Opportunity seldom knocks twice for house-hunting

Opportunity seldom knocks twice for house-hunting

by | Jun 24, 2020 | Branded Content, Lifestyle, place

This is the real moment to get your dream home

There are several unavoidable big-ticket items that people traditionally aspire to own and one of them is easily the most important in your life – a dream home! To many people, especially those who have been searching high and low for one, this could be a lifelong ambition and commitment. It takes time, money and energy to make that happen – a roof over your head. 

The good news is that things are starting to look up for our economy as businesses are opening up with more and more economic perks in place. The ‘reintroduced’ 2020 Home Ownership Campaign (HOC) is bringing unprecedented incentives to the delight of people from all walks of life, in the next 12 months. 

PENJANA incentives 

Calling all homebuyers both first-timers and those contemplating getting additional properties, this could be your once in a lifetime opportunity to make the best out of  the recently announced short-term economic recovery plan called  “Pelan Jana Semula Ekonomi Negara” (PENJANA) – a RM35 billion stimulus package to invigorate our economy 

The 4th and latest emergency relief, which is part of the RM295 billion economic boost to-date, aims to increase home ownership among Malaysians amid rising living costs. This is being implemented via two very practical measures – stamp duty exemptions on the Instrument of Transfer (MOT) and Loan Agreement for new launch properties (valid till 31 May 2021), and Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT) exemption for disposal of up to three properties (valid till 31 December 2021), under the 2020 HOC.

Huge potential savings
Let’s say you are planning to buy a RM500,000 residential property, the potential savings you get to enjoy are illustrated below:

Buy properties and enjoy extra benefits 

More encouragingly, you can have a diverse property portfolio and still enjoy full and partial applicable stamp duty exemptions under the HOC campaign.

This is further sweetened by the lifting of the maximum 70% financing margin for the third home loan onwards (applicable to properties priced above RM600,000), meaning you can now borrow more to ease your home loan burden to suit your budgeting. 

Put it simply, be it you are a first-time homebuyer or an investor, you stand to gain from the now even more palatable HOC incentives. It is a win-win situation for both the buyers and developers.  

What properties qualify for the 2020 HOC and who can benefit from it?

NEW Residential properties* priced between RM300,000 and RM2.5 million by participating developers for Malaysian citizens.

*Properties registered with the relevant authorities for each region as follows:

Peninsular Malaysia Real Estate & Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (REHDA)
Sabah Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHAREDA)
Sarawak Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (SHEDA)

Low borrowing rates

Bank Negara Malaysia, within the first half of the year alone, lowered the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) three times, starting in January, followed by that in March and May (lowest since 2010) – to make the borrowing environment more conducive for consumers. The move is to cushion the Covid-19 inflicted economic impact. 

Knowing that OPR changes will directly influence the Base Rate (BR) and Base Lending Rate (BLR) revisions by the banks, lower OPR simply means lower borrowing rates for the consumers.

This certainly augurs well for house-hunting homebuyers as the current home loan interest rates have dropped to a very favourable range to the delight of home buyers. Please refer to the banks for the latest rates. 

So, is now a good time to buy your dream home? 

YES, obviously!

Goodies up for grabs

Don’t miss out on Mitraland’s Father’s Day promotion this June with plenty of giveaways to take home including 10 units of Ogawa massage chair worth RM5,999 each – on a first come, first served basis, for bookings made by 30 June 2020, subject to certain terms and conditions.

Other goodies include a lucky draw renovation package (voucher) worth up to RM50,000 to style up your unit, zero downpayment, extremely low booking fees from RM1,000, additional subsidy for 12 months (limited units only), zero-cost Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA), legal fees and stamp duty.

Get smart!

Given the intensifying competition and irresistible offers out there, this could be the most opportune time for you to close the deal.

Gravit8 @ Klang South and Upperville @ Melawati are two specially crafted developments suited for the communities that they serve in.

The 2020 HOC is running until 31 May 2021 to make your dream come true.

Visit the Gravit8 or Upperville Sales Gallery as it’s Open Daily

Visit our page

Have a look at our Virtual Reality tours click here or here

Setting a New Benchmark in e-Learning

Setting a New Benchmark in e-Learning

by | May 22, 2020 | Branded Content, Education

Setting a New Benchmark in e-Learning

APU Team at the e-Orientaiton – May 2020

KUALA LUMPUR, 20 May 2020 – The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) took a major leap forward by welcoming its new intake of Pre-University students to the University via its first-ever e-Orientation Programme which was delivered completely online, beyond the 8000 current students who are undergoing Online Digital Learning (ODL) on the online platforms.

The live broadcast was streamed from the university’s campus in Technology Park Malaysia (TPM), recorded more than 2,000 participants online, including 632 students from over 22 countries, their parents and the university’s global partners. 

As technology is its forte, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) had embarked on its digital education transformation over the last two years and since Aug 2019 a framework was set with strategic goals in place to roll out e-Learning – Online Digital Learning (ODL) to complement its conventional on campus mode of teaching & learning. Being one of the first universities in Malaysia to go live with online digital and remote learning during the MCO period, the implementation process was smooth for all stakeholders involved.

With aims to stay engaged with the Pre-University students who will be commencing a new milestone online, the e-Orientation Programme served as a connector between the university’s academicians, support staff and the students, who are unable to attend to face-to-face classes in line with the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).

With efforts to provide a personalised touch to all students virtually, the university established an e-Counsellors team, comprising staff from the Student Services Team. Prior to the e-Orientation Programme, each and every student was assigned to an e-Counsellor, who are dedicated to providing a (virtual) hand-holding experience. These include answering to their queries, holding virtual meetings, & QnA sessions, as they hop on-board to the university’s Online Digital Learning (ODL) platforms – namely Microsoft Teams, Moodle and the university’s proprietary student experience application, the APSpace.

Topics covered throughout the e-Orientation Programme included an overview of the Online Digital Learning Journey, Social Media Digital Footprint, an introduction to Campus Life & Support Services, Briefing on PTPTN Loan and Ice-Breaking sessions and more.

The university’s academic management team ranging from the Vice Chancellor down to all Heads of School participated actively during these sessions that was held over 3 days, from 18th May  to 20th May 2020.

Datuk Parmjit Singh special appearance at the e-Orientation Programme Live

“Quote from Datuk Parmjit”

“e-Learning in APU was instantly adapted as soon as the lock down took place. I am delighted about the enthusiasm generated by all staff of APU and this e-Orientation is a fantastic initiative for our new students. We look forward to welcome all our students to the campus soon”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of APIIT Education Group, Datuk Parmjit Singh made a special appearance at the e-Orientation Programme to encourage young SPM leavers to embrace Technology & Digital Learning and adapt to the new normal with positivity.

The e-Orientation Programme garnered positive responses from students & parents; “It feels like I am attending a virtual Ted Talk”, said a student, who participated in the e-Orientation Programme. Another student commented, “The dedication of the people in charge of today’s conference are very commendable. Beginning to enjoy APU already!”.

Mr. Gurpardeep Singh inspiring the new students to adopt & embrace Technology for Digital Transformation

An APU Alumni said – “As one of alumni for APU, I am proud that we can easily adapt into technology especially in this pandamic situation! Kudos to the team and our May intake students”.

“As a parent, I feel proud. I wish my University was like this. Well Done APU/APIIT.” – commented a parent on Microsoft Teams Live.

e-Orientation host Cheng Mun speaks to Ryan (e-Counselor). Sharing of their experience as an Alumni of APU & and their own Orientation 10 years ago.

APU’s next Pre-University intake is on 29th June 2020 for Foundation and Diploma Programmes. The e-Orientation for its Bachelors Degree and Postgraduate Students will commence in the first week of June 2020.

About Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

 

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is amongst Malaysia’s Premier Private Universities. APU offers a wide range of degree programmes in Technology that aim to nurture students into professionals and prepare them for challenging careers and roles in business and society globally. The multi-cultural student community comprises 12,000 students from over 130 countries.

Visit APU Website

If you would like to request for more information or if you have other media enquiries, please contact:

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
E: [email protected]  |  T: +603-8996 1000

About Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

 

The Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is amongst Malaysia’s Premier Private Universities. APU offers a wide range of degree programmes in Technology that aim to nurture students into professionals and prepare them for challenging careers and roles in business and society globally. The multi-cultural student community comprises 12,000 students from over 130 countries.

Visit APU Website

If you would like to request for more information or if you have other media enquiries, please contact:

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
E: [email protected]
T: +603-8996 1000

Two sides of a coin: Maritime and Modern Boutique

Two sides of a coin: Maritime and Modern Boutique

by | Apr 29, 2020 | Branded Content, Lifestyle, Property, society

Finding the sweet spot between the fine lines that define a “dream home” can be rather tricky. There are an abundance of factors to take into consideration and even then we can never truly be absolutely certain. Without going too much into superstitions such as “Feng Shui” or which side of the garden the sun is set to rise from, a few key items can be considered.

For some, it may be an instant dealbreaker to know that the homes in GRAVIT8 will be boasting a fully integrated smart home system. You guessed it! That means totally voice control of your home or via the app made accessible through your mobile device or tablet. The future once beyond reach in fabled Hollywood movies can now be a reality.

For those that are still yet to be convinced, this next point finds itself more grounded in less material circumstances. The one in question here is namely – the living environment.

Gravit8 is one of Mitraland’s latest development that spans a massive 15.6 acres of land. Ashino, the fourth and newest residential tower ranges from 871 to 1237 square feet, bridges a contemporary and unique maritime concept. At its heart lies an accentuation in the form of its placemaking 8-acre Lakepark.

Seamlessness is a characteristic most sought after in society today and GRAVIT8 recognises that need. The 11 Million Investment comes fully packed with an 800-metre jogging park, fitness stations and a playground for recreation. The facilities will also be the first in Klang South to feature Pet Friendly practices for all its patrons.

What of connectivity, you might ask? Fret not, GRAVIT8 has got you covered there again. Taking into the consideration the importance of a holistically wholesome environment, the development is situated strategically within 800m of the LRT3 station!

Understandably, a thematically structured development like GRAVIT8 may not be everyone’s cup of tea. In that vein, Mitraland has more than one ace up their sleeves; Upperville.

For those living life in the fast lane and unable to make away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this might be the one for you. Upperville is a modern natured boutique development of low density condominium units (merely 176 units ranging from 1050 to 1176 square feet!) surrounded by a serene environment.

Residents will be able to take in the splendour of breathtaking views and fresh air while simultaneously relaxing in resort-esque facilities facing either the Quartz Ridge or the KL City Skyline from the highest point in Taman Melawati (126m above sea level).

Coming back to the previously raised importance of the living environment, the atmosphere provided by Upperville is no gimmick as the surrounding properties are comprised by an array of multi-million dollar landed properties.

Strategically located within the affluent neighbourhood of Taman Melawati, many of the established amenities such as Melawati Mall, Setapak Central, WangsaWalk, TARC, Fairview International School, Columbia Asia Hospital are just less than 10km radius away from Upperville. Conveniently connected, the residence is also just adjacent to most major highways such as AKLEH, MRR2, DUKE and KARAK for effortless mobility.

Regardless of which development suits your fancy, there is a home for everyone. GRAVIT8 units begin from as low as RM440,000 and Upperville from RM500,000. Currently limited to the purchasers of the first 10 units, Mitraland is offering a subsidy of interest during construction period up to 12 months, ZERO downpayment and a chance to win a fully furnished package worth RM50,000! *T&C apply.

Make the purchase of your dream home worthwhile.

Hurry, your future home awaits!

Find out more
Lurking inactivity risks during MCO

Lurking inactivity risks during MCO

by | Apr 13, 2020 | Branded Content, Health

Lurking inactivity risks during MCO

The 4-week-stay-at-home order is an important action to help curb the spread of Covid-19.

However we need to be aware of the underlying health conditions that could creep  up if left unchecked, especially those that are affecting people’s mobility such as bone and muscle strength and the immunity.

Mobility health is vital

As we age, our bones, joints and muscles could become weaker and affect our strength and flexibility to perform daily tasks such as carrying heavy things, climbing stairs, squatting and standing up.

Mobility is essential for getting through the day as it promotes bone and muscle health to help us stay physically active in our daily living. Being physically active such as regular exercise is important in maintaining a good body defence system¹.

Bones, muscles and joints form an integrated system to support our mobility, flexibility and stability.

Bones alone, they not only form our shape and support our weight, but also protect our nerves, organs and all the other softer parts of our body. 

“When we were younger, we were much more active – moving around and using our muscles more, and putting our joints to good use at the same time. However, as we age, there will be some form of degeneration that occurs not only to your joints, but also a high potential of a phenomenon known as osteoporosis – a reduction in bone density,” explains Dr Gandhi Nathan Solayar, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon from Ara Damansara Medical Centre (ADMC).

Physical inactivity may affect bone and muscle health besides negative impact on body defence system².

“We do know that, immobility and people living a sedentary or inactive lifestyle are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis. So, not being physically active is bad for bone health and many other things,” warns Dr Gandhi.

It has been reported that we may lose up to 20% of the bone density³ as we age and nearly 30% of the muscle strength⁴ if we stay inactive for just two weeks.

Health experts caution that osteoporosis is a silent disease, making it difficult to get detected. So what are the signs or symptoms that we may anticipate? 

“Yes, it is a silent disease. People with osteoporosis don’t really know they have it simply because they don’t feel the pain,” Dr Gandhi points out a brutal fact. “They don’t feel their bones getting weaker until it’s too late. So, when fractures happen, it will lead to other painful problems.” he continues.

Osteoporosis diagnosis

“It starts with history taking of a patient, followed by a complete physical examination. And then we go through all the risk factors from chronic diseases to ongoing medications, lifestyle, and so on,” he explains.

Dr Gandhi also draws our attention to a bone density scan, which is a quick and painless procedure using the X-ray to measure the strength of our bones.

Bone density scan can be done at either a public or private hospital, with the latter incurring a fee. 

“It’s a pretty straightforward procedure that takes about 10 to 20 minutes,” he adds.

What are the risk factors?

US Centre of Disease Control and Prevention⁵ stated that osteoporosis is more common in women, affecting about 25% (1 in 4) of women over 65, and about 5% (1 in 20) of men over 65.

The orthopaedic surgeon recommends regular exercise that works on the bones, muscles and joints to maintain good mobility and flexibility.

Adult milk powder such as Anlene Gold is one of the smart options. The product is scientifically formulated with MFGM ActiveTM (providing components similar to those found in joint fluids), high protein, collagen, 10 vitamins and minerals (including calcium) with no added sugars. It provides protein to help build and repair body tissues for a strong body defence system. Drink two glasses a day and move with flexibility and strength today!

96%* feel that better strength and flexibility after 4 weeks.

*Source: Survey conducted by Home Tester Club between 22/10/2019 and 3/1/2020, 100 members have received and home-tested Anlene Gold.

Watch how Anlene has helped to support them in their daily nutrition intake.

Stay active at home

Despite the 4-week home confinement due to the Covid-19 outbreak, Anlene would like to empower Malaysians to stay active by joining singer and songwriter Stacy Anam and tai chi master David Bao for inspiring #MoveAtHome and #JanganDudukJe home-challenge fitness drills. And at the same time, you can share your workouts with us to inspire others too.

Let's get energised!

Get your Anlene Gold on Lazada for a special discount!

Get it now!

References: ¹ MedlinePlus.gov  |  ² NCBI.gov  | ³ NOF, 2009  |  ⁴ Vigelsø A. et al. 2015  |  ⁵ CDC.gov  |  ⁶ RNI, 2017

 

 

 

The 4-week-stay-at-home order is an important action to help curb the spread of Covid-19.

However we need to be aware of the underlying health conditions that could creep  up if left unchecked, especially those that are affecting people’s mobility such as bone and muscle strength and the immunity.

Mobility health is vital

As we age, our bones, joints and muscles could become weaker and affect our strength and flexibility to perform daily tasks such as carrying heavy things, climbing stairs, squatting and standing up.

Mobility is essential for getting through the day as it promotes bone and muscle health to help us stay physically active in our daily living. Being physically active such as regular exercise is important in maintaining a good body defence system¹.

Bones, muscles and joints form an integrated system to support our mobility, flexibility and stability. Bones alone, they not only form our shape and support our weight, but also protect our nerves, organs and all the other softer parts of our body.

“When we were younger, we were much more active – moving around and using our muscles more, and putting our joints to good use at the same time. However, as we age, there will be some form of degeneration that occurs not only to your joints, but also a high potential of a phenomenon known as osteoporosis – a reduction in bone density,” explains Dr Gandhi Nathan Solayar, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon from Ara Damansara Medical Centre (ADMC).

Physical inactivity may affect bone and muscle health besides negative impact on body defence system².

 

 

Physical inactivity could affect our overall health. In addition, bones deteriorate with age, which could give rise to the development of osteoporosis when the body loses too much or makes too little bone. And when the bones become less dense, they become more fragile and are more likely to fracture.

“We do know that, immobility and people living a sedentary or inactive lifestyle are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis. So, not being physically active is bad for bone health and many other things,” warns Dr Gandhi.  

It has been reported that we may lose up to 20% of the bone density³ as we age and nearly 30% of the muscle strength⁴ if we stay inactive for just two weeks.

Health experts caution that osteoporosis is a silent disease, making it difficult to get detected. So what are the signs or symptoms that we may anticipate? 

“Yes, it is a silent disease. People with osteoporosis don’t really know they have it simply because they don’t feel the pain,” Dr Gandhi points out a brutal fact. “They don’t feel their bones getting weaker until it’s too late. So, when fractures happen, it will lead to other painful problems.” he continues.

Osteoporosis diagnosis

“It starts with history taking of a patient, followed by a complete physical examination. And then we go through all the risk factors from chronic diseases to ongoing medications, lifestyle, and so on,” he explains. 

Dr Gandhi also draws our attention to a bone density scan, which is a quick and painless procedure using the X-ray to measure the strength of our bones.

Bone density scan can be done at either a public or private hospital, with the latter incurring a fee. 

“It’s a pretty straightforward procedure that takes about 10 to 20 minutes,” he adds.

What are the risk factors?

“Obviously, age and gender are the non-modifiable risk factors you cannot change. The older you are, the more vulnerable you are. Females have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis especially later in life and post-menopausal. Those with a positive family history are at risk too,” he says, not forgetting the modifiable risk factors such as lifestyle and diet lacking calcium and vitamin D (for effective calcium absorption).

US Centre of Disease Control and Prevention⁵ stated that osteoporosis is more common in women, affecting about 25% (1 in 4) of women over 65, and about 5% (1 in 20) of men over 65.

The orthopaedic surgeon recommends regular exercise that works on the bones, muscles and joints to maintain good mobility and flexibility.

Healthy diet is important

Healthy diet is highly recommended by Dr Gandhi.

A healthy diet that contains calcium (e.g. milk and dairy products, leafy greens, legumes, tofu), protein, and vitamin D is one of the keys to maintaining good bone and muscle health for better mobility and flexibility. Moreover, nutrient such as protein⁵ provides the important building block for our body defence system to help protect us from harmful foreign invaders.

Adult milk powder such as Anlene Gold is one of the smart options.

The product is scientifically formulated with MFGM ActiveTM (providing components similar to those found in joint fluids), high protein, collagen, 10 vitamins and minerals (including calcium) with no added sugars. It provides protein to help build and repair body tissues for a strong body defence system. Drink two glasses a day and move with flexibility and strength today!

96%* feel that better strength and flexibility after 4 weeks.

*Source: Survey conducted by Home Tester Club between 22/10/2019 and 3/1/2020, 100 members have received and home-tested Anlene Gold.

Watch how Anlene has helped to support them in their daily nutrition intake.

Get your Anlene Gold on Lazada
for a special discount.

Get it now!

Stay active at home

Despite the 4-week home confinement due to the Covid-19 outbreak, Anlene would like to empower Malaysians to stay active by joining singer and songwriter Stacy Anam and tai chi master David Bao for inspiring #MoveAtHome and #JanganDudukJe home-challenge fitness drills. And at the same time, you can share your workouts with us to inspire others too.

Let's get energised!

Reference

¹ MedlinePlus.gov  |  ² NCBI.gov   | ³ NOF, 2009 
⁴ Vigelsø A. et al. 2015  |  ⁵ CDC.gov   |  ⁶ RNI, 2017

MCO may be a tough period for us, but it’s battle time for our frontliners

MCO may be a tough period for us, but it’s battle time for our frontliners

by | Mar 30, 2020 | Branded Content, Health

The minacious COVID-19 continues to ravage the world. Each day, the number of confirmed cases in Malaysia has been increasing gradually, making every citizen to live in fear. As the number of cases are alarming, the Malaysia Government has extended the MCO until 14th April. Public are urged to cooperate during this MCO period by staying at home and minimizing the need to go out as a preventive measure to progressively eradicate this pandemic.

Staying at home for almost a month can be devastating for many, however, spare a moment to think about our frontliners who are dedicating every day for our safety and well-being. Medical staffs are treating and taking care of the patients without a break, while police officers work hand in hand with our army force to ensure that the public obey the MCO regulations.

Ever since the outbreak of this deadly virus, these hardworking frontliners have not seen the daylight, eat peacefully or spend some time with their families. They are working around the clock while self-isolating themselves for the safety of their loved ones. So, instead of whining about this MCO, we should Stay at Home and be grateful for their services. Staying at home is the greatest comfort and support we can contribute to them. Together, we shall overcome this pandemic!

Humanity and the warmth between humans can only be realized during such pandemic. People from all over the world are supporting one another and that has definitely touched many hearts. In addition to it, Akisama Group (RC Residences’ prestigious developer) launched the ‘Caring for Our Frontliners’ campaign recently where the representatives of Akisama Group distributed various daily necessities, face masks and hand sanitizers to our unsung heroes.

On top of it, the construction of RC Residences has been temporarily stopped as they comply to the MCO and also, care about every RC worker’s health. Thus, during this period, they are thanking the frontliners for their commendable contributions through this campaign. 

We do hope that more companies would follow Akisama Group’s footsteps and contribute to the frontliners who have been sacrificing their time and risking their lives for us.  It can be in the form of daily supplies, monetary donations, food and more. Not only that, the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia has set up a special fund raiser account so that they can purchase more medical supplies. Therefore, whoever who wishes to donate can transfer the preferred amount to the following bank account:

Beneficial Account: Sumbangan Perubatan KKM

Account number: 2-66016-0002347-5 (RHB Bank)

As to honour their future buyers and investors during the MCO, RC Residences will offer RM8,000 vouchers when a RC Residences unit is booked. Yes! RM8,000 vouchers! Just what one needs during such a tough time! Don’t forget to share this incredible news with your family and friends. Don’t think too much and contact them right away to know more about this great deal!

For more details, please click right here

Click Here
Be the first in Southeast Asia to master CodeSnaps App to code artificial intelligence

Be the first in Southeast Asia to master CodeSnaps App to code artificial intelligence

by | Mar 9, 2020 | Branded Content, Lifestyle

SCKL Principal Sri Jaiandran Munusamy (fifth from right), Lee Mun Loong, SAS Head of Education Malaysia, AEC and Indonesia (centre) and David Foo (eight from left) with the winners of the DataIntelligence Challenge.

SEGi College Kuala Lumpur (SCKL) in collaboration with SAS Institute Inc. (SAS), the US multinational analysis software developer, is the first higher education institute to adopt and offer CodeSnaps app to code an Artificial Intelligence programme in Southeast Asia. 

If you have the ambition to ride the wave of the Fourth Industry Revolution (IR4.0), you will know that Big Data and Artificial Intelligence are some of the new technologies you need to master to be an expert of Data Science. Malaysia has launched its own National Policy on IR4.0 known as Industry4FWD to prepare Malaysia for the next phase of the industrial revolution that is heavily shaped by evolving and converging technologies. One of the national strategies outlined in the policy is Upskilling Existing Talent and Producing Future Talent which can be implemented through skills development programmes that support reskilling and upskilling and equipping graduates with necessary skills set to thrive in the Industry 4.0 environment.

In line with the National Policy, SEGi has developed a partnership with SAS to offer skills certification programmes to train talents for IR4.0, integrating theory and practice of Industry 4.0 applications into the tertiary education system to raise industry standards and create industry placement opportunities, as well as enhancing and increasing the capacity and capabilities of our educators, trainers and instructors, creating a pool of subject matter experts in the field of data science.

One of the programmes offered at SCKL is CodeSnaps. It is a coding programme that requires only one tablet and one robot. It is an initiative to prepare prospective professional data scientists to acquire the skills and means to manage block-less devices and provide employees with Industry 4.0 knowledge. 

Aiming to create awareness in the younger generation of the coding programme, as well as generate interest of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, SCKL and SAS recently organised a training workshop on Big Data Management and CodeSnaps for 30 school students comprising of Form 5 and 6 students from 4 schools, SMK Pandan Mewah, SMK Seri Mutiara, Victoria Institution and CBC Learning Centre. The training workshop was held on 19 July 2019 at SCKL.

The students then had the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned at their training workshop at the DataIntelligence Challenge – Big Data & Artificial Intelligence: A Powerful Combination for the Future Growth that was held at SCKL on 26 July 2019.

Lee Huan Yang (left) enjoys exploring the coding application to control machine movement. And Tasigen Visvanathan (right) believes coding knowledge will help him in the future.

At the Data Intelligence Challenge, students were grouped into a team of five where they were required to use CodeSnaps to write an Artificial Intelligence (AI) program code to activate and mobilise a robot. There were challenged to apply Big Data concepts, analytical and creative skills to store, analyse, manage and predict as well as report data to make decisions. All participants received RM2,500 worth of training vouchers from SAS and certificate of attendance from SCKL.

CBC Learning Centre, a private education institution emerged as the overall champion of the Challenge, while Victoria Institution and SMK Seri Mutiara came in second and third, respectively. The winners of the challenge received RM5,000 worth training voucher each and SCKL Scholarships worth RM90,000.

“Data scientists sounds like a really cool job. It was fun to explore and analyse coding and have it control a machine. Apart from that, we also learned a lot from this training workshop, especially patience to manage the challenges we were facing and teamwork,” said Lee Huan Yang, the team captain of CBC Learning Centre. 

Tasigen Visvanathan, a Form 6 participant from Victoria Institution said he was elated that his team won second place at the Dataintelligence Challenge and they benefited a great deal from this experience. 

“I personally wanted to gain some experience in data intelligence because I want to become an actuarial scientist. The basic knowledge of coding will certainly help me in the future. As a team, we all benefited from the lessons learned at the workshop and the competition,” said Tasigen. 

According to Mr Daniel Teng, Group Senior Executive Director, SEGi University & Colleges, as a tertiary institution with over four decades of excellence, it is important for SEGi to prepare and equip students with awareness, understanding and practical knowledge through innovative study programmes in fields like artificial intelligence, data analytics and data management because globally, economies are getting disrupted thanks to the introduction of new innovation, machine intelligence, and data-driven business environment.

“At SEGi, we have always had our students’ interest at heart and we have dedicated ourselves towards enabling promising minds, which is one of our main Pillars of Action. I believe the collaboration with SAS and the introduction of the Diploma in Computer Science programme with specialisation in data science is a step in that direction. Both parties are committed to upscaling existing talent pool via training in the field of data science and producing future-proof graduates who will be equipped for Industry 4.0.”

SCKL’s new Diploma in Computer Science study programme includes 5 main subjects, namely Data Technology and Management, Data Visualisation, Data Science Methodology, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Introduction to Machine Learning. These subjects, particularly data technology, AI and machine learning correlate to the technologies identified in the national policy to transform and drive Malaysia forward and we are excited at the prospect of producing skilled professionals who will accelerate our nation’s growth. 

So be the FIRST in Southeast Asia to master CodeSnaps App, be a Big Data Guru, or be one of the Best Data Scientist in the region!

REGISTER

and make your dream come true!