Learning: A Continuous Process
Dear DISTED Community,
At DISTED College, we believe that preparing students and graduates to be resilient, adaptable, and relevant begins with embodying those very qualities ourselves. As educators and professionals, we must continuously evolve to meet the demands of a changing world.
We are proud to share that our Pre-University Programs have forged new pathways to Singapore and Ireland this year, expanding opportunities for our students. Additionally, we’ve entered into a pathway agreement with Newcastle University for its prestigious Medical Program—a significant milestone for our academic offerings.
Our commitment to industry engagement continues to grow. Most recently, our Psychology Program students have begun internships at D’Homes, strengthening the bridge between academic learning and real-world experience.
As we approach the Convocation Ceremony on 11 October, our dedicated colleagues are working hard to ensure a memorable celebration for our graduating students. The countdown is on! Looking ahead, don’t miss our upcoming issue featuring Phanish Puranam, the Roland Berger Chaired Professor of Strategy and Organisation at INSEAD. He will lead a thought-provoking session titled: “Artificial Intelligence: Impact on Industry and Relevance to HR”.
To all our Diploma and Degree Graduands—congratulations! We wish you a joyful and inspiring Convocation weekend.
President,
Dato’ Dr. Lim Si Boon
DISTED College and NUMed Malaysia Forge Strategic Academic Pathway
DISTED College is pleased to announce a strategic academic collaboration with Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed), a leading international branch campus of Newcastle University, United Kingdom. This partnership marks a significant milestone in establishing structured progression pathways for DISTED’s pre-university students into NUMed’s prestigious undergraduate programmes.
Through this agreement, DISTED students may now seamlessly advance into NUMed’s Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Sciences programmes. Both programmes are delivered in Malaysia and are internationally recognised.
As part of this collaboration, NUMed is offering exclusive tuition fee waivers to DISTED students who enrol through the partnership: RM1,500 for the MBBS programme and RM1,000 for the Biomedical Sciences programme. These incentives reflect NUMed’s recognition of DISTED’s academic standards and are intended to support students in their journey toward careers in medicine and biomedical sciences.
This partnership not only expands academic opportunities for DISTED students but also reinforces the college’s commitment to delivering quality education with global relevance. By aligning with a world-class institution such as NUMed, DISTED continues to provide future-ready pathways for its students.
Geong Chooi Peng
Head, School of Pre-University Studies
From Penang to Singapore: DISTED Graduates Making Their Mark
The journey from classroom to career is often filled with challenges, but for DISTED graduates Loo Tze Yan and Brenda Low Wan Yee, it has led to remarkable success in Singapore’s financial sector.
Tze Yan Loo, ACCA, C.A., currently serves as Audit Manager at PKF-CAP LLP Singapore. His path was shaped by perseverance, passion, and a strong academic foundation at DISTED. Today, he leads audit teams and advises clients across various industries.
Brenda Low Wan Yee, ACCA, C.A., is now an Audit Senior Manager at EY Singapore, one of the Big Four accounting firms. Her rise from student to professional overseeing complex multinational audits reflects her discipline, confidence, and commitment.
Both graduates exemplify how DISTED nurtures talent and ambition, preparing students not just for local success but for global impact. Their stories inspire current students to aim higher and believe that with the right foundation, the world is theirs to explore.
Adznida Md Daud
Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Connecting the Dots: Internship Journey of Psychology Degree Students at D’Home
Internship is more than just a requirement in the psychology degree programme. It is the bridge between theory and practice, where students step out of the classroom and into the real world of mental health care.
D’Home Mental Health Association is a non-profit organisation based in Penang that provides psychosocial rehabilitation, counselling support, and community engagement for individuals recovering from mental health challenges. The centre focuses on promoting recovery, independence, and social inclusion through structured daily activities and supportive interventions. With its emphasis on compassion and community-based care, D’Home offers an ideal learning ground for psychology students to apply their knowledge and develop practical helping skills.
During the May semester, I had the joy of visiting 2 of our psychology degree students, Celine Ong and Lee Si Qin, who were completing their internship at D’Home. I was warmly welcomed by the on-site supervisor, Ms Yashawini Rejendaran, who shared about the students’ growth and involvement. From assisting in psychosocial group activities to supporting the day-to-day programmes with clients, it was clear that our students were not only learning but also contributing meaningfully. Equally heartwarming was hearing directly from the students. They spoke about how the internship deepened their understanding of recovery, the courage it takes to face stigma, and the value of empathy in mental health care. Their excitement in learning from both practitioners and service users reminded me why such experiences are so vital for developing professional maturity.
With the rising need for mental health professionals in Malaysia, especially within community-based rehabilitation settings like D’Home, psychology graduates play a crucial role in promoting awareness, empathy, and recovery-oriented care. I left D’Home feeling reassured that our students are in good hands, guided by a dedicated team and immersed in an environment that nurtures both their competence and compassion. My sincere thanks to Ms. Yasha and everyone at D’Home for not only mentoring our students but also for reminding them, and me, of the power of empathy and human connection in mental health work.
Thiresyinie A/P Tamil Chelvam
Lecturer, School of Psychology
Preparing for the Digital Business World
At DISTED College, we believe that academic excellence must be paired with real-world readiness. One of the key areas where this philosophy comes to life is in our focus on network communication standards and protocols—critical components of today’s digital business environment.
Students gain a strong theoretical understanding of technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet. Wi-Fi offers fast, flexible wireless connectivity in offices and public spaces. Bluetooth enables short-range communication between devices, including smartphones and IoT tools. Ethernet remains the gold standard for stable, high-speed wired networking—essential for businesses that demand reliability and security.
Through this learning, students are equipped to analyze, compare, and make informed decisions about communication technologies in various business settings. These competencies are highly valued across industries such as IT, e-commerce, digital services, and operations.
At DISTED, we integrate these practical topics into our curriculum to ensure students graduate with both academic knowledge and technological confidence—ready to succeed in a world driven by connectivity.
Aina Syazwani Binti Shaharin
Lecturer, School of Computing and Engineering
SRC Fundraising: A Refreshing Success
This week, the Student Representative Council (SRC) held a successful fundraising activity during lunch by selling drinks to students and staff. The initiative received enthusiastic support, with many members of the college community stopping by to contribute while enjoying a refreshing break.
The funds raised will be channelled into upcoming SRC events and activities designed to foster engagement and unity among students and staff. These programmes are part of the SRC’s ongoing efforts to build a vibrant and inclusive campus environment.
We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who supported the fundraiser. Your participation makes a meaningful difference and helps us continue organising events that bring people together.
This initiative highlights the SRC’s commitment to student leadership, collaboration, and community spirit. We look forward to more opportunities to serve and connect with the college community.
Ooi Ker Min
President, Student Representative Council
Empowering Voices: A Reflection on Speechcraft 2025
Reflecting on the Speechcraft session held in July 2025, it is remarkable to witness the transformation in our students just two months later. As the coordinator, I feel privileged to have led this initiative, supported by passionate Toastmasters from Great2B and other clubs in District 51.
Initially seen as a daunting challenge, the program blossomed into a platform for self-discovery and empowerment. At the Pre-University Completion Ceremony in September, one of our most apprehensive students delivered a powerful speech that moved the entire hall. Despite initial concerns, he proved everyone wrong and emerged as one of the standout speakers.
Matthew, thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey. Your courage and confidence were inspiring. Partha, your willingness to grow and your heartfelt appreciation for the college community—especially the unsung heroes—were deeply touching.
I hope both of you continue to excel in your A2 examinations and beyond. Keep trusting the process and striving for excellence.
Jessica Ang,
Registrar
