Remarks from the President
Dear DISTED Community,
Learning does not stop at DISTED — it is all around us.
Our students and academic staff went on several learning journeys to connect the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) with our environment, its link to business, and our lessons at DISTED. We also saw how our efforts to clean our community spaces help support the UNSDGs. Thank you for volunteering at the Taiping Zoo.
The UNSDGs have been embraced by both homegrown businesses and multinationals. Our accounting students learned first-hand during their learning visits how sustainability links People, Profit, and the Planet.
Our counselor from the School of Psychology conducted workshops for students at SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian. He shared techniques for drawing out and managing our emotions. At DISTED, we strongly believe that a career in psychology changes lives.
President
Dato’ Dr (h.c) Lim Si Boon
Green Hands, Kind Hearts: Strengthening Community Spirit at Zoo Taiping
Students from the MPU2412 Community Service and Co‑Curriculum module, together with lecturers from DISTED College, recently participated in a meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme at Zoo Taiping.
The initiative brought lecturers and students together in a collaborative effort to contribute to environmental sustainability. Participants engaged in a range of hands‑on activities, including tree planting, cleaning selected areas and gardening within the zoo grounds. These efforts not only helped enhance the cleanliness and greenery of the environment but also reinforced important values such as teamwork, responsibility and environmental awareness.
The programme encouraged active participation and shared ownership, with lecturers working alongside students throughout the activities. This created a strong sense of unity and engagement, extending learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through this experiential approach, students gained a deeper understanding of community service and its relevance in real‑life contexts.
Following the CSR activities, participants took part in a guided zoo tour, gaining valuable insights into wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of protecting biodiversity. The experience further strengthened awareness of environmental stewardship and the role individuals play in sustaining ecosystems.
Overall, the programme reflects DISTED College’s commitment to holistic education—where academic learning is complemented by meaningful community engagement. Such initiatives play a vital role in shaping students into socially responsible and environmentally conscious individuals.
Ugartini Magesvaran
Programme Lead, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
Exploring Sustainable Business Practices at Padini and UNIQLO
Students from the Diploma in Accounting programme at DISTED College recently participated in a field trip to homegrown and multinationals retail chain outlets at Gurney Plaza as part of their BAC412 Accounting Theory and Practice subject. The visit was designed to provide students with practical exposure to sustainability reporting in a real business context.
Throughout the trip, students observed how established retail brands are adopting sustainable business practices, they explored initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting the use of reusable shopping bags. At the multinational retail chain outlet, students were introduced to a range of sustainability strategies, including recycling programmes, energy‑efficient practices and a strong emphasis on producing durable, high‑quality clothing to reduce long‑term consumption.
The experience enabled students to bridge theory and practice by connecting classroom learning with real‑world business operations. Rather than studying sustainability reporting solely through lectures and textbooks, students were able to see firsthand how companies integrate environmental and social responsibility into their daily practices.
In addition to academic learning, the field trip provided an engaging platform for students to interact, exchange ideas and learn collaboratively outside the classroom environment. Overall, the visit was both educational and meaningful, helping students gain a deeper appreciation of sustainability and its growing importance in accounting and business practices.
Adznida Md Daud
School of Business and Hospitality
Roots of Learning, Heights of Impact: CSR Experience at The Habitat, Penang Hill
Students from DISTED College recently participated in an experiential learning activity at The Habitat, Penang Hill, gaining valuable insights into environmental conservation and sustainable practices. The session, guided by Mr Andrew from The Habitat team, provided students with a hands‑on opportunity to connect theory with real‑world applications.
The visit went beyond a typical field trip, offering an immersive learning experience focused on environmental stewardship. One of the key highlights was a practical session on water quality and resource management. Students explored a three‑level water system: natural source water used for non‑consumable purposes, moderately treated water suitable for plant irrigation, and fully purified water safe for drinking. This simple yet effective system demonstrated how natural resources can be managed sustainably and efficiently.
Through this activity, students gained a deeper appreciation of water management, sustainability and environmental protection. The experience helped them understand how small, practical systems can create meaningful impact in daily life and in broader environmental contexts.
The visit concluded with guided exploration and reflection, allowing students to further engage with the natural surroundings and reinforce their understanding of biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Overall, the programme highlights DISTED College’s commitment to experiential learning and meaningful engagement. Such initiatives play a vital role in shaping socially responsible and environmentally conscious graduates.
A sincere thank you is extended to Mr Andrew and The Habitat team for hosting an insightful and inspiring session.
Ugartini Magesvaran
Programme Lead, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
Understanding Stress and Healthy Coping Strategies
Lecturers from the School of Psychology at DISTED College were invited to SMJK Chung Hwa Confucian to conduct a Mental Health Talk titled “Stress Management.” The session was facilitated by Ms Nur Aisya Najwa Amerrudin and Ms Teoh Ker Hsin, with the aim of increasing awareness and understanding of stress management, emotional wellbeing and mental health care among secondary school students.
The session focused on helping students recognise the nature of stress, its common sources in daily life, and the emotional, physical and behavioural responses associated with it. Students were presented with relatable scenarios involving academic pressures, family and peer expectations, as well as interpersonal relationships, providing them with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced during adolescence. Emphasis was also placed on recognising early signs of stress and understanding that, when managed effectively, stress can serve as a source of motivation and personal growth.
To enhance engagement, the session incorporated interactive elements such as ice‑breaking activities, simple psychological stress assessments, stress‑relief exercises and open discussions. Students were also introduced to practical coping strategies, including positive mindset development, identifying stress triggers, breathing techniques, emotional regulation and the importance of seeking social support.
Overall, the session provided meaningful exposure and valuable life skills, equipping students with practical tools to manage stress more positively and confidently in their everyday lives.
Chew Yong Peng
Lecturer, School of Psychology
