JPA Scholarships: A Billion Ringgit Throwaway?
WITH APPLICATIONS FOR JPA SCHOLARSHIPS OPENING TOMORROW, LOYARBUROK HAS PUBLISHED A TIMELY ARTICLE CRITICISING THE METHOD BY WHICH SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AWARDED. "Whoever rules the Government in future, its imperative that JPAs overseas scholarship policy be revised," concludes the article's author, Hafidzi Razali. "Straight As in SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) alone dont equate to the excellence deserving of golden (yes, its that expensive) opportunities abroad. Overseas institutions too, arent necessarily exceptional just because theyre located in the US or UK where hallowed institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and Oxford are found. More importantly, a more refined approach will ensure meritocracy at its best, while improving the standard of our local institutions with billions saved as well as a better pool of students to choose from..."
Monday, July 14, 2008
JPA SCHOLARSHIPS -- WHY, WHY, WHY?
THERE IS PLENTY OF PASSIONATE DEBATE ON THE SUBJECT OF JPA SCHOLARSHIPS ON THE KIM KIT SIANG FOR MALAYSIA BLOG. The debate was prompted by this following letter, which reads:
"I have some question to ask on JPA Scholarship which I don't understand.
"1. Perkongsian kuasa dengan kaum-kaum lain di dalam pilihan raya 1955 membuktikan bahawa
"i. orang melayu berupaya menwujudkan perpaduan antara kaum
"ii. tindakan pemimpin pada masa itu adalah keterlaluan
"iii. orang melayu sanggup berkorban demi mencapai kemerdekaan
"iv. orang bukan melayu terhutang budi kepada orang melayu
"This is the sample question of 'mock examination' for JPA Scholar students who are to be sent to Canada sponsored by JPA. The choice number iv. is most racist and offensive, as without Orang Bukan Melayu, i.e. Chinese and Indians, Malaysia wonft get independence.
"2.Why government spends (sponsored) almost RM 500,000 for a student to study at Canada?
" For so many years, we keep increasing the number of students who get JPA scholarships to study overseas. Is Malaysia getting better day by day with so many 'scholars' being sent overseas?
"3. Before students get JPA scholarship to Canada University, they have to study a year of Canadian Pre-University at Taylor's University College. They need to get an average of 6 subjects with at least 80% to qualify them to study in Canada for the following years.
"a. After completing Canadian Pre-University, some scholars do not get 80% and above and are blocked from studying overseas.
"b. Is a private student (not JPA sponsored student) who might not have done well in SPM but can get 80% and above in Canadian Pre-University qualified to apply for JPA Scholarship to study overseas?
"4. Why can't our government (JPA) stop sending student overseas but use the money to hire good lecturers from overseas to teach at local University?
"a. Government had sent so many students overseas for so many years but Malaysia didn't look better than yesterday which means this system FAILED.
"b. Hiring good lecturers to teach at local university, more students will have opportunity to get better knowledge because the costs are much cheaper.
"5. What can the students sponsored using taxpayers' money do for Malaysian after they graduate?
"a. I being told that they had to sign contract that they will work with JPA for few year if there are jobs suitable for them.
"b. Under the racist system for so many years, lots of JPA sponsored students already think of working overseas next time or even getting PR from other country! (especially Chinese because they feel that they being discriminated by some policy)
"c. Is it worth to invest so much money on the students?
"6. If students who get JPA scholarships are categorised as 'smart' students, why can't government send them to Local University to improve the rating of our own University? Is it worth sending our 'experts' to make other's university much better than Malaysia?
"7. JPA scholars to Canada sent to study a year of Canadian Pre-University at Taylor's University College which cost about RM 16k per student. This means that our government knows that Canadian Pre-University is better than Malaysia Pre-University.
"a. Why can't government implement the Canadian system (70% Course Works and 30% exam) into our STPM which is also Malaysian Pre-University? Because government know that their system is better than Malaysia so that government send scholar for this pre-university. If the system is implemented for STPM, more Malaysians can afford to get the better education. Why can't government change our STPM system which is 100% exam?
"8. Some parents always work hard to make sure their children will get the best education in the future. But there are parents who still cannot afford to send their children overseas for education because they have to use their money to pay Income Tax.
"a. I am very sad because part of their money being spent to sponsor others people's children to study overseas while we have to study locally because our dad's money being used to pay income tax.
"b. What are so special about them? Because they score many 'A' in SPM? Students who didn't score many A didn't mean they didn't work hard, it might be because of the system not suitable for them.
"c. We are willing to pay income tax if the money are used to help us or all Malaysians to get best education, not some only (which is JPA scholar in this case.)"
Saturday, July 12, 2008
KING'S SCHOLARSHIP OPEN FOR APPLICATION
ARE YOU MALAYSIAN UNDER THE AGE OF 30? Wanted Gal reports: "(If you) wish to pursue your master and doctorate degrees, you are eligible to apply for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Scholarship with the Public Service Department (PSD).
"Only 12 candidates -- six each for master and doctorate programmes -- would be given the scholarship to earn their degrees from local universities, Ivy League universities abroad or accredited institutions of higher learning, PSD said in a statement yesterday.
"The scholarships are for those who plan to pursue their studies in science and technology, economics and law.
"Priority will be given to applicants who have earned cumulative grade point average of not less than 3.75 or first-class degrees.
"'Applicants must also be active in co-curricular or community activities or have produced creative and innovative works, fluent in more than one international language and have secured places in the universities,' the statement said."
Thanks for Wanted Gal for that tip, which was delivered to me via Google Alerts. But for the uninitiated what are the King's (Yang di Pertuan Agong) Scholarships, anyway? Writing back at the end of 2006, Education Malaysia Blogspot wrote: "I've not heard of this scholarship before and was surprised when it was featured in today's NST but I'm glad that these 10 receipients are able to go overseas to pursue a post-graduate degree. It seems that this is part of an overall trend where more and more scholarships are being provided by different bodies (both public and private) for talented Malaysians to go overseas to pursue their post-graduate studies. I hope that this trend will continue.
"The NST report only said that 5 of these recipients were pursing Masters degrees while the other 5 were purusing PhDs, all in the field of science and/or technology of their choice. It didn't list down where every individual was heading to with the exception of these two individuals: Nik Noor Jehan Nik Mokhtar, 22, who is heading to Oxford and Yee Wen Huei, 24, had chosen to pursue his Masters in Automotive Engineering in Michigan University, United States. These 10 were selected out of a pool of 283 applicants.
"It is interesting to contrast this scholarship with those offered by the JPA. I suspect that all (or almost all) of the 283 applicants were applying to or had already applied to specific universities for specific courses before applying to this Yang di-Pertuan Agong scholarship. Tony has argued, quite convincing, that the JPA should only offer scholarships to individuals at the STPM or college level and not at the SPM level and furthermore, that the JPA should offer scholarships only to those who have offers from established universities. I think that this is a much better use of resources and incentives and it should certainly by applied at the post-graduate level.
"I'm sure that part of the selection criteria for this Agong scholarship included whether the applicant already had a firm offer to a graduate program overseas and whether these programs belonged to well known universities (or universities with established programs). This immediately weeds out those people who are just 'thinking' of pursuing a post graduate degree but have not taken the necessary steps like researching different programs, taking the necessary graduate exams (GRE, GMAT, etc...), and applying to their universities of choice.
"Of course, we cannot be sure of what the exact selection criteria of this scholarship is and whether all the recipients were headed to established schools or programs, without more information but I'm fairly confident that the individuals chosen are highly motivated and talented and are serious about their post-graduate studies..."
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR KOREAN UNIVERSITIES
WANT TO STUDY IN KOREA? Korea is enjoying a lot of cultural influence these days, and from Tokyo to the scooter packed lanes of Ho Chi Minh City, everyone wants to learn Korean. Skor Career reports: "Malaysian students today who wish to pursue their studies in Korea universities can apply for scholarship provided by the government of the Republic of Korea.
"This year, a total amount of RM2.3 million scholarship has been awarded to seven Malaysian students who will be commencing their degrees in Korea.
"The scholarship award each worth RM65,000 per academic year, which covers until the completion of a four year undergraduate program, in addition to one year of Korean language studies. Hence, total time spent in Korea would be 5 years. Selected students will be enrolled to top Korean universities including Seoul National University, Korea University and Yonsei University.
"The award also comes with additional benefits such as return-trip airfare, monthly allowances, language training allowance, settlement and repatriation expenses, medical insurance, as well as tuition fees.
"The scholarship opportunities are available on yearly basis, which cover the undergraduate studies, as well as pos graduate. Interested applicants can find more details in the Korean Embassy website. (Note: this yearfs scholarship opportunity is closed; students can start applying beginning of next year)..."
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
THE DYNAMICS OF BRAIN GAIN
IN YESTERDAY'S THE STAR ONLINE NEWSPAPER IS THIS ARTICLE, WRITTEN BY DANNY YAP AND DALJIT DHESI: "Malaysia's economic competitiveness could be greatly improved if the Government is able to attract world-class experts to mentor local talents in developing higher skills and knowledge in key industries.
"Human resources consultants say this approach to brain gain could propel Malaysia into a knowledge based-economy faster.
"ICC Consultant Centre Sdn Bhd managing director Dr Abdul Farouk Ahmed said the enticement of individuals with great potential or special skills and knowledge, especially foreigners, was practiced by many developed and developing countries.
"'The United States, Britain and many European countries have been snatching talents for many years to develop their economies,' he said, adding that Singapore was also very proactive in attracting foreigners with value-added skills to work and reside in its country, including Malaysians...
"HR Consultant Professional and Organisation Development Sdn Bhd managing director Thomas Chow concurred with Abdul Farouk that attracting foreign experts to the country would greatly help to nurture and develop a larger pool of talent in the various industries in Malaysia.
"'But we don't see sufficient measures taken by the authorities or the private sector to attract these experts or bright students to continue residing here,' he said.
"However, he said, in the case of Singapore, the government had an extremely aggressive human capital development and management programme to ensure a vibrant workforce.
"'For instance, there are talent scouts assigned by the government to identify bright students (foreign or local) studying at universities in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and even Malaysia.
"'They would offer them work opportunities in the republic with attractive remuneration packages that include good pay and other perks like residency after a certain period of employment, among other things...'"
Monday, June 30, 2008
19 MALAYSIAN STUDENTS RECEIVE EU ERASMUS MUNDUS SCHOLARSHIPS
THE STAR ONLINE WROTE YESTERDAY: "A total of 19 students from Malaysia have been selected to receive an EU Erasmus Mundus scholarship for the academic year 2008/09.
"These EU (European Union) scholarships will allow them to study in Europe for one to two years.
"The students will obtain a Master's degree from one of 103 top-quality Erasmus Mundus Masters Courses offered by European higher education institutions.
"The EU's Erasmus Mundus programme promotes cooperation and exchange between centres of excellence and learning in the EU and around the world.
"It supports European Masters Courses and gives scholarships for students from other countries to study in Europe and scholarships for EU students to study in partner universities throughout the world.
"Up to 2007, 80 Malaysian students have received scholarships to study at European universities. The latest selection adds 19 students and scholars to that list, raising the total number of Malaysian recipients to 99 over the last five years.
"The selected students will study informatics and information technology, engineering, international relations and European studies..."
MNRB SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STAFF AND STUDENTS
THE STAR ONLINE ALSO WROTE YESTERDAY: "In keeping with its commitment to develop human potential, the MNRB Scholarship Fund, which is part of MNRB Holdings, gave out 62 scholarships recently.
"Sharkawi Alis, chairman of the MNRB Group and also chairman of the MNRB Scholarship Fund, said the awards would help produce more actuaries and insurance professionals for the local insurance industry.
"Also present were the parents of the students, as well as the directors and other management staff of the MNRB Group.
"The scholarship for the full-time studies at local universities will cover tuition fees and living allowances.
"The fund recently doubled its allowance from RM4,000 to RM8,000 per annum for the Diploma and Matriculation programmes.
"Meanwhile, the amount for the degree programmes has been increased from RM6,000 to RM10,000 per year.
"In his speech, Sharkawi also mentioned that in addition to the scholarships, the fund had, since 2007, sponsored students to pursue the DMII (Diploma of the Malaysian Insurance Institute) and AMU (Associateship of the Malaysian Insurance Institute).
"The courses are conducted at the the Malaysian Insurance Institute (MIM).
"Those pursuing the DMII and AMU courses are employees currently working in the insurance industry..."
Saturday, June 28, 2008
KNOWLEDGE ECONOMIC CITY AL-MADINAH (KEC) SIGNS DEALS WITH SAUDI, MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITIES
REPORTS ZAWYA: The Knowledge Economic City Al-Madinah (KEC) this week signed a number of agreements with Saudi and Malaysian universities. The signing ceremonies took place during Noor Forum, the first-ever Islamic forum for science and knowledge, which was inaugurated by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah on Monday.
"The first agreement worth $2 million was signed with the HELP University College (HUC) of Malaysia for specialized educational programs for Saudi nationals.
"Tahir Bawazir, CEO of KECKEC, and Professor Zakaria Ahmad, executive director of HELP University College signed the deal on behalf of their respective organizations. According to the agreement, HUC will offer two Tuition Assistance Programs (TAPs) worth $1 million each to working professionals from Saudi Arabia. The two programs are the Advanced Management Program (AMP) and HELP Continuing Professional Development program (HCPD).
"The beneficiaries of the program will be senior executives within the Saudi business community..."
STUDENTS LACK THE DESIRE TO EXCEL: MINISTER
WROTE BRUNEI ONLINE: "Generally, Malaysian students lack the desire to excel in their studies.
"Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun also notes that they are quite satisfied with obtaining just average scores in their examinations.
"Today's students, he said, were more focused in finishing their studies quickly, which was why they chose courses which were considered easy.
"Masidi, who is also state education executive councillor, feared the students who chose easy courses during university, would find there was little demand for their expertise in the job market when they graduated.
"'The easier the course, the harder it is to find a job. Whereas, the harder the course, the easier it is to get a job...'
"And so, parents should motivate their children to go beyond their capabilities," he said at the Shell Educational Excellence Awards here (Kota Kinabalu, Bernama), yesterday.
"Masidi, who represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman at the ceremony, also stressed the attitudes of parents who preferred their children to pursue studies at universities or higher learning institutions nearer to home...
"Some 40 academically outstanding students from Sabah and Labuan received scholarships from Shell Malaysia to pursue their pre-university and first-degree studies at local and overseas universities..."
As Steve Coyle at Transitions Abroad has written: "Few people from the West consider going to Malaysia to study. But where else can you study English in a foreign country with year-round summer, and receive a masters for under $4,000 or a computer qualification (MSCD 2000) for under $1,200? The Universiti Malaya (the Harvard of Malaysia) offers a 1 1/2-year masters program in Instructional Technology conducted in English.
"Most of the highly qualified lecturers received their college degrees in the U.S.
"Class discussions involve multiple perspectives: not just Western and Eastern but Malay, Indian, and Chinese. My most valuable reward wasn't the degree, it was the insight I got into Malaysian society. Although I've worked here seven years, I now understand how Malaysians think much better after going through their educational system.
"Most of Malaysia's universities are located in beautiful areas. The Universiti Malaya is nestled in a semi-jungle in the middle of Kuala Lumpur. The IT facilities are adequate to create web-based learning programs, which was one of my main goals. And as I said, the price was great.
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): 43400 UPM SERDANG, Selangor. Phone: 03-8946 6000. Web: website here.
Among many other things, you can study Food Science and Nutrition at UPM. As the university's own website points out: "The Ministry of Health Malaysia has selected the (UPM's) Faculty of Food Science and Technology as the institution of choice to establish the National Food Safety Research Centre (NFSR) due to the renowned research expertise of the Faculty members in food safety. This was immediately followed by the recognition and appointment of the NFSR as the information network coordinator in the field of Microbiological Risk Assessment (MRA) for the Asia-Pacific region by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nation Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific.
"Another historical milestones of achievement was the establishment of the Institute for Research on Halal Products. The institute is now playing a major role in the instituting of Halal issues in products marketed in Malaysia or meant for the export market.
"Our three pillars - Department of Food Science, Department of Food Technology and Department of Food Service and Management represents a proven interactive working collaboration that utilizes every possible synergistic approach providing the Faculty with a very successful for Faculty of Food Science and Technology..."
London School of Business and Finance (LSBF): Campuses in the United Kingdom, Canada and Singapore; regional offices in Hong Kong, India and Pakistan. Phone: +44 (0) 20 3535 1122, +60 12 304 6623. Email: slee@lsbf.org.uk. Follow on Twitter: Twitter page here. Web: website here.
Now open to international students in Singapore, the London School of Business and Finance offers a number of scholarships for Malaysian students. Students are eligible for a 100 per cent funded MBA or MSc if you are studying ACCA (accounting) or CIMA. To apply or to find out more about the LSBF Scholarships or MARA Scholarships, please call Suzanne Lee on +60 12 304 6623 or email: slee@lsbf.org.uk.
Computer Science at USM began with a course in programming in 1974. It has since developed into a specialisation in Computer Science under the Bachelor of Science (Mathematics) honours degree, and eventually the Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) (B.Sc. (Comp.Sc.)) degree with honours was offered. Beginning in the 1983/84 session, after a complete revamp of the curriculum, the Bachelor of Computer Science (B.Comp.Sc) degree with honours was offered to replace the B.Sc. (Comp.Sc.) degree.
B.Comp.Sc. (Hons) USM has achieved significantly in producing highly qualified graduates that have been widely accepted by both the public and the private sectors. An important contributing factor to this success is its strong curriculum, which always strives to achieve a balance between the teaching of the theory of computing and exposure to practical aspects. The curriculum has been continually updated in accordance with current technology. Beginning with the 1996/97 session, 3 year fulltime degree programme had been offered. This programme also being offered as external programme with private colleges as well.
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM): 40450 Shah Alam, Shah Alam, Selangor. Web: website here.
Founded in 1956 in the garden city of Shah Alam, where my aforementioned Japanese buddy Hiroshi chose to locate himself when he stayed in Malaysia. This is a university with its eye on the future. Comprising three satellite campuses, 12 branch campuses, six city campuses and 25 franchise colleges apart from its main Shah Alam campus, UiTM also has ambitions for a "smart campus" in keeping with its high technology mission and vision. In fact, this university has a global aspiration... to be a world class university.
UiTM maintains "centres of excellence" around Malaysia and influencing all currents of Malaysian society, to help develop the nation informationally and technologically. The "centers of excellence" include the Malaysia Institute of Transport (MITRANS), the National Soil Erosion Centre (NASEC), the Institute of Research, Development and Commercialisation (IRDC), the Institute of Knowledge Advancement (InKA), the UiTM-MICG Corporate Governance Centre, the Asian Centre for English Language Teaching, the Centre for Consultancy and Testing Halal Haram, the Computer Aided Design Engineering and Manufacturing Microwave Technology Centre, the Financial Reporting Research Centre, the Institute Kajian Zakat Malaysia, the Institute of Biotechnology and the Institute of Journalism.
The faculties at UiTM are Science and Technology (including applied sciences, Information Technology (IT), architecture, planning and surveying, sports science and recreation), Medical Science, Engineering, Social Sciences (including law and communication and media studies) and Business and Management. There are also language studies and a Centre for Islamic Thought & Understanding Centre (CITU).
Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UTN): Km 7 Jalan Kajang-Puchong, 43009 Kajang, Selangor. Phone: 603/8921 2020. Fax: 603/8928 7166.
Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Campus: 26700 Bandar Muadzam, Shah Pahang. Phone: 609/455 2020. Fax: 609/455 2000.
Email: info@uniten.edu.my. Web: website here.
Described as a premier university in business and engineering. The university is broken up into three colleges (Engineering, Business Management and Accounting, and Information Technology (IT)), with a further Institute of Liberal Studies. The business management and accountancy programmes are conducted at the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Campus. According to the university's website: "Friendly fellow students, obliging university staff, familiar cultures and campus conveniences at Universiti Tenaga Nasional would assist foreign students adapt quickly and make studying in Malaysia a most enjoyable and rewarding experience."
Universiti Utara Malaysia: Kampus Kuantan, Kolej Yayasan Pelajaran, MARA, KM 8, Jalan Gambang, 25150, Kuantan, Pahang.
Phone: 09/536 7021. Web: website here.
Established in 1984, the University Utara Malaysia has attracted a large number of overseas students, according to International Education Media. The university has also established network and collaboration with local and international education centres, and developed a rich mix of workforce from across Asia. About 29 undergraduate programs are on offer, and almost the same number of graduate programs. Graduate programs are being offered in Sungai Petani, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, Kuantan and Cambodia.
Courses include Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Literature, Master of Science (Management) and Master of Science (Information Technology), Master of Business Administration, Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Management, among many more.
University College Sedaya International (UCSI): No.1, Jalan Menara Gading, UCSI Heights
56000 Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur campus.)
Phone: +603 9101 8880. Web: website here.
Obtain your Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Food Science & Nutrition at UCSI. Students with a Bachelor of Science in Food Science & Nutrition would be able to find employment in food-related industries, as there is a steady need for skilled professionals as consumer demand increases for nutritious, safe and convenient food.
They can work in manufacturing or in Research & Development (R&D) such as in new product development, quality assurance, food technology and research food technology. Graduates can embark on exciting careers as Quality Control Scientists, Production Supervisors, Food Engineers, Product Development Technologies, Food Microbiologists, Flavour Chemists, Food Safety Inspector and Researchers in universities and hospitals. MoHE Compulsory Subjects
Bahasa Kebangsaan, Malaysian Studies, Moral Studies or Islamic Studies.
s t u d e n t + l o a n s
SOME STUDENT LOAN RESOURCES:
Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional Malaysia (PTPTN): National Higher Education Fund Corporation. Phone: 604/646 3687. Fax: 604/646 2473. Email: info@fris.edu.my. Web: website here.
The New Strait Times reported in March 2012: "PTPTN is a study loan programme open to students pursuing studies at the diploma, first degree, masters and doctorate levels and professional courses at recognised local public universities (IPTAs). Students taking a diploma or first degree programme in polytechnics or local private colleges (IPTSs) are also eligible to apply. Since 2007, the loan has been available for students who are pursuing part-time studies in IPTAs or polytechnics, as well as long distant studies in IPTAs, Asia E University, Open University Malaysia or Wawasan Open University (editor's note: my hyperlinks!)."
Yep, you read that right -- robotics is the future, and Malaysia is up there with Japan as one of the leaders of the field.
Institut Bioteknologi Melaka: Ayer Keroh, near the Melaka International Trade Centre.
This institute was opened in 2005 and represents an attempt to put the Malaysian state of Melaka on the map in the global global biotechnology and bioinformatics markets. Speaking at the opening of Institut Bioteknologi Melaka at Ayer Keroh, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said the institute comprised four incubator companies which were involved in producing value-added agricultural produce and fruits.
"In addition, the institute will also produce plant exctracts from herbal plants for the production of pharmaceuticals, nutriceuticals and cosmetics," he said.
According to SciDevNet, another Malaysian state, Sabah, has drawn up a ten-year action plan to become a world biotechnology in the state.
Sabah's chief minister Musa Aman said biotechnology would help the state move from being an exporter of raw or semi-processed biological products, to value-added biological products.
The state government plans to encourage the private sector to participate in commercialising innovations and provide support by developing the necessary infrastructure such as permanent food production zones, agro-technology parks and agro-industrial clusters.
Malaysia Institute of Integrated Media (MIIM): 1 Jalan 9/27A Section 5, Wangsa Maju,
53300, Kuala Lumpur. Phone: 603/4142 2422. Fax: 603/4142 8422.
Formerly known as Akademi TV3 (ATV3), MIIM is considered the first comprehensive broadcasting and multimedia institution of higher learning in Malaysia. Based at the fastgrowing Wangsa Maju district of Kuala Lumpur, MIIM offers certificate programs in animation, audio production, broadcast journalism, media appreciation, multimedia, post production, script writing, videography and video production. Diploma programs are available in broadcasting, broadcast management, integrative journalism, media studies, multimedia and visual communication.
d i s t a n c e + l e a r n i n g
DISTANCE LEARNING AND EDUCATION IS ON THE RISE IN MALAYSIA. As the Japan based AIDE organization pointed out: "E-learning for tertiary education in Malaysia is at an early stage but certainly progressing. With respect to Malaysia's 2020 Vision in becoming a fully developed country, the utilization of e leaning allows for a more balanced education as opposed to the traditional face-to-face (FTF) education. The concept of distance learning or mix-mode learning is fast becoming the way of delivering education to the masses. To highlight the distance/mix-mode education and the role of e-learning, the talk will focus on three prominent universities in the country. Many public institutes of higher learning, for example, USM, use e-learning in a mixed-mode environment i.e. a blend of e-learning and FTF learning. Two private universities, UNITAR and OUM offer almost 90% of their courses on-line and with e-learning environment.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is the first university in the country that offers various degree programs by distance learning beginning in 1971. With advances in ICT, the programs now operate fully through learning centers established in the country by audio and audio graphic teleconference, video teleconference, and e-learning portal. To date, more than 11,000 have graduated in the fields of Humanities, Socila Sciences, Science, Education, Engineering, and Management.
"Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNITAR) is the nation's first e-learning, MSC-status and ISO 9001:2000-certified private university in Malaysia. Officiated in 1998, UNITAR offers the best combination in its teaching and e-learning methods by combining limited face-to-face classes with the effective use of web-based courseware and online tutorials. UNITAR currently offers 28 academic programs, 11 of which are accredited by the National Accreditation Council (LAN). All UNITAR programmers are approved by the Private Education Department. The programs range from foundation and diploma up to doctorate degrees in fields such as information technology, business administration and humanities and social sciences. To date, the student enrollment is about 8000 and more than 1200 students have graduated.
Open University of Malaysia (OUM) was established on 10 August 2000 as the first open and distance learning university of Malaysia. It is a private university owned by a consortium of 11 Malaysian public universities. The university practices a learning mode that incorporates learners?f interaction with lecturers, on line learning, and self-study. Since its establishment in 2000, the number of learners enrolled at the university has grown from 400 to over 25,000. Almost 90% of the students are working adults, a majority of which are school teachers and military personnel."
d e n t i s t r y + s c h o o l s
FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO STUDY DENTRISTY IN MALAYSIA, HERE IS SOME INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM WIKIPEDIA. If you want to know about studying dentistry in other countries, go to this Wikipedia feed:
"In Malaysia, there are 3 universities currently offering dentistry course. The universities are Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and Universiti Sains Malaysia, although many other Malaysian universities are showing interest in offering undergraduate course in dentistry in the future.
"Dentists trained in Malaysia have to complete 5 years of undergraduate study (previously 4 years) before earning a B.D.S (Universiti Malaya) or a D.D.S (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia/Universiti Sains Malaysia). Undergraduates in Malaysia are required to spend the first 2 years in pre-clinical lectures and the next 3 years they are required to do clinical sessions as well as attending lectures.
"Once graduated from the course, Malaysian dentists are required to serve the Malaysian Government for 3 years compulsory service, regardless where they completed their undergraduate study."
e d u c a t i o n + n e w s
TWO MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITIES WILL BECOME AMONG THE WORLD'S TOP 50 UNDER TARGETS RECENTLY SET BY THE MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT. According to The Star newspaper (March 15 2006): "Universiti Malaya is the highest-ranked local university in the world rankings published by Britain's The Times Higher Education Supplement. However, it dropped from 89th place in 2004 to 169th last year."
The world ratings of Malaysia's universities would rise dramatically, however, under the ambitious plans announced by Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed.
"An environment where the world's best teach, learn and conduct research is highly likely to produce stellar results and bring immense value to the ecosystem within which it exists," he said in his speech at the opening of an international conference on university learning and teaching organised by Universiti Teknologi Mara yesterday (March 14 2006).
"Among the tools available to help us gauge our progress towards these goals are international benchmarks and rankings. We have set ourselves a target to maintain at least two of our universities in the list of the world's top 50."
Chinese Connection: Old news, but might be of interest to Chinese readers (that is, people living in China):
This story is dated from 2004, and lifted from the China Education and Research Network:
"China's Xiamen University and the University of Malaya (UM) Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to undertake joint research and exchange of students and staff.
"The Memorandum was signed by President of Xiamen University Professor Zhu Chong Shi and UM Vice Chancellor Professor Hashim Yaacob. Malaysian Higher Education Minister Dr. Shafie Salleh witnessed the event.
"Speaking after the signing ceremony, Hashim said UM's staff could utilize their sabbatical leave to pursue research or even teaching at Xiamen University.
"On the same occasion, Professor Zhu said that Xiamen University has, since 1990, enrolled 1,015 long-distance learning students from Malaysia in programs like Chinese traditional medicine, acupuncture and Chinese language.
"Shafie, in his speech, said Malaysia looks forward to more students from China studying in UM as well as other universities and private colleges in the country.
"Xiamen University, set up in 1921, is one of a few universities in China that offer courses in Southeast Asia Studies.
"Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi toured the university in October 2003 during his visit to China.
"After the visit, Abdullah proposed the establishment of the Institute of China Studies, which was subsequently established in February this year."
s t u d y + c o s t s
YOU HAVE DECIDED TO COME AND STUDY IN MALAYSIA -- WELL, HOW MUCH IS IT GOING TO COST? Malaysia is one of the cheapest countries in the world to study in, and that is a big reason it is so popular with overseas students. According to World Federation website, an average student could expect to pay US$5000 or less per year in accommodation, meals, transportation and entertainment. Which makes studying in Malaysia a whole lot cheaper than studying in Japan! When it comes to tuition fees, a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in such fields as accounting, business administration, finance or marketing should cost you RM36,000 (US$1=RM3.73 as of January 2006). At the upper end of the scale, obtaining a Masters of Pharmacy might set you back RM66,000 -- still cheap by international standards.
v i s a + i n f o r m a t i o n
HERE IS THE PROCEDURE OUTLINED BY THE MALAYSIA IMMIGRATION ACT FOR THE GRANTING OF STUDENT VISAS:
A potential student must submit an application for enrolment to the institution he/she has chosen.
Upon approval of the application, the institution makes a submission for Immigration Approval to Malaysia Immigration Authority.
Upon receipt of the Immigration Approval, the institution sends an offer letter and the Immigration Approval to the student who is required to present these at the Immigration Counter upon arrival to the country.
After entering Malaysia, the institution undertakes the responsibility of sending the student's passport to the Malaysian Immigration Authority to obtain the student Visa.
Renewal of Student Visa is also undertaken by the institution.
Multiple Entry Visas (MEVs) generally cost about RM20 to RM30, depending on your country of origin. Thai citizens can get them for free (then again, the Thai border is not that far away), a benefit also enjoyed by Japanese citizens. Danes and folks from Finland need only pay RM6. To see how much it will cost you to get a MEV, click here.
o t h e r + r e s o u r c e s
HERE ARE SOME ONLINE RESOURCES FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN STUDYING IN MALAYSIA, AND GENERAL ISSUES INFLUENCING HIGHER EDUCATION IN MALAYSIA:
Agilent Malaysia: http://www.jobs.agilent.com/students/malaysia.html.
Agilent Malaysia offers industrial/vacation training to Malaysian undergraduates from local and overseas universities and colleges. The company also provides opportunities (and sponsorships) for final year undergraduates who wish to do their final year projects at Agilent Technologies Malaysia.
Agilent Malaysia conducts yearly campus visits, recruitment drives and career exhibitions locally and overseas (Australia, Taiwan, Japan, UK and USA). On-line and print advertisements are placed on campus web-sites and on notice boards to inform students of upcoming Agilent events and invite applications. Agilent Malaysia's campus recruitment team, comprised of engineering and human resources managers, conducts on-campus interviews during their visits. Students are also encouraged to apply for jobs on the website listed above.
Doctor Jobs: http://www.doctorjob.com.my/.
This is a resource for students and jobseekers in Malaysia. You can search for courses or colleges, find out entry requirements, apply for scholarships, and read national education news. And oh -- you can also look for jobs!
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): 43400 UPM SERDANG, Selangor. Phone: 03-8946 6000. Web: 