Brendan Yap doesn&rsquo;t claim to have had it all figured out. But today, the Subang native holds a degree in economics from New York University, a double minor in mathematics and computer science, and a coveted spot in Harvard&rsquo;s Masters in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID). He currently works at Securities Commission (SC) Malaysia, developing economic policies to help small businesses gain access to the capital market.&nbsp;As impressive a space as Brendan has carved for himself in the world of academia and policymaking, his success didn&rsquo;t come from arduous planning or subsequent box-checking, but instead took shape as a result of following his questions and letting curiosity guide him.Brendan received a full scholarship from the SC to pursue his undergraduate studies in the United States. Since graduating in 2021, he has returned to serve his bond, taking on roles in corporate strategy, market policy, and economic analysis. At every stage, he has sought one thing: clarity on how to use his skills to make a meaningful impact.A Rural Awakening: How Economics Found HimLike many science-stream students in Malaysia, Brendan was nudged toward engineering or actuarial science after SPM. He had the grades for it, but not the conviction. &ldquo;It never really spoke to me,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I felt like, okay, maybe I could do that, but it didn&rsquo;t sound super interesting.&rdquo;<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6836b268703f8_1748415080.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="374" />The turning point came after SPM, when he joined a volunteer trip to a rural Orang Asli village in Perak. There, he witnessed stark inequality for the first time. &ldquo;In the city, we talk about skyscrapers and the next big mall. But just a few hours away, people live in such drastically different conditions&mdash;no electricity, no tap water, no paved roads. I couldn&rsquo;t stop thinking about it.&rdquo;That experience stayed with him. As he dug deeper into questions of inequality and development, he discovered a field that examined the structures behind it all: economics. &ldquo;The more I read, the more I realised&mdash;this is what economists study. This is the work I want to do.&rdquo;Choosing a Broader Path: Why He Studied in the U.SAfter deciding on economics, Brendan set his sights on the next step, one that took him further than he ever imagined. With the support of a scholarship from the SC, he had the option to study abroad. Initially prepared to pursue his degree locally, he soon realised he had a rare opportunity to go further.&ldquo;I was quite prepared to study here,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;But the SC offered to fund my studies overseas, and I started to think more seriously about what I really wanted out of university.&rdquo; The answer wasn&rsquo;t just about academic reputation, but also breadth. While many were drawn to the more familiar British system, Brendan wanted something that would let him explore other interests beyond his major. The American liberal arts model, with its flexibility and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, seemed like the right fit. That decision led him to the American Degree Programme (ADP) at HELP University as a pre-university foundation. Not long after, he received an early decision offer from New York University (NYU), one of the top-ranked institutions for economics worldwide. &ldquo;NYU was definitely a reach school for me; I was nervous all the way until the results came out.&rdquo;When the offer finally did arrive, it wasn&rsquo;t just a relief: it was transformative. For the first time, he could see himself stepping onto a global stage, in a city known for its energy, culture and opportunity.New York and the Education That Changed HimStudying at NYU wasn&rsquo;t just a change of pace. It was a complete immersion into a different way of life. Brendan arrived in New York City excited but cautious. Like many students, he had never been away from home for that long, let alone in a city as intense as Manhattan.&ldquo;The academics weren&rsquo;t the hardest part to adjust to,&rdquo; he recalled. &ldquo;It was the culture.&rdquo; Everything from class participation to social norms was new. In the U.S., people made small talk in elevators, arrived early for social events, and expected a kind of directness Brendan wasn&rsquo;t used to. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s the small things that add up,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;It takes time to adjust.&rdquo;<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6836b2955f13e_1748415125.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="420" />But he found his footing. At NYU, Brendan majored in economics and took on double minors in mathematics and computer science, complementing his core interests with skills that made him more analytically agile. He even took up tutoring in computer science, not just for income, but as a way to reinforce his own understanding.​​Outside the classroom, Brendan gravitated toward the small but tight-knit Malaysian student community. He eventually became president of the Malaysian Students Association, a role that was less about titles and more about connection. &ldquo;There were maybe five of us,&rdquo; he joked, &ldquo;but it mattered.&rdquo; In a foreign city thousands of kilometres from home, even hearing a familiar accent in the hallway felt grounding.His academic performance reflected that growth. He graduated with a near-perfect CGPA and received the Emanuel Stein Memorial Award, an honour given to the most outstanding student in the economics department. It was an unexpected validation of everything he had worked toward. &ldquo;It was humbling, but also motivating. It helped me realise I might actually be able to make a difference in this field.&rdquo;Returning Home: Real-World Economics at SCAfter graduating from NYU, Brendan returned to Malaysia to fulfil his service bond with the SC,&nbsp; the organisation that had awarded him a scholarship years earlier. His current role as an economist and policy analyst centres on an often overlooked but vital area: improving access to capital for small businesses.At the SC, Brendan works on both the policy and economics sides. On one hand, he helps craft new initiatives to support underserved market segments, such as small and medium enterprises (SMEs). On the other hand, he conducts detailed research and data analysis to ensure these policies are grounded in real evidence. &ldquo;You don&rsquo;t make policy just because someone says it&rsquo;s a good idea,&rdquo; he explained. &ldquo;You need to run the numbers. You need to make sure it actually works.&rdquo;One of his main focus areas has been the financing gap faced by smaller companies. While many rely on bank loans, there&rsquo;s often a shortfall between what businesses need and what banks can provide. Brendan&rsquo;s work involves looking at how Malaysia&rsquo;s capital markets can step in to fill that gap, offering alternative sources of funding that are sustainable and scalable.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6836b3304e47b_1748415280.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="394" />What he finds most fulfilling is the sense of tangible impact. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ve been really lucky,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Even at a young age, I&rsquo;ve been put in a position where I can help shape policies that affect real people and businesses.&rdquo; His time at SC has deepened his understanding of how policy decisions ripple through the economy and how effective regulation can empower growth, especially when it serves those who are usually left behind.Harvard, and What Comes After When Brendan received his acceptance letter to Harvard, he couldn&rsquo;t believe his eyes. &ldquo;I thought I saw it wrong,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;I got up, washed my face, put on my glasses, and read it again.&rdquo; The offer came with full financial aid, which made the decision a &lsquo;no-brainer&rsquo;.Applying to Harvard had been part of a larger plan to further his education in public policy. While his undergraduate degree gave him a solid foundation in economics, his work at the SC&nbsp; made him realise that the challenges of policymaking required more than just technical know-how. He wanted a programme that could strengthen his quantitative skills while preparing him to navigate the real-world complexities of law, governance, and institutional culture. Harvard&rsquo;s Masters in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) ticked all the right boxes.The application process wasn&rsquo;t easy. He applied to five or six universities, all with strong reputations in policy and economics. He hadn&rsquo;t expected to hear back from most of the universities, so getting accepted to all of them came as a truly humbling surprise. &ldquo;I never once thought I would get in,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Honestly, everything I&rsquo;ve done so far has just been me trying, not knowing what would happen.&rdquo;But it paid off. At Harvard, Brendan hopes to deepen his ability to design policies that are not just effective on paper but responsive to the needs of real communities. For him, this isn&rsquo;t just a stepping stone. It&rsquo;s part of a long-term commitment to building a Malaysia where economic opportunity is more equitable and policy decisions are rooted in both evidence and empathy.Reflections and Advice to StudentsWhen asked what advice he would give to young Malaysians pursuing competitive scholarships or top-tier universities, Brendan didn&rsquo;t hesitate. &ldquo;I think the hardest part is not getting in. It&rsquo;s figuring out what you want.&rdquo;<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6836b35a00a9a_1748415322.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="601" />His advice is simple but grounded in experience: don&rsquo;t obsess over prestige. Instead, focus on purpose. &ldquo;Ask yourself what actually excites you. What would you keep doing even if nobody was watching?&rdquo; That kind of self-awareness, he believes, is what makes a scholarship or university application truly stand out, not a perfect transcript, but rather a clear sense of why you&rsquo;re there.As for economics, Brendan hopes more young people will begin to see how relevant it is. Understanding economics, he believes, means understanding how global events shape our everyday lives. To Brendan, the study of economics is a way to make sense of the world and to find your place in it.&nbsp;

How Curiosity and Conviction Took Brendan Yap to Harvard

<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6833d7a02a40e_1748228000.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="auto" />Chong Chee Kin, a Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering with Honours graduate from APU, received the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Gold Medal Award on stage from Ir Prof Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin, President of IEM.Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU) proudly celebrates the exceptional success of its Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering with Honours graduate, Chong Chee Kin, who has been awarded the coveted Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Gold Medal Award.&nbsp;This prestigious accolade was presented during the IEM 66th Annual Dinner &amp; Awards Night 2025, held on 19 April 2025 at the Sunway Resort Hotel.This award is one of the highest honours granted to engineering students in Malaysia and recognises not only academic excellence but also outstanding contributions to the engineering discipline.&nbsp;Chong&rsquo;s impressive accomplishments reflect a combination of technical skill, innovative thinking, and academic discipline&mdash;qualities that are at the very heart of APU&rsquo;s engineering education ethos.&nbsp;An Exemplary Academic JourneyGraduating with First Class Honours, Chong Chee Kin&rsquo;s academic path at APU has been marked by consistency, excellence, and an unrelenting drive for innovation. Throughout his studies, Chong displayed not only deep technical competence but also a strong capacity for creative problem-solving.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6833d7d3461d7_1748228051.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="auto" />Asst Prof Ir EUR ING Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong (left) and Asst Prof Ir Ts Dr Alexander Chee Hon Cheong (right), whose mentorship played a vital role in shaping Chong Chee Kin&rsquo;s academic and research journey, celebrate his IEM Gold Medal Award win on campus.His achievements were made possible through the guidance of Assistant Professor Ir EUR ING Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong and Assistant Professor Ir Ts Dr Alexander Chee Hon Cheong, whose mentorship played a vital role in shaping Chong&rsquo;s academic and research pursuits.&nbsp;Under their supervision, Chong developed a robust portfolio that showcases his multifaceted talents and relentless commitment to engineering excellence.&nbsp;Recognition at National and International PlatformsChong&rsquo;s journey is studded with accolades that underscore his exceptional talent. At the Malaysia Technology Expo 2024, he clinched both the Prestigious Outstanding Award and a Gold Award, signalling his rising prominence in the field.&nbsp;His innovative contributions also won him the APICTA Malaysia Merit Award, providing the opportunity to represent Malaysia at the APICTA Finals in Brunei&mdash;an international platform that celebrates excellence in ICT innovation.Further cementing his international reputation, Chong was awarded the Gold Medal, Best Invention Design Award, and Bucharest Special Award at the Invention Innovation Competition Canada (iCAN) 2024. He also received the highly competitive James Dyson Award 2024, further affirming the impact of his inventive capabilities on the global stage.&nbsp;Pride of the School of Engineering<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/6833d7fe6be01_1748228094.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="auto" />The IEM 66th Annual Dinner &amp; Awards Night 2025, attended by Chong Chee Kin (back row, second from left), was held on 19 April 2025 at the Sunway Resort Hotel.Expressing immense pride in Chong&rsquo;s achievements, Associate Professor Ir Ts Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan, Head of the School of Engineering (SoE) at APU, remarked:&ldquo;Chong Chee Kin exemplifies the innovative spirit and technical excellence we strive to nurture at APU&rsquo;s School of Engineering. His achievement of the IEM Gold Medal Award reflects not only his dedication but also the quality of engineering education at APU. We are immensely proud of his accomplishments and confident that he will continue to make significant contributions to the engineering profession.&rdquo;This significant recognition from IEM, Malaysia&rsquo;s leading professional institution for engineers, further highlights APU&rsquo;s enduring commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also industry-ready and globally competitive.&nbsp;Engineering Education that Inspires ExcellenceAt APU, engineering education goes beyond textbooks and laboratories. By integrating strong theoretical foundations with extensive hands-on training, the university provides students with a dynamic learning environment that fosters innovation and adaptability. Offering flexible pathways, including minors and extensions in high-demand fields, APU ensures that its graduates are equipped with both depth and breadth in their professional skill sets.Chong&rsquo;s success is a shining example of what can be achieved through APU&rsquo;s holistic approach to education. His journey demonstrates that with dedication, curiosity, and the right mentorship, students can scale remarkable heights, both locally and internationally.&nbsp;A Proud Moment and a Promising FutureAPU extends its heartfelt congratulations to Chong Chee Kin on this well-deserved honour. As he embarks on the next chapter of his engineering journey, the university is confident that his passion and professionalism will continue to make a significant impact in the engineering field.Chong&rsquo;s story will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for current and future engineering students at APU, reminding them that excellence is within reach when paired with perseverance, innovation, and strong academic support.In celebrating this proud moment, APU reaffirms its mission: to cultivate talented engineers who will shape the future through ingenuity, leadership, and a commitment to technological advancement.

Find all the information you need about courses and fees at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in Malaysia to plan your education.

APU Malaysia - Courses and Fee Structure

Asia Pacific University of Technology &amp; Innovation (APU) is a top-ranked institution in Malaysia known for its focus on technology, innovation, and digital transformation. APU offers a wide range of programmes in fields such as Information Technology, Engineering, Business, Design, and Media Studies. APU&rsquo;s curriculum blends academic theory with applied theory, ensuring students develop both technical skills and critical thinking abilities. With its Digital Transformation Hub, Visionary AI Studio, and Cybersecurity Talent Zone, APU provides students with access to the forefront facilities for practical learning and research. The university&rsquo;s strong focus on industry partnerships enables students to engage in real-world projects, internships, and competitions, enhancing their employability. APU is also highly regarded for its multicultural environment, welcoming students from over 130 countries and fostering global perspectives and cross-cultural understanding. With a commitment to technological advancement and innovation, APU continues to produce graduates who excel in dynamic industries worldwide.

Discover Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), a top private university in Malaysia. Explore APU’s Foundation, Undergraduate, and Postgraduate programmes.

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), Kuala Lumpur - Ranking, Intake, Scholarship

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) is a top-ranked institution in Malaysia known for its focus on technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

APU Celebrates Engineering Excellence, Innovation, and Academic Distinction

Chong Chee Kin Honoured with Prestigious IEM Gold Medal Award

For years, the Malaysian Matrikulasi programme has been a fast-track option into public universities. With Matrikulasi results being released in just a few days, thousands of students are about to find out whether they&rsquo;ve secured a spot in the programme. For those still weighing their options, or those unsure what Matrikulasi really offers, this year&rsquo;s updates could be the deciding factor.If you&rsquo;re a recent SPM leaver or just trying to understand what all the buzz is about, here&rsquo;s what you need to know!&nbsp;What Is Matrikulasi?Matrikulasi is a pre-university programme run by the Ministry of Education. It&rsquo;s offered through government-run matriculation colleges and serves as a direct route into degree programmes at public universities (IPTA) through the UPU system.The programme typically lasts for:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">One year (Program Satu Tahun / PST)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Or two years (Program Dua Tahun / PDT), usually for students from rural or B40 backgrounds.</li></ul>Under the programme, tuition fees are covered, living allowances are provided, and several academic streams are offered, ranging from Science, Accounting, Engineering, and now, Computer Science.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682e8e511f2ee_1747881553.jpg" alt="" width="838" height="553" />The Historical Quota SystemSince 2005, Matrikulasi has operated under a 90:10 ethnic quota, 90% of places are reserved for Bumiputera students, while the remaining 10% are for non-Bumiputera applicants. While technically open to all, this quota made it extremely competitive for non-Bumiputera students to gain entry, even if they had excellent grades.In 2024, a group of 69 non-Bumiputera students with 10 A&rsquo;s in SPM were initially rejected from Matrikulasi. The backlash prompted public figures and education groups to pressure the government for more equitable policies.&nbsp;What Changed in 2025? <ol><li> Automatic Admission for 10A+ SPM Students</li></ol>The government announced that students who score 10 A&rsquo;s or more in SPM will now be guaranteed a spot in Matrikulasi, regardless of race. This policy was introduced in response to long-standing complaints that high-achieving non-Bumiputera students were unfairly left out due to the quota system.While this doesn&rsquo;t remove the 90:10 policy entirely, it creates a significant exception for top scorers, opening the door for more merit-based access. <ol start="2"><li> New Stream: Computer Science</li></ol>Matrikulasi has introduced a Computer Science stream for the 2025/2026 session, aligning with Malaysia&rsquo;s digital economy goals. This timely addition pairs well with the increasing demand for tech skills in today&rsquo;s job market.Students in this stream can expect a focus on programming, data structures, and computational thinking, offering a more targeted path into ICT-related degrees at university. <ol start="3"><li> Improved Financial Support</li></ol>To reduce economic barriers, the government confirmed that students from B40 and M40 households (combined income below RM10,000) will receive a living allowance of RM1,250 per semester. This makes Matrikulasi not only academically accessible but also financially manageable for more families.&nbsp;So, How Do These Changes Affect You?If you&rsquo;re a student who just sat for SPM and got strong results, Matrikulasi has become a more attractive option. The new policy recognises academic effort, particularly for students who achieve 10 A&rsquo;s or more, and can serve as a free, fast, and focused path to a public university degree. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682e8dc658d06_1747881414.png" alt="" width="580" height="410" /> Even if you didn&rsquo;t get 10 A&rsquo;s, you still have a chance to enter! However, it will remain competitive for non-Bumiputera applicants due to the existing quota. In such cases, it&rsquo;s smart to also explore STPM, Foundation, or Diploma programmes while waiting for Matrikulasi results.The addition of Computer Science and improved living allowances also signal a shift in how the programme is evolving, moving beyond its traditional mould to meet current industry and student needs.&nbsp;Are There Still Concerns?Yes. While many have praised the automatic admission policy for top scorers, critics argue that the quota system remains intact for the rest. Students and civil society groups continue to push for a fully merit-based selection process.There&rsquo;s also concern over inconsistent implementation, with some students reporting confusion about eligibility or unclear communication from the authorities. Public trust will depend on how fairly and transparently these reforms are rolled out.&nbsp;Final ThoughtsThe 2025 reforms to the Matrikulasi programme are a step in the right direction. They offer greater recognition for academic excellence and signal a shift toward inclusivity, without completely dismantling the existing quota framework.For students, especially those from high-performing but underrepresented backgrounds, this may be the most accessible Matrikulasi intake in years. But it also reinforces the importance of applying early, understanding your options, and preparing backup plans, whether that&rsquo;s STPM, Foundation, or a Diploma.If you&rsquo;re unsure where you stand, now&rsquo;s the time to start researching your next step.

What’s Changing in Matrikulasi 2025? A Guide for SPM Students

Stella Santa Juniah didn&rsquo;t take the typical path to university. Born and raised in Beluran, a small town in Sabah, she spent five years out of school after Form 5; her hiatus from education didn&rsquo;t come from a lack of ambition, but because her family couldn&rsquo;t afford to send her further. She worked multiple jobs to save up for a shot at higher education, only to be turned away by most public universities due to her age and academic gap.Today, she&rsquo;s not just a TESL student at City University. She&rsquo;s a Tunku Abdul Rahman scholar, Vice President of her university&rsquo;s Borneo Club, and a campus ambassador for Teach For Malaysia. She&rsquo;s volunteered in Vietnam, served communities in Sarawak, and led tuition programmes for underprivileged students. Every step forward is one she had to fight for&mdash;and now, she&rsquo;s working to make sure others won&rsquo;t have to fight quite as hard. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682d4ebe8f279_1747799742.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="405" /> Returning to the ClassroomAfter finishing Form 5, Stella Santa Juniah assumed her education was over. Her parents were struggling financially, and she knew there was no way they could afford to send her to college. For five years, she worked multiple jobs to support herself and save what she could. But even then, when she finally had the funds, most public universities turned her away, either because of her age or academic gaps.She didn&rsquo;t give up. Eventually, City University took a chance on her and offered a full foundation scholarship, and for the first time in years, Stella was back in a classroom. Juggling studies after such a long break wasn&rsquo;t easy, but to her surprise, it wasn&rsquo;t as hard as she had feared. She went on to continue her degree in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), but initially without any scholarship support, which meant juggling full-time classes with part-time work.The pressure was constant, but Stella kept moving. She applied for every opportunity she could find. One of those was the prestigious Tunku Abdul Rahman Scholarship, which she received during her degree. &ldquo;Starting from first year, it was a struggle. I need to go to college and then as well as working after that,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I go to college from 9 am until 5, and then I&rsquo;ll go to my part-time workshop. It&rsquo;s really tiring.&rdquo;Still, it felt like more than financial relief; receiving the scholarship was a turning point. It meant someone believed in her future.Teaching with PurposeStella didn&rsquo;t pursue a degree in education by accident. Her decision to major in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) at City University was deeply personal, shaped by the people who supported her during her school years. In primary school, a teacher noticed how quickly she picked up the language. In secondary school, another teacher became a father figure, providing her with learning materials and encouragement when her family couldn&rsquo;t.&ldquo;I could understand those languages really well,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I could go for debates, public speaking, and I even represented the national team for my school.&rdquo; <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682d4ee6ead9e_1747799782.jpg" alt="" width="335" height="720" /> Those early experiences cemented her belief that language, especially English, could open doors, particularly for students from underserved communities like her own in Beluran. To Stella, English wasn&rsquo;t just a subject. It was a tool for social mobility, a bridge to opportunity. And more than learning, she was drawn to teaching. She wanted to pass on what she had gained to help other students access what she once feared she might lose.Becoming a Leader Who Gives BackReceiving the Tunku Abdul Rahman Scholarship marked more than just a financial breakthrough for Stella. It marked the start of a new chapter in her life. The scholarship came with rigorous expectations, but also rich opportunities. It wasn&rsquo;t just about rewarding academic performance, but also about building leaders who would shape Malaysia&rsquo;s future.As a scholar, Stella entered a one-and-a-half-year leadership development programme that challenged her to grow beyond the classroom. She participated in national conferences, took on peer mentorship roles, and developed her own initiatives to give back to the community. Scholars were also given access to a personal development fund, which Stella used to support education-based volunteer work, including a month-long mission in Vietnam and outreach programs in Sarawak. &ldquo;Whatever you want to do, they support you,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;They shape us as free leaders.&rdquo;The scholarship programme even extended support to the scholars themselves, providing access to mental health services like therapy, which Stella saw as vital to sustaining long-term leadership. The message was clear: strong leaders aren&rsquo;t just high achievers. They&rsquo;re grounded, self-aware and committed to service. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682d4f3b62c68_1747799867.jpg" alt="" width="540" height="720" /> For Stella, the experience reshaped what it meant to lead. It wasn&rsquo;t about titles or public recognition. It was about clearing the path for others. &ldquo;When you want someone to fund your education, you need to show that you're worth funding,&rdquo; she said. Now, she works to help others show that same worth, not through perfection, but through resilience, purpose, and growth.Representing Borneo, Building BelongingMoving from Beluran to Kuala Lumpur was more than a change of scenery. It meant starting over in a place where few people spoke her dialect, shared her background, or fully understood where she came from. For Stella, joining the Borneo Club at City University offered a way to reconnect with her roots while helping others do the same.As Vice President, she played a key role in organising cultural events, expanding community engagement, and making Bornean identity visible on campus. The club brought together students from Sabah and Sarawak, offering a sense of familiarity and shared pride. &ldquo;When you go somewhere far and you're all alone, your family is very far,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;Being able to connect with others who came from the same root as you&mdash;it&rsquo;s very nice. You have your own support system.&rdquo;The Borneo Club's events served a greater purpose than just a cultural celebration. From the annual Harvest Festival to educational exchanges with institutions like UNITAR and IPG, Stella and her team worked to bridge understanding between East and West Malaysian students. They taught traditional customs, explained the significance of Bornean attire, and introduced campus communities to the beauty of their home states.For Stella, the club was more than an extracurricular activity. It was a reminder that leadership doesn&rsquo;t always mean standing out; sometimes it means bringing people together. It grounded her during a period of intense academic and personal growth, and gave her the confidence to keep moving forward.Representing Borneo, Building Belonging Teaching, Travelling, and the Road AheadEven as her schedule filled with classes, conferences, and campus responsibilities, Stella kept her eyes on a broader mission. She joined Teach for Malaysia as a campus ambassador, advocating for educational equity and recruiting volunteers to teach underserved students. Her role ranged from running awareness campaigns to helping organise tuition programmes, where university students offered free lessons to children in low-income communities.At the same time, she began working on her final-year research project, which focuses on how socioeconomic factors influence English language acquisition. She hopes the findings will be used to design better interventions for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. It is another way she&rsquo;s trying to change the system from the inside&mdash;by understanding its challenges more deeply.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682d506728615_1747800167.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="412" />That urgency feels especially relevant now. With the Malaysian Education Blueprint coming to an end this year and growing debate around the removal of standardised testing and student streaming, Stella believes reform must be shaped by those who understand what&rsquo;s at stake. &ldquo;There are so many potential students that just need help,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;You can&rsquo;t teach rural and urban students the same way. The way you approach them must be different.&rdquo;Stella&rsquo;s next steps are already in motion. She plans to complete her research, continue her advocacy work through initiatives like YSS and Teach for Malaysia, and eventually pursue a Master&rsquo;s degree. But her long-term vision stretches even further.Her dream is to one day open a centre for underprivileged students, where learning is not restricted by money. &ldquo;I wanted to build a centre where students could come and learn, where we provide support for them and they don&rsquo;t have to worry much about how their parents would pay,&rdquo; she said. She imagines travelling first and teaching in rural communities abroad to gain experience and perspective. Whether she ends up in Vietnam, China, or somewhere else entirely, she hopes to return to Malaysia and be better equipped to serve.It is a goal built not just on ambition, but on lived experience. Stella knows what it means to be overlooked. Now, she is working to make sure others are seen.

City University Malaysia, founded in 1984, is a private institution offering a wide range of programs, including engineering, business, education, and art and design. The university is dedicated to nurturing students through its learner-centric approach, blending theoretical foundations with practical experience. Its campus, located in Petaling Jaya, features modern facilities, including engineering labs and creative studios, fostering an engaging learning environment. City University emphasizes internships, industry collaborations, and global partnerships, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their professional journeys.

Explore City University Malaysia, a top private institution offering leading science and technology courses. Get details on intakes, entry requirements, fees structure, scholarships, and the latest news. Apply online for courses at City University Malaysia with Afterschool.my.

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City University Malaysia

Stella Santa Juniah Couldn’t Afford University—Now She’s a Scholar Fighting for Education Access

MMU through its Faculty of Creative Multimedia (FCM), in collaboration with Pertubuhan Seni Nusantara (Nu.Art), launched&nbsp;Apresiasi A. Samad Said, an immersive arts exhibition and theatre showcase celebrating Malaysia&rsquo;s National Laureate, Dato&rsquo; Seri A. Samad Said on 15 May 2025. Held at the university&rsquo;s e-Gallery, the event spotlights the enduring influence of the celebrated literary figure through a rich blend of digital reinterpretations and live theatrical performance.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682bf2c4c9619_1747710660.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="auto" />The launch was officiated by MMU President, Prof. Dato&rsquo; Dr. Mazliham Mohd Su&rsquo;ud, and honoured by the presence of several distinguished guests, including Yang Berbahagia Datuk Azuan Effendy bin Zairathnaini, Datuk Paduka Maharaja Lela of Istana Negara and Board Member of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP); Encik Helmy Samad, son and representative of Dato&rsquo; Seri A. Samad Said; and Puan Roziah binti Md Yunos, Head of the Promotion &amp; Recognition Division, representing the Director-General of DBP.In his officiating address, Prof. Mazliham congratulated the organisers and partners, including Nu.Art, DBP, Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara (JKKN), Balai Seni Negara, Filamen, and the Creative Multimedia Club (CMC), for their collaborative efforts.The exhibition features a compelling collection of digital artworks and visual poetry inspired by A. Samad Said&rsquo;s literary legacy. Created by students from FCM&rsquo;s foundation and diploma programmes, the pieces offer a fresh and modern take on the laureate&rsquo;s works, bridging traditional literature with contemporary digital media. Guided by FCM academic mentors, the initiative fosters a dynamic space for students to explore cultural narratives through technology and design.The launch was further enlivened by the premiere of&nbsp;Rumah Kosong, a powerful theatre performance directed by renowned Malaysian theatre practitioner Iryanda Mulia Ramly. Staged from 15 to 17 May 2025, the performance delves into themes of absence, memory, and longing, echoing motifs found in A. Samad Said&rsquo;s poetry. The minimalist production combines monologue, movement, and raw emotion, brought to life by performers from Nu.Art.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/682bf2a836369_1747710632.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="auto" />The&nbsp;Apresiasi A. Samad Said&nbsp;exhibition will run until 27 May 2025, offering the public a unique opportunity to experience the timeless beauty of Malaysian literature through the lens of a younger generation. The event also featured the prize-giving ceremony for&nbsp;Pertandingan Dari Kata ke Kanvas&nbsp;by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), in two categories: Digital Art and Generative Art.

Find a comprehensive overview of the courses available at Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya along with their respective fee structures.

MMU - Multimedia University - Courses and Fee Structure

Multimedia University (MMU) Malaysia is a leading institution recognised for its strong focus on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Established in 1997 as Malaysia's first private university, MMU offers diverse programmes in ICT, Engineering, Creative Multimedia, Business, and Law across its Cyberjaya and Melaka campuses. With an industry-driven curriculum and partnerships with global leaders like Huawei, Dell, and Intel, MMU equips students with practical skills and real-world insights. Students gain practical experience through advanced facilities such as multimedia labs, prototyping studios, and research centres in fields like cybersecurity, virtual reality, and robotics. MMU also fosters entrepreneurship through its Entrepreneurship Development Centre (EDC) providing mentorship, funding support, and business guidance. The university&rsquo;s Career Connect platform further enhances employability with career counselling, workshops, and job placements. With over 60,000 graduates excelling in industries worldwide and strong international exchange opportunities, MMU empowers students to thrive in today&rsquo;s competitive global landscape.

Explore Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya, Malaysia. Find comprehensive information on intakes, application deadlines, available scholarships, and diverse academic programs. Start your educational journey at MMU Cyberjaya.

Multimedia University MMU Cyberjaya​ | MMU Malaysia Intake, Scholarships

Multimedia University (MMU)

Get the latest news, announcements, events, and updates from Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya. Stay informed about campus life, research, and achievements.

Multimedia University MMU News & Updates: Stay Informed

Multimedia University (MMU) Malaysia is a leading institution recognised for its strong focus on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

MMU through its Faculty of Creative Multimedia (FCM), in collaboration with Pertubuhan Seni Nusantara (Nu.Art), launched Apresiasi A. Samad Said, an immersive arts exhibition and theatre showcase celebrating Malaysia’s National Laureate, Dato’ Seri A. Samad Said on 15 May 2025.

MMU and Pertubuhan Seni Nusantara Honour National Laureate A. Samad Said through Exhibition and Theatre Showcase

Why Study Overseas After SPM?Thinking about heading overseas after completing your secondary school? You're not alone. Every year, many Malaysian students take this route&mdash;some for the adventure, others for better career opportunities, and plenty because they simply want a different kind of learning experience. But going abroad isn&rsquo;t just about buying a plane ticket. There are multiple study routes to consider, each with its own pros and cons.Don&rsquo;t worry, Afterschool has got you covered with this all-in-one guide! This article will cover: what your options are, how much you might need to spend, and which universities are open to students like you.&nbsp;Pathway Breakdown: Understanding Your OptionsFull Overseas DegreeThis means you&rsquo;ll complete your entire degree abroad, usually after doing a pre-university programme like A-Levels, IB or Foundation here in Malaysia.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why it works: You get the full international experience, more flexibility in courses, and access to all on-campus resources. In some countries, completing a degree also opens up the possibility of staying to work. For example, the UK offers a Graduate Route visa that lets you work for up to 2 years after graduation, while Australia has the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). New Zealand and Canada offer similar post-study work pathways, making it easier to gain international experience.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What to watch out for: The cost of living and tuition fees are generally higher than studying locally. For example, in the UK, students can expect to pay around RM120,000&ndash;RM180,000 per year in tuition alone, not including living expenses like rent, food and transportation which can add another RM60,000&ndash;RM80,000 annually. You&rsquo;ll also need to prepare for visa requirements, health insurance, proof of financial support, and sometimes even English language tests (like IELTS).</li></ul>Twinning Programmes (2+1, 3+0, etc.)Twinning means you split your studies between Malaysia and a foreign university. A 2+1 program, for example, means two years here and one overseas. A 3+0 lets you finish everything in Malaysia but still earn a foreign degree.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why it works: It&rsquo;s more budget-friendly since you&rsquo;ll pay lower tuition and living costs for the years spent in Malaysia. It also gives you access to international teaching styles, resources, and cultural exposure without committing to a full three years abroad. You&rsquo;ll still experience overseas learning and campus life during your final year (for 2+1), which helps with a smoother transition if you plan to work or study further overseas.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What to watch out for: Limited course options, and sometimes fewer campus-life experiences depending on the local institution&rsquo;s facilities and offerings.</li></ul>Credit Transfer or Top-Up DegreesHere, you&rsquo;d typically complete a diploma locally and then transfer your credits to finish the final part of your degree overseas.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why it works: A good option if you&rsquo;ve already done a diploma and want to study abroad without starting from scratch. It&rsquo;s more cost-effective since you only need to fund one to two years overseas. You&rsquo;ll still get international exposure, experience a new learning environment, and earn a foreign degree&mdash;while saving time and money.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What to watch out for: Not all diplomas are recognised, and some credit transfers may not transfer over.</li></ul>Fast-Track Masters ProgrammesSome universities offer integrated degrees that combine your undergraduate and postgraduate studies. One example is <a href="https://afterschool.my/uni/university-of-southampton-malaysia-campus/course/meng-aeronautics-and-astronautics">UOSM&rsquo;s 2+2 engineering</a> route that leads directly to a Master&rsquo;s.<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Why it works: Saves time and money by letting you complete both degrees in a shorter period&mdash;often four years instead of five or more. You&rsquo;ll graduate with a higher qualification, which can boost your employability and give you an edge when applying for jobs or further studies.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What to watch out for: These programmes can be intense, so be prepared to commit.</li></ul>&nbsp;Studying in the UKThe UK remains one of the top picks for Malaysian students. The degrees are internationally respected, and with the Graduate Route visa, you can stay and work in the UK for up to two years after finishing your studies.How students usually get there:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pre-university options like A-Levels or Foundation in Malaysia</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Twinning or credit transfer programmes with UK partner universities</li></ul>The UK also has branch campuses in Malaysia (like Nottingham and Reading), so you can begin locally and transfer later, or even finish your whole degree here.University Comparisons: UK Institutions with Malaysian Pathways<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Southampton Malaysia (UOSM): Known for its 2+2 engineering track. You start in Malaysia and finish in the UK with a master&rsquo;s degree.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heriot-Watt University: Through the Go Global programme, Heriot-Watt students can study in the UK or Dubai for a semester, a year, or longer. Those transferring from Malaysia to the UK under this programme receive a 20% tuition fee discount.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Reading Malaysia: Offers flexible transfer pathways with multiple combinations to complete your degree in Malaysia or the UK.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">University of Nottingham Malaysia: Gives students the option to transfer to the UK or China campuses. Strong in Pharmacy, Business and Engineering.</li></ul>These unis are closely linked to their UK counterparts&mdash;same syllabus, same assessments, and you graduate with the exact same degree.&nbsp;Cost ConsiderationsLet&rsquo;s focus on how much it will cost to study in the UK:Tuition Fees (per year):Approximately RM70,000 to RM115,000, depending on the course and universityLiving Expenses:Around RM50,000 to RM80,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport and day-to-day spendingStudent Visa:About RM2,000 to RM3,000, including application fees and healthcare surchargeFlights:RM2,500 to RM5,000 for a return trip, depending on season and airlineAdditional Costs:Textbooks, laptop, clothing, student insurance, and society fees (budget RM3,000&ndash;RM7,000 extra)&nbsp;Scholarships Tip: Many UK universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Some twinning partners in Malaysia also provide discounts or partial sponsorships for the final year abroad. Research is key!&nbsp;Things to Look Out ForBefore you commit, check these boxes:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Is the degree recognised by MQA or global education bodies?</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What is the university&rsquo;s reputation like? Look at rankings and alumni reviews.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Visa timelines and requirements? These vary from country to country.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Is there support for international students? Things like housing, counselling, and career help matter.</li></ul>&nbsp;Final Thoughts: How to Decide What&rsquo;s Right for YouNot everyone&rsquo;s journey looks the same. Some prefer a full overseas experience, others might do a year or two locally before transferring. Your budget, goals and field of study will all shape what&rsquo;s best for you.The key? Start planning early. Form 5 is a great time to begin exploring your options, attending education fairs, and reaching out to counsellors.With the right research and support, studying overseas doesn&rsquo;t have to be overwhelming&mdash;it could be the best decision you ever make.

Your Guide to Studying Overseas After SPM (2025 Edition)

SPM results are out, and for many students, that means one thing: decision time. Whether you&rsquo;re feeling excited, confused, or just plain overwhelmed, don&rsquo;t worry, you&rsquo;re not alone!With numerous post-SPM pathways available, it can be challenging to determine which one is best suited for you.&nbsp;This guide will break down your options in a clear and straightforward way, allowing you to make a choice that aligns with your goals, interests, and learning style. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/681d982e7a6d9_1746769966.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="374" /> <ol><li> Foundation Programmes</li></ol>Foundation is a one-year fast-track pre-university programme offered by private universities, designed to lead directly into a degree at the same institution. Students typically study in smaller classes with access to modern campus facilities.&nbsp;The teaching style leans heavily on coursework, projects, and presentations, with minimal final exams.&nbsp;This route is especially useful for students aiming to enter competitive private degree programs quickly, though the qualification is usually not transferable across institutions.Best If:You already know what degree (or at least what field) you want to pursue, and if you&rsquo;re aiming for private universities.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Short duration (usually 1 year)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smooth transition into degree programs at the same university</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Coursework-focused (less exam pressure compared to STPM)</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can be expensive without a scholarship</li></ul>&ldquo;My Foundation experience really helped me broaden my horizons and understand people from other fields. I took the science stream during high school, and I didn&rsquo;t really get exposed to people on the more creative side of things.&rdquo; - <a href="https://afterschool.my/find-course/beyond-profits-leen-jason-s-path-to-building-a-legacy-at-22">Leen Jason</a>, Investment Analyst.&nbsp;<ol start="2"><li> Diploma</li></ol>Diploma programs take around 2 to 2.5 years and combine academic theory with hands-on training. Many students use the diploma as a stepping stone into degree programs, with up to 60% of credits typically transferable into a related bachelor's degree, allowing them to shorten their studies by one to two years, depending on the institution and course structure.Teaching is more skills-focused, with assessments based on projects and applied tasks rather than purely exams.&nbsp;Many diploma holders secure entry-level roles in industries like business, IT, or media, while others use the qualification as a stepping stone into a related degree, often with credit exemptions.Best If:You prefer hands-on learning or want the option to work early. Also suitable for those unsure of committing to a full degree just yet.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More practical and job-ready</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">May lead to direct employment</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can continue into a related degree with exemptions</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Not ideal for students who haven&rsquo;t established a specific career vision</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Harder to specialise in different areas outside the selected field</li></ul>&ldquo;During my diploma, I realised I could use coding to break down football in ways I&rsquo;d never seen before &mdash; that&rsquo;s when everything really clicked.&rdquo; - <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/football-data-and-dreams-how-lee-chun-hang-found-his-purpose-and-made-a-name-for-himself">Lee Chun Hang</a>, Presenter at Astro Sports.&nbsp;<ol start="3"><li> STPM (Form 6)</li></ol>STPM is a public pre-university programme that lasts about 1.5 years and is equivalent to A-Levels. It is conducted in government schools and follows a traditional classroom environment with larger cohorts and a heavier emphasis on academic self-discipline.&nbsp;The programme is exam-oriented, with structured semesters and cumulative assessments.&nbsp;STPM is recognised by both local and international universities, making it a strong academic foundation for students pursuing professional degrees such as law, education, or economics.Best If:You want to apply to public universities (IPTA) or need a cost-effective pre-university route that keeps your options open.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Low cost (offered at government schools)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Recognised internationally</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Multiple university options, local and abroad</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Highly exam-based and academically rigorous</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Heavier workload and more pressure</li></ul>&ldquo;Looking back, it gave me the mental stamina I needed to get through engineering school.&rdquo; - <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/from-music-to-mechatronics-melvyn-lim-s-quest-for-purpose-and-balance">Melvyn Lim</a>, Mechatronics Engineering degree holder.&nbsp;<ol start="4"><li> A-Levels</li></ol>A-Levels is a UK-based pre-university qualification that takes 1.5 to 2 years and is known for its academic depth and flexibility. Students typically choose three to four subjects and learn in private college environments with access to focused academic support.&nbsp;The programme is exam-based, but students have more freedom to structure their own revision and study pace.&nbsp;A-Levels is widely accepted by universities around the world and offers pathways into fields like medicine, engineering, finance, and more, especially for those targeting competitive institutions abroad.&ldquo;My experience with it (A-Levels) gave me the academic structure and mental discipline I needed to survive Oxford.&rdquo; - <a href="https://afterschool.my/articles/rebelling-by-being-the-best-kuberan-hansrajh-s-journey-to-oxford">Hans Kuberan,</a> Oxford Law Graduate.Best If:You are aiming for top international universities, or if you want some flexibility before choosing a specific degree.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Internationally recognised</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Highly flexible subject choices</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ideal for competitive overseas applications</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can be academically demanding</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More expensive (mostly offered at private colleges)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Less direct pathway&mdash;some degrees may require specific subject combinations</li></ul>&nbsp;<ol start="5"><li> Matriculation (Matrikulasi)</li></ol>Matriculation is a one-year government-run pre-university programme, mainly for entry into public universities. Classes are held in matriculation colleges with a structured, campus-style environment and residential living.&nbsp;Teaching combines coursework with exams and follows a fixed curriculum aligned with local university requirements.&nbsp;This pathway leads into high-demand programs at IPTAs such as medicine, dentistry, science, and accounting, particularly for students who meet matriculation stream requirements.Best If:You&rsquo;re Bumiputera students looking for a fast, subsidised route into local public universities.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Free or low cost</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shorter than STPM</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reserved university placements for some streams</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Limited places for non-Bumiputera students</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Recognised mainly by local universities only</li></ul>&nbsp;<ol start="6"><li> Other Options</li></ol>American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP)Start your degree in Malaysia, then transfer to a U.S. university in your 2nd or 3rd year.Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT), Canadian Pre-U, IB, etc.Great if you are targeting specific countries or education systems.TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training)Focuses on practical skills in fields like hospitality, engineering, culinary arts and more. Ideal for those who prefer hands-on work over academic study.&nbsp;<ol start="7"><li> Taking a Gap Year</li></ol>A break from formal education, usually for a year, to explore interests, gain experience, or just reset before choosing your next path. A well-planned gap year can offer the chance to travel, volunteer, pick up new skills, or gain work experience. It also helps build maturity and broadens your perspective.&nbsp; <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/681d98e097a78_1746770144.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="374" /> Many students return with improved communication, independence, and adaptability&mdash;skills that are valuable in both university and the workplace. Taking this time can lead to a stronger sense of direction and greater confidence in the choices you make moving forward. "Taking a gap year was the best decision I've ever made&hellip; the skills I acquired during this time were invaluable, and my experiences were profound." - <a href="https://schooladvisor.my/school-advisor-articles/riaan-ramachandran-redefining-success-with-a-transformative-gap-year">Riaan Ramachandran</a>Best For:Students who are feeling unsure, burned out, or want to build life experience before committing to a course of study.Pros:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Time to explore passions, travel, volunteer, or work</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Space to reflect and make clearer decisions</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can help you become mature, independent, and focused.</li></ul>Cons:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Requires discipline and planning (you don&rsquo;t want to waste it)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">May face pressure from family or fear of &ldquo;falling behind&rdquo;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Can be harder to get back into the academic mindset later</li></ul>Taking a gap year isn&rsquo;t &ldquo;slacking&rdquo;&mdash;it&rsquo;s only unproductive if you don&rsquo;t make a plan for how to spend it.&nbsp;Which Should You Choose?&nbsp;Ask yourself:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Do I want a fast track into university, or do I need more time to explore my options?</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">What&rsquo;s my budget? Can I apply for scholarships?</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Am I aiming for a local or international university?</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Do I prefer academic theory or hands-on learning?</li></ul>&nbsp;There&rsquo;s no &lsquo;best option&rsquo;. It all depends on where you want to go and how you want to get there. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to take a path that looks different from everyone else&rsquo;s.Because at the end of the day, this is your journey.

SPM’s Over, Now What? A Guide to Your Next Steps (2025 Edition)

For Jia Jie Lee, the path from fresh graduate to fulfilment in life has been anything but linear.&nbsp; A top-performing psychology graduate and full scholarship recipient at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), she had once envisioned a future in clinical psychology or academic research. With an academic record marked by accolades, she spent years setting her sights on either clinical practice or research, until life took her in a different direction.&nbsp;Today, she works in recruitment, connecting candidates to opportunities in Singapore&rsquo;s banking and financial services sector. While the path is far from what she once envisioned, it has offered a different kind of purpose: one rooted in human connection, growth, and the quiet reward of helping others move forward. Jia Jie&rsquo;s journey is a testament to how the most unexpected instances of redirection can often bring equally unexpected fulfilment.Exploring Psychology and Purpose at UTARJia Jie&rsquo;s passion for psychology sparked at the age of 15, when she fell in love with reading psychology books, intrigued by the science behind human behaviour. When the time came to choose a degree years later, the decision was obvious. &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t hesitate, I knew psychology was the right path for me.&rdquo; Her strong SPM results earned her a full scholarship for her foundation program at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). Determined not to let the opportunity slip away, she pushed herself to maintain excellent grades, her efforts eventually paying off in the form of a full degree scholarship.&nbsp;Her time at UTAR only deepened her interest in the field. She studied a wide range of topics, including educational psychology, health psychology, and mental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and depression. She also developed strong research skills, which she described as a key part of her academic journey. &ldquo;Psychology isn&rsquo;t just common sense. It&rsquo;s a science,&rdquo; she explained. &ldquo;You need to know how to collect data, run the statistics, and back up your findings.&rdquo;As her understanding of the subject grew, so did her ambitions. Jia Jie began to consider multiple paths, including clinical psychology and even a future in research and academia. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/681ad7b06c684_1746589616.jpg" alt="" width="1080" height="719" /> Throughout her degree, she remained one of the top-performing students in her cohort. Upon graduation, she earned First Class Honours and received several prestigious awards, including the Book Prize Award, the Best Graduate Award, and the Gold Medal Award, which is presented to a single outstanding graduate in each batch.Her years at UTAR were not just about academic success; they became a season of discovery that would shape her thinking in unexpected ways.Beyond the Classroom: Teaching, Research, and RedirectionThough clinical psychology had always been her top interest, Jia Jie didn&rsquo;t rush into a Master&rsquo;s programme. &ldquo;I was completely clueless about what I wanted,&rdquo; she admitted. Instead, she took a gap year, not only to provide herself a much-needed break, but to explore. That year turned out to be one of the most formative periods of her life.One path took her deeper into education. She returned to her alma mater to teach computer literacy, took on roles at tuition centres, and even taught preschool students remotely during the pandemic. Her youngest learners were just three years old. &ldquo;At that age, it&rsquo;s about exposure, not writing essays.&rdquo; She used flashcards, interactive experiments, and play-based lessons to spark curiosity, often teaching multiple languages and subjects in a single session.At the same time, she doubled down on research. Encouraged by her final-year supervisor, Jia Jie extended her thesis work and co-presented at a national conference. &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t expect to win Best Presenter,&rdquo; she said. Their paper was later published as a conference article, marking a significant milestone that paved the way for a potential career in academia. In fact, her supervisor even offered her a spot in a research-based master&rsquo;s program, one that could eventually lead to a role in academia or as a professor. But after careful thought, she turned it down, realising that long-term academic research wasn&rsquo;t the path she wanted to commit to.Still, she wasn&rsquo;t ready to let go of her dream of becoming a clinical psychologist. On her own initiative, she applied for a Master&rsquo;s in Clinical Psychology at UKM. She went through the interview process, giving it her all, but ultimately wasn&rsquo;t selected. &ldquo;I thought I&rsquo;d made up my mind. But suddenly, I was back at square one.&rdquo;As lost as she felt, it was a point in her life that taught her to always stay open to what might come next.&nbsp;&nbsp;Finding Fulfilment in the UnexpectedThe rejection from her dream master&rsquo;s programme stung. For a while, Jia Jie felt unmoored, uncertain of where to turn next. But rather than dwell in disappointment, she chose to keep moving. When an opportunity in recruitment came her way, she took it&mdash;not because it aligned perfectly with her past, but because it was a chance to learn something new.At first, she was hesitant. The corporate world seemed far removed from psychology and education, and she worried the work would feel transactional. Instead, she found something surprising: a sense of meaning. As a recruiter specialising in banking and financial services for the Singapore market, Jia Jie discovered a different kind of impact. She was helping people take the next step in their careers and assisting companies in finding the talent they needed to grow.&ldquo;It reminded me that helping people doesn&rsquo;t just happen in therapy rooms or classrooms, it can happen anywhere.&rdquo;From Malaysia to Singapore: Rising in RecruitmentJia Jie began her career in recruitment from Malaysia, joining a firm as an associate resourcer supporting the Singapore market. Her role focused on candidate sourcing, including screening profiles, building relationships and connecting job seekers with relevant opportunities. It was a behind-the-scenes role, but one that sharpened her instincts and gave her a deeper understanding of the job market.Eager to grow, she pursued certification to work directly with clients in Singapore&rsquo;s highly regulated hiring environment. Once licensed, she transitioned into a 360 recruitment role, liaising not only with candidates but also with hiring managers, understanding business needs, and offering strategic consultancy. It was a steep learning curve, but she fuly embraced it. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/681ad7d881c3d_1746589656.jpg" alt="" width="1080" height="799" /> Her growth was swift. Within her first year, Jia Jie became a top biller and top closer multiple times, earning recognition across the company. She was the first from her division to be transferred to the Singapore office, a milestone that reflected both her results and her potential.But for Jia Jie, success isn&rsquo;t measured in titles or commissions alone. What drives her is the chance to make a difference, which helping individuals find meaningful work definitely brings. &ldquo;You need to know whether this aligns with your purpose,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;For me, it does.&rdquo;Purpose Beyond PlansJia Jie&rsquo;s journey didn&rsquo;t follow the script she once imagined. Clinical psychology was her first ambition, and education and research were serious contenders. When each of those doors closed, she was left questioning her direction, but not her drive. Rather than waiting for clarity, she kept on moving, trusting that her purpose would take shape along the way.Today, she finds meaning in the unexpected. In recruitment, Jia Jie discovered a way to empower others, connect people with opportunities, and build relationships grounded in trust. Her work may not be rooted in therapy or academia, but it still centres around what matters most: helping people. &ldquo;Helping others doesn&rsquo;t only happen in a classroom or a therapy room,&rdquo; she reflected. &ldquo;It can happen anywhere.&rdquo; <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/681ad7fa49c82_1746589690.jpg" alt="" width="1070" height="709" /> Looking ahead, she doesn&rsquo;t pretend to have all the answers. Just two years ago, she couldn&rsquo;t have predicted she&rsquo;d be living abroad and building a career in a field she never planned for. But if there&rsquo;s one thing she&rsquo;s sure of, it&rsquo;s that curiosity and openness will keep steering her forward. &ldquo;Self-discovery is a lifelong journey,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;What you start out wanting may not be where you end up&mdash;and that&rsquo;s not just okay, it can be exciting.&rdquo; For Jia Jie, it&rsquo;s not about asking &lsquo;why&rsquo;, but &lsquo;why not&rsquo;.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Sungai Long Campus is a premier educational institution renowned for academic excellence and industry-focused programs. Located in a bustling urban area, it offers a wide array of courses in medicine, engineering, business, IT, and more, tailored to global and local demands. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge laboratories, and a conducive learning environment. With a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and practical training, UTAR prepares students for real-world challenges. Affordable tuition fees, scholarships, and a commitment to holistic education make UTAR Sungai Long a top choice for aspiring professionals seeking a competitive edge.

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Sungai Long

How Psychology Scholar Jia Jie Lee Found Purpose in Recruitment, Not a Clinic

When Megumi Uchiyama left Tokyo 3 years ago for Malaysia, she didn&rsquo;t have a detailed plan&mdash;just a Google search, a rough idea of where Malaysia was on the map, and most importantly, a restless hunger for change. She arrived in Malaysia at the height of the pandemic, abandoning her initial plans to pursue tertiary education in the United States in exchange for something more accessible and affordable. Letting go of a more traditional and far less risky route in Japan, Megumi decided to step into the unknown in hopes of a more fulfilling journey.Today, Megumi is 23 and in her final semester at the University of Nottingham Malaysia, completing a degree in International Communication with Performing Arts. With deep roots in musical theatre that stem from her childhood, Megumi&rsquo;s story at first glance might seem like one about finding her way back to theatre; but underneath it is something more complex: a journey marked by self-doubt, rediscovery, and an evolving sense of purpose that&rsquo;s taken her far beyond the stage. <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68143ced17ae0_1746156781.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="840" /> As she steps into the final chapter of her degree and time in Malaysia, she&rsquo;s preparing to walk away from performing arts, not out of defeat, but with a sense of closure. In its place, she&rsquo;s pursuing something else entirely: a vision to make Japan more inclusive for Muslim communities. Her creative path may be winding down, but what comes next might be her boldest performance yet.A Childhood on Stage, and a Crisis at EighteenMegumi&rsquo;s relationship with the stage began early in life. She joined a musical theatre school at the age of 7, a decision rooted in her passion for dancing. It was quickly apparent that what she was doing went beyond movement&mdash;it was acting, singing, storytelling: it was musical theatre. And for a while, she loved it.Megumi looked forward to the annual performances, which served as an opportunity to immerse herself in a role and leave the outside world behind. The theatre felt magical, but what fascinated her most was the work behind it; what looked effortless on stage was the result of intense preparation and collaboration. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s such a dreamy and magical environment,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;But behind that, there are the endless efforts of people. It felt like something only humans could achieve.&rdquo;But as she grew older, the magic began to unravel. The environment at her theatre school was highly competitive, and no matter how long she had been there, it felt like others were moving ahead. Newer students landed more prominent roles. Her confidence eroded as the stage started to feel more like a measuring contest over a place for expression. Eventually, she began to question whether she belonged in the world of theatre at all.At 18, Megumi left Japan for a short-term programme in the United States. She couldn&rsquo;t speak English well and knew almost no one. It was a time of dislocation, but also clarity. Stripped of the routines and identities she had relied on for so long, she began to ask herself what, if anything, still felt true.&ldquo;I realised I had nothing much I could talk about myself other than performing arts,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;So I thought, why not keep doing it for some time more?&rdquo; Despite the language barrier, Megumi found that there was something exhilarating about starting over; being surrounded by people who knew nothing about her, free from the quiet expectations she had carried back home. It was this revelation that would eventually lead her to Malaysia.From Google Search to Campus LifeWhen it came time to choose a university, Megumi initially looked to the United States. But with the pandemic disrupting plans and tuition fees proving too steep, she began to reconsider. Though she was accepted into a university in Japan, something about staying didn&rsquo;t sit right. &ldquo;I had one week to decide whether to take the offer,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;But I kept asking myself: do I really want to stay in Japan for another four years?&rdquo; Drawn to the freedom she had experienced abroad, Megumi went searching for another option. Her criteria were simple: somewhere safe, affordable, and new. &ldquo;I just Googled, and Malaysia came up,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I wasn&rsquo;t even sure where it was, honestly. But I thought, why not just go?&rdquo;There was uncertainty, but also relief. &ldquo;I was more scared to stay back in Japan.&rdquo;&nbsp;Falling Back in Love with TheatreMegumi didn&rsquo;t plan to return to theatre when she first enrolled at the University of Nottingham Malaysia. The performing arts programme was still growing, and resources were modest compared to what she had known back home; but perhaps because of that, she found herself creating again, but this time, with her voice.In Japan, she had dedicated years immersed in traditional training. There were fixed ways to speak, walk, and even breathe on stage. That world was full of structure and status. Even though I loved it, it felt like the theatre didn&rsquo;t love me back.&rdquo;Malaysia helped change that. The environment was looser and more forgiving. People cared less about polish and put more emphasis on participation. There was room to try, to stumble, and still be welcomed. &ldquo;I wasn&rsquo;t restricted to the traditional way anymore, and that gave me liberty.&rdquo; For the first time in a long while, she felt free to explore.&nbsp; <img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68143d20498d7_1746156832.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="842" /> Through the university&rsquo;s Literature and Drama Society, Megumi began to rebuild her confidence. She started backstage, running lights and supporting tech crews, but soon stepped into larger roles. In her second year, she co-directed Spilled Gravy on Rice, a full-length Malay drama involving a large and diverse production team. It was unpredictable, exhausting, and at times chaotic, but she loved every part of it.By her final year, she had become president of the society. For someone who once thought she had lost her place in theatre, it marked a quiet but powerful return. Nottingham Malaysia didn&rsquo;t offer the most polished productions, but it gave her something far more meaningful: a place to belong.Creating Without BordersMegumi&rsquo;s creative work has always come from a personal place, often aiming to build a place to connect. &ldquo;I want to make things everyone can enjoy, regardless of their background, language, or culture.&rdquo;Her stories often centre on the everyday. In one play, drinks in a vending machine come to life; in another, a laptop becomes a speaking character. She gravitates toward simplicity, finding meaning in the ordinary and offering space for the audience to interpret things in their own way and have unique relationships with the subject matter.These artistic choices reflect her own experience navigating life as an outsider. Whether growing up in Tokyo with feelings of alienation, or as a foreign uni student in the U.S and Malaysia, her experiences have fuelled her desire to create stories that feel accessible and welcoming.It was that same instinct that drew her to filmmaking. What began as a small short film project with a friend, Ashley, grew into an ongoing collaboration. Together, they&rsquo;ve made four student films. Filmmaking brought new challenges&mdash;technical demands, tighter pacing, endless retakes&mdash;but also gave Megumi a new space to express herself.<img src="https://img.afterschool.my/storage/uploads/images/68143d43bdcbd_1746156867.jpg" alt="" width="480" height="626" />Most of all, it helped her reclaim acting. She had long avoided performing in English, afraid her accent would hold her back. But in Malaysia, where accents are the norm, she felt freer. &ldquo;People here don&rsquo;t mind as long as you&rsquo;re audible,&rdquo; she said. That shift, as simple as it was, gave her the courage to speak up and step forward.A New Direction, Rooted in ConnectionFor most of her life, Megumi imagined her future would revolve around theatre. But during her final year in Malaysia, that vision began to shift. After years of expressing herself through art, she started to think more seriously about the kind of impact she wanted to make beyond the stage.The turning point came when a close Malaysian-Muslim friend visited Japan and struggled to find a place to pray or eat. It was a small but telling moment, one that made Megumi reflect on how inaccessible Japan still was for many Muslim visitors.&nbsp;The experience stirred something deeper: a sense of responsibility. Having grown up in Japan, internalised media biases, then lived abroad and unlearned them firsthand, Megumi realised she was in a rare position. She understood both the source of the problem and the people it affected. &ldquo;When it comes to this new dream, I feel like it has to be me,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m the one who went to foreign countries, immersed myself in the culture, and changed because of it.&rdquo;Her studies in media and communication helped her make sense of how such biases are formed. She began to understand how agenda-setting and framing in Japanese media had shaped her earlier misconceptions about Islam. Rather than turn away from it, she&rsquo;s choosing to engage.She doesn&rsquo;t have a clear plan yet, but she knows where she&rsquo;s headed. Whether through journalism, education, or policy, Megumi hopes to contribute to a more inclusive Japan&mdash;one where difference is not feared, but welcomed.Moving On with MeaningMegumi is no longer pursuing a career in the performing arts, but she isn&rsquo;t leaving it with regret. In fact, the opposite is true. &ldquo;I feel satisfied,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I had enough. I&rsquo;m good.&rdquo; That sense of closure has given her the confidence to chase something new.Her story is still unfolding, now driven by a different kind of creativity, one rooted in empathy, shaped by experience, and powered by the same desire that&rsquo;s guided her since she first stepped on stage: to make people feel seen.

As the first British university to establish a campus in Malaysia, the University of Nottingham Malaysia, founded in 2000, delivers world-class education rooted in UK academic traditions. It offers diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including Engineering, Business, Medicine, and Environmental Sciences. The campus features cutting-edge facilities, research labs, and a scenic environment conducive to learning. Students benefit from a global curriculum, international exposure, and the opportunity to transfer to its UK or China campuses. Renowned for its academic rigor and employability focus, Nottingham Malaysia produces graduates equipped to thrive in competitive global markets.

Discover University of Nottingham Malaysia’s top courses and programmes. Get details on scholarships, intake 2025, entry requirements, and fees structure. Apply online with Afterschool.my.

University of Nottingham Malaysia | Courses, Fees, Intake 2025

University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus

From Theatre to Social Change: How Malaysia Helped Megumi Uchiyama Find Purpose

With SPM results out, the biggest question students (and parents) face is: How are we going to afford further studies?&nbsp;Scholarships can be a game-changer, but with the overwhelming number of options and classifications available, determining which ones to apply for can be a daunting task.Several questions often arise regarding private and public scholarships. Are public ones better? Are private ones easier to get? And most importantly, which one should I go for?Let&rsquo;s break it all down.<h2>What Are Public Scholarships?</h2>Public scholarships are funded by the government or government-linked foundations. Think of bodies like JPA (Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam), MARA or Yayasan Tunku Abdul Rahman (YTAR).&nbsp;These are typically high-profile scholarships designed to support Malaysia&rsquo;s development goals, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering and education.They usually offer:<ul><li>Full coverage of tuition fees </li><li>Living allowances </li><li>Overseas study opportunities (for selected students) </li><li>Structured development programs </li><li>A bonding period, where you must work for the government after graduation </li></ul>Because of this, public scholarships are highly competitive. You&rsquo;ll often need top academic results, co-curricular achievements, leadership qualities, and a solid interview performance.Example: The JPA Scholarship is one of Malaysia&rsquo;s most sought-after awards. It covers full tuition, provides a monthly allowance, and supports both local and overseas degrees. However, recipients are usually bonded to work in a public sector role after graduation.<h2>What Are Private Scholarships?</h2>Private scholarships are awarded by companies, banks, foundations and even universities themselves. These scholarships are usually linked to an organisation&rsquo;s social responsibility initiatives, talent pipeline or educational partnerships.They often offer:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Partial or full tuition coverage </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Internship opportunities or job placements </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More flexibility in course or institution choice </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Less rigid bonding (if any) </li></ul>Because private scholarships come in various forms, the application process and eligibility criteria can differ significantly. Some are open to a large pool of students; others are targeted at specific courses or universities.Example: The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship is open to high-achieving students across ASEAN countries. It funds a wide range of degree programmes and includes leadership development, internships, and the opportunity to work with CIMB after graduation.<h2>So, Which Is Right For You?</h2>There&rsquo;s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here&rsquo;s what to think about:<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Your academic results: If you&rsquo;ve got straight As and strong leadership or community involvement, public scholarships are worth trying. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Your financial situation: Public scholarships often provide more generous funding and living support. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Your career path: Want to work in civil service or contribute to national development? A public scholarship may be a better fit for your goals. Do you prefer a corporate life or flexibility in your job? A private scholarship might suit you more. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Your study preferences: If you already have a specific university or course in mind, a private scholarship from that university (or a company with an education tie-in) could give you more freedom. </li></ul>Pro tip: Don&rsquo;t limit yourself! Apply for both public and private scholarships&mdash;you can always decide later which to accept.<h2>Tips for Scholarship Applications</h2><ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Start early: Deadlines can creep up fast, and documents can take time to prepare. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Do your research: Understand what each scholarship offers and what it expects in return. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Customise your essays and resume: Show how your values align with the organisation&rsquo;s goals. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Keep records: Track deadlines, submission dates, and any feedback you receive. </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Don&rsquo;t ignore smaller scholarships: They&rsquo;re often less competitive and can still make a big difference. </li></ul><h2>Final Thoughts</h2>Public and private scholarships can help lift the financial burden of further studies. The &lsquo;best&rsquo; one really depends on your goals, values, and comfort level with things like bonds and job placements. Whether you&rsquo;re aiming to be a doctor, data analyst, designer, or entrepreneur, there&rsquo;s a scholarship out there for you.So don&rsquo;t wait! Start exploring your options and sending in those applications; you never know which door might open.

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Private vs Public Scholarships: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Go For?

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