Remarks from the President
Dear DISTED Community,
We recently held a Townhall Session with all staff to introduce our new organisation chart, which will take effect on 1 October 2026. This marks an important step in strengthening our organisational structure and direction as we continue to support the College’s growth and development.
I would like to extend my congratulations to our newly promoted Heads of Programmes and Programme Leader.
Ms Geong Chooi Peng, one of our long-serving and senior colleagues, is now the Senior Head for the Bachelor Programmes. She will coordinate and collaborate closely with HELP University and the Programme Leaders to oversee academic-related matters, while providing timely, responsive and effective support to our students.
Ms Nadia Jefri will head the Diploma Programmes and work closely with all respective Programme Leaders to ensure that our homegrown programmes are effectively delivered, industry-relevant, and responsive to current industry needs.
Ms Lee Lei Yong will head the Pre-University Studies programmes, supported by Dr Kam Yew Chee, who has also been promoted to Programme Leader for Foundation and SACE. Together, they will ensure the effective delivery and smooth operation of the Pre-University Studies programmes.
We look forward to their contributions and leadership towards strengthening our academic programmes and enhancing our students’ learning experience.
As for the operations support team, I would also like to congratulate the following colleagues on their promotions:
· Ms Jasmine Ooi – Head (Interim), Student Registry· Ms Tan Jia Huey – Head, Student Affairs· Ms Azureen – Head, Quality Assurance· Ms Felecia Ng – Head, College Administration· Mr TP Lee – Head, Infrastructure· Ms Jessica Ang – Head, Industry & Community
As Head of Industry & Community, Ms Jessica Ang will play an important role in further strengthening industry and community engagement, expanding strategic partnerships, and developing meaningful collaborations that create greater value and opportunities for our students and the College.
I would also like to express my appreciation to Ms Tan Pei Shi for her valuable contribution and commitment in guiding the Internal Auditors Team towards the successful ECAAS ISO Recertification. We look forward to her continued contribution as a trainer for the DISTED Auditors Team, particularly in ISO and CQI audit-related training, where her knowledge and experience will further strengthen our internal audit capabilities.
It is important that we remain aligned, collaborative and committed to our shared goals. Together, we can build an even stronger College and create greater opportunities for our students.
President
Dato’ Dr (h.c) Lim Si Boon
DISTED College Supports Interview Readiness at SMJK Heng Ee
DISTED College recently collaborated with SMJK Heng Ee, Bayan Baru, to conduct an interview preparation programme designed to help students develop the confidence and skills needed for scholarship and university interviews.
The programme was jointly delivered by lecturers from the School of Communication, Art & Multimedia, School of Business & Hospitality, and School of Psychology, creating a comprehensive learning experience that combined communication, professional development, and educational guidance.
As students prepare for life after secondary school, interviews often represent an important but unfamiliar step in their academic journey. Through interactive sharing sessions and practical guidance, students learned how to present themselves professionally, communicate their ideas clearly, respond effectively to interview questions, and approach interview situations with greater confidence.
A key component of the programme was the School of Psychology’s session, “What’s Next After SPM?”, conducted by Mr. Chew Yong Peng and Mr. Tan. The session introduced students to the range of educational pathways available after SPM, including Form Six, Matriculation, Foundation, and Diploma studies.
Beyond providing information on these pathways, the session encouraged students to reflect on their interests, strengths, and future aspirations when considering their next steps. By understanding the different routes available, students gained greater clarity about the opportunities that can support their long-term academic and career goals.
The programme provided valuable exposure beyond the classroom by equipping students with practical interview skills and a better understanding of higher education options. It also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, with lecturers from different academic schools contributing their expertise to support students as they prepare for future educational opportunities.
Chew Yong Peng
Lecturer, School of Psychology
Behind-the-Scenes Insights from Veteran Cinematographer Matthias Hoffmann
DISTED College recently hosted a special hybrid Q&A session featuring veteran cinematographer Matthias Hoffmann, who joined students from Los Angeles, USA, to share his experiences working in reality television production. Despite a 15-hour time difference, students from the Bachelor in Marketing, Diploma in Creative Multimedia, Diploma in Mass Communications, and Cambridge A-Level programmes participated enthusiastically both on campus and online.
Hoffmann drew upon his extensive experience working on internationally recognised programmes including The Amazing Race, Survivor, Asia’s Next Top Model, and The Biggest Loser Asia. Through stories and practical examples, he provided students with a unique perspective on the challenges of filming unscripted television content around the world.
One of the key discussions focused on the demanding nature of reality television production. Hoffmann explained that camera crews assigned to follow contestants often work continuously for extended periods with minimal rest, carrying equipment while travelling across airports, cities and remote locations. Students were particularly interested to learn that cinematographers frequently undergo months of physical and mental preparation before filming begins.
The session also explored the role of visual storytelling in reality television. Hoffmann explained how camera operators must constantly anticipate key moments, capture a variety of shots, and visualise how scenes may contribute to the story ultimately presented to viewers.
Beyond production techniques, the discussion addressed ethical considerations, including participant privacy, consent and the responsibilities of camera crews when filming emotionally sensitive situations. Hoffmann also shared memorable experiences from international shoots, highlighting the unpredictable nature of production work.
The session concluded with practical advice for students planning a campus race project, emphasising teamwork, clear planning, strong storytelling, and effective editing. Through this engaging discussion, students gained valuable industry perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the skills required in professional media production.
Yee Tianle
Programme Lead, School of Business and Hospitality
SACE Legal Studies Students Gain Insight into Legal Aid Services
On 18 August 2026, students from the SACE Legal Studies programme visited the Bar Council Legal Aid Centre, Penang, as part of their efforts to gain a broader understanding of the legal profession and the practical application of legal studies.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by legal officers, staff members and student volunteers. The visit was hosted by Ms. Ann Beatrice and her team, who provided an informative introduction to the centre’s role in promoting access to justice and supporting individuals who require legal assistance.
During the session, students learned about the centre’s daily operations and the procedures through which members of the public can obtain legal guidance and support. The visit offered valuable insight into how legal aid services help individuals address legal concerns that they may be unable to navigate on their own.
Students also had the opportunity to observe aspects of the consultation process and learn how legal issues are identified before appropriate forms of assistance are recommended. A key takeaway from the visit was the centre’s commitment to creating a professional, welcoming and confidential environment where clients can discuss sensitive legal matters with confidence.
Beyond enhancing their understanding of legal aid services, the experience allowed students to see how legal principles are applied in practice. It reinforced the importance of ensuring that access to justice remains available to individuals regardless of their financial circumstances or social background.
The visit was both insightful and educational, providing students with a greater appreciation of the vital role played by legal professionals, volunteers and support staff in serving the community. It also highlighted the positive impact of legal aid services in promoting fairness, support and access to justice for all.
Bahmini Suppiah
Lecturer, School of Pre-University Studies
More Than a Celebration: Building Bonds at DISTED
Campus life is about more than academic achievements. While lectures, assignments and examinations are important aspects of higher education, some of the most meaningful experiences come from the relationships students build with their peers, seniors and lecturers.
In conjunction with Malaysia Day celebration, the School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia recently organised a joint birthday gathering that brought together students, senior students and lecturers in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
What began as a surprise birthday celebration evolved into an opportunity for different cohorts to connect, interact and strengthen their sense of community. Conversations, shared stories and birthday wishes created a cheerful environment that reflected the spirit of Malaysia Day through a celebration of unity, diversity and togetherness.
The gathering also showcased the value of mentor-mentee relationships beyond formal academic settings. Informal interactions allow students to engage with lecturers in a more comfortable environment, fostering stronger connections, and creating opportunities to seek guidance and support. At the same time, senior students were able to share their experiences with juniors, offering practical advice and encouragement as they navigate campus life.
For final-year students preparing to graduate, occasions such as these become especially meaningful. As they move forward to the next stage of their lives, the friendships, mentorship and memories created during their time at DISTED remain an important part of their college experience.
The event served as a reminder that a vibrant campus community is built not only through academic success, but also through meaningful relationships and shared experiences. Sometimes, the most memorable moments of college life are found not in the classroom, but in the connections formed and the moments celebrated together.
Naviin Raj Jaya Ganesh
Student, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
Welcome to DISTED, Dr. Fatin Hazirah!
We are delighted to welcome Dr. Fatin Hazirah binti Abdullah to the DISTED family as a Chemistry Lecturer at the School of Pre-University.
Dr. Fatin holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, a Master of Science in Chemical Instrumentation, and a PhD in Material Chemistry and Advanced Materials from USM. With experience in teaching and research, she is passionate about making chemistry engaging and accessible to students.
We are pleased to have Dr. Fatin join our community and look forward to her valuable contributions to our students and the School of Pre-University.
Welcome to DISTED, Dr. Fatin!
Raziah binti Ehia Mohd
Human Resources
Welcome to DISTED, Haffik Iqwan!
We are delighted to welcome Haffik Iqwan to DISTED College as a Lecturer.
Haffik holds a Bachelor of Economics (Honours), First Class Honours, from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and a Master of Science in Statistics from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).
With experience teaching Mathematics, Economics and Business Studies across KSSM and IGCSE programmes, Haffik brings a strong passion for education and student development. Prior to joining DISTED, he served as a Senior Coach and Mathematics Subject Head, where he was recognised with the Rising Star Coach Award in 2024.
Haffik looks forward to sharing his knowledge, fostering critical thinking, and creating engaging learning experiences that support students in achieving their academic goals.
We warmly welcome Haffik to the DISTED family and look forward to his contributions to our students and the college community.
Raziah binti Ehia Mohd
Human Resources
