DISTED College Champions Creativity at Excite Hackathon 2024: Empowering Youth in Graphic and 3D Design
DISTED College demonstrated its commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative talent by training school students in graphic and 3D design during the Excite Hackathon 2024. Organised by Penang Math Platform (PMP) and sponsored by Flex, this dynamic event featured 12 hours of intensive lessons, culminating in an exciting Grand Final Competition at the STEM Showcase held at Han Chiang High School on August 23, 2024.
The college’s dedication was evident through the expert guidance provided by its trainers. Mr. Zaki bin Zakaria, an instructor from DISTED, mentored students from SMK Bandar Baru Perda in 3D Design and SMK Convent Butterworth in Graphic Design. Meanwhile, Mr. Luqman Aliff Abdul Rashid, another instructor from DISTED, guided students from Phor Tay High School in 3D Design and SMK Bayan Lepas in Graphic Design.
The competition brought together talented Form 3 and Form 4 students from various schools, showcasing the skill and dedication of both the students and their mentors. SMK Convent Butterworth’s efforts in graphic design earned them a well-deserved second place in the Grand Finals, while Phor Tay High School’s innovation in 3D design secured them a commendable third place.
DISTED College’s involvement in the Excite Hackathon 2024 highlights its unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and innovation among the youth. By equipping these young minds with the tools and knowledge they need to excel, DISTED continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of design and technology in the region.
Seethai Subramaniam, Head, School of Computing and Engineering
Remarks from the President
Events like the Excite Hackathon are crucial in nurturing our youth’s creative and intellectual growth in the context of an increasingly digital and interconnected world. DISTED College is deeply committed to equipping students with the skills and competencies they need to thrive in this environment. This hackathon is not just a competition; it’s an immersive learning experience where young minds engage in hands-on activities, developing their abilities in graphic and 3D design.
Such events play a vital role in fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving—essential skills in today’s ever-changing technological landscape. For DISTED, participating in and supporting these initiatives perfectly aligns with our goals to promote innovation and creativity as cornerstones of education. By mentoring these bright students, we are helping to shape the leaders of tomorrow, ensuring they are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. We take pride in being a catalyst for their success and look forward to continuing our role in empowering the next generation of innovators.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, President
Empowering Youth: Addressing Sexual Harassment at Convent Butterworth Girls High School
On the 8th of August 2024, we from the School of Psychology had the opportunity to speak to the students at Convent Butterworth Girls High School about the crucial topic of sexual harassment. The aim of the talk was to educate students on what sexual harassment is, help them recognise its various forms and to empower them to action if they or someone they know is affected.
To kick things off, I started by asking the students what respect really means to them. We spoke about how seemingly harmless jokes or comments can cross a line and make someone feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Sexual harassment isn’t just a ‘grown-up’ issue, it can happen anywhere – even in the hallways of their school. By understanding the different ways harassment can show up, from inappropriate texts to unwanted physical contact, they can better protect themselves and others.
One key message I wanted to impart was, the power of consent. Consent isn’t just about saying ‘no’ but also about respecting boundaries and ensuing mutual agreement in all interactions. We also touched on the critical role of bystanders. Lots of encouragement was given to the students to be upstanders – those who don’t stay silent but speak up/seek help when they see harassment happening.
The students were very engaged throughout the talk, reciprocating with thoughtful answers and asking insightful questions. It was clear they were committed to understand and address the issue. Sexual harassment is never the victim’s fault. The students were told where they can find help and support and were reminded that creating a culture of respect and safety starts with us, every single day.
Indra Sellappan, Rehabilitation Psychologist, Lecturer, School of Psychology
Principles of Green Chemistry: A Pathway to Sustainable Innovation in Chemical Research
The growing awareness of environmental issues has sparked significant innovation in chemical research. Chemists face the challenge of developing products and processes that are sustainable—minimising environmental impact by reducing pollution and conserving resources. To guide chemists in this endeavour, twelve (12) principles of green chemistry have been established. These principles focus on reducing pollution at its source by minimising or eliminating the hazards associated with chemical feedstocks, reagents, solvents, and products. The principles are as follows:
- Prevention of waste is cheaper than cleaning it up once it is formed.
- Maximize atom economy. Design syntheses so that the final product contains the maximum proportion of the starting materials. Waste few or no atoms.
- New chemicals are produced with no significant toxicity to humans or to the natural environment.
- New chemicals are designed to achieve their use, whilst keeping toxicity low.
- Use of solvents should be avoided. If you must use these chemicals, use safer ones.
- Energy efficiency should be maximised, ideally reactions should be carried out at room temperature and pressure.
- Use feedstocks (starting materials) that are renewable rather than depletable.
- Avoid chemical derivatives. Avoid using blocking or protecting groups or any temporary modifications if possible. Derivatives use additional reagents and generate waste.
- It is better for a reaction to use a catalyst than a reaction that is not catalysed. Minimise waste by using catalytic reactions.
- Chemical products should be designed to break down naturally so that they do not accumulate in the environment.
- Analytical monitoring of reaction processes enables prevention of production of hazardous materials.
- Safer chemistry reduces the risk of accidents. Design chemicals and their physical forms (solid, liquid, or gas) to minimize the potential for chemical accidents including explosions, fires, and releases to the environment.
These twelve (12) principles of green chemistry are integrated into the curriculum for Foundation in Science and Cambridge A-Level students in Pre-University Studies at DISTED College.
Dr Loo Ai Yin, Senior Lecturer, School of Pre-University Studies
DISTED Students Uplift Penang Autism Centre
The students at the School of Business and Hospitality embarked on a meaningful journey that lasted their lives and those at the Penang Autism Centre, a charitable home for individuals with autism. Motivated by compassion and a sense of community, the students dedicated their time to improving the center’s environment by sweeping the compound, mopping floors, and cleaning the toilets. Their efforts aimed to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for the center’s users.
Beyond their hands-on work, the students organised successful sponsorship and fundraising events. A key initiative was the Car Boot Sale on June 8, 2024, at DISTED, where they sold stationery to raise funds. They also leveraged social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to broaden their reach and baked cookies for additional fundraising. The funds raised were used to purchase essential goods requested by the center, ensuring that their contributions would have a meaningful impact.
This journey was more than just a series of tasks; it was an eye-opening experience that taught the students the importance of empathy and social responsibility. They learned the value of using their education and resources to make a positive difference in society, reinforcing their commitment to contributing to the betterment of their community.
Adznida Md Daud, Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
DISTED Badminton Club Tournament 2024: A Showcase of Skill and Excitement
The DISTED Badminton Club proudly hosted its annual school-level tournament on the 14th and 16th of August, bringing together students and teachers for an exciting display of skills and sportsmanship. Held in the school’s Heritage Hall, which was transformed into a badminton court, the event buzzed with enthusiasm as spectators cheered on their classmates, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit.
This year’s tournament featured a mix of singles, doubles, and mixed doubles matches, giving participants the freedom to compete in their preferred format. Registration was open prior to the competition, allowing players to prepare for the highly competitive matches. Among the standout performances was the women’s doubles team of Miss Thiresyinie and Miss Aisya Najwa Amerrudin, who clinched the gold medal with their remarkable teamwork. Other notable winners included Saw Keat Loon and Baiju for the men’s doubles, and Chan Xian Hong and Ooi Tse Han for the mixed doubles. Their dedication to the sport and strategic gameplay set a high bar for future tournaments.
Beyond the thrilling matches, the tournament placed a strong emphasis on sportsmanship. Players demonstrated mutual respect for their opponents and celebrated each other’s achievements, regardless of the outcome. This spirit of camaraderie was especially evident during the prize-giving ceremony, where awards and medals were presented not only to the victors but also to those recognized for their exemplary sportsmanship. This focus on integrity and respect reflects the core values that DISTED strives to uphold.
In conclusion, the badminton tournament was a resounding success, promoting competition, friendship, and mutual respect among students. It also provided an opportunity for students to see a different side of their lecturers outside the classroom, further strengthening relationships. The DISTED Badminton Club extends its heartfelt thanks to the teachers, volunteers, and students who helped organize the event and ensured its smooth operation. The club eagerly anticipates next year’s tournament, hoping to see many new athletes competing in equally thrilling matches.
Kaitlyn Khoo, Student Editor, DISTED Discourse, Student of Cambridge A-Levels
Draw the Line: Understanding Drug Awareness and Prevention
On 19th August 2024, DISTED College invited Dr Tan Khang Lyn from Osel Clinic to conduct a talk named “Draw the Line: An Introductory Guide to Drug Awareness and Prevention” at Heritage Hall. The objectives of the talk are to let students understand the danger of misuse drug, the impact of drug abuse and to encourage students there are other ways to manage stress.
Dr. Tan is a dedicated medical professional with an MBBS from University of Malaya and is a certified Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) provider. Currently, he serves as a medical doctor at Osel Clinic, where he focuses in specialized surgery and advanced wound care. Additionally, as a Community Doctor of Osel Group, Dr. Tan is passionate about creating a borderless, effective, and inclusive healthcare system, striving to make high-quality medical care accessible to all.
A simple social experiment was conducted by inviting five students and asking each of them to draw a line on the paper provided one-by-one. One student started to draw curly lines and passed the pen to the next one. The remaining students followed to draw curly lines while only one student follow own thought by drawing a straight line. Dr Tan explained the experiment showed how peer pressure influences people’s decisions or actions and it is one of the factors of drug abuse.
Tan Jia Huey, Office, Student Experience
