http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/3087130.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/3087130
UPM gets AACSB accreditation
30 July 2012 | last updated at 02:51PM
http://www.nst.com.my/latest/upm-gets-aacsb-accreditation-1.115994#

SERDANG: Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is the first university in the country to receive an accreditation from the international body, Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), recently.

UPM vice-chancellor Datuk Dr Radin Umar Radin Sohadi said, the recognition was for the Economic and Management Faculty and Putra Business School, making UPM the sixth university in South East Asia to receive the accreditation.

"AACSB accreditation is a feature of excellence in business education which is only obtained by less than five per cent of business programmes in the world," he told a press conference, here, today.

AACSB, which was set up in 1916, is the oldest international accreditation body for business education at universities offering bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees programmes.

UPM's success was announced by AACSB president and chief executive officer John J. Fernandes in Tampa, Florida, United States through the website www.aacsb.edu on July 26.

Among the universities which had received the recognition were Texas University of the United States, Chonnam National University and Dongguk University in South Korea, Istanbul University in Turkey and Peking University in China.

Dr Radin Umar said the accreditation process involved a stringent internal study, evaluations and adjustments and took several years to meet the 21 stipulated criteria.

Among the criteria, he said were quality teaching activities, deciding on challenging but realistic standards, guiding improvement in education programmes and providing challenges to education to carry out continuous improvements.

Furthermore, also taken into account was the academic quality as a result of the faculty communicating with students in a scientific programme which was supported by the institution including the existing quality of education in the institution.

Dr Radin said all business schools which received the recognition must undergo a 'Peer Review' process every five years to ensure their accreditations would be maintained. -- BERNAMA

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/1920x1280/6579015.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/6579015

UTM offers nuclear engineering degree
By Mahaizura Abdul Malik | 03 August 2012 | last updated at 12:51AM
http://www.nst.com.my/streets/johor/utm-offers-nuclear-engineering-degree-1.119147#ixzz22RrSGhEJ

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.119187.1343926124!/image/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.JPG

A faculty staff (left) shows FPREE deputy dean Issham Ismail an equipment
to be used in the nuclear engineering course. Pic by Mahaizura AbdMalik

STARTING SEPTEMBER: 30 local students in pioneer group for four-year course

JOHOR BARU: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is introducing a nuclear engineering degree programme, the first such programme in Malaysia, in September, in an effort to produce professionals in the field.

UTM's Faculty of Petroleum and Renewable Energy Engineering (FPREE) dean Prof Dr Ariffin Samsuri said the course had been approved by the Higher Education Ministry.

"The course is offered to meet current needs. It is expected that by 2020, the country would need additional energy sources," he said at a press conference recently.

"Nuclear energy is widely used in the fields of genetic engineering, agriculture and manufacturing. It is seen as an alternative source of energy and one of the cheapest to produce.

"Even though nuclear energy is one of the cleanest sources, there are issues regarding its safety. The new programme will focus on the safety aspects, including its effects on the environment. The programme also meets the standards of the International Atomic Energy Agency," he said.

Ariffin said the first group of students for the four-year course will comprise 30 local students.

He said those who are interested to apply must have a Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia, matriculation or diploma holders with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 3.0.

"Students will undergo a 12-week training according to the Malaysian Engineering Accreditation Council requirements at the Atomic Energy Licensing Board in Dengkil, Selangor,"

"We hope the programme will produce nuclear engineers who will serve in Malaysia and abroad," he said.

Also present at the press conference was FPREE deputy dean Issham Ismail.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/IMG_5820.jpg
http://housenumber33.blogspot.com/2011/03/new-nusajaya-coming-soon.html
NUMed will introduce its Bio-Medical Science degree course in September
By YEE XIANG YUN Monday August 6, 2012
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2012/8/6/southneast/11792781&sec=southneast

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/8/6/southneast/jbynewcastle%2012_nusahaya.jpg

Welcome:
Jordan giving a tour of the campus in EduCity@Iskandar, Nusajaya, Johor.

NUSAJAYA: Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia (NUMed) aims to provide quality healthcare education to Malaysians and contribute to the healthcare industry here.

NUMed provost and chief executive officer Prof Reg Jordan said to stay true to their commitment, the university would be introducing its Bio-Medical Science honours degree course in its 2013 academic year starting September.

He said the three-year course would add to its existing Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree programme.

“It will be compulsory for students to complete their research-heavy third year at our Newcastle campus but at a Malaysian fee of RM33,000 per year, which is relatively cheaper than the UK,” he said at a media briefing at its local campus at EduCity@Iskandar, Nusajaya here, recently.

He said this to enable students access to more high-technology and intensive research facilities, including gene sequencing and stem-cell machines which costs about RM9.8mil each, that are unavailable at their Malaysian campus.

Jordan added that the course application has been submitted to the Malaysian Qualification Agency (MQA) and was in its approval stages.

Besides that, Jordan added that the campus has a unique centralised software system with its UK counterpart, whereby students can access their lecture notes and resources materials not only from the local campus but also the Newcastle campus libraries.

“The university is quite selective in the student intake because we want to produce quality students into the medical field, that explains our 1:4 lecturer to student ratio.

“We currently have 220 students in NUMed and believe it will reach about 1,000 students by 2018,” he added.

NUMed began offering its MBBS programme since 2009 and operated its flagship campus at EduCity since 2011.

Newcastle University also became its first ever UK university to establish a fully owned international branch campus for medicine in Malaysia, reflecting its long-term commitment to the Malaysian higher education.

M’sia and New Zealand recognise each other’s Bachelor’s degree
Updated: Monday August 13, 2012 MYT 8:14:29 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/8/13/nation/20120813195836&sec=nation#1345102111187220&if_height=202

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia and New Zealand today signed a statement of confidence (SoC) recognising that their Bachelor's degrees meet the standards and quality in both countries.

The signatories were Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) chief executive officer, Datuk Syed Ahmad Hussein and New Zealand Qualifications Agency (NZQA) deputy chief executive of qualifications, Richard Thornton.

Syed Ahmad said the recognition followed the formation of a technical committee to provide a comparison report on the standard of Bachelor's degree and quality assurance systems of both agencies.

"The committee focused on efforts to determine the comparability between the standard of Bachelor's degree set by New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) and Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF)," he told a press conference after the signing ceremony at MQA office on Monday.

It was also part of the implementation of the Memorandum of Cooperation between MQA and NZQA signed on April 14, 2011.

The framework and progress of the committee was also reviewed by Dr Bryan Maguire of Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC), Ireland, who was appointed as international verifier for both parties.

Syed Ahmad said the SoC was only the start and would make the exchange of students of both countries much easier.

"We hope this joint statement will encourage the mobility of students and instructors from the education systems in Malaysia and New Zealand."

About 2,100 Malaysian students are pursuing studies in New Zealand. - Bernama

Four more M’sian students to study medicine in Havana under Cuban govt scholarship
Posted on August 25, 2012, Saturday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/08/25/four-more-msian-students-to-study-medicine-in-havana-under-cuban-govt-scholarship/

PETALING JAYA: Four Malaysian students will leave for Havana Cuba, on Sunday to study medicine under scholarships sponsored by the Cuban government.

Cuban Embasador to Malaysia, Ruben Valdes said they would join another 28 Malaysian students still studying at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM) in Havana under the scholarship programme which was introduced six years ago.

“The course takes seven years to complete and the first batch of the Malaysian students are expected to graduate in 2014,” he told reporters after officiating the scholarship awards ceremony here yesterday.

Valdes said during the first year the students were required to master Spanish, the medium of instruction at the university.

On the value of scholarships, Valdes said it varied, but each students only paid for their flight to and from Cuba, while others costs including accomodation, books, equipment, tuition fees and allowances were included in the scholarships.

One of the recipients from the 2010 batch, Thanussha Francis Xavier, 21, from Taiping Perak, said she was thankful for the scholarship and hoped more deserving students would get their chance to pursue their dreams in education.

Thanusha, who is in her second year and scored 10 A’s in her SPM in 2008, described life in Cuba as different and the opportunity to study abroad had opened her eyes and appreciate Malaysia even more.

A new recipient, Vinodh Sethumadavan, 17 from Klang, who scored 9 A’s and 1 B in his SPM last year, said that he understood that he had to sacrifice seven years without being with his family but they were the reason why he had vowed to make a difference in his future. — Bernama

Universiti Malaya’s road map to excellence
By NURADILLA NOORAZAM | 29 August 2012 | last updated at 09:14AM
http://www.nst.com.my/top-news/universiti-malaya-s-road-map-to-excellence-1.130774#

MEGA PROJECTS: UM poised to be one of the world’s top universities

KUALA LUMPUR: UNIVERSITI Malaya, the country’s oldest higher institution of learning, has embarked on the road to “recovery”, with massive projects under way that will generate more than 30,000 jobs in the next five years.

A shopping mall on its campus, new private university and expansion of its specialist centre, UM Specialist Centre (UMSC), planned eight months after it was awarded autonomy by the Higher Education Ministry, will boost its
standing in the world university ranking.

Vice-chancellor Professor Tan Sri Dr Ghauth Jasmon said apart from attracting quality students from all over the world, the mega projects would ensure that UM emerged as one of the world’s top universities.

Last year, UM, which had participated in the QS World University Ranking by the Quacquarelli Systems since four years ago, was at the 167th spot.

Ghauth said its private university, now at the final stage of completion, would open its door to local and foreign students by early next year.

Although Ghauth declined to furnish details about the projects, he said an official announcement would be made in a month’s time.

“Our most anticipated project this year is the expansion of UMSC, which will be equipped with more medical facilities, purchase of state-ofthe- art research equipment and the creation of a commercial hub for medical companies to operate.

“UMSC’s expansion will boost UM’s medical faculty as it will provide opportunities for our students and lecturers to practise medicine.”

Many of the world’s top universities had strong medical faculties and advanced research centres, he said, adding that the project would help the university to improve its standing in the world ranking.

“As a leading research university, we aspire to be among the world’s top varsities. Although the concept of research university was introduced only five years ago, I believe we have the responsibility to prove to the world our worth as a leading research university.”

He added UMSC’s expansion would be ready within three years, with construction starting early next year.

The projects, Ghauth said, were in line with the autonomy privileges accorded to UM, which required it to raise 30 per cent of its own operating expenditure by 2015.

“As we have the freedom to create our own revenue stream, we decided to opt for this big development project, which is the development of a shopping mall on our campus area.

“If all goes well, our shopping mall will include restaurants, a hotel and business outlets.

“At the same time, we are building more hostels for our students and staff.”

With the projects anticipated to generate high revenue for the university, Ghauth said its transportation facilities would also improve over time.

“In a few more years, we will see electric trains directly connected to the university by two operators. There will be a station in the campus via the Sungai Buloh-Kelana Jaya MRT line."

He also said new guidelines to ensure quality had been introduced for both students and staff in line with its aim to be one of the world's top 100 universities by 2015 and top 50 universities by 2020.

"For the academic staff, we have implemented stricter criteria for promotion where all aspects will be looked into like publication records, supervision and teaching," he said at a ceremony to welcome 3,000 post-graduate students, including 700 foreigners to the university yesterday.

Ghauth also said the world's renowned academicians would be invited to its Academic Icon Programme to motivate students and staff.

"Last year, we invited three Nobel Laureate winners, including 1989 winner Prof Lee Yuan Tseh (Chemistry) to speak to our students."

UM, he said, had also hired experts in various fields to become lecturers.

Through the projects, Ghauth hoped that a better ranking could be achieved this year.

"However, we must acknowledge that the rankings appear inconsistent due to multiple factors. The most important aspect is to keep an upward fluctuation over time and achieve our target."

New History curriculum for schools being drafted
By RAHIMY RAHIM Published: Thursday September 6, 2012 MYT 11:52:00 AM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/6/nation/20120906115040&sec=nation#1346924368897531&if_height=202

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is drafting a new curriculum for the History subject and text books based on recommendations made by a special committee, especially for secondary school level, said Deputy Prime Minister Tan Muhyiddin Yassin.

"It is a big task and the reports have been forwarded to me. We hope to carry out the necessary implementations within our time frame," said Muhyiddin, who is also the Education Minister, in his opening remarks during the Malaysian Historical Society annual general meeting here Thursday.

It was reported that the special committee was set up to look into the content of the History curriculum and secondary school to ensure that it will be able to nurture patriotism and loyalty to the country among students.

UTM software for quick detection of fake degrees
By Chuah Bee Kim and Salman Hamat 0 comments
14 September 2012 | last updated at 08:17PM
http://www.nst.com.my/streets/johor/utm-software-for-quick-detection-of-fake-degrees-1.143161

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.143167.1347538582!/image/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.JPG

Muhammad Zaly Shah Muhammad Husin says the software is designed to
save potential employers time and costs — and from being duped. Pic by
Mohamad Shahril Badri Saali

JOHOR BARU: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has developed a "Quick Response" (QR) to enable employers to detect fake UTM degrees.

UTM's Environmental Resources Faculty senior lecturer Dr Muhammad Zaly Shah Muhammad Hussein, said the technology enabled employers to check the QR codes embedded in UTM-issued certificates with the job applicant's thumbprint to determine their authenticity.

The software is called "Identity Management Business Application Suite" (Imbas) and it is designed to help employers save costs and time.

"Employers need not call UTM each time they receive an application with a UTM degree. To check if the certificate is genuine, they would only need to check if the applicant's thumbprint and the QR on the certificate match," Zaly said.

"The applicant cannot make changes to the certificate as the details are verifiable by Imbas," he added.

Zaly said Imbas would also furnish information such as the date the certificate was issued, the background of the degree holder and his academic achievements.

He said Imbas was user-friendly and could be used by anyone with a handphone or a web camera.

"Go to www.imbas.my to download the software first. Institutions of higher learning who want to use the software will need to procure the licence and pay an annual fee."

Besides being a boon to academia, the software will also be useful to the human resource departments of private and public sector companies.

"The QR code uses AES128, the the same Belgian technology used by the National Security Agency of the United States to protect classified information," Muhammad Zaly said.

King wants more people with PhD
Published: Tuesday September 18, 2012 MYT 6:05:00 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/9/18/nation/20120918180506&sec=nation#13479744294511259&if_height=202

SINTOK: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah wishes to see more Malaysians with doctorate degrees (PhD).

He said that currently most of the PhD holders were in public and private institutions of higher learning.

Towards this end he said, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and political parties could play their part.

"It would be more beneficial to the country if political parties and the NGOs were to make this their main agenda.

"Children should be instilled awareness on how education can change the life of the poor as well as the importance of mastering English, and to be knowledgeable in science and mathematics," he said at the Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) 25th convocation here Tuesday.

The King said, based on statistics from the Higher Education Ministry, about 7,800 staff at public and private institutions in the country were PhD holders and about 20,000 others holders of Masters degrees. - Bernama

EDUCATION BLUEPRINT: Realistic plan for excellence
17 September 2012 | last updated at 12:42AM
http://www.nst.com.my/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/education-blueprint-realistic-plan-for-excellence-1.144572

THE Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, sounds to me like a total reform. It pushes for excellence among teachers and students.

It could have not come at a better time. And an interesting part of it is that it will promote unity.

And, as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said, weaknesses in the present system had to be acknowledged and Malaysians should not be in denial if the country was to move forward.

The prime minister said the education system had to be revamped to produce thinking and innovative students to meet future needs. And for a competitive edge, Malaysians should be bilingual, if not multilingual, Najib said.

Among other aspects of the blueprint that I like are:

THE inclusion of community services in a child's education;

THAT Englsih teachers will be assessed against the Cambridge English Placement Test; and,

THAT there will be 4G Internet access, virtual learning for 10,000 schools nationwide and a parental engagement toolkit plus online access to their children's progress points.

With these approaches, we are moving towards quality education.

And most interesting is the new teacher career package to woo the best to education.

I see that we have got a good package. I do not think Malaysians could have asked for anything more.

A big thank you to the government for being so realistic and meeting the nation's agenda in education.

http://www.malaysianur.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/72856266-A5E2-4A0C-B6C9-8DF87F7CC5A0.jpg
http://www.malaysianur.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/72856266-A5E2-4A0C-B6C9-8DF87F7CC5A0.jpg
155 UUM PhD grads this year
07 October 2012 | last updated at 12:36AM
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/155-uum-phd-grads-this-year-1.153586

SINTOK: A total 155 people yesterday were conferred doctorate degrees (PhDs), including 23 in business administration (DBA) at the 25th convocation of Universiti Utara Malaysia here.

The number had risen drastically compared with last year, when only nine received PhDs in various fields and four received DBAs.

This year, 85 of those who received PhDs were foreigners, while 47 were Malaysians.

Twenty of the DBA graduates were Malaysians and the other three foreigners.

A total of 1,690 graduates received their scrolls, including 1,496 who received their master's and 39 who received their diplomas.

UUM pro-chancellor Tan Sri Dr Abdul Hamid Pawanteh handed out the scrolls during the first session of the convocation.

The convocation ends on Wednesday. Bernama

RM38.7b for education
29 September 2012 | last updated at 01:24AM
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/rm38-7b-for-education-1.149926

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.149970.1348853028!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

GREATER FOCUS: Government continues commitment to improving students' performance

THE education sector once again took home a large chunk of the 2013 Budget, with RM38.7 billion set aside for various operating and development expenses.

At 16 per cent of the 2013 Budget, parents and teachers' groups said the large investment was a sign of the government's continued commitment to improving students' learning and performance.

"There are few countries which spend as much on education so, in that sense, we are very lucky to live in Malaysia," said National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Loke Yim Pheng.

Loke praised the setting up of a unit to monitor the implementation of new policies under the National Education Blueprint 2013-2025.

"The Education Delivery Unit will hopefully bring an end to long-standing problems, such as mismanagement, stalled programmes and the misuse of funds."

USM shines in London
Tuesday October 30, 2012
http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/10/30/nation/n_17usm.jpg

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/10/30/nation/n_17usm.jpg

Gold standard: The USM team showing off the medals they
won in London at the Penang International Airport.

GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has won 10 gold medals at the British Invention Show (BIS) 2012 for its innovations in helping the handicapped and protecting the environment.

Prof Abdul Latif Ahmad, who led the delegation to London, said the medals came from all the four USM entries.

They were Easy Go, a tool designed to help the disabled move comfortably (two golds), Nanocaot, an inspired molecular solution for protection against indoor air pollutants (two golds), Fpga-Based Cervical Pre-Cancerous Diagnostic Kit, a device capable of detecting cervical cancer cells (three golds, two platinum awards), and Biodegradable and Natural Coagulant-Floculland from biomass waste material for oily waste water treatment (three golds and a special award).

“Our entries were judged based on categories in leisure, consumerism, nature, industrial and commercial potential,” said Prof Abdul Latif upon arrival at the Penang International Airport yesterday.

The seven-member team was given a warm welcome by about 20 USM staffers and students.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Omar Osman also greeted them at the airport.

USM was among the nine teams from Malaysia.

Prof Abdul Latif said the Malaysian teams pitched in 52 products.

“This competition is a way to promote USM and Malaysia. The Malaysian teams displayed a very high standard in design, innovation and scientific values,” he said.

The BIS, which was held in London from Oct 24-27, was participated by about 20 countries.

Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)
Originally known as KUKUM (Kolej Universiti Kejuruteraan Utara Malaysia, or Northern Malaysia University College of Engineering)
Kampus UniMAP Ulu Pauh (Oct 2008)
by ramzan2007

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3010/2972079414_ea8f474119_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3187/2971241241_81e58c86aa_b.jpg




2012...:)

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4icNmvDlbjI/T87Po-YuqwI/AAAAAAAADBU/c1kgI3TDoQU/s1600/UniMAP+kampus.jpg

Rosmah attends opening of WISE
Wednesday November 14, 2012
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/14/nation/12316056&sec=nation#135299409307110438&if_height=202

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/11/14/nation/n-2rosmah.jpg

Warm welcome: Rosmah being greeted by Sheikha Moza during the opening
ceremony of the summit at Qatar Convention Centre in Doha. — Bernama

DOHA: Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor attended the ceremonial opening of the 4th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) here.

The Prime Minister’s wife was accompanied by an eight-member delegation of the Welfare Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (Bakti) and Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Prof Tan Sri Dr Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin, who is also a council member of Permata Negara.

Rosmah is scheduled to deliver the summit’s keynote address today.

Qatar Foundation chairman Her Highness Sheikha Moza Nasser, who is also the consort of the Emir of Qatar, officiated the ceremony.

Motorola Solutions Inc gives RM500,000 grant to three universities
Updated: Wednesday November 14, 2012 MYT 2:55:53 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/14/nation/20121114130242&sec=nation#135299433815010976&if_height=202

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/11/14/nation/motorola.jpg

Najib (third from left) and Brown (second from left) with representatives of
the universities which received the grant.

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak received a courtesy call from Motorola Solutions Inc chairman and chief executive officer Greg Brown on Wednesday.

Najib and Brown also witnessed a RM500,000 grant presentation from Motorola Solutions Foundation, the charitable arm of Motorola Solutions Inc, to three local universities to carry out education programmes that promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) via the World Robot Olympiad 2012 and First Lego League.

The cheque was presented by Motorola Solutions Malaysia country president Mohd Rauf Nasir to the representatives of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Multimedia University Malaysia (MMU) and the organiser of the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) and First Lego League (FLL) and Sasbadi Sdn Bhd.

The grant will be part of the foundation's post-graduate grants through local universities - USM, UTM and UUM - to support the Novel Research and Innovation Competition (NRIC) and local schools in education programmes that promote STEM via the World Robot Olympiad 2012 and First Lego League.

Since 2011, the Motorola Solutions Foundation has granted a total of RM1.1mil in grant funding for such programmes.

The grants are also in line with Motorola Solutions' support for development of local high-calibre talent and a strong knowledge economy for Malaysia.

The Motorola Solutions Foundation believes that education remains a strong tenet in talent development.

Apart from supporting such programmes, Motorola Solutions Malaysia has been collaborating with the Penang Skills Development Centre, the Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science and Technology Centre (CREST) and Talent Corp to support initiatives that will develop and groom young talent that best matches industry needs to support the nation's transformation plans.

Also present were Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon and Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Datuk Noharuddin Nordin. - Bernama

Sime Darby to build Malaysia's first multi-varsity education hub
By FLORENCE A.SAMY
Published: Wednesday November 7, 2012 MYT 2:56:00 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/7/nation/20121107145629&sec=nation#13531338578829287&if_height=202

KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Property Bhd is set to build the country's first multi-varsity education hub.

The hub, which will be built in Pagoh, Johor, will house four institutions of higher learning, namely the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, International Islamic University Malaysia, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia and Politeknik Pagoh.

All four institutions would share facilities such as a library, convention centre, multi-purpose hall, sports complex, data centre as well as sustainable features.

The hub, which would be constructed soon, is a vital part of the new Bandar Universiti Pagoh township.

The company today signed concession agreements with the Government and the four institutions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin who witnessed the signing ceremony, said the project would be implemented in several phases, adding that the Cabinet agreed to the project in principle in June last year.

The development of this hub, he said, is in line with the country's Higher Education Strategic Plan to revolutionise and develop the higher education sector.

"The Government is committed to ensuring that every Malaysian regardless of race, religion and social background will be have the opportunity to enjoy a good quality and perfect education.

"I hope this hub will play an important role as an education corridor between the Education Cluster at the Vision Valley Malaysia under Greater KL in the north and EduCity in Nusajaya, Iskandar in the south," he said, adding that the hub would also have an economic spill-over effect on local residents.

Sime Darby, he added, was also given the responsibility to build the Bandar Universiti Pagoh township which is expected to create some 25,000 new job opportunities.

Our varsities to be among world's top 100 by 2017
By CHOK SUAT LING | 12 November 2012 | last updated at 12:05AM
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/our-varsities-to-be-among-world-s-top-100-by-2017-1.170306

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.170407.1352649917!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (centre) and his wife, Puan Sri Noorainee Abdul Rahman (fourth from right), talking to Malaysians
students studying at institutions in Melbourne after the dialogue yesterday. Bernama pic

IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: Muhyiddin confident local universities will rival those abroad

MELBOURNE: DEPUTY Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin wants Malaysian universities to be ranked among the top 100 in the world in five years' time so that Malaysia will be the top choice for higher education among local students.

"Our students will then no longer have to study abroad and spend more money because it will be more attractive and affordable to study in the country," Muhyiddin, who is also education minister, told Malaysians studying and working here during a dialogue yesterday.

Currently, a few local universities are ranked among the top 200, but none had made it to the top 100 in any international list.

This is also in line with a policy shift last year involving government scholars who would now be sent to universities abroad only if their courses were not offered by local institutions of higher learning.

Much effort has been made in the last few years to boost local university rankings, with more autonomy being given to them to carry out activities they want.

"We are moving in the right direction... but too slow. They (the universities) have to move much faster. We are still far from universities in Australia, such as Monash University and Melbourne University, for instance."

Muhyiddin, who arrived here on Saturday, is on a nine-day working visit to Australia to advance cooperation in education and several other areas between the two countries.

He has a packed schedule which will see him attend various events and programmes here, as well as in Gold Coast and Brisbane, Queensland.

Muhyiddin was confident that there will come a day when it would no longer be true to say that the best education was only available abroad.

"There will be a time when our sons and daughters won't choose to study abroad, but in the country, in Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia or Universiti Pagoh. We are getting there slowly, but surely."

Conversely, Muhyiddin pointed out that some Malaysians go abroad for higher education simply because they could not secure places at local universities.

"I know quite a number of them. So, to say that good things are always abroad and Malaysian universities are not up to mark is not correct. Foreigners come to study here.

"We have Australians studying in Malaysian universities, some via distance programmes.

"We want more foreigners to come to Malaysia as our aim is to make the country an international education hub."

In this regard, steps were being taken to set up more branch campuses of foreign universities in the country.

"Recently, I witnessed a signing ceremony that will make Pagoh in Johor a hub for higher education in the country. Four universities signed up and by 2015, the first university there will open."

Muhyiddin said he was campaigning to bring in more international universities of the calibre of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, for example, into the country.

Malaysia and Australia ink higher education pact
17 November 2012 | last updated at 12:24PM
http://www.nst.com.my/latest/malaysia-and-australia-ink-higher-education-pact-1.172590

MELBOURNE: The Malaysian and Australian higher education sectors are to forge closer and stronger ties after a new memorandum of understanding on higher education was signed in Perth.

Australia's Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans, joined Malaysian Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Mohd Khaled Nordin, at Curtin University to sign the agreement on Wednesday.

Evans said Malaysia was a significant partner for Australia, considering the large number of Malaysian students at universities in Australia, the strong history of cooperation on education issues, and Malaysia's place in the Asean grouping.

"This MoU reflects Australia and Malaysia's joint commitment to increasing collaboration and policy dialogue on higher education issues," Evans said in a statement.

"Australia and Malaysia have a long history of engagement based in education. The MoU formalises arrangements for annual joint working group meetings and further collaboration.

"By continuing to strengthen our ties through education, research and training, we will ensure both our nations are well placed to prosper in the Asian Century," he said.

Evans said the MoU would support the Australian government's efforts to ensure young Australians were well placed to take advantage of deepening engagement with Asia.

"For a long time, Malaysian students have enjoyed educational opportunities here in Australia - and at Australian university campuses in Malaysia - but student mobility must go both ways," Evans said.

"The next generation of Australian leaders will need to be increasingly Asian-literate and these are skills best learnt by experiencing Asia first-hand.

"That's why we aim to have a larger number of Australians undertaking study, internships or practical placements as part of their degree or course in an Asian country by 2025," he said.

Evans said that through the AsiaBound programme and changes to OS-HELP, Australia would support thousands of Australian students to enjoy the experience of living and studying in Asia.

"The Asian Century presents a world of opportunities for our students and the Gillard government is determined to make sure more Australians have the chance to benefit," he added. -- BERNAMA

Rosmah attends opening of WISE
Wednesday November 14, 2012
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/14/nation/12316056&sec=nation#135299409307110438&if_height=202

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/11/14/nation/n-2rosmah.jpg

Warm welcome: Rosmah being greeted by Sheikha Moza during the opening
ceremony of the summit at Qatar Convention Centre in Doha. — Bernama

DOHA: Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor attended the ceremonial opening of the 4th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) here.

The Prime Minister’s wife was accompanied by an eight-member delegation of the Welfare Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (Bakti) and Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Prof Tan Sri Dr Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin, who is also a council member of Permata Negara.

Rosmah is scheduled to deliver the summit’s keynote address today.

Qatar Foundation chairman Her Highness Sheikha Moza Nasser, who is also the consort of the Emir of Qatar, officiated the ceremony.
Rosmah: Permata Negara’s success due to Govt support
Updated: Wednesday November 14, 2012 MYT 7:47:16 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/14/nation/20121114194039&sec=nation#135313511788311580&if_height=202

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2012/11/14/nation/rosmah.jpg

Rosmah delivering her keynote address at the 4th World Council For
Education Innovation Summit(WISE) in Qatar Convention Center

DOHA: Malaysia's Permata Negara has not only successfully established several Permata centres, but also several different targeted programmes within a span of seven years of its establishment since 2005.

Stating three main reasons for its success, Permata Negara patron Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, who is the wife of the Malaysian Prime Minister, said without the support from the Malaysian Government, it would have been a real challenge for Permata to achieve so much, in such a short period of time.

"Firstly, we had and continue to receive the support of the Government of Malaysia. The Permata Negara Policy Coordinating Committee is chaired by the Honourable Prime Minister himself.

Our budget is from the Government. Projects such as this must have the political will to succeed," she said.

Rosmah said this in her keynote address at the 4th World Innovation Summit for Education (Wise) titled, 'Sustainable and Quality Education for the Future, Malaysia's Experience Through Permata', held at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) here Wednesday.

Secondly, she said, in implementing the project, Permata had worked with relevant government agencies, universities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as international partners such as Centre for Talented Youth, Johns Hopkins University, Pen Green Centre, Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) in the UK and Mawhibah Foundation of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Rosmah said the collaborations accelerated the implementation of the various programmes as there were already existing resources available within those institutions.

Finally, she said, a Permata Division was especially created in the Prime Minister's Department to coordinate all Permata programmes. - Bernama

Govt allocates RM30 mln to build hall in Perth
Sunday, November 18, 2012 - 16:53
Location:
PASIR GUDANG
http://www.mmail.com.my/story/govt-allocates-rm30-mln-build-hall-perth-37813

THE government has allocated RM30 million to build a Malaysia Hall in Western Australia to accommodate the needs of the increasing number of Malaysian students there, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

He said the hall would be built in Perth after the ministry received a proposal from the community and 3,000 Malaysian students residing there.

"The Malaysia Hall will be the third in Australia after Melbourne and Sydney," he told reporters after opening a mass circumcision programme at Perjiranan 8 here today.

Mohamed Khaled said students who furthered their studies in Western Australia could put up at one of the 80 rooms in Malaysia Hall before being admitted into their respective universities.

The facilities at the building included a hall, canteen and library.

According to the minister, there were 18,000 Malaysian students studying at various universities in that country and the number increased each year. -Bernama

A way to cut school dropout rate
18 November 2012 | last updated at 09:01AM By CHOK SUAT LING |
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/a-way-to-cut-school-dropout-rate-1.172838?cache=03d163d03edding-pred-1.1176%2F%3Fpfpentwage63dp%3A%2Fhe3d03dn63frea-rti3d19.3d163d03edding-pred-1.1176%2F%3Fpfpentwage63dp%3A%2Fhe3d03dn63frea-rti3d19.111w5ii%2Fed-1.1176%2F%2F2.2525%2F2.2525%2F1.331200%3Fcache%3D03d163d%2F7.156652%3Fpage%3D0%3Fpage%3D0%3Fkey%3Dkuala+lumpur%3Fpage%3D0

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.172919.1353170840!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin arriving for the briefing on
BoysTown in Brisbane yesterday. At the right is BoysTown CEO Tracy Adams.
On the left is Malaysian High Commissioner to Australia Datuk Salman Ahmad.
BoysTown works with disengaged children and youth to keep them in school.
Bernama pic

GETTING JOBS: Private sector can set up programmes based on successful ones abroad, says Muhyiddin

BRISBANE: DEPUTY Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has called on the private sector to set up initiatives modelled on successful ones abroad to help bring down the school dropout rate in the country.

One effort that he described as impressive was that undertaken by BoysTown, a non-profit organisation here that works to ensure that disengaged children and youth remain in the school system, or return to it after dropping out.

Muhyiddin, who is also education minister, was briefed by BoysTown representatives on the organisation's targets and efforts yesterday at its centre here.

He said the government would give all such initiatives by the private sector in Malaysia its support as they would complement the government's efforts.

"BoysTown's programmes has helped a number of young people return to the mainstream of education or secure jobs," Muhyiddin, who is on a nine-day working visit to Australia, said after the briefing.

Some 640,000 young people in Australia, 20 per cent of whom are indigenous Australians, are not earning or learning.

Their numbers are increasing by the year and the authorities are seeking measures to arrest this trend.

BoysTown, however, has been successful in 80 per cent of the cases it has undertaken through the efforts of its trainers, teachers, counsellors, researchers and indigenous workers.

"There are still issues to be addressed in Australia, including those related to numeracy and literacy, and troubled youth, among others, but BoysTown programmes have helped alleviate some of the problems that cannot be resolved by public agencies and organisations.

"If there are those in the private sector interested in pursuing such initiatives in Malaysia, their efforts will be welcomed. They must, however, tailor their programmes to address the issues unique to the country." ,

He said organisations such as BoysTown received strong support from communities, the private sector and government, which pumps in funds for its programmes.

"In Malaysia, such efforts are usually undertaken by non-governmental organisations."

BoysTown chief executive officer Tracy Adams said the organisation was set up more than 50 years ago and aimed to help young boys and girls improve their lives.

"We support disadvantaged young people through education, counselling, peer support and preparation for employment.

"Our services, which are free, include counselling, job services, training, education, family refuges and help with parenting."

Muhyiddin later visited the Greater Springfield project, an urban growth area here established in 1992. He was given an update on development by Springfield Land Corporation chairman, Malaysian-born Maha Sinnathamby.

Greater Springfield, which is in the heart of Queensland's Western Corridor, is the largest privately owned master planned city in Australia, which, when fully developed, will yield six residential suburbs and mixed space.

UKMMC wants an upgrade of its neonatal intensive care unit
Updated: Friday November 16, 2012 MYT 5:27:20 PM
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2012/11/16/nation/20121116171521&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre Friday urged the Government to upgrade its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) here, in order to accommodate the rising number of premature births.

The 15-year-old unit is not able to cope with the increase, which has gone up from 55 percent in 2010 to 60 percent at present, said the NICU coordinator Prof Dr Cheah Fook Choe.

"The unit has 34 beds but only 10 are equipped with incubators, ventilators and continuous positive airway pressure, photo therapy and monitor machines.

"Only 15 of the 57 nurses in the NICU are trained in the care of premature infants and we have three head nurses and a clinical manager," he told reporters after the World Prematurity Day celebration at the medical centre, here Friday.

Dr Cheah said the medical centre had completed a proposal on the matter, which will be presented to the Ministry of Higher Education. Meanwhile, pediatrician, Dr Adli Ali said all the nurses at the unit should be trained in basic premature infant care to ensure each infant was handled by a skilled staff.

"NICU nurses should be trained in specialised and comprehensive modules because when these infants receive the proper care, we see a higher survival rate," said Dr Adli, who is also the centre's Clinical Medicine Faculty lecturer. - Bernama

I am proud to be a Malaysian StPM holder and UM student :-))

Dip in number of top scorers
By AISYAH SULAIMAN | 20 December 2012 | last updated at 12:35AM
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/dip-in-number-of-top-scorers-1.188866

PMR RESULTS: A total of 30,174 students get straight As

PUTRAJAYA: THE results are out and 30,174 students have proved to be the best among the lot as they have all obtained straight As in the Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) examination.

The wait was over for the 481,424 students who sat PMR this year, as the results were announced at 10am yesterday in all schools nationwide.

The Education Ministry revealed the analysis of the PMR results, which showed a slight decrease in the number of full A scorers as compared with last year.

The ministry's deputy director-general, Datuk Dr Amin Senin, said the number had dipped, with a 0.34 per cent decrease from last year, where 34,271 had scored all As.

"The number of students who scored all Es had also decreased, from 346 students last year to 241."

Amin said those who scored an A in the urban areas decreased from 9.72 per cent last year to 8.81 per cent, while those who scored an A in the rural areas also showed a drop, from 4.28 per cent to 3.79 per cent.

He said the number of candidates who scored A in Bahasa Melayu increased from 26.3 per cent to 27.5 per cent, while the number of scorers for English declined from 18.4 per cent last year to 16.9 per cent.

He said the reason could be the introduction of new text and material for the literature component in the syllabus.

"We will investigate before concluding the reason for the decrease in the number of candidates who scored an A for the other subjects."

Amin said those who scored an A in Mathematics in English also dropped from 30.2 per cent last year to 28.8 per cent. The same goes for Science in English, where only 23.7 per cent scored an A compared with 25.7 per cent last year.

"However, the number of candidates who passed the minimum proficiency for both subjects increased from 92.4 to 93.6 per cent for Mathematics in English and from 93.7 to 93.8 percent for Science in English.

Overall, subjects that showed improvement were History, Tamil, Punjabi, Technical Skills and Home Economy, while Islamic Studies showed a dip in performance, along with Geography, Arabic Language, Mandarin, Tamil, Iban and Kadazandusun.

The examinations were held from Oct 9 to 16, in 3,560 examination centres across the country.

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.188995.1355932148!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Top scorers of SMK (Perempuan) Sri Aman in Petaling Jaya celebrating after
getting their Penilaian Menengah Rendah results yesterday. A total of 105
students scored straight As. Pic by Sairien Nafis

Kisah menarik dua kembar di MTD
Oleh LUQMAN RIDHWAN MOHD. NOR 21 Disember 2012
http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/content.asp?y=2012&dt=1221&pub=Kosmo&sec=Negara&pg=ne_01.htm#ixzz2Fi8D8nJt
Hakcipta terpelihara

http://www.kosmo.com.my/kosmo/pix/2012/1221/Kosmo/Negara/ne_01.1.jpg

ALEX (tengah) bersama anak kembarnya, Yie Yang (dua dari kanan) dan Yie
Hong (kiri) berserta isteri, May Hwong dan anak sulung, Yie Hahn selepas
perbarisan Maktab Tentera Diraja, Kuala Lumpur semalam.

KUALA LUMPUR – Kira-kira 35 tahun lalu, seorang remaja, Alex Hwong Jong Haur bersama adik kembarnya, Jeff Hwong Jong Jye nekad mengharungi cabaran di Maktab Tentera Diraja (MTD), Kem Sungai Besi di sini bagi melatih diri menjadi insan yang berdisiplin.

Menariknya, semalam anak kepada Alex, yang juga sepasang kembar, Hwong Yie Hong dan Hwong Yie Yang, 17, berjaya menamatkan pengajian di maktab yang sama.

Alex yang tinggal Tropicana, Damansara dan kembarnya, Jeff Hwong Jong Jye, kini 51, memasuki MTD pada tahun 1977 dan mereka menamatkan pengajian pada tahun 1980 sebelum diikuti oleh anak kembarnya yang menyertai MTD pada tahun lalu.

Selain kembar itu, dua lagi anak Alex iaitu Yie Hahn, 22, dan Yie Chern, 19, bagai meneruskan legasi bapa mereka apabila masing-masing turut belajar di maktab berkenaan pada tahun 2003 dan 2009.

Alex yang berasal dari Pontian, Johor kini menjawat jawatan sebagai Pengarah Asia Tenggara Wilo SE iaitu syarikat perpaipan dari Jerman. Alex memberitahu, beliau memilih untuk belajar di MTD 35 tahun lalu kerana ia tempat yang sesuai untuk melatih dirinya menjadi seorang berdisiplin.

Kembarnya, Jeff pula kini bertugas sebagai Pengarah Pemasaran (Asia Tenggara) syarikat Huawei dan tinggal di Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya.

Menurut Alex, MTD selaku sebuah maktab yang berprestij di negara ini merupakan tempat yang paling sesuai untuk mendidik diri tetapi semua anaknya memohon untuk belajar di situ atas kehendak sendiri.

Malaysia bids to host World Universities Debating Championship 2015
Posted on December 25, 2012, Tuesday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2012/12/25/malaysia-bids-to-host-world-universities-debating-championship-2015/

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is bidding to host the World Universities Debating Championship 2015, said Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah.

He said Malaysia was competing with Auckland, New Zealand, to host one of the largest annual international events and he was confident that Malaysia, via Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), could host the prestigious event.

“We are very optimistic (of winning the bid) with

sound support from the government. In 2005, Multimedia University (MMU) did it on their own.

“This time it is UiTM, supported by the Higher Education Ministry and the Tourism Ministry,” he told a news conference here yesterday.

The bidding result will be known after Malaysia and Auckland present their paperwork to the World Universities Debating Council next month.

Saifuddin said Malaysia had been involved in the world debating championships since the early 1990’s and MMU hosted the World Universities Debating Championship in 2005.

“The organisation of the competition will encourage university undergraduates to more creative and critical in their thinking,” he said.

Saifuddin said Malaysia was sending 16 participants from six universities to participate in the World Universities Debating Championship in Berlin beginning Dec 27.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau General Manager — International Events Tony Nagamaiah said that if Malaysia won the bid to host the World Universities Debating Championship 2015, it would spur the country’s economic growth. — Bernama

Award winning M’sian students keen to serve the country
Posted on January 9, 2013, Wednesday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/09/award-winning-msian-students-keen-to-serve-the-country/

NEW DELHI: Two award winning Malaysian students, Tan Yeung R’ong, 24, and Pang Yee Rui, 23, are all geared up to return home and serve the country.

As Public Service Department scholars, although it is compulsory to serve the government, Tan said for him it is the best way to give back to the society.

“I will return to Malaysia to do my internship and continue to serve in the government sector,” he said.

“It was the people of Malaysia who sponsored my education. As such, I’m honoured to give back in terms of good dental care and service,” he told Bernama.

Tan, who hails from a middle-income family in Selangor, studied Bachelor of Dental Surgery at Vinayaka Missions Sankarachariyar (VMS) Dental College, Salem, Tamil Nadu.

He was bestowed the “Pierre Fauchard Academy Best Out-going BDS Student Award from V.M.S Dental College,” at an award giving ceremony held in New Delhi recently.

Pang studied for the same course at Bapuji Dental College, Davangere, Karnataka. She was conferred the “Pierre Fauchard Academy Best Out-going BDS Student Award from Bapuji Dental College.”

Similarly, Pang, who is from Kuala Lumpur, is also keen to go back to Malaysia and start working.

Asked on how they managed to score high grades despite the challenging conditions in India, Tan said one had to be extremely focused in his or her goal.

“Being a student in India is indeed not an easy task especially in Salem where we experience power cuts of more than 10 hours daily. We have to depend on generators and uninterruptible power source (UPS) inverters,” he said.

“So, the key is to keep focused on what’s important and be strong and determined. Never give up,” said Tan.

Setting a goal and proper planning is also essential to execute study plans, he said.

In a nutshell, it is about adapting to the surroundings, said Pang.

Besides the frequent power cuts in Davangere, she said language and food were also a concern.

“There is the language barrier, and food poisoning is common, but eventually I got adapted to the situation. There were people who helped me every now and then and I am grateful to them,” she said.

On their future plans, both are keen to further their studies. — Bernama

US TO INCREASE ENGLISH TEACHING ASSISTANTS TO M'SIA EVERY YEAR
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia Jan 19 (NNN-Bernama) -- The United States government will increase the number of English Teaching Assistants (ETAs) every year in promoting people-to-people ties between Malaysia and the US, said US Ambassador to Malaysia Paul W.Jones.

He said relations between people was a good foundation for relations between countries.

"Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and Presiden Barack Obama have agreed to bring our youths together. Read more (http://www.namnewsnetwork.org/v3/read.php?id=MjE4NjY1)

M’sia to host Xiamen U’s first overseas campus Malaysia
Posted on January 22, 2013, Tuesday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/22/msia-to-host-xiamen-us-first-overseas-campus-malaysia/#ixzz2Iiw1hHLQ

http://cdn.theborneopost.com/newsimages/2013/01/PTJ0_6.jpg

HISTORIC INVITATION: Najib (centre) witnesses the handing over of the
invitation letter by Mohamed Khaled to Zhu (second left). — Bernama photo

SEPANG: Malaysia has been chosen as the venue for the first overseas branch campus for a top university in China, Xiamen University, in 2015.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the branch campus would be built on a 150-acre site at Salak Tinggi, near here and was expected to be operational in September 2015.

“The Malaysian government has given approval in principle to Xiamen University to set up its first overseas campus here.

“The invitation is historic because this is the first time that the Chinese government has allowed one of its universities to set up its campus abroad,” he told reporters after meeting with the president of Xiamen University, Prof Zhu Chongshi and a 20-member delegation at the Bunga Raya Complex, KL International Airport (KLIA), here for about 30 minutes yesterday.

Najib also witnessed the handing over of the invitation letter by the Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin to Zhu. Also present was the Prime Minister’s Special envoy to China and chairman of the Malaysia-China Business Council Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting.

The Prime Minister said an agreement for the establishment of the branch campus would also be signed in early February during the launch of the Kuantan Industrial Park in Pahang.

He said the branch campus of the Xiamen University was expected to take in 10,000 students in the first stage with Malaysians representing one-third of the enrolment, and another one-third comprising Chinese nationals while the remaining one-third would be students from Asean member countries and non-Asean members.

He said five faculties would be set up at the branch campus here namely electrical bio-engineering and chemical engineering, medical school, ICT, Business and Economics, and Chinese language and literature.

“The establishment of the branch campus would turn Malaysia into an educational hub in this region,” he said adding that English language would be the medium of instruction.

He said that the University of Xiamen, which is a non-profit making university would utilise all the income gained from the branch campus here for reinvestment so that the campus here would reflect a university that had attained an excellent educational quality.

Meanwhile, Najib said the setting up of the first branch campus in Malaysia was most meaningful in terms of bilateral relations between Malaysia and China.

“This development was made possible after I had stated to Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao in April last year in Nanning, China that Malaysia welcomes the intention of the University of Xiamen to set up its branch in Malaysia.

“As a result of the discussion, Wen gave his approval for the project to be implemented,” he said while thanking the deputy president of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), Datuk Ter Leong Yap who provided the funds for the land for the campus.

Meanwhile, Zhu thanked the Malaysian government, the prime minister and the Higher Education Ministry for the effort in setting up the university’s first branch campus here.

“This represents another meaningful cooperation between Malaysia and China in the field of education besides economic, trade, science and technology, and cultural cooperation to boost bilateral relations,” he said. — Bernama

http://starstorage.blob.core.windows.net/archives/2013/1/22/nation/xiamen-university-chart-n02.jpg
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/1/22/nation/12607797&sec=nation#135895837304223189&if_height=202

We are truly Asia man :banana:

University from India, then Singapore and now China.

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.207407.1359043386!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Xiamen campus project lauded
WIN-WIN SITUATION: It will boost Malaysia-China relations and contribute to economy
Read more: Xiamen campus project lauded - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/xiamen-campus-project-lauded-1.207355#ixzz2IyxIfLBi

M'sia is 11th most sought after by international students
18 Aug 2012
http://my.news.yahoo.com/malaysia-11th-most-sought-country-international-students-052606199.html

GEORGE TOWN, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is the 11th most sought after country for tertiary education among international students, said Private Higher Education Institutions deputy director-general Datin Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir.

She said Malaysia now accounts for two per cent of the international student population around the world.

"Until June 2011, the number of international students in Malaysia has exceeded 90,000 people and the Higher Education Ministry targets 200,000 international students by 2020," she said in a speech during a function with

Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Dr Hou Kok Chung and northern region private universities, here today.

Siti Hamisah''s speech text was read by Private Higher Education Institutions Governance Division director Dr Mohd Ali Abdul Rahman.

She said the increasing number of international students in the country was supported by the higher education liberalisation policy which provides a 100 per cent foreign equity by 2015.

Siti Hamisah said the major disciplines which provide Malaysia''s strength in higher education are Hospitality and Tourism, Health Services, Islamic Finance and Business, as well as Advance Engineering and Science and Innovation programmes.

She said in order to achieve a high-income nation status, the country needs support from private higher education institutions in producing highly skilled human capital.

Currently, access to higher education in the country for cohorts aged between 17 and 23 was 40 per cent and is expected to increase to 60 percent within five to 10 years, she said.

"Therefore, it is undeniable that the private higher education National Key Economic Area is among the main movers for the country''s economic development.

"This is in line with the Performance Management & Delivery Unit''s (Pemandu) view that the higher education sector will contribute between RM34 billion and RM61 billion to the Gross National Income by 2020," she added.

-- BERNAMA



Additionally, foreign universities have set up fully-owned standalone campuses in Malaysia:

1. Monash University Malaysia (Australia)
2. University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus (UK)
3. Curtin University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Australia)
4. Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus (Australia)
5. Newcastle University of Medicine Iskandar Malaysia Campus (UK)
6. University of Southampton (UK)
7. Marlborough College (UK)
8. Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology (Netherlands)

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/469/nottinghamboustead.jpg
Nottingham in Malaysia

Coming soon:

9. University of Reading (UK)
10. Raffles University and the Raffles American School by Raffles Education (Singapore)
11. Heriot-Watt University (UK)
12. Manipal International University (India)
13. Jaipur National University (India)
14. Vinayaka Mission International University College (India)
15. Johns Hopkins University Medical School Malaysia (USA)
16. Hanyang University (South Korea)
17. Xiamen University (China)


More varsities coming
25 apply to set up campuses in Malaysia
23 February 2012| last updated at 09:13AM

MALAYSIA is morphing into a key destination for foreign universities, with 25 applications received to set up campuses here.

Interest in the tertiary education sector has shifted to a higher gear, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Khaled Nordin. The latest applicants allowed to set up campuses here were University of Reading and
Heriot-Watt University, both from the United Kingdom.

“We’ve even received applications to set up new private universities from established players although their internal policies don’t allow them to set up branches abroad. “There are also foreign investors who have no affiliation with any university, but keen to set up new universities in Malaysia.”
The Manipal International University and Vinayaka Mission International University College were instances of new foreign universities in the country.

Universities that involve foreign entities are the Al-Madinah International University, INTI International University, Perdana University, Malaysia Institute for Supply-Chain Innovation and Raffles University Iskandar Malaysia. Khaled said many of the applications came from developed nations like the United States, Britain, Australia and Switzerland as well as from the United Arab Emirates, China, India, Nepal and Singapore.

Read more: More varsities coming - Top News - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/top-news/more-varsities-coming-1.50776#ixzz2KDgakFkS

Manipal International University, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan
The 1st green university in Malaysia that is aiming to be LEED Standard Platinum Accreditation certified.
http://www.atsa.com.my/eatsa/eAtsa%2038%202012%20-%20Issue%206/eATSA%202012%20-%20Issue%206.html

http://www.atsa.com.my/eatsa/eAtsa%2038%202012%20-%20Issue%206/images/manipal3.jpg http://www.atsa.com.my/eatsa/eAtsa%2038%202012%20-%20Issue%206/images/manipal1.jpg

http://www.atsa.com.my/eatsa/eAtsa%2038%202012%20-%20Issue%206/images/manipal2.jpg http://www.atsa.com.my/eatsa/eAtsa%2038%202012%20-%20Issue%206/images/manipal4.jpg

Najib: Malaysia can be a regional education hub
March 20, 2010, Saturday
http://www.theborneopost.com/?p=18161

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak Thursday night outlined four ingredients for Malaysia to become a regional education hub, the first being a strong commitment to academic excellence and merit-based programmes.

The Prime Minister said the second component was social inclusiveness where the poor and the marginalised must be given opportunities to succeed.

“They cannot be left behind in the rush to reach the highest level of development,” he said in his speech when launching the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation in Sunway here Thursday in the presence of Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah of Selangor, the Royal Patron of the foundation.

The third ingredient, according to Najib was to strengthen the country’s educational methods by adopting international best practices.

The last element, he said, involved nurturing a cohort of thinking graduates who excelled in strategic thinking and creativity.

“(All) these are critical if Malaysia is to compete internationally with the world’s best,” said Najib.

Najib said besides these, strong communication and language skills were also important and English proficiency was essential as well as fluency in other languages.

The Prime Minister said the support of the private sector was important for Malaysia to achieve its vision of becoming an education hub for the region.

“Recognising that education sector is a key enabler and engine of national growth and transformation, we are considering further incentives to support its development.

“The government will continue to consult and work with the private sector to ensure the education system meets its current and future needs,” he said.

Najib said the New Economic Model will place importance on nurturing creativity and innovation and this context, it was vital that public and private universities focused more on applied research and innovation as well as development of thinking skills.

In his speech, Najib also called on all Malaysian schools, universities and institutions of higher learning to reinforce the 1Malaysia philosophy of People First, Performance Now.

“1Malaysia represents a way of life and reflects the government’s unequivocal commitment of a Malaysia for all Malaysian’s — a place that cherishes acceptance and celebrates our diversity.

At the event, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, the founder and chairman of Sunway Group donated RM20 million to the foundation.

Najib said the establishment of the foundation was an excellent example of corporate and personal philanthropy at its best in Malaysia.

“I hope this will serve as an example for other leading entrepreneurs and business people to follow,” he said. — Bernama
15 foreign varsities eye branch campuses here
By AISYAH SULAIMAN | 25 February 2013| last updated at 11:54PM
http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/15-foreign-varsities-eye-branch-campuses-here-1.224341?cache=%3Fpage%3D0%2F7.197525%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur%3Fkey%3DMalaysia

RECOGNISED WORLDWIDE: Malaysia a preferred choice due to its quality education

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia's vision of becoming an international education hub is fast becoming a reality as foreign investors are vying to stamp their mark on our higher education industry.

Higher Education Ministry director-general Professor Datuk Dr Rujhan Mustafa said the higher education sector's growth was expanding at a rapid rate, with more than 15 foreign investors seeking to establish their presence in the country such as Al-Madinah International, Manipal Group, Vinayaka and and INTI Group by Laureate International.

"There are currently seven foreign branch campuses and a number of institutions that have been either set up or acquired by foreign investors.

"Among the 15 that are looking into setting up their universities here include Curtin University of Technology Sarawak, Newcastle University Medical Malaysia, University of Southampton Malaysia and Heriot-Watt University Malaysia."

He said Malaysia had become the preferred choice because the country offered quality education that was recognised worldwide.

"The demand to establish branch campuses by many good institutions reflects the confidence of foreign institutions in the country's higher education sector."

He said foreign investments can be in the form of setting up a branch campus, such as Curtin University and Southampton University, or in acquiring stakes in local institutions by international players, like INTI Group by Laureate International.

Dr Rujhan said the establishment of EduCity in Iskandar Malaysia, Johor, had already brought big names such as Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia and Netherlands Maritime Institute of Technology into the country.

In addition, the University of Southampton and Heriot-Watt University had also established their respective Malaysia campuses in the country

"The investments might have exceeded RM1 billion as it involves transactions in acquiring the institutions, construction of campuses and human resource investment," he told the New Straits Times.

When it came to costs, the initial investment of setting up a branch campus in Malaysia would be RM20 million, while the operational costs would go up to RM100 million.

The following investments for the second to the fifth year could reach as high as RM200 million, he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced in January that Malaysia had been chosen to host the first overseas campus for China's top university, Xiamen University.

Dr Rujhan said the building of foreign universities would allow students a chance to study at institutions that followed international education standards, and offered quality programmes that would give them an edge in the employment market.

"The students would also benefit from the healthy competition, while the international students who study here would in turn go through a unique experience because of our diverse culture."

He added that the establishment of branch campuses by foreign universities also translated into more employment opportunities for locals.

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.224385.1361721265!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/20130318000347/pix_bottom
http://www.btimes.com.my/Current_News/BTIMES/articles/20130318000347/Article/index_html

STPM records higher perfect score
By PRIYA KULASAGARAN Tuesday March 19, 2013
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/3/19/nation/12855814&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: The percentage of students who scored a perfect 4.0 CGPA was higher in last year's Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM).

Of the 51,673 candidates who sat for the examination in 2012, 442 (or 0.86%) candidates scored a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 compared to 300 (or 0.59%) candidates in 2011.

While students are allowed to take up to five subjects for the STPM, their CGPA scores are calculated based on scores received for the best four subjects including General Studies.

Malaysian Examinations Council chairman Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Noh Dalimin said the number of students who scored 5As increased to 18 candidates from 12 in 2011.

“The total number of candidates who passed all their papers in five or four subjects improved too from 23,246 candidates (45.9%) in 2011 to 24,488 candidates (47.4%) in 2012.

“There was also an improvement in the number of government school candidates who passed all their papers for five or four subjects, that is 23,683 (49.6%) in 2012 compared to 22,430 (47.8%) in 2011,” he said when announcing the results here yesterday.

“There is still a significant gap in between the performance of urban and rural candidates.

“The total number of urban candidates who scored 5As, 4As and 3As is 1,105 compared to only 170 rural candidates,” added Prof Mohd Noh, who is also the vice-chancellor of Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia.

This is the last STPM under the old format.

From last year, Lower Six students undergo school-based assessments and are tested at the end of each semester, instead of having to sit for a final exam.

Prof Mohd Noh hoped continuous assessment will encourage more students to opt for STPM.

“STPM students under the new modular format had their first semester examinations in November last year.”

The inaugural batch of students under the new-look STPM will receive their first semester results this Thursday.


Little change in numbers of candidates using English
Tuesday March 19, 2013
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/3/19/nation/12855817&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: There was no visible difference in the number and percentage of candidates answering their Science and Mathematics papers in English for the 2012 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM).

Around 98.13% of candidates opted to answer in English for Science and Mathematics subjects last year compared to 98.11% of candidates in 2011.

The total number of candidates who opted to use English for these papers, however, reduced to 25,503 in 2012 from 25,993 candidates in 2011.

STPM candidates can opt to answer their papers in either Bahasa Malaysia or English for seven subjects – Mathematics S, Mathematics T, Further Mathematics T, Computing, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.


15,793 obtain straight A's in SPM
21 March 2013| last updated at 05:44PM
http://www.nst.com.my/latest/15-793-obtain-straight-a-s-in-spm-1.239279#ixzz2OFVbIfXF

PUTRAJAYA: A total of 15,793 students obtained straight A's in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2012 examination, a rise of 0.13 percent compared to the 15,079 students in the previous year.

Director-General of Education Tan Sri Abd Ghafar Mahmud said 13,721 students were from the government schools, compared to only 12,970 students in 2011, while 2,072 candidates were from private schools compared to 2,109 the previous year.

"In addition, 481 candidates scored grade A+, which is the highest mark for all subjects that they sat for, with 431 candidates from the government schools and 43 from private schools," he said.

When announcing the SPM results at his office, here today Abd Ghaffar said 488 candidates with special needs sat for the exam compared with 622 candidates last year, an increase of 27.5 percent.

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.239288.1363859007!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Kenny Kok Ken Soon (R), R. Narrhveein (L) and Muhamad Amir Asyraaf Azizul share the joy of having scored 9A's in their SPM exams at SMK Aminuddin Baki in Kuala Lumpur. NSTP/ Abdullah Yusof

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.239262.1363854633!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.239192.1363846813!/image/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.JPG

Some of SM All Saint Likas Kota Kinabalu SPM students sharing their joy after posting excellent results in 2012 SPM. -- STR/Lano Lan
http://www.nst.com.my/latest/font-color-red-picture-gallery-font-2012-spm-results-1.239134

First British-style boarding school in the country
By Atiqa Hazellah | 21 March 2013| last updated at 11:57PM
http://www.nst.com.my/streets/northern/first-british-style-boarding-school-in-the-country-1.238827

BALIK PULAU: THE Prince of Wales Island International School (Powiis) was opened recently amid pomp and splendour by the Queen Tuanku Hajah Haminah.

At 10am, excited onlookers stationed themselves close to the school's entrance as a convoy of official cars and royal guards escorted the Queen to the school grounds.

As part of the grand opening, the students played classical music which captivated the audience.

Pianist Chantelle Lim mesmerised the crowd with her solo piano performance of Piano Concerto No. 11 in D Major and 1 Vivace while solo horn player Ong Yong Hang played the Horn Concerto in E-flat Major and II Larghetto.

Meanwhile, Verena Koay Zhi Tong thrilled the crowd with her violin performance of Hungarian Dance No. 5.

The audience gave a big applause when Ronald Vincenzo Khaw De Leon performed a solo saxophone rendition of Tan Sri P. Ramlee's classic Getaran Jiwa.

Also present at the launching ceremony were the Penang Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and wife Toh Puan Majimor Shariff, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and wife Betty Chew.

During the event, guests were treated to a buffet lunch and entertained by Penang Philharmonic Orchestra.

Powiis is the first British-style boarding school in the country which has been adapted to suit local needs.

It is owned by MTT Learning Academy Sdn Bhd.

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.238965.1363794994!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

The school choir giving a splendid performance for the audience. Pix by Ramdzan Masiam

http://www.nst.com.my/polopoly_fs/1.238966.1363795028!/image/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_454/image.jpg

Tuanku Hajah Haminah opening the Prince of Wales Island International School. With her are MTT group executive chairman Datuk Dr Kenny Ong (left) and school principal and chief executive officer Philip Couzens.

TOP MALAYSIAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES
Universiti Malaya (UM)
KUALA LUMPUR

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLgD-aq7jpM/TfK7wZU88jI/AAAAAAAAB8o/HYer8-Bo-Go/s1600/10062011083.jpg
http://syafiqueva.blogspot.com/2011/06/um-sightseeing.html?zx=18a5a114ae93ca9d

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
SERDANG, SELANGOR

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/3087130.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/3087130

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
GELUGOR, PENANG

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/5338003.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/5338003

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
SKUDAI, JOHOR

http://static.panoramio.com/photos/large/74874849.jpg
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/74874849

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
BANGI, SELANGOR

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/University/01-1.jpg

SOME MALAYSIAN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
Kampar, Perak
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/4834840262_be62ba962d_b.jpg
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sliparjepunkecik/4834840262/

The Asian Institute of Medicine, Science and Technology (AIMST) University
Bedong, Kedah

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/University/library.jpg

Multimedia University (MMU)
Cyberjaya

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/University/3756618_1024x685.jpg

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)
Tronoh, Perak

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v608/nazrey/University/22.jpg

Taylor's University College
Selangor
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5232/5841698910_7a6bfe5460_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/cwwongfoto/5841698910/)
Taylors University Lakeside Campus 泰勒大学湖边校园 ... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/cwwongfoto/5841698910/) by 黄清华 WongCW (http://www.flickr.com/people/cwwongfoto/), on Flickr

Education Index
Methodology and Technical Appendix
http://webapi.prosperity.com/download/pdf/PI2012_MethodologyV4.pdf

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/931/20295631.jpg
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/3498/25862670.jpg

Malaysia’s education system is fast becoming world’s best
By SIRA HABIBU Wednesday March 20, 2013
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/3/20/nation/12853089&sec=nation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian education system is on track to becoming among the world’s best as stringent monitoring is in place to ensure its success under the Government Transformation Plan (GTP).

“The rate of improvement of the system in the last 15 years is among the fastest in the world,” the GTP report said.

Malaysia also ranks among the top in the world for equitable access to education.

However, Education Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said there was still a long way to go before Malaysia could justly claim that its education system was at par with the world’s best.

“But the Government is committed to transforming it to be among the best in the region,” he said.

The targets of GTP 2.0 include achieving 92% enrolment at pre-schools; scoring international average in Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMMS); and reducing urban-rural achievement gaps by 25%.

The initiatives under GTP encompasses changes aimed at “three-foot horizon”, which would form the first wave of change towards the overall goals of the 12-year Malaysian Education Blueprint.

Four key initiatives under GTP 1.0 include improving access to quality early childhood education, Literacy and Numeracy Screening Programme (Linus), implementing high- performing schools and school improvement programmes, and implementing new deals for principals and headmasters.

The initiatives aim to immediately arrest the decline in student outcomes and to establish a foundation for future improvements within the education sector.

Putting M’sian education on the world map
Posted on March 18, 2013, Monday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/03/18/putting-msian-education-on-the-world-map/

http://cdn.theborneopost.com/newsimages/2013/03/B5487.jpg

HELMING EMCS: Yazid Hamid stressing a point on EMCS, a new agency
operating under the perview of the Ministry of Higher Education. — Bernama photo

KUALA LUMPUR: The government’s aspiration of achieving its target of 200,000 international students by 2020 has been given a boost through the establishment of a dedicated agency to champion and lead the development and promotion of Malaysia’s education and training products and services internationally.

The new agency, Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is incorporated as a company limited by guarantee and is operating under the purview of the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).

EMGS is also tasked to lead Malaysia’s development to become a leading global hub for education and training by 2020.

EMGS will be operating a one-stop centre to provide an integrated international marketing and promotion for education and training as well as a single interface for foreign student pass application, processing and issuance.

The agency has been given the mandate to attract more international students and to increase the efficiency of the student visa application process in order to cope with the expected inflow of in international students to Malaysia.

“EMGS in its charter to clients has clearly stated that all completed foreign student visa applications shall be processed within 14 working days from the date the completed applications are received.

Education NKEA focuses on three growth areas
Posted on March 20, 2013, Wednesday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/03/20/education-nkea-focuses-on-three-growth-areas/#ixzz2OX30DMxf

THE introduction of the new Entry Point Projects (EPPs) will diversify offerings made by the education sector under the Education National Key Economic Areas (NKEA) in 2013.

According to the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) Annual Report 2012 issued by the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu), the EPPs include the setting up of a games development cluster (EPP14), establishing foreign branch campuses (EPP15) and setting up non-profit education institutions (EPP16).

Under the EPP14, the games development cluster led by KDU University College was created in 2012 to bring together educational institutions, industry players, regulators, associations and the government to develop talents in this sector.

According to Pemandu, EPP15 aimed at getting foreign universities to set up their campuses in Malaysia through facilitating assistance from the relevant ministries and agencies.

As the first institution under this EPP, Heriot-Watt University (HWU), which can accommodate 4,000 students, is expected to be ready in September next year and will offer a range of undergraduate and Master’s programmes in the areas of business, energy, construction, psychology and fashion, among others.

Under the EPP16, the Asian Women Leadership University (AWLU) project was proposed as Malaysia’s first liberal arts institution, which aims to attract talented women from Asia and the Middle East, where scholarships were also given to those from conflict-ridden countries.

Meanwhile, the government is still focusing on efforts to improve the standards and quality of Early Childcare and Education Centre (ECCE) in Malaysia under the EPP1.

Under the Government Transformation Programme (GTP), the Ministry of Education (MoE), in collaboration with the private sector, aims to increase preschool (4+ and 5+ years in age) enrolment to 87 per cent in 2012 and 97 per cent by 2020. — Bernama

UPM’s Faculty of Forestry graduates receive STA awards
Posted on March 30, 2013, Saturday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/03/30/upms-faculty-of-forestry-graduates-receive-sta-awards/#ixzz2P5sBFovP

http://cdn.theborneopost.com/newsimages/2013/03/1-sa-sta-p1.jpg http://cdn.theborneopost.com/newsimages/2013/03/1-sa-sta-p2.jpg

KUCHING: Two students from the Faculty of Forestry in Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) were recently awarded the STA Prizes from Sarawak Timber Association (STA).

Mohd Fauzan Misron, who graduated with a Bachelor of Forestry Science, received the STA Prize for the Best Graduating Student.

Another student, Nur Fatin Yahya – who studied Bachelor of Wood Science and Technology programme – clinched the STA Best Final Year Project Paper for her project paper entitled ‘Strength Performance of Concrete Beams Reinforced with Different Types of Jointed Wood’.

In a statement issued here, STA Mutual Sdn Bhd said it has been providing scholarships to students pursuing degree programmes in the Faculty of Forestry in UPM and the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas).

Also stand to benefit from these awards are students from the Diploma programme offered by the School of Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak and Curtin University of Technology Sarawak.

For more information on scholarships offered to students studying in the above universities, contact Thresa Aji at 082- 332 222 or email thresa@sta.org.my.

I-Systems College has the backing of foreign experts
Posted on April 2, 2013, Tuesday
http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/04/02/i-systems-college-has-the-backing-of-foreign-experts/

SIBU: I-Systems College Kuching (http://i-systems.edu.my) believes the institution will be able to produce world class nurses with the engagement of foreign experts in the field to train and guide its students.

In exploring international collaborative partnership, the college recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Faculty of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University, UK.

The MOU was signed between the UK University’s executive dean Prof Judith Ellis MBE and I-Systems Group Colleges chief executive officer Dato John Tiong, witnessed by Assistant Public Health Minister Dr Jerip Susil.

With the MOU, the two institutions have agreed to cooperate in exploring the models for various healthcare related education developments, which may also include looking at the possibilities and opportunities for academic exchange and sharing of expertise on other areas.

“With this kind of arrangement, the I-Systems College should be able to produce very high quality nurses who will meet the Malaysian Nursing Board’s standards and requirements, and be recognised internationally,” the college said in a press statement released here yesterday.

Accompanying Prof Judith for the MOU signing ceremony recently was Professor Mary Lovegrove OBE, the International Leader for the Faculty of Health and Social Care at London South Bank University and both have vast experience and expertise in the nursing and healthcare related fields.

Prof Judith, who has held her present position since February 2010, is one of the six Registrant Members of the UK Nursing and Midwifery Regulator, the Nursing and Midwifery Council who regulate 670,000 nurses and midwives.

She commenced her career in the English National Health Services in 1978, training as a general nurse at St Thomas’s Hospital London and then moving on to train as a paediatric nurse in Manchester.

Prof Judith has held a number of senior posts in education and the NHS including most recently for eight years as Director of Nursing and Workforce Department at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.

Prior to that, she was a Nursing officer at the Department of Health, England with lead responsibility for ‘Quality’ and the ‘Getting the Basics Right’ agenda.

On top of that, Prof Judith has a high National profile and became a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1998 for services to Paediatric and Clinical Practice Benchmarking activity.

In Short, her doctoral studies were focused around quality improvement aiming for excellent patient-focused care.

Prof Mary, on the other hand, is a diagnostic radiographer by profession and holds a personal chair in education and development for allied health professions.

She is a very experienced academician and was head of allied health sciences at London South Bank University from 1995 to 2011.

Besides, she holds a number of national roles, including education representative on the Department of Health AHP Professional Advisory Board, Senior Policy Officer of the Council of Deans of Health, and member of the design group for the new Health Education Outcomes Framework.

She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the British School of Osteopathy and a board member for the College of Podiatry, and for her contributions and services to Allied Health , she was awarded the Order of the British Empire(OBE) in the Queen’s Jubilee Birthday honours 2012.

Now with their involvement in improving the quality and standard in this specific field of study, I-Systems College Kuching will be able to produce world class nurses in the future.

The Institution, as one of a few handful private colleges in East Malaysia providing professional nursing programme, wants to make sure that their graduates are all of the first class, so that they can easily get jobs after their graduation.

Even now, there has been no problem for graduate nurses to get jobs, including in private and government hospitals, because since its first day of inception the college has always emphasises quality not quantity.

I-Systems Group of colleges offer Nursing, Medical Assistant, Medical Imaging, Hotel Management and other allied health programmes. The group has campuses in Miri , Klang (Selangor ), Johor Bahru, Bukit Mertajam ( Penang ), and Kota Kinabalu ( Sabah ).

Top10 Universities 2013
http://www.4icu.org/my/
1.Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
2.Universiti Malaya
3.Universiti Putra Malaysia
4.Universiti Sains Malaysia
5.Universiti Teknologi MARA
6.Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
7. Multimedia University
8.Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia
9.Universiti Utara Malaysia
10.Universiti Malaysia Sabah

..

Bangunan Pusat Permata Kurnia (Autisme)
PUTRAJAYA, 4 April 2013 - Isteri Perdana Menteri yang juga Penaung Program PERMATA, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor teruja ketika melihat model Bangunan Pusat Permata Kurnia (Autisme) pada majlis pra pelancaran Program Permata Kurnia itu di Seri Perdana.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8619542864_c0ee030c3d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/fotopenerangan/8619542864/)
Bangunan Pusat Permata Kurnia (Autisme) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/fotopenerangan/8619542864/) by Foto Penerangan (http://www.flickr.com/people/fotopenerangan/), on Flickr

http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/world-university-rankings/img/f/the-wur-logo-world-rankings.png
World university rankings - 2013
- :ohno::ohno:
Asia Ranking
87 - UKM
http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/world-university-rankings/2012-13/regional-ranking/region/asia