Future Proofing Education
Dear DISTED Community,
The only constant in our world is change—an oxymoron, but undeniably true. With the rapid advancement of technology, the pace of change has accelerated even further. At DISTED, we continuously adapt our programs to meet evolving technological trends and the changing needs of industry.
Starting August 2025, we have begun integrating Artificial Intelligence applications into our programs, particularly in the Diploma in IT and Computer Science. Beginning September 2025, elements of generative AI will also be introduced into Diploma programs offered by the School of Business, Communication, and Psychology.
In collaboration with employers across sectors such as Manufacturing, Hospitality, Finance, Business, Psychology, and Technology, we are developing Work-Based Learning Modules for all our programs. Once finalized, these modules will be rolled out across the board.
We look forward to sharing more updates in the upcoming issues of DISTED Discourse.
President,
Dato’ Lim Si Boon
Congratulations on the Outstanding CIE A-Level Results – Exam June 2025
DISTED College Penang proudly celebrates the exceptional performance of our students in the June 2025 CIE A-Level examinations. The results, released on 12 August 2025, are a testament to the students’ hard work, determination, and academic excellence, as well as the unwavering support and guidance provided by our dedicated teachers.
We are thrilled to recognize the achievements of our top scorers:
- Chesney Cha Su Tian – 4A* (SiWu Scholarship Holder)
- Ooi Jing Wen – 3A* 1A (I.K. Meek Scholarship Holder)
- Ehrenn Goh Phec Yang – 3A* 1A
- Visalatshe Chokalingam – 1A* 2A (DISTED Alumni Scholarship Holder)
- Chloe Goh Yin Phing – 3A 1B
- Goh Hong En – 3A
- Dayna Eng Shu Yi – 2A 1B
These remarkable results reflect not only academic prowess but also the resilience, discipline, and intellectual curiosity that define the DISTED spirit. Our students have demonstrated their readiness to take on future academic and professional challenges with confidence.
We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our lecturers, whose passion and commitment have played a pivotal role in shaping these outcomes. Their mentorship and encouragement have empowered students to reach their full potential.
Congratulations to all students for their achievements. We look forward to seeing them continue to thrive and make meaningful contributions in their future endeavours.
Geong Chooi Peng
Head, School of Pre-University Studies
Future-Proofing Your Career in the AI Era
Graduates today enter a job market transformed by AI, automation, and globalisation. At DISTED College, academic qualifications alone are no longer sufficient. Employers now demand adaptability, creativity, and the ability to contribute from day one. With over three decades of experience in higher education and industry collaborations, I have identified six core, measurable competencies that are essential for embedding into any higher education learning experience in the current and future era:
- Digital Fluency – Integrated into coursework through AI-powered research tools, digital collaboration platforms, and project-based learning using industry-standard software across all disciplines, including business, communication, psychology, creative multimedia, computing, sciences, and the arts.
- Adaptive Learning – Promoted through multidisciplinary projects, industry case studies, and micro-credential programmes designed to keep skills current and relevant.
- Strategic Thinking – Strengthened through real-world problem-solving assignments, business simulations, and community-based projects addressing market trends, using tools such as SWOT and PESTLE more effectively with AI guidance.
- Trust-Based Relationships – Built through group projects, cross-cultural engagement, and mentorship programmes involving industry professionals.
- Output Multiplication – Developed by teaching students to leverage automation, manage projects efficiently using AI, and deliver high-impact outcomes within tight deadlines.
- Ethical Practice – Embedded in the curriculum through sustainability-focused modules, data privacy training, ESG-aligned initiatives, and adherence to all relevant ethical standards.
At DISTED, these competencies are not taught as theory alone—they are practised, assessed, and continuously refined. Through internships, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning, graduates do not merely keep pace with change; they actively shape the future of work. Equipped with these competencies, DISTED graduates are prepared not just for today’s careers, but for the opportunities and challenges of the future.
Prof. Vikneswaran Nair
Advisor, DISTED Discourse
Empowering Young Minds: PRS Leadership Camps with SMJK Union and SMK St. Xavier’s
In June and July 2025, DISTED College reached out to support youth leadership by hosting and facilitating two enriching PRS (Pembimbing Rakan Sebaya) Leadership Camps for secondary school students from SMJK Union and SMK St. Xavier’s.
On 14 June 2025, 69 enthusiastic students from SMJK Union visited DISTED College for a half-day camp that focused on life skills development through engaging activities. The day was filled with group challenges that promoted teamwork, communication, and creativity. Students actively stepped out of their comfort zones, connected with peers, and explored the college environment and its academic programmes. The event concluded with a communication skills session and a prize-giving ceremony to celebrate participation and effort.
On 12 July 2025, DISTED brought the same energy to SMK St. Xavier’s, where students from Form 1 to Form 5 took part in a leadership awareness and team-building camp. The programme began with the icebreaker game “Group Juggle,” followed by a mini talk titled “What Makes a Leader?” Students explored leadership traits like responsibility, empathy, and confidence. Activities such as the Marshmallow Challenge and the Leadership Obstacle Challenge provided hands-on opportunities to foster creativity, trust, and critical thinking. The final session, Skit Role Play: Good vs Bad Leadership, encouraged students to reflect on leadership styles through fun performances and group discussion.
Both camps succeeded in empowering young minds through interactive learning, meaningful connections, and a shared sense of growth. DISTED College is proud to contribute to nurturing future leaders through collaborative and community-driven programmes.
Teoh Ker Hsin & Thiresyinie A/P Tamil Chelvam,
Lecturers, School of Psychology
Empowering Voices: A Student’s Reflection on Speechcraft at DISTED College
The Speechcraft programme at DISTED College proved to be a transformative experience for me and many of my peers. Over the course of four sessions, I gained key skills in speech writing, audience engagement, and delivery — including techniques like pacing, body language, and voice projection.
The highlight was delivering a 5–7 minutes speech in the final session. While it was a nerve-racking experience, standing in front of an audience pushed me beyond my comfort zone and gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. It helped that I wasn’t alone. Friends like Melvina, Partha, and Matthew were on the same journey — we encouraged each other, shared laughs during moments of chaos, and celebrated one another’s growth.
What stood out the most was how the programme brought people together. Despite our different backgrounds, we resonated with each other’s challenges and supported one another with a shared intention to grow. It was a reminder that communication transcends differences when guided by empathy and mutual encouragement.
Through this programme, I’ve developed more confidence, stronger communication skills, and a greater ability to think clearly under pressure. It’s a journey that has prepared me not only for academic presentations but also for everyday conversations in the real world.
Tan Ying Ying
Student, Foundation in Science
Exploring Social Security: Students Visit PERKESO Penang
On 13 June 2025, students from DISTED College Penang, accompanied by their lecturers, visited the Social Security Organization (PERKESO) office in Penang as part of their academic assignment. The visit aimed to deepen their understanding of Malaysia’s Social Security Act and the role of social work in safeguarding employee welfare.
During the visit, students attended an informative session that covered PERKESO’s core functions, including employee insurance registration, workplace injury management, and the range of benefits available to workers. The session emphasised the importance of social security contributions in maintaining workforce stability and supporting the national economy.
Students actively engaged with PERKESO staff, asking questions and participating in discussions to gain insights into the organization’s operations and schemes. The tour also highlighted PERKESO’s initiatives to raise public awareness about workers’ rights and welfare.
This educational visit provided students with a valuable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. It reinforced the significance of understanding social security systems, especially for those preparing to enter professional fields where such knowledge is essential.
The lecturers underscored the importance of such experiential learning, noting that it equips students with a broader perspective on the mechanisms that support economic and social stability in Malaysia.
Ooi Ying Jie
Student, Diploma in Business Studies
Swift, Safe, and Strong: Fire Drill Success at DISTED College
On 19 June 2025, the calm of a regular day at DISTED College was interrupted—not by accident, but by design. At exactly 10:30 AM, the fire alarm rang out, and within moments, the college community sprang into action. As Chief Commander of the Emergency Response Team (ERT), I had the responsibility of overseeing the drill—from the first alarm to the final headcount.
This wasn’t just a routine exercise. It was a live test of our ability to stay calm under pressure, follow instructions, and work as a team. The objective was clear: evacuate both the Heritage and Crosby buildings quickly and safely, while following proper emergency procedures.
And the result? Outstanding. In just 3 minutes and 20 seconds, the entire college community had evacuated and assembled at the designated safety point. No confusion, no delay—just focus, coordination, and discipline.
After the all-clear was given, I addressed the gathered crowd with a short briefing. I took a moment to thank the staff, students, and ERT personnel who took the drill seriously and executed it with care. Their cooperation wasn’t just commendable—it was crucial.
This fire drill proved more than our readiness. It showed the strength of a community that takes safety seriously and trusts each other in moments that matter. On behalf of the entire ERT, thank you to everyone who made this a success. Let’s keep improving, together.
Zaki Zakaria
ERT Chief Commander
Lecturer, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
Welcome to the team, Aaron!
Welcome Back, Aaron!
We are pleased to welcome back Aaron A/L Thomas Michael to DISTED College as our Lab Executive in the Pre-University Department.
Aaron previously served with us and now rejoins the team after completing his Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry at Universiti Sains Malaysia. His research experience includes the optimization of flavonoid-enriched extracts from Clitoria ternatea L. and a study on the effectiveness of automated tablet dispensing systems in in-patient pharmacy.
With his continued passion for Natural Products Chemistry, Metabolomics, and Pharmacognosy, Aaron brings both fresh expertise and a familiar dedication to his new role. We are excited to have him back on board and look forward to working with him once again.
Please join us in extending a warm “welcome back” to Aaron and celebrating his return to the DISTED family!
Raziah binti Ehia Mohd
HR and Admin Executive
