Navigating 2025: How the Year of the Snake Will Shape DISTED College’s Growth and Innovation
Datuk Joey Yap is a renowned expert in Chinese Metaphysics, specialising in disciplines such as Feng Shui, BaZi (Chinese Astrology), Qi Men Dun Jia, and Mian Xiang (Face Reading).
His 2025 Zodiac Forecast states that the Year of the Snake is a time for strategic decision-making, transformation, and calculated risks. This could mean embracing innovation, AI integration, and lifelong learning in higher education. The forecast highlights networking, collaboration, and adaptability—key themes for universities and colleges looking to enhance industry partnerships and digital education strategies. Institutions should focus on sustainable growth and resilience, as financial stability and informed decision-making will be crucial.
In short, the Year of the Snake signifies wisdom, strategic decision-making, and transformation, making it a pivotal period for DISTED College to innovate and strengthen its position in higher education.
This year encourages calculated risks and adaptability, aligning with DISTED’s push for technology-driven programmes in data analytics, computer science and information technology, and industry-focused curricula in accounting, marketing, communications and psychology. The emphasis on networking and foresight suggests the college will benefit from expanding international partnerships, international student recruitment and enhancing employability-focused programmes.
The Snake Year also highlights sustainability and resilience, aligning with DISTED’s commitment to green initiatives. Financially, institutions must be strategic in tuition management while diversifying offerings through micro-credentials, executive training, and flexible learning pathways to meet evolving student demands. As competition grows among private institutions, branding, industry engagement, and innovative learning experiences will be crucial for DISTED’s continued success.
The Snake’s energy of intelligence and reinvention presents an opportunity for the college to refine its strategies, ensuring student success, industry relevance, and sustainable growth. By leveraging AI, sustainability, and strategic foresight, DISTED can navigate 2025 with confidence, emerging as a leading institution in Malaysia’s evolving higher education landscape.
Remarks from the President
As we enter the Year of the Snake, we are reminded that education must continuously evolve to remain relevant, dynamic, and impactful. At DISTED College, our mission has always been to empower students with knowledge and skills that prepare them for the ever-changing global landscape. This year presents an opportunity for us to embrace innovation, strengthen industry collaborations, and refine our approach to teaching and learning. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, expanding strategic partnerships, and prioritising student success, we are committed to shaping future-ready graduates.
Sustainability remains a core focus, and we will continue integrating green initiatives and ethical business practices into our academic programmes. At the same time, we recognise the need for agility in education, offering flexible learning options and specialised training pathways. As we navigate 2025, we reaffirm our dedication to excellence, resilience, and forward-thinking education, ensuring that DISTED remains a leader in Malaysia’s higher education sector.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair , President
Where Tech Meets Play: DISTED College’s Revamped Computer Lab Redefines Learning
Students at DISTED College are excited about the revamped computer labs, now outfitted with cutting-edge technology—and an unexpected twist. Alongside high-performance computers and a professional filming room, the space doubles as a gaming hub for the college’s thriving Gaming Club.
The state-of-the-art upgrades include powerful PCs designed for both academic and gaming use, 3D printers, open workstations, and lightning-fast internet, creating an ideal environment for learning, creativity, and recreation. After school, the lab transforms into a dynamic hub where students engage in friendly competitions, e-sports training, and short film production.
Adjacent to the lab, the fully equipped filming room—featuring professional audio and video recording facilities, advanced lighting equipment, and a green screen wall—has become a favorite spot for aspiring filmmakers and content creators.
With its versatile design, the computer lab is more than just a place to study; it’s a vibrant space where innovation, learning, and fun come together.
Lim Ern Qi, Student of SACE Preparatory (Sept 2024 Intake)
TRUTH TALK: Navigating Emotions, Empathy & Social Media Realities
On December 18, 2024, we had the privilege of visiting SMJK Perempuan China Pulau Pinang to deliver a session titled TRUTH TALK: Emotions, Empathy, and the Truth Behind the Reel. Tailored for 15-year-old secondary school students, this interactive talk aimed to boost their awareness of emotions, empathy, and the motivation needed to navigate teenage challenges.
Central to our discussion were the beloved movies Inside Out and Inside Out 2, which vividly capture the complexities of emotions in growing minds. We used the characters—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, Disgust, and the newly introduced Anxiety—to explain how every emotion plays an essential role in shaping our decisions and relationships.
We discussed how the “reel” on platforms like Instagram and TikTok often showcases only the highlight reel of someone’s life—leaving out struggles, failures, or less glamorous moments. The students reflected on how this can trigger emotions such as Anxiety or Sadness, particularly when comparing their lives to these curated portrayals.
The highlight of the session was an interactive segment where students shared personal experiences and explored practical strategies to stay motivated and authentic. Their enthusiasm and curiosity were a testament to their willingness to grow and learn.
By the end of the session, students gained a deeper appreciation for their emotions, recognizing them as valuable guides to authenticity, resilience, and navigating the complexities of teenage life with confidence.
Teoh Ker Hsin, Programme Lead, School of Psychology
Beyond the Influencer: Why Students Need a Personal Brand?
When you hear “personal branding,” you might think of influencers or CEOs, but it’s just as crucial for students. In today’s competitive world, personal branding is your secret weapon to stand out, differentiate yourself, and access game-changing opportunities like internships, scholarships, and mentorships.
A compelling personal brand does more than highlight your skills and achievements—it builds trust and credibility. By sharing meaningful projects and actively engaging online, you signal that you’re not just a passive learner but a motivated contributor with a purpose. This makes recruiters and mentors more likely to notice and remember you.
In the digital age, visibility drives success. A strong personal brand ensures that industry professionals and like-minded peers can easily find and connect with you. It’s not just about the present; it’s about future-proofing your career, keeping you relevant and adaptable as your goals evolve.
Most importantly, personal branding celebrates authenticity. It’s about embracing your strengths, values, and growth journey. Start small: clean up your online presence, create a LinkedIn profile, and share content that aligns with your passions. For students, personal branding isn’t optional—it’s the key to unlocking your potential and shaping a brighter future. Students at DISTED College are exposed to these concepts.
Nur Aisya Najwa Amerrudin, Lecturer, School of Business & Hospitality
DISTED College and Penang Japanese Saturday School Association (PJSSA) Forge Educational Partnership
DISTED College is pleased to announce an exciting new collaboration with the Penang Japanese Saturday School Association (PJSSA), marking a significant step in supporting multicultural education within our community. This Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), effective from April 2025 to March 2026, will see PJSSA conducting its Japanese language and cultural education programmes at DISTED College’s Macalister Road campus every Saturday.
As part of this partnership, DISTED will provide well-equipped classrooms with essential learning facilities such as air-conditioning, projectors, whiteboards, and furniture to create a conducive learning environment for PJSSA students. The agreement also includes provisions for flexible scheduling, ensuring that PJSSA can adjust its classroom usage based on its evolving academic needs.
By hosting PJSSA, DISTED continues to expand its role as a hub for diverse educational initiatives, further strengthening its commitment to academic excellence and cross-cultural learning. This partnership reflects our dedication to community engagement, allowing students to benefit from structured Japanese language education while fostering a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture.
We are excited to embark on this journey with PJSSA and look forward to a successful year of collaboration.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, President
DISTED Students Shine at National Junior Floorball Championship 2024
DISTED College takes immense pride in celebrating the exceptional achievements of our students, Tan Wei Guang from the Diploma in Business Studies and Sashrick Mohan from the Cambrigde A-Level programme, who have showcased remarkable talent and determination at the National Junior Floorball Championship 2024 held at Universiti Malaya.
Representing the Penang state team, Wei Guang and Sashrick played pivotal roles in their team’s victory, securing the championship title for an impressive fourth consecutive time. Their commitment to excellence, teamwork, and perseverance not only brought glory to their team but also demonstrated the values we strive to instill in every DISTED student.
This accomplishment highlights the diverse talents of our students, who continue to excel not only in academics but also in co-curricular activities, exemplifying a well-rounded education at DISTED College. It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport, as well as the unwavering support from their peers and coaches.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Wei Guang and Sashrick for this incredible achievement. Your success brings immense pride to the DISTED community and inspires your fellow students to pursue their passions and reach new heights.
DISTED College remains committed to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive in all aspects of life, whether it’s academics, sports, or personal development. We are confident that this is just the beginning of many more accolades to come for Wei Guang, Sashrick, and the broader DISTED family.
Dr Lum Li Sean, Head, Academic Affairs.
