DISTED College Celebrates Pre-University Studies Programmes Completion 2024
The 2024 Pre-University Programme Completion Ceremony at DISTED College celebrated the achievements of 78 students, highlighting academic success, personal growth, and community support.
On September 7, 2024, 78 students were invited to attend the completion of their Pre-University Studies Programme ceremony at DISTED Heritage Hall, streamed live on Facebook. Dressed elegantly in black and white, the students, faculty, and family members celebrated the completion of programmes such as the Cambridge A-Level, South Australian Certificate of Education International, Foundation in Arts, and Foundation in Science.
The ceremony began with a formal procession led by the President of DISTED College, Professor Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, alongside the Head of Academic Affairs, Registrar, and Head of the School of Pre-University Studies. In his speech, Professor Nair praised the students’ academic achievements and emphasised the role of education as a foundation for future opportunities. He also highlighted DISTED’s commitment to continuous improvement, announcing new academic programmes and upgraded facilities to enhance the student experience.
A highlight of the event was the speech by student representative Sabrina Chong Chin Wen from the Foundation in Science programme. Sabrina, elected as Treasurer of the Student Representative Council, had consistently excelled academically, earning the President’s Honour Award for three consecutive semesters. In her speech, she reflected on the transformative journey she and her peers experienced at DISTED, expressing gratitude to the lecturers, staff, and families for their support. She encouraged her fellow students to embrace future challenges with resilience and confidence.
The day ended with a group photoshoot and light refreshments, where parents, students, and faculty mingled and shared their joy. The ceremony was a fitting tribute to the students’ hard work and dedication, marking a proud moment for all involved.
Jesscia Ang Gim Mei, Registrar
Remarks from the President
The 2024 Pre-University Programme Completion Ceremony at DISTED College is a momentous occasion that holds deep significance for the students and the institution. For the students, it represents the culmination of their dedication, perseverance, and academic growth. It is a day where their hard work, sacrifices, and commitment to their studies are formally recognised and celebrated. This milestone is not just about completing a programme but about beginning a new chapter in their academic and personal lives as they prepare to embark on higher education or other ventures.
For DISTED College, the ceremony reflects its mission to provide quality education and support students in reaching their full potential. The event highlights the college’s efforts to foster an environment of academic excellence and innovation by introducing new programmes and enhanced facilities. It also reinforces the sense of community, bringing together students, faculty, and families to collectively celebrate the next generation of scholars’ success. This shared experience strengthens the bond between students and the institution, making the ceremony a celebration of academic achievement and a testament to the values of growth, collaboration, and lifelong learning that DISTED College upholds.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair
President
A journey of growth and Gratitude – reflections of our time at DISTED.
Speech by Sabrina Chong, Foundation in Science, DISTED College: Student Representative for Class of 2024 Pre-University Studies Programme
Today marks a significant milestone in all our lives. Standing here, I feel a wave of emotions: pride, excitement, nostalgia, and, above all, gratitude. My name is Sabrina Chong, and I am honoured to speak on behalf of the Foundation in Science and the School of Pre-University Studies students at DISTED College.
As I look back on this journey, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come. It seems like only yesterday we stepped into these halls, filled with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. We arrived as individuals, each with our dreams, aspirations, and perhaps a few doubts about the road ahead. But over time, those doubts faded. Together, we learned, grew, and evolved as students and individuals ready to take on the world. of
One of the things I’ve loved most about my time at DISTED is the overwhelming sense of familiarity and warmth that greeted me every day. From the very moment I stepped onto campus, I felt a connection. A simple “Good morning!” from the aunty security as I entered the gates made me feel like I was part of a community, not just a student passing through. Walking through campus, I was always met with endless familiar faces—from friends laughing between classes to lecturers offering a quick smile in the hallways. Even in the smallest corners of DISTED, like when grabbing a meal at Makcik Jom Makan, there was always someone I recognised and that sense of belonging wrapped around me like a comforting embrace. This close-knit atmosphere made it easy to settle in and truly enjoy my time here. It’s a feeling I will carry with me long after I’ve left these halls and one that has made this past year unforgettable.
Our time here at DISTED College has been transformative. The Foundation in Science course has challenged us in ways we could never have anticipated. From early-morning labs to late-night study sessions, we’ve pushed ourselves beyond what we thought we were capable of. We’ve learned the importance of perseverance, critical thinking, and collaboration. Science, after all, is about more than memorising facts; it’s about curiosity, innovation, and the pursuit of truth.
Beyond the academic sphere, my involvement in the Student Representative Council (SRC) was another defining experience. Being part of something bigger than myself—representing students, planning events, and working alongside my peers—was incredibly fulfilling. The jokes shared during meetings made it even better, lightening the discussion load and making the whole process more enjoyable. Those moments of camaraderie taught me the value of teamwork and the joy of working together toward common goals. It wasn’t just about responsibilities but about forming bonds that made the work feel less like a duty and more like an experience to treasure.
But our growth wasn’t limited to textbooks and classrooms. We also developed lifelong friendships, built a supportive community, and created memories that will last a lifetime. These relationships and experiences have shaped us into the people we are today, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
To our lecturers, thank you for your unwavering dedication and guidance. In our small classes, we never felt like just another face in the crowd. There was a sense of connection, a closeness that allowed us to engage without fear, to ask questions and seek clarity. This personal attention made the learning experience feel tailored to each of our needs and ultimately helped us grow academically and as individuals. You challenged, supported, and believed in us even when we doubted ourselves. You pushed us to think critically, question, and strive for excellence. You didn’t just teach us science; you taught us how to be better learners and, ultimately, better people.
To the administration and staff—whether it was a quick hello or a word of encouragement—you made DISTED feel like a second home. Your friendliness and warmth truly made a difference in our experience here. And to our families and friends, your support has been our foundation. Whether it was a word of encouragement, a shoulder to lean on, or simply being there during the tough times, you were our rock. We couldn’t have done this without you and today; we share this achievement with you.
As we step into the next phase of our lives, the future may seem uncertain, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned, we can overcome challenges. As Nelson Mandela once said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” This quote has never felt truer. We’ve faced obstacles, pushed our limits, and come out stronger. The road ahead might not always be easy, but we’ve already proven we can handle whatever comes our way.
Whether we continue our studies, enter the workforce, or take on new ventures, we carry the skills, knowledge, and resilience we gained at DISTED College. We are ready for whatever comes next.
So, to my fellow Pre-University Studies students, congratulations! We’ve made it—or almost made it—for those who are still sitting for their exams. This is just the beginning of a new chapter, and I can’t wait to see where our journeys take us.
The World of Operations Management
Operations management is a critical area in business management that can either make or break a company. The primary role of the operations function is to manufacture products and deliver services. Consequently, most of a business’s resources are dedicated to operations, including employees, raw materials, machinery, equipment, and other production factors. This makes operations the costliest aspect of running a business. Top management aims to employ strategies to improve productivity, increase effectiveness and efficiency, and keep costs low and manageable.
Managing operations at an optimal level requires in-depth knowledge of many core areas within the business. Firstly, a firm needs to design its products and service offerings strategically. It must then make decisions on how to compete in a time-sensitive market environment and determine the right process strategies, such as technology adoption and key characteristics of production and service flow.
Quality management is another critical aspect, especially in an environment where customers are well-informed and have high expectations. For businesses with physical operations, decisions regarding location and layout are vital. A good location can attract customers and boost sales, while an efficient layout maximizes space use, increases flexibility, and provides a competitive advantage.
These are just a few of the many core areas in operations management. There is no one-size-fits-all formula; businesses must continuously review and adapt their strategies to maintain a competitive edge in a constantly changing world. Leading industry players must strategise to determine what works best for them.
DISTED College’s diploma and degree programmes include modules related to operations management. These programs provide students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on practice sought after by businesses today. Come explore and be amazed by the world of operations management.
Elaine Chan, Senior Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Exploring Strategic Collaboration Between DISTED College and Ascott: Enhancing Industry-Academia Synergy
DISTED College recently hosted Mr. Reuben Chen, Assistant Director of Learning & Development from Ascott, Kuala Lumpur. During his visit, discussions revolved around exploring potential collaborations between DISTED and Ascott.
The partnership may focus on student internships, training programmes, and industry exposure for students, especially in hospitality management, tourism, and business studies. Ascott, a leader in serviced residence management, can offer practical experiences, while DISTED could provide academic expertise and research opportunities.
The partnership could also involve joint events, seminars, and certifications to enhance employability and industry-relevant skills for students.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, President
The Tower Challenge: Building Skills, Breaking Limits
The Tower Challenge was one of the exciting activities we held during the School of Psychology’s orientation, designed to engage students in a fun and interactive environment while demonstrating critical skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management. Students were divided into small teams and given materials, such as a deck of cards, A4 paper, and a hard block with the goal of constructing the tallest freestanding tower within a limited time. Significantly, this challenge saw enthusiastic student involvement and proved to be an excellent exercise in fostering teamwork. As students collaborated to build their towers, they communicated effectively, shared ideas, and worked towards a shared goal. The diverse skill sets and perspectives of each group member contributed to the overall success, highlighting the value of collective problem-solving and cooperation.
Notably, leadership skills were also put to the test. With limited time and resources, students had to step into leadership roles, assign tasks, make strategic decisions, and guide their team through the construction process. The energy and excitement among the students created a vibrant atmosphere, with many rising to the challenge and motivating their peers. Also, time management played a critical role as students worked against the clock. The limited time frame required participants to balance speed with accuracy, plan their approach carefully, and prioritize tasks effectively. The fast-paced, competitive nature of the game added to the fun, with students demonstrating quick thinking and efficient execution.
As a whole, the Tower Challenge was not only one of the most enjoyable and engaging activities during orientation, but it also provided valuable learning experiences. The high level of student involvement and the fun-filled competition set a positive tone for the rest of the orientation, building essential skills that will serve students well throughout their academic journey.
Thiresyinie A/P Tamil Chelvam, Lecturer, School of Psychology
Establishment of Kelab Penyayang at DISTED College: Promoting Volunteerism and Caring for the Community
DISTED College is honored to have been invited by Yayasan Budi Penyayang (PENYAYANG) Malaysia to establish a Kelab Penyayang chapter at the college. PENYAYANG is a foundation dedicated to receiving and managing donations, subscriptions, and other forms of financial support for charitable purposes. These include education, public welfare, research, health, and medical services, benefitting Malaysians in need, regardless of race, color, or creed.
Founded by the late YABhg Tun Endon Mahmood, wife of Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, YABhg Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, PENYAYANG’s mission is to bring joy and support to disadvantaged and less fortunate Malaysians. Their work relies heavily on the goodwill and contributions of compassionate individuals and organizations.
PENYAYANG’s key objectives include:
- Implementing programs that promote the development of a caring society
- Promoting, revitalizing, and preserving Malaysian culture, arts, and heritage
- Supporting the recovery of cancer patients
- Encouraging the spirit of volunteerism among Malaysians
Currently, PENYAYANG oversees 22 Kelab Penyayang across Malaysia, with a membership of 2,283.
Tan Jia Huey, Officer, Student Experience.
