Indolence and Formation
Dear DISTED Community,
As we celebrate Malaysia’s 68th Merdeka Day and the upcoming 62nd Malaysia Day, we reflect on the significance of these milestones in our nation’s journey. At DISTED College, these national celebrations mirror the personal journeys of our students. They move from the structured environment of secondary school into the independence of college life, where their character begins to form, just as Malaya had independence in 1957 and the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
We are proud to witness their growth into responsible, capable individuals who will contribute meaningfully to Malaysia and beyond. Guided by the same principles of unity and purpose that built our nation, our students are shaped through education and experience.
Happy Malaysia Day to all.
Dato’ Lim Si Boon
President, DISTED College
Malaysia Day Reflection: What Unity Means Today
Unity does not mean we must all be the same. It is about standing together, even when we are different. It means valuing our diversity while walking together with a shared goal. Malaysia’s strength lies in this very diversity, where every race, religion, and tradition contributes to our national story.
Our unity has grown through cooperation, from the achievement of independence in 1957 to the lessons learned after the May 1969 tragedy. Today’s challenges are more digital than physical. From 2022 to early 2025, over 10,000 fake accounts and nearly 7,000 harmful posts related to race, religion, and royalty were removed, with several legal cases filed. These numbers remind us that freedom of speech must come with responsibility.
At DISTED, we prepare students for this reality. Courses such as Media Law and Ethics, Intercultural Communication 跨文化传播, Integrity and Anti-Corruption 诚信与反贪污, and Communication Issues in the Digital Age 数字时代的传播问题 teach cultural awareness, digital responsibility, and respect.
This Malaysia Day, let us remember that unity is not automatic. It is a legacy we have inherited, a commitment we must honour, and a promise we must protect.
Nadia Jefri
Head, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
A Day of Art, Creativity and Fun in Penang
Five students from Hong Kong, together with lecturers Ms Adznida and Ms Tan Sue Lin from the School of Business and Hospitality, recently enjoyed a colourful and engaging day exploring Penang’s creative attractions.
The adventure began at the Penang 3D Art Museum, where students and lecturers posed playfully with optical illusions. The interactive exhibits sparked laughter and helped break the ice, creating a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere. Next, the group visited the Penang Glass Museum. Here, the focus shifted to hands-on creativity. Students painted their own glass pieces, each one a reflection of personal expression. The activity encouraged artistic exploration and gave everyone a meaningful souvenir to take home.
The final destination was the Glow Planet Museum, where glowing installations and vibrant displays created a magical environment. Surrounded by neon lights, students wandered through the exhibits, taking photos and enjoying the immersive experience.
This outing was more than a sightseeing trip. It was a celebration of creativity, connection and shared learning. The laughter, painted glass pieces and countless photos captured the spirit of the day, reminding everyone that meaningful experiences often come from moments of joy and discovery.
Tan Sue Lin
Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Model United Nations, an Unforgettable Experience
From 4 to 6 July 2025, Taylor’s International School Puchong welcomed students from across the region for TISPCMUN2025, a major Model United Nations (MUN) conference. Among the delegates was Yeoh Soon Meng (CAL25015), a DISTED College student participating in their third MUN event.
For those unfamiliar, MUN is a simulation of the United Nations. Students represent countries and debate global issues in formal councils. It is a space where critical thinking, diplomacy, and public speaking come together.
At this year’s conference, Yeoh represented the Republic of Poland in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), discussing the role of nuclear energy in sustainable development. Delegates were evaluated on diplomacy, decorum, foreign policy, and initiative. Yeoh was honoured with the “Most Diplomatic Delegate” award, one of only three given in a council of more than 20 participants.
Reflecting on the experience, Yeoh shared that MUN is not only for those interested in politics or law. It helps students build confidence, learn to negotiate under pressure, and appreciate diverse viewpoints. It is also a great way to meet like-minded peers and enjoy meaningful conversations. To students considering MUN, Yeoh’s advice is simple. Take the leap. You may discover new skills, new friendships, and a new sense of purpose.
Dr Kam Yew Chee
Senior Lecturer, School of Pre-University Studies
Overcoming Speaking Anxiety: My Journey with Toastmasters Speechcraft
For years, I believed the only way to overcome my fear of public speaking was to keep doing it. I spoke at school events, entered competitions, and pushed myself into the spotlight. While exposure helped, the core issues remained. Racing thoughts led to stutters, and the fear of judgment lingered.
Everything changed when I joined DISTED in June 2025 and saw an offer for a free Toastmasters Speechcraft course starting in July. I signed up, expecting a room full of critics. Instead, I found a community of allies, people on the same journey, offering support and encouragement.
The impromptu speaking exercises trained my brain to organise thoughts quickly under pressure. This helped me speak more clearly in meetings and everyday conversations. The culture of constructive feedback was a revelation. Toastmasters is not about criticism, it is about growth.
The result is clear. My confidence has soared. I can now express myself smoothly and even share my feelings openly. I have learned that improvement is not just about repetition. It is about having a supportive framework to guide you through the fear.
Chn’g Yin Xin, Melvina
Student, Foundation in Science
Honoring Malaysia Day by Empowering Youth Against Corruption
Malaysia Day is more than a celebration of our nation’s formation—it is a call to action for building a better future. As we raise our flags in pride, we must also raise our standards of integrity. Corruption remains one of the greatest threats to national progress, eroding trust, justice, and opportunity.
Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the moral compass of today. With initiatives like Kursus Integriti & Anti-Rasuah, higher education plays a pivotal role in shaping ethical mindsets and fostering civic responsibility. These programs encourage students to think critically, act justly, and lead with integrity.
Let’s envision classrooms where moral dilemmas are discussed as passionately as mathematics, and homes where honesty is nurtured from the start. This Malaysia Day, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a generation that not only dreams of a better Malaysia but actively builds it.
Selamat Hari Malaysia! Generasi Muda Bencikan Rasuah!
Noriah Kallanjiam,
Lecturer, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
Social Media: Friend or Foe?
Social media has transformed how we connect, learn, and express ourselves. For many, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are lifelines—offering real-time updates, shared interests, and emotional support. Individuals facing isolation or illness often find comfort in online communities, support groups, and mental health resources.
However, the benefits come with risks. The curated nature of social media can distort reality, leading to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. The pressure to stay visible and relevant online can result in unhealthy patterns—doom scrolling, disrupted sleep, and screen addiction. A simple scroll can quickly become a cycle of procrastination, distraction, and exposure to online drama or cyberbullying.
Ultimately, social media is a tool. Its impact depends on how we engage with it. By setting digital boundaries, practicing mindful usage, and fostering awareness, we can protect our mental health and make social media a friend—not a foe. I
Indra Sellappan Lecturer,
心理学学院
United in Diversity: Celebrating Malaysia Day
Malaysia Day, celebrated on September 16, marks the formation of Malaysia in 1963 when Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore joined the Federation of Malaya. More than a historical milestone, it is a celebration of unity in diversity. Malaysia is home to a rich blend of ethnic groups—Malays, Chinese, Indians, Ibans, Kadazan-Dusun, and many others. This diversity is our strength, shaping a vibrant culture and resilient society. At DISTED College, this spirit is nurtured through cross-cultural activities, community engagement, and value-based education. We believe in building a competitive, inclusive, and forward-looking Malaysia. Malaysia Day is a time to honour past sacrifices, foster goodwill, and renew our commitment to unity and progress.
Bersatu Hati, Membina Harapan — Malaysia Milik Kita Bersama.
Ugartini Magesvaran
Programme Lead, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
