point.

Q. What is your advice to local publishers?

The technology is here,

the time is now; choose to

embrace the change and

not wait until you have not

choice but to change.

Initially it may be difficult

but after awhile it will be

okay. Digital publishing is

inevitable. Work with us and

we will help publishers to

bridge the digital divide and

move into the 21st century

of epublishing and place

Malaysia in the world map.

Let’s do it together. Kim &

Kerrie is here to empower

publishers, not replace them.

Q. Tell us about your MBA experience?

I have wanted to pursue

an MBA for many years,

perhaps since I was 18

years old. It was an idea for

me. I couldn’t afford it so

there was a long delay until

I enrolled for the Victoria

University MBA programme

at Sunway University. Before

that I did extensive research

on the MBA. Many people

who wanted to pursue an

MBA would ask my advice.

I chose Sunway University

for one reason alone that

Rodney Toh with MBA friends authored a series of book launched by the deputy minister of higher education, YB Dato’ Dr Hou Kok Chung.


developed by the trade

and standard association,

IDPF (International Digital

Publishing Forum).

The AZM format can be read

off an Amazon Kindle device

only. AZM format eBooks

are only sold in Amazon’s

website. Obviously it is not

relevant to publishers in Asia.

And the Amazon Kindle is not

sold in this part of the world.

The international EPUB format

is the only free and open

eBook format that can be read

off the Windows platform,

the Apple’s IOS platform and

mbaedgeTM 67

Rodney Toh contributes back to Sunway University alumni by sharing and giving talks.

Rodney Toh graduates with an MBA from Victoria University, Melbourne at Sunway University in 2007. Left: Rodney’s mother, Madam Yip.

Being a family man, Rodney Toh named his company, Kim & Kerrie Sdn Bhd after his two daughters, Kimberley Toh (Left) and Kerrie-Ann Toh (Right).

BUSINESS SEGMENT: RODNEY TOH AND THE REDEFINATION OF THE PUBLISHING INDUSTRY ME

was decisive for me. Sunway

University has a huge library!

I love books and spend

many hours in the library. I

completed the MBA in 18

months and all my classmates

were reluctant to leave the

university as we were really

enjoying our programme.

In fact my MBA classmates

are still my close friends and

business partners today. I

believe the Victoria University

MBA at Sunway University

is one of the very best in

Malaysia today. And you

will get to know they have

a fabulous lady helming the

university, Elizabeth Lee, the

executive director!

Q. You authored a few books, tell us about them?

These are pet projects I did in

my free time. I co-authored

three books with a few MBA

friends, Lenny Chiah, Benson

Wong, and Steven Shim. The

three books are MBA Diary, The MBA Edge, The MBA Edge Unlimited. We spent

so much time together we

decided to write about our

experience studying the MBA

to help people understand it

better. We wanted to make

the MBA the most prestigious

postgraduate business

programme in Malaysia by

telling prospective students

how great it is, what to

expect, why they should

pursue the programme, and

so on. Even today I continue

to write books and articles

with them.

Q. What do you do in your free time?

I spend time with my

family. I write and indulge

in photography. I read and

collect books. I like engaging

students and fresh graduates

about career, work and life.

They find it interesting that

when I was young I didn’t

know how to read and write.

As I am not from a well to

do family I had to learn

everything on my own. It

intrigues me that although I

find it really tough during the

earlier years of my life retelling

it to young people today

somehow inspire them.

Q. What is your advice to fresh graduates today?

You must develop an area

of specialty. You cannot

be a generalist when you

Never look down on others and don’t be arrogant because it is a small world out there, “What goes around comes around”.

are starting off. Your area

of specialty should ideally

be an area you are really

love doing. Nurture it, and

deepen your skills in that

area. If it is drawing, learn,

practice and be really good

at it. If it is electronics, then

be really good at it. It takes

time, efforts, and sacrifices.

Work hard at it and turn it

into a business if possible.

You will excel if you are

good. Remember, Jack of all

trades is master of none. But

remember also, when you

are successful, do not be

arrogant.

Do not be selfish. Put people

first and material gains

second. Be frugal and be

sincere when dealing with

others. Never look down on

others and don’t be arrogant

because it is a small world

out there, “What goes around

comes around”. ME

68 mbaedgeTM

ME Advertorial

Petaling Jaya, 21st May 2012, eBook

specialist startup, Kim & Kerrie

Sdn Bhd, is collaborating with

Lightning Source (UK) to

offer Malaysian publishers a

comprehensive global eBook

publishing and distribution

programme that will allow

them to achieve up to a 92%

margin.

Rodney Toh, the founder of

Kim & Kerrie, explains: “The

eBooks available in the market

today are almost entirely from

the West. There is a need to

facilitate Asian eBooks to the

global market. The “eBook

Jumpstart Programme for

Publishers” is an in-house

training programme designed

to help Malaysian publishers

produce eBooks readable in

all platforms including the

Android, IOS and Windows

platforms.” Toh plans to sign

up more 100 publishers by

the end of 2012 and expand

the service to other Asian

countries next year. Kim &

Kerrie Sdn Bhd provides full

service e-publishing, training,

outsourcing and consultancy

in the EPUB format eBook to

bring traditional publishers

up to speed with the latest

techniques and know-

how. For smaller publishers

which prefer to outsource

the e-publishing side, Kim

& Kerrie provide services

to produce internationally

validated EPUB eBooks at low

cost.

“Net eBook sales in the US for

January 2012 alone reached

US$69.9 million, which is

116% increase from last

January. In the UK, eBook sales

for 2011 reached £92 million,

which is an increase of 366%

compared to 2010. eBooks

are experiencing a triple digit

growth internationally and

we are already late entering

the market,” Toh stressed.

Penerbit Wawasan Nusa

(M) Sdn Bhd (PWN) is the

first Malaysian publisher to

sign up for the programme.

Benson Wong, the co-

founder of PWN says, “We are

elated! Although we are not

the first but with the right

technology and expertise

we will endeavour to take

the lead. PWN provides

services to authors who

prefer self-publishing; we

assist unpublished writers to

publish eBooks.” “Talk to us.

We offer our authors royalties

up to 42%”! Wong adds.

KIM & KERRIE SDN BHD TO JUMPSTART EPUBLISHING IN MALAYSIA WITH A PROGRAMME IN COLLABORATION WITH LIGHTNING SOURCE, UK

(Left) Benson Wong, co-founder of PWN, holds the MOU with Rodney Toh. PWN will offer self-published authors up to 42% eBook royalties

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Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M) Sdn BhdWisma Wawasan, 19-1 & 19-2,Jalan PJS 8/12, Dataran Mentari,46150 Petaling Jaya, Bandar Sunway,MALAYSIATel: 603 - 56301802Fax: 603 - 56301803

Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

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mbaedgeTM 69

Eddie Tang is a trained accountant whose forte lies in the construction, property & hotel industry. From

2005 to 2010 Tang went on to become the Chief Operating Officer of a Hong Kong-listed company, Far East Consortium International Limited, in Malaysia and was later on appointed as the President of Dorsett International Sdn Bhd overseeing the management and financial aspects of hotels and serviced residences in Malaysia and Singapore.

He is currently the Chief Operating Officer of a major concern focusing on Property Investment, Property Management, Marketing Communication & Customer Service Management and Human Resource Division of a property conglomerate.

Q. Where there is a short supply of talented workforce in the country how does an organisation acquire key talent?

Talent is never enough.

With the shortage of

a talented workforce,

companies have to groom

and mould new talent for the

company. There are several

steps to plan this.

In the short term, an

organisation will have to buy

talent and perhaps look into

replacement planning if the

existing pool of talents is not

ready.

Under normal circumstances,

succession planning will set

TALENT

IS NEvER

ENOUGH

Postgraduate Studies MEB speaks to Mr Tang about the

challenges of finding and keeping the right talent for the

organisation.

in Proper t y Development

BUSINESS SEGMENT: EDDIE TANG, TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGH ME

70 mbaedgeTM

in to pave the right journey

for individuals to take on key

positions.

In the long term, the

organisation should look

into a Management Trainee

Programme by conducting

road shows at colleges and

universities that will not only

create job opportunities but

also career opportunities.

Through such awareness, we

will be able to attract a new

pool of talent to the company

and the industry.

Q. Besides acquiring talent, one of the key HR issues is retaining them. What are some strategies to retain talent?

In this challenging

economy, retaining talents

is the toughest thing

to do especially when

bottom line is the most

crucial measurement of an

organisation. Organisations

may lose focus on their

greatest asset, which is their

employees, to achieving

performance.

Surprisingly, surveys have

shown that employees

leave the company due to

horrible work environments

and their superiors, not so

much because of money. This

applies to especially Gen-Y

group.

There are a number of

factors that would retain

employees in the company,

such as work culture, and

environment, opportunity

for growth, caring company

and competitive salary and

benefits.

Q. How does an organisation build leadership capability?

Leaders are important to the

Company. We want them to

lead, not dictate.

They provide directions,

guidance and support to

their teams and ultimately

the success of the Company.

Leaders are not born but

made.

Acknowledging that each and

every one of us has strengths

and weaknesses, managers

have to be provided the

necessary tools to be an

effective leader. They need

to be able to manage their

”“

Employees leave the company due to horrible work

environments and their superiors,

not so much because of

money.

ME BUSINESS SEGMENT: EDDIE TANG, TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGH

mbaedgeTM 71

Eddie Tang COO, Investment PropertiesMah Sing Properties Sdn Bhd

72 mbaedgeTM

areas i.e., competency level

of the employees, work

behaviour, training needs,

succession planning and

more importantly, it elevates

the performance standards

though the implementation

of Key Performance Indicators

(KPI).

Even though PMS is

important, an organisation

should not neglect ensuring

that the employees have a

balanced life. We want them

to work hard as well as enjoy

life.

Q. How important is succession planning?

Asian countries have seen

the importance of succession

planning now as opposed to

the earlier days. I have always

emphasised succession

planning and replacement

planning. With the lack of

talent in the country, more

so within certain industries,

it is imperative that the

organisation take a serious

view in putting a mechanism

in place so that employees

have equal opportunities

for career growth within the

Company.

In this manner, it motivates

employees and save

considerable cost and time to

the company.

Q. Is it difficult to measure the contribution of human capital to business performance?

A well-designed PMS would

be able to measure both the

company and employees’

performance standards.

The Company’s business

performance is measured by

a Balance Scorecard which

is supported by divisional

team to out-turn results.

This can be assisted through

Leadership Programmes that

managers can undergo over a

series of modules.

I strongly believe that an

organisation should capitalise

on one’s strength instead

of trying to rectify one’s

weakness. This way we can

enhance the development

of an individual and prepare

the person to ascend the next

level faster.

Q. How do you increase workforce productivity?

Through the implementation

of a well-structured

Performance Management

System (PMS) – true to the

saying “what gets measured,

gets done”.

A well-structured PMS

addresses a number of key

”“

I strongly believe that an organisation should capitalise on one’s strength instead of trying to rectify one’s weakness.

ME BUSINESS SEGMENT: EDDIE TANG, TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGH

mbaedgeTM 73

targets through Key Result

Areas (KRA). From the KRAs,

individual KPIs will be

identified for the employees.

All of these will be aligned

to the company’s goals and

targets.

There are a lot of good

systems in the market that

an organisation can adopt

or tailor according to their

needs.

Q. In the current challenging times, how does an organisation reduce human capital costs and at the same time achieve business performance?

An organisation alignment

exercise is crucial to put

every level of employees

acknowledge and observe

the vision and directions

of an organisation. The

“buy-in” from employees

is very important to build

trust among each other and

collaborate to build a winning

team. It should be done

annually.

Coupled with a conducive

work environment, we expect

a very high retention rate and

this will indirectly reduce a lot

of downtime in training new

people and recruitment costs.

Retention is the way forward

and educating the employees

to be multi-skilled. By doing

so, it motivates employees

and gives them the

opportunity to grow in their

job by acquiring new skills

and knowledge. ME

BUSINESS SEGMENT: EDDIE TANG, TALENT IS NEVER ENOUGH ME

The “buy-in” from employees is very important to build trust among each other...

74 mbaedgeTM

TMP MBA EdgeostgraduateStudies

KLIUC: Unique CoursesUTAR: A Research UniversityFACON EDUCATION FAIR: Dec 10-11WINNING MAGNITUDE: Exclusive InterviewKASPERSKY: ‘No Worries Plan’INNOVATION: Incremental vs Radical

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Dr Juhari Samidi | Dr Lin Mei-Hua | Dr Alia Azalea | Dr Hendry Ng

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16 David Ng UTAR, Head of Programme, Postgraduate Studies

38 Professor Dr Tengku Akbar KLIUC, Centre for Postgraduate Studies

50 Tunku Abidin Muhriz Youths in Pursuit of Liberty and Equal Opportunity

32 Soo Wincci on her PhD Studies

22 Goals of the Firm,

Profit Maximisation, Shareholders’ Wealth Maximisation and Corporate Wealth Maximisation

45 When is Cash Flow More Important Than Profit?

36 Factors Influencing Sourcing of

Family Funds by Young Malaysian

Entrepreneurs

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msumanagement & science university

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51 Puan Sri Dr

Susan CheahExclusive Interview, President

of MCWEA & EXCO Member of the Sunway Group

21 Susan Peters UTAR, MBA in

Building Management

28 Professor Datin Dr

Clara Chee First

Retail Cosmeceutical Grade

Skin Care, “Now Everyone Can Have Good Skin”

42 Prof. Dato’ Dr

Sabarudin Vice Chancellor, CITY

45 Dr Faris Gorashi

School of Engineering and

Technology Infrastructure, KLIUC

PP17103/10/2011 (02804) 2012 Issue 7 March/April 2012 RM7.00

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CHUAHHean Teik

Ir Professor Dr Yow Ho Kwang | Julie Donley | Marshall Goldsmith

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KLIUC: Unique CoursesUTAR: A Research UniversityFACON EDUCATION FAIR: Dec 10-11WINNING MAGNITUDE: Exclusive InterviewKASPERSKY: ‘No Worries Plan’INNOVATION: Incremental vs Radical

34

28

18

6454

6

Special innovation issue

PP17103/10/2011 (02804) 2011 Issue 5 Oct/Nov/Dec 2011 RM6.00

Lenny Chiah | Prof Dr Zulkifli Abdul Hamid | Prof Dr Faidz bin Abd Rahman | Kabilan Muniandy

The light bulb was a radical innovation by Thomas Edison that greatly influenced and shaped life around the world

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