Moving Ahead
After the many celebrations in September, work at DISTED has begun in earnest. New students settling in for a new experiences and responsibilities. The academic mentors are meeting the new students individually to establish their goals for the year and engaging the mentees.
As our Pre University Graduates step out into the new undergraduate programs, we also welcome our Alumni back to share on the challenges and opportunities after DISTED
Have a wonderful weekend.
President,
Dato’ Lim Si Boon
From DISTED to Behavioural Therapy: Veena Khoo’s Inspiring Career Path
For DISTED alumna Veena Khoo, one moment of observation changed everything. During her psychology degree, she witnessed behavioural therapy in action at an autism centre, sparking what would become a lifelong passion. Today, she is a dedicated behavioural therapist who finds fulfilment in helping children grow, learn, and thrive.
Looking back, Veena recalls that her journey started at DISTED College, where she enrolled in the SACEi programme. “I considered A-Levels, but SACEi was a better fit because of its balance of 60% coursework and 40% exams. It suited how I learned best, and the fact that DISTED was close to home made the transition even smoother,” she explained.
The move from high school to college was a big leap, but the care of her coursemates and lecturers made the transition easier. Among her most influential lecturers was Ms. Geong, now Head of the School of Pre-University Studies. “Her classroom was a safe space where we could ask questions and engage freely. Her calm and patient teaching style inspired me, and it’s something I try to bring into my own work with children today,” Veena shared.
Time management was another valuable lesson Veena carried forward. “I had to take charge of my own schedule, plan ahead, and stay organised. It helped me tremendously in university and continues to help me in my career.”
Her fondest DISTED memory? An unexpected photoshoot that ended with her and her friends’ faces on banners around town—and even on the DISTED van! “We had no idea what we were signing up for, but it became such a core memory, “she laughed.
Today, Veena continues her impactful work with children with autism. “It can be tough, but it’s so rewarding to see progress, even if it’s slow. With consistency and support, children achieve meaningful growth.” She is also preparing to pursue a Master’s in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), eager to deepen her expertise.
To current students, her advice is heartfelt: “Don’t pressure yourself to have everything figured out. College is about learning, exploring, and growing. Be open, take chances, and trust the journey.”
Parthasarathe Jayashanker
Student, Cambridge A-Level
Alumni Talk: Exploring the World of Cryptocurrency
DISTED College recently welcomed back SACE 2007 alumnus Jack Chan, DAX Lead at SINEGY, for an engaging and educational talk on cryptocurrency. Jack shared his inspiring journey from Penang to the global financial stage, highlighting his experiences in investment banking, entrepreneurship, and his eventual pivot into the world of technology and digital assets.
The session introduced students to the fundamentals of cryptocurrency, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Ripple, and Stablecoins. Jack explained how each plays a role in today’s fast-evolving financial ecosystem and how blockchain technology underpins these digital assets. He discussed the benefits of decentralisation, security, and innovative applications such as smart contracts and decentralised finance (DeFi).
A highlight of the session was a live demonstration on navigating SINEGY, Malaysia’s regulated digital asset exchange. Students learned how to open an account, deposit funds, and execute trades securely. This hands-on walkthrough provided a practical understanding of cryptocurrency trading.
Jack concluded with a reminder that while cryptocurrency offers exciting opportunities, it also comes with risks that require careful and informed decision making.
Students left the session with a deeper awareness of digital assets and the growing role of fintech in shaping the future of finance.
Sharizan Abdul Rashid
Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Gratitude and Growth: My DISTED Experience
Visalatshe a/p R. Chockalingam, a Cambridge A-Level alumna of DISTED College, shares her inspiring academic journey that began in April 2024. Motivated by her mother’s advice on dedication and conviction, Visalatshe enrolled in Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Though the program lasted just over a year, it was a transformative experience that prepared her for life beyond academics.
She received the DISTED Alumni Scholarship and earned a Gold medal in the first round of the national-level Physics Olympiad. Her involvement in the Student Representative Council and DC Live Club helped her develop time management, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
With the guidance of her lecturers, she adapted to the A-Level curriculum’s emphasis on conceptual understanding and achieved excellent results: 3As in AS and 1A* and 2As in A2.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science at PSG College in India, Visalatshe hopes to explore fields such as Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics. She expresses deep gratitude to her family and DISTED College for their unwavering support.
“No matter where I go, whatever I learn, or whichever path I explore, the foundation of my growth will always be the knowledge, experiences, and support I gained at DISTED College.”
Visalatshe a/p R. Chockalingam
Cambridge A-Level alumna, DISTED
Voices in Action! A Multimedia Twist to English Learning
As part of the English and Adventure Camp 2025 at DISTED College, five enthusiastic students from Hong Kong discovered a fresh and engaging way to practice English—through a dynamic Voice Over Workshop titled “Voices in Action!”.
Led by lecturers from the School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia, the workshop blended language learning with multimedia production. Students were introduced to Adobe Audition, where they recorded their voices while reading English scripts. They experimented with tone, pacing, and expression, gaining confidence and improving their fluency and pronunciation in the process.
Beyond voice recording, the students explored the fundamentals of audio editing. They adjusted sound quality, added effects, and refined their recordings—experiencing firsthand how digital tools can elevate language learning. The session demonstrated that English practice doesn’t have to be confined to textbooks; it can be creative, interactive, and fun.
By integrating technology with language education, the Voice Over Workshop showcased how multimedia can empower learners to express themselves more naturally and effectively. It also highlighted transferable skills in communication and digital literacy—valuable assets in today’s global landscape.
This immersive experience left students inspired, proving that learning English can be both educational and entertaining.
Khairu Nisa Binti Wazir
Lecturer, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
STIs Talk: Understanding Sexual & Reproductive Health
On 11th July 2025, DISTED College welcomed students to an insightful talk titled “Understanding STIs & Sexual Reproductive Health”. The initiative was led by an intern student name Megan Loh Jing Xin in collaboration with the Penang Family Health Development Association, aiming to educate young adults on the importance of sexual health and STI prevention.
The session covered key topics such as types of STIs, transmission methods, safe practices, contraception, and the importance of regular health check-ups. Students responded with enthusiasm, asking questions and sharing thoughts in a safe and respectful environment.
The talk was designed to be youth-friendly and engaging, successfully promoting awareness and empowering students to take charge of their sexual and reproductive health. It also highlighted the importance of open conversations and education in reducing stigma around sexual health.
Ambalakalidachayini Devi A/P Ravi,
Lecturer, School of Psychology
