Little Spora: July 2012

BioSciences Students Excel at University of Queensland - News & Events : Taylor's University

It was a proud moment for four students from Taylor’s University School of Biosciences (SBS) when they each received the distinguished honour of a Dean’s Commendation for High Achievement at University of Queensland (UQ), Australia. The award was given based on the students’ admirable results by achieving an overall semester Grade Point Average of 6.0 out of 7.0, or higher.

Dean of Taylor’s University School of Biosciences, Dr. Stacey Yong, commented that the students have made their alma mater proud. “It is very encouraging to know that the students’ hard work and efforts are recognised, proving that excellence is one of the integral pillars of their education experience that they have received during their study at Taylor’s,” she said.

As part of the articulation programme offered with the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Hons) and Bachelor of Biotechnology (Hons) degrees, the four students were transferred to University of Queensland during their first semester with Taylor’s University School of Biosciences (SBS).

(From left)Nursaedah, Christine, Tse Chien, and Maisarah, at the Great Court,University of Queensland

“Being awarded ‘Dean’s Commendation for High Achievement’ is what I’ve always strived for. Pushing myself beyond the limit to achieve this meaningful award gives me immense satisfaction and motivation to go further,” said Maisarah Mahbon, one of the proud recipients of the award.

While the other recipient, Nursaedah Abdullah Aziz, attributed her success to the invaluable learning experience she had in UQ, Koo Tse Chien, a student of Biomedical Science, was thankful to have a team of supportive lecturers and academic staff in the university.

“I have gained in-depth knowledge and valuable experiences within these last 3 years of my programme in Bachelor of Science (Biomedical Science), both in Taylor’s University and UQ. It feels very rewarding to be on the ‘Dean’s Commendation for High Achievement’ list because I know that my hard work has paid off,” quipped Christine Teo, the fourth recipient of the award

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2-Dimensional Electrophoresis' Workshop for Aspiring Scientists

Taylor's University School of Biosciences (SBS), Chemoscience Malaysia Sdn. Bhd and Bio-Rad (USA) organised a three-day workshop titled, "2-Dimensional Electrophoresis - Beginners to Advanced Users". Opened to the public, the workshop saw an attendance of 20 postgraduate students and researchers from various institutions in Malaysia who intend to venture into proteomics and to master skills in the 2-DE area of biotechnology.


Participants of the workshop with front third from the left; Dr. Anthony Ho, Dr. Anton Posch and Dr. Phelim Yong

Proteomics is the large-scale study and screening of the proteins of a cell, organism or biological fluid, a process which requires stringently controlled steps of sample preparation, 2-D electrophoresis, image detection and analysis, spot identification, and database searches. The core technology of proteomics is 2-DE. At present, there is no other technique that is capable of simultaneously resolving thousands of proteins in one separation procedure.

2-Dimensional Electrophoresis (2-DE) is a form of gel electrophoresis commonly used to analyse proteins, and is currently the most powerful protein separation technique available in the biosciences market. In the laboratory, it has proved useful in the discovery of novel biomarkers that can be potentially developed into diagnostic kits and therapeutic agents for infectious diseases, cancer and others. Moreover, 2-DE has the ability to study proteins that undergo post-translational modification as the protein spots will appear as distinct spot clusters in horizontal or vertical axis in 2-DE gels.

Since its introduction by O'Farrell in 1975, 2-DE has been one of the driving forces behind the development of proteomics. This gel-based proteomics has the capability to analyse protein composition of a cell besides quantitative and qualitative analysis of complex mixtures of protein that made up various cellular functions. The advantage of proteomics is the ability for direct use of various biological samples such as blood plasma, serum, urine, cerebral fluid and other secretions in its analysis without any intermediate steps.

According to Dr. Phelim Yong, lecturer at Taylor's SBS, getting the most out of proteomics especially in 2-DE remains a challenge for beginners in the biosciences field. As this approach demands the mastering and perfection in hands-on techniques in conducting experiments, participants were exposed on how to initiate, decide what to use and what they should expect from a 2-DE gel. He added that the training workshop will empower the participants to understand the key aspects of 2-DE which will make them much competent to embark into proteomics.

"This training workshop emphasised on the fundamental concepts of proteomics which comprised of understanding various strategies in sample preparation, techniques for reducing proteolysis, how to maximize the output in 2-DE, how to analyse the proteome map and others," Dr. Phelim Yong said.

Among the benefits of having completed this training, participants were able to identify strategies for protein extraction, the usage of practical techniques in 2-DE, utilise effective ways in time management during 2-DE experiments, decide the appropriate staining methods for spots detection and apply suitable statistical tools for proteome map analysis.

The guest presenter during the workshop was Dr. Anton Posch, who received his Bachelor of Food Chemistry and doctorate degree from Technical University of Munich in 1988 and 1995 respectively. Dr. Anton was also a postdoctoral fellow in the Research Institute for Occupational Medicine (BGFA), Germany. Since 2003, he has been the leading scientist at the New Technologies Research and Development, Bio-Rad USA, where he contributes to various research and training programmes. Currently, Dr. Anton embarks on a journey to share best practices in proteomics especially in sample preparation for 2-dimensional electrophoresis and Malaysia is one of his many stops.


Dr. Anton Posch

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University of Hertfordshire’s Link Tutors Reinforce High Quality of INTI's Business Degree

Regular visits by link tutors from INTI College Sarawak’s partner universities abroad add a unique dimension to the overall teaching and delivery of degree programmes at the College. A recent visit by Christine Seamark, a link tutor from the UK’s University of Hertfordshire (UH), was an affirmation of the university’s ongoing commitment to support the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Administration programme offered at INTI.

UH was recently selected as one of the world’s top 100 universities aged under 50 by Times Higher Education (THE) in a new addition to its World University Rankings portfolio. The rankings are based on excellence across teaching, research, citations, industry income and international outlook. UH scored highly for the citing of its academic research on a global scale and for its international outlook and mix.

INTI’s management team and academics (from left) Mark Edmund Kasa (Business lecturer), Stanley Gona (Vice-Principal of Administration), Voon Boo Khoon (Head, School of Business and Information Technology), Desmond Sateng (Head of BA (Hons) in Business Administration programme), Ivy Lau and Hong Siew Choo (Business lecturer) with Christine Seamark (3rd from right).

Commenting on the link tutor visits, Ivy Lau, Chief Executive and Principal of INTI College Sarawak said, “The visits by Ms Seamark and other link tutors go a long way in ensuring that our students enjoy the same learning experience as students at the University of Hertfordshire in the UK and is an integral part of INTI’s Quality Management Processes. Our students get the opportunity to learn from leading academics from UH and our programme manager and academic team benefit from the support they receive in managing and delivering the programme.”

Since 1999, INTI’s Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Administration programme which is offered in collaboration with UH has been the programme of choice for learners seeking a specially designed business degree that offers valuable insights into real-world business management. As the entire degree can be completed at INTI College Sarawak, students have the opportunity to earn a prestigious internationally recognized degree without having to incur the high cost of tuition and living expenses usually associated with pursuing tertiary level qualifications abroad. Working adults and fresh STPM school leavers who wish to pursue tertiary level studies while embarking on a career can opt to join the specially-tailored evening classes.

The programme is designed to boost employability prospects and career advancement in the field of business. Learners will develop the ability to plan, organize, lead and control work teams. All important areas of a business organization are covered in the programme so as to produce well-informed and farsighted business professionals. The programme is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and recognized by the Public Service Department (JPA).

Students of INTI benefit not only from the institution’s over 25 years of experience and strong track-record, but also gain from the global synergy and resources that Laureate International Universities provides. INTI is a part of Laureate, the world’s largest private education network with a presence in 29 countries, with more than 60 accredited universities and 130 campuses, serving more than 700,000 students globally.

A Level or STPM students with 2 principal passes or 5 Bs in UEC or students who have completed accredited Foundation in Business programmes are eligible to enter the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Business Administration programme. Those with a diploma which has been accorded minimum standard by MQA are eligible to transfer a maximum of 30 credit hours to the degree programme.

For further information about INTI’s academic programmes, please call 082-570888 or visit INTI College Sarawak at Jalan Stampin Timur in Kuching.

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CM: COUNTRY NEEDS LOTS OF INNOVATIVE INDIVIDUALS

SHARING THE JOY: Taib sharing the joy of Unimas’ first physically-challenged graduate Ngu Nyok Ping (in wheelchair). Also seen are Khairuddin (third left), Unimas board of directors chairman Datu Dr Hatta Solhi (fourth right) and other award recipients.

KOTA SAMARAHAN: Local universities, especially Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), should immerse themselves in innovative endeavours in order to become effective agent of change for the country.

Unimas pro-chancellor Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud said yesterday that this was important because institutions of higher learning had the responsibility to produce human capital that was innovative and creative.

Innovation and creativity, Taib said at Unimas’ 15th Convocation, were considered essential elements to bring the country towards its desired development targets and goals.

“Universities, through its innovative graduates and active participation of its academic staff in innovative and creative-related activities, could be the major stimulus for the country’s new economic model.

“Innovative and creative cultures in universities would help not only in the academic aspect, it would also help to produce competitive human capital.

“Therefore, I hope to see universities acting as an effective agent to further develop the country,” said Taib at Dewan Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra.

Taib said he was glad that Unimas had been actively involved in research and development (R&D), such as in green technology, information and communication technology (ICT), and sago-related industry.

He hoped that they could increase their R&D efforts in relation to local indigenous knowledge to benefit the people.

“I would also like Unimas to utilise the alumni data to keep track of the employment data of its graduates as one of the indexes of the achievements of the university,” he said, adding that Unimas alumni should also help.

Meanwhile, Unimas vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab Hamid said in his speech that the university had identified five main research areas in relation to the development of Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).

They were biodiversity and environmental management; emerging tropical and infectious disease; ICT development; renewable energy/green technology; and industrial design.

“Apart from that, Unimas would continue to encourage students to engage in community services and humanitarian relief activities to produce holistic graduates,” he said.

The university, Khairuddin revealed, was in the midst of introducing a new fundamental programme related to humanitarian work for SPM leavers.

If everything goes well it would see its first batch of students next year.

Extracted from theborneopost.

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UNIMAS EXPLORING WAYS TO TURN OIL PALM WASTE INTO USEFUL PRODUCTS

KUCHING: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) is delving into ways of making better use of waste left behind from palm oil production at some mills in the state.

Its vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Ab Hamid said that Unimas and the Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) had agreed in principle to use the latter’s mill in Bau as an experimental plant.

He said a team from Unimas had inspected the mill and gathered relevant information before both parties could formalise the negotiation.

“Together with Salcra, we will collaborate with our technology partner from Peninsular Malaysia and hopefully our experimental plant will be operational by the middle of next year,” he said after the launch of a librarianship seminar at Unimas here yesterday.

Khairuddin said the plant would produce organic fertiliser, gas for electricity, bio-diesel and clean water for industries.

The project aimed to utilise solid wastes – fibre and empty fruit bunches – as well as effluent that contains potentially valuable nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, he added.

He said that by having such plant, Unimas would be able to help protect the environment.

“If we have such a plant, the effluent will not be discharged directly to the water sources where the nutrients can affect water quality in rivers and streams.

“It will be treated and used to produce organic fertiliser and clean water for industries,” he said.

The Unimas vice chancellor said the project, expected to cost about RM7mil, for the start, would be a commercial venture.

On a separate issue, Khairuddin disclosed that Unimas had been producing bioethanol from sago palm for biofuel and the product was currently sold to a local buyer.

The project, which started operation sometime last year with the setting up of an RM11mil bioethanol plant, which was funded by Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry, has the capacity of producing 1,000 litres of biofuel daily.

Khairuddin said Unimas planned to utilise 100% of sago palm and it had more or less achieved the aim.

The feat by Unimas had made Malaysia the first country in the Southeast Asian region to produce bioethanol from sago palm.

Extracted from thestaronline.

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UNIMAS TO INTRODUCE BIO-FUEL EXTRACTED FROM SAGO WASTE

KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) will be introducing bio-fuel extracted from sago waste the first of its kind through its Sago Research Centre.

The research was started 10 years ago by a group comprising several Unimas students and lecturers, and experts from Japan.

Based on the research, the sago waste is commercialised to produce bio-fuel which is the basic ingredient for making furniture, agronomy and textile, said Unimas vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Khairuddin Abdul Hamid.

“Unimas has conducted a study on overall sago usage at the pioneer plant which started last year. This project is the
result of the RM11 million allocation given by Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry and we expect to officially open the plant to the public as well as an exhibition next month,” said Khairuddin at the launching of a librarian seminar yesterday.

ONE FOR THE ALBUM: Margaret (seated second left) and Khairuddin (seated fourth left) with seminar participants.

Meanwhile, Unimas is having talks with Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) to produce bio-diesel and organic fertiliser from oil palm wastes.

“We will use a factory owned by Salcra at Bau as our research centre by taking waste material from the oil palm plantation, and we will be the first to produce bio-diesel from oil palm wastes,” he said.

The project is expected to commence mid next year and costs is expected to reach
RM7 million.

He added that both projects were Unimas’ efforts to create something beneficial to the society.

“Innovation is not just about creating something high-tech but also includes creating something beneficial to the society. Therefore, Unimas always thinks up ideas that can benefit the society overall.”

This is the first time that Unimas Centre for Academic Information Service (Cais) is holding the seminar which is now themed ‘Librarian Innovation Towards Graduate Excellence’.

According to its head librarian Margaret Simeng, the seminar was previously known as the Librarian Forum.

“Rapid knowledge and technological advancement requires librarians and information managers to prepare themselves with knowledge and skills in transforming towards innovation and creativity to strengthen the delivery system of a library or information centre,” she said.

During the two-day seminar which ends today, 11 working papers will be presented by professionals from various institutions.

Also present at the launching was seminar chairperson Korina Ibrahim.

Extracted from theborneopost.

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Kejayaan Cemerlang Penyelidik UPNM di Technology Expo (MTE) 2012

Penulis :R & I Rabu, 29 Feb 2012

Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) telah menyertai Malaysia Technology Expo (MTE) 2012 mulai 16-18 Februari 2012 bertempat di Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur. Pameran MTE 2012 adalah bertujuan untuk mempamerkan hasil penyelidikan & pembangunan (R&D) dan teknologi terkini serta memberi pendedahan dan peluang pemasaran terhadap rekabentuk produk dan perkhidmatan teknologi terkini. Ekspo tersebut juga turut mempamerkan penciptaan dan inovasi terkini dari universiti, institusi penyelidikan, penyelidik persendirian dan sektor korporat dari negara-negara Asia dan Eropah.
Sebanyak 7 penyertaan dari 5 orang penyelidik UPNM telah menyertai pameran tersebut dimana UPNM telah berjaya mencatat sejarah kejayaan yang cemerlang dimana kesemua produk penyelidikan UPNM telah memenangi pingat iaitu 1 pingat emas, 3 pingat perak dan 3 pingat gangsa. Senarai penuh pemenang-pemenang adalah seperti berikut:

i. Prof Madya Dr. Ong Keat Khim
(Nama Projek: Arsenic Detection System) – Pingat Emas
ii. Kapt Syed Nasir Alsagoff Bin Syed Zakaria
(Nama Projek: PAW: A PKI – Based Antimalware Using An Invitation Whitelist Concept) – Pingat Perak
iii. Kapt Syed Nasir Alsagoff Bin Syed Zakaria
(Nama Projek: T-Pad: A Novel Method of Network Traffic Padding Utilizing Dual Injection Method to Prevent Traffic) – Pingat Perak
iv. Ir. Mohammed Alias Bin Yusof
(Nama Projek: Field Blast Testing RIG) – Pingat Perak
v. Kapt Syed Nasir Alsagoff Bin Syed Zakaria
(Nama Projek: Sutacsics: Small Unit Tactical Silent Communication System) – Pingat Gangsa
vi. Prof. Madya Kept. Zulkifly bin Mat Radzi (Bersara)
(Nama Projek: Fleetwork Simulator) – Pingat Gangsa
vii. Encik Ahmad Humaizi Bin Hilmi
(Nama Projek: Blast Apparatus To Cut Metal Using Water) – Pingat Gangsa

MTE 2012 telah disempurnakan perasmiannya oleh YB. Datuk Hj Fadillah bin Hj Yusof, Timbalan Menteri, Kementerian Sains, Teknologi dan Inovasi dan YBhg. Lt Jen Dato’ Wira Allatif Mohd Noor, Naib Canselor UPNM juga turut hadir ke pameran tersebut bagi memberi sokongan kepada penyelidik-penyelidik UPNM serta meninjau persekitaraan pameran MTE 2012. Tahniah diucapkan kepada penyelidik-penyelidik UPNM yang telah berjaya mengharumkan nama UPNM didalam bidang penyelidikan dan inovasi dan membuktikan bahawa UPNM mampu bersaing dengan IPTA yang lain.

Kemaskini Terakhir : Rabu, 29 Februari 2012

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UKM to Acquire Latest Technology to be Among the World’s Best University

By S. Sivaselvam
Pics by Mohd Hairul Azmi Jahid

BANGI, 18 July 2011 –UKM has drawn up its ICT Strategic Plan for the period 2011-2015 to be spearheaded by the Information Technology Centre (PTM) as part of its efforts to become a world renowned university.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student and Alumni Affairs, Prof Ir Dr Othman A. Karim said the latest technology is needed to help spur the university’s principal activities to be on par with other institutions of higher learning on a global scale.

There needed to be comprehensive planning to achieve this, he said when opening PTM’s ICT Day here today.

He is confident that PTM will be able to meet requirements for the latest technology under the Strategic Plan, a blueprint that provides guidance for the implementation of ICT projects in a cost effective way in line with the need for priority to be placed on management and operational requirements within a specified period.

“This Strategic Plan also identifies the initiatives that will be supported by applications systems, technology, human capital development and ICT-based administration in supporting UKM’s mission and vision,” Prof Othman said.

In describing ICT as the driver of UKM’s transformation exercise, Prof. Othman said the level of ICT usage among UKM’s staff and students is high in view of the facilities and services that are being provided.

Even so, he hoped PTM will always seek feedback from the users of its services and look for ways to improve its delivery. He described the ICT Day as one such avenue for feedback and a way to re-evaluate the current technology, study problems that arise and ways to overcome them.

Prof. Othman was proud of the achievements of PTM in providing a wide range of facilities in terms of ICT infrastructure to help nurture research, teaching and learning while ensuring administrative excellence at the university.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin in her message for the ICT Day said that PTM, as a major service centre at UKM, has improved the quality of its service provisions in a comprehensive manner.

In 2010, PTM was awarded the ISO 9001:2008 certification, which she described as proof that PTM succeeded in meeting its KPI, and she hoped that efforts to build upon this would be continued through control and monitoring mechanisms so that improvement in service quality is achieved more effectively.

PTM Director Associate Prof Dr Mohamad Shanudin Zakaria said the era where ICT was seen as a technical facilitator to overcome the technical issues facing organisations is over. ICT’s primary role now is to develop and provide services that are suited for the world of business, he said.

“This requires intellectual transformation that is geared towards the realisation of a knowledge economy,” he stressed.

“For this purpose, ICT must be regarded as the driver in powering smart partnership and not just focussed on resolving issues in terms of content and hardware.”

Among the exhibitors at the ICT Day are the Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (Mampu), the OSS (Open Source Software) community, the amateur radio community, Telekom Malaysia, Symantec Corp (Malaysia) and Avaya (Malaysia).

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MAMPU Gives High Marks to UKM ICT Strategic Plan

By Saiful Bahri Kamaruddin
Pix Shahiddan Saidi

BANGI, 11 May 2012 – The Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit, MAMPU has given high marks to The National University of Malaysia (UKM) as an agency leading the charge in research through Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

MAMPU Director-General, Dato' Mohamad Zabidi Zainal said he was impressed with UKM's commitment to working with the agency in raising the stakes of research in the university through its ICT strategic plan.

He took pride with the support and involvement of MAMPU as the consultant to UKM’s ICT experts to come up with an ICT strategic plan for institutions of higher learning in the country.

He made the remarks at a brief ceremony for the submission of UKM's 2011–2015 ICT Strategic Plan at Cancellory meeting room today. The document was handed over to UKM Vice-Chancellor, Prof Tan Sri Dato' Wira Dr Sharifah Hapsah with a copy given to Dato’ Zabidi.

The plan takes into account the development, planning and implementation of ICT in UKM's main campus in Bangi as well as at its other campus in Kuala Lumpur and the UKM Hospital in Cheras.

Dato' Mohamad Zabidi said the processes used had helped raise awareness and expertise for all those involved. The UKM ICT Strategic Plan began in August 25 2010 and is all-encompassing.

Prof Sharifah Hapsah said that ICT is the key to the core business of UKM, that is teaching, learning and research saying since ICT became widespread on the main campus, UKM became more efficent and speedier including among students and the teaching staff as can be seen all over the campus in Bangi.

The in-depth development of the ICT Strategic Plan was carried out by a team led by Prof Ir Dr Othman Abdul Karim as the project director.

Consultancy for the project was provided by a team of strategic ICT consultants at MAMPU led by Dato' Dr Zahari Othman.

The plan is a long-term one that determines the direction of planning, strategic development and implementation of ICT projects to support the achievement of UKM's vision and mission.

The plan, which is part of the public sector ICT strategy, details the objectives of the ICT policies. It is aimed at ensuring that ICT management in all agencies are in line with the public sector ICT strategy.

Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic and International Affairs, Prof Datuk Dr Noor Azlan Ghazali; Prof Ir Othman who is also Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Alumni and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Inovation, Prof Dato' Dr Rahmah Mohamed.

MAMPU is tasked with taking the lead role in implementing modernisation strategies for the Malaysian Public Service.

In implementing its responsibility, MAMPU says it focuses on initiatives that can upgrade the quality, efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity of the Public Service.

All these initiatives encompass the areas of quality acculturation, organisational development, integrity management, ICT development and enhancing relationships between the public and private sectors.

The modernisation initiatives implemented by MAMPU have to be conveyed widely to all government agencies by all available channels in order ensure accurate and updated information are readily available.

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UTM Team won top prize at Bentley Student Design Competition

June 18, 2012
Published by alin

Bentley honours UTM team for innovative use of g-tech

Johor Baru, Malaysia: Taps in neighbourhoods have been known to run dry because of burst water pipes during excavations. Now, two Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) students developed a 3D modelling procedure to solve the problem.

During the annual Bentley Student Design Competition, Uznir Ujang, 29, and his wife Suhaibah Azri, 27, bagged the top prize in the “unique ways of solving a problem with GIS technology” category. They emerged as winner of the Bentley Student Design Competition, amongst 100 international participants.

It was also the first time the award was won by Malaysians in the 15 years of the infrastructure software design competition, which previously saw winners from countries such as China, India and Russia.

Uznir Ujang, 29, said he and his wife Suhaibah Azri, 27, created a 3D software model to enable users such as utility, telecommunications and pipeline companies to accurately retrieve information like pipeline depth, intersection and distances.

He said it took them more than four months to work on the design, which won the top prize under the category for unique ways of solving a problem with GIS technology. “Our design was based on real data provided by utility, telecommunications and pipeline companies. The software can be used to lessen the risk of damaging underground cables and pipes when carrying out maintenance or installation works,” Uznir said after the prize-giving ceremony in UTM Skudai.

“We were very focused on the project, which took about MYR 200,000 (MYR: Malaysian Ringgit) to design, and we also spent a lot of time discussing and brainstorming in the research lab, as well as in the bedroom,” he quipped.

The couple walked away with USD 2,000 (MYR 6,300) and a trophy while UTM was awarded a year of free unlimited subscription to more than 50 of Bentley’s infrastructure products, including traffic, bridges and road design software.

Bentley Southeast Asia-Pacific academic director Ivy Branson said Uznir and Suhaibah’s design was outstanding and beyond the judges’ expectations. “We were surprised that their design was in 3D, which is used widely in the industry but seldom by students,” she said.

Source : The Star

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Harvard Case Studies Workshop

June 19, 2012
Published by sabri

Kuala Lumpur, June 21: Another Harvard Case Studies Workshop was held at Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur on June 19 and will end June 22, 2012.

The facilitators are an alumnus of Harvard, Habib Rahman who has written a number of the Harvard Case Studies himself and Sandra Sutherland from one of the universities in Boston.

The participation in this workshop are not just among UTM academics, but the workshop has also attracted individuals and groups from various institutions and organizations around the country, who have shown interest in the use of Harvard Case Studies as part of training and teaching.

As a research university, UTM is transforming fast, especially now that it has become an autonomous institution. Through the New Academia concept, UTM promotes new and fresh dimensions to knowledge advancement across disciplines in a dynamic, vibrant and enriching way based on meaningful engagements beyond conventional paradigms. The aim is to promote mindset change to one that is innovative, entrepreneurial and global towards sustainability for the academia.

The adoption of the Harvard case studies is a teaching and learning innovation for UTM which aims to give value added dimensions to learning among UTM students. This innovative approach is in line with the New Academia concept that UTM is advocating, involving UTM students from all levels of studies in various disciplines, aimed at engaging them in an enriching learning experience.

By using the HBS case studies, students are exposed to real situations in related industries which will engage them in discussions and deliberations on various issues, challenge them to think critically with a view to resolving problems and making decisions by looking at possibilities from different perspectives.

UTM is also proud to be the first local university to use case studies from Harvard, the world’s top university, in its academic programmes. At present, various faculties in UTM have started using HBS case studies as part of their teaching and learning approach. For example, undergraduates studying information and communication technology (ICT) have been exposed to cases related to ICT companies such as Apple, IBM, Google and HTC.

It is worth noting that the management of UTM is working in close collaboration with the HBS Alumni Club of Malaysia to invite a few professors of HBS to train more UTM academic staff to conduct HBS case studies approach more effectively.

UTM’s engagement with Harvard Business School is part of its internationalisation effort, and this collaboration supports the concept of New Academia in terms of smart partnership, synergistic alliance, value-driven approaches and impactful strategies.

This engagement further strengthens our belief that universities should leverage on international network and strategic alliances in stimulating greater exchange of knowledge, talent and expertise.

The use of the HBS Case Studies would thus redefine teaching and learning in meaningful ways in pursuit of innovation excellence and instilling entrepreneurial mindsets among staff as well as students. Most importantly, this approach is most relevant to prepare students who would make a difference and remain competitive in the current global environment.

Eriacta

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LAUNCHING, REBRANDING OF IIUM DOT.FM

20 Jul 2012Reported by: Public Relations Office
Category:News

All smiles.....The Rector officiating the opening ceremony and re-branding of IIUM fm. [17 July, 2012]

IIUM Rector, Prof. Dato Sri Dr. Zaleha Kamaruddin (centre), in declaring open IIUM fm, said that the new outfit will enhance two-way communication and interactivity within the campus community and with the world at large. New media are now a significant aspect of our daily life and that they are efffective tools of communication especially amongst the younger generation. She congratulated the Communication students from KIRKHS for taking the iniative and ingenious effort to upgrade the faciilties and make IIUM fm. radio station -- and subsequent on-line transmission capability -- a reality.

On Air & in Conversation......Prof. Dato Sri Dr. Zaleha being interviewed by an IIUM fm.broadcast conty journalist.

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ome!!!!

this week i will have a test 'INS200'..

I hope i can read the book carefully n answer the question correctly

for all friend good luck!!

remember....

TIME IS GOLD

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hello guys!!!

today i want introduce my lecture MGT300.

his name Sir Syed Mazlan Syed

he live at UiTM Campus Johor Bahru.

from I know his teach management subject in my campus.

this is first time he teach.

i hope i can understand this subject n MGT300

please don't make crazy.

thank to support me!!!!

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'S. Korea can tap Malaysia's ICT'

CONDUCIVEENVIRONMENT: We have the infrastructure, says Muhyiddin

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin paying a courtesy call on South Korean Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik at Kim’s office in Seoul yesterday. Bernama pic

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SEOUL: SOUTH Korean companies should explore business opportunities in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector in Malaysia, which is promoting the sector.
Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said among the ICT areas that the companies could focus on were the wireless and convergence technology.
Another significant growth area, he said, was in the renewable energy sector, where many global manufacturers had established production facilities in Malaysia to produce components, such as solar cells and modules.
"These are new and emerging industries that require modern infrastructure and support facilities, which are available in Malaysia.
"We invite Korean companies to explore the potential in these areas," he said during a meeting with South Korean captains of industry here yesterday.
Muhyiddin said the government's focus on high value-added and capital-intensive industries would also allow more companies from the republic to invest in Malaysia.
"Given South Korea's strength in these areas, especially in research and development, there is good potential for collaboration in electronics, ICT, biotechnology, agro-based products, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy as well as the development of machinery and engineering equipment."
Since South Korea was the global hub for the electrical and electronics sector, their companies should continue to invest and expand their operations in Malaysia, which was recognised as a leading manufacturing centre for many high value-added, electronic components and equipment, he said.
There are more than 300 South Korean companies in the manufacturing sector in Malaysia with a total investment of more than RM15.5 billion.
Among them are Samsung, Kiswire, Donghwa, SK Telecom and Honam Petrochemicals.
"South Korean companies have not only made substantial investments in Malaysia but have also brought with them suppliers and subcontractors that helped build the local supply chain."
Muhyiddin said the government's decision to liberalise 44 services sub-sectors would allow greater participation of foreign investors in sectors such as health and tourism services.
South Korea was the main investor in the manufacturing sector last year with investments totalling RM5 billion.
He said Malaysia had made significant strides in key global rankings, rising from 26th to 21st among 142 countries in the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report 2011. The World Bank's Doing Business Report 2012 had also ranked the country at 18th place.
Muhyiddin earlier made a courtesy call on Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik at his office at the Central Government Complex in Jongrohu.

check this out: 'S. Korea can tap Malaysia's ICT' - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/s-korea-can-tap-malaysia-s-ict-1.93841#ixzz20iQqD21R

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ooohh my MGT300!!!!!!!

today i just what to talk about MGT300.

Do you know what is MGT300??.

lets me explain to you all.

Mgt300 is one of my subject that i should carry this part.

it about technology that we usually use such as 'Facebook', 'Blogspot' and etc.

in this subject, i have learn how to search resources and create my own blog.

it teach me to learn more deep about it.

besides that i can learn how to decorate my own blog and i must creative to attract people to visit my blog.

technology may be advance from day to days.

it may take time to learn but learning is some of our need to here after...

so to may friend i wish you break a leg.

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Korean Volunteers to provide ICT Training in Sri Lanka

Details: Published on Monday, 09 July 2012 10:11; Hits: 613

Korean IT Volunteers (KIV) altogether comprising four teams arrived in Sri Lanka on Friday (06) under a NIA / ITU / TRCSL Program to engage in providing ICT training to select groups during the months of July & August 2012. The NIA/ITU/TRCSL KIV program 2012 is being co – ordinated by the ITU Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific for ICT enhancement in Sri Lanka.

The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka will deploy these teams to train TRC staff members /Instructors of IT centers /students undergoing ICT training under the TRC e-NABLE project / students in selected Vocational Training Centers (VTC’s) supervised by the Dept. of Social Service / Special needs Schools & Ranaviru Authority (IT centers in Disabled Soldiers’ villages) in Sri Lanka. The language of instruction will be English.

The Government of South Korea dispatches teams of Korean volunteers skilled in Information Technology (IT) annually to developing countries to provide advanced IT Technology.

The Korea IT Volunteer (KIV) programme is hosted by the Ministry of Public Administration and Security of Korea and managed by the National Information Society Agency of Korea since 2001.

Under ITU Assistance, the Korea IT Volunteer training programme was conducted in Sri Lanka last year specifically for members of TRCSL staff and special schools, IT instructors of select centers, and IT teachers from 18th July to 12th August 2011.

The syllabus includes IT topics such as: Introduction of MS, Advanced features of MS, Database Management, Networking, Computer security, Photoshop, Graphics, Hardware and Trouble shootings Web designing etc. and an introduction to various aspects of Korean culture. Two classes will be conducted parallel to each other for the duration of the training course. Altogether there are 200 persons who have enrolled for this training.

check this out: http://www.news.lk/news/sri-lanka/2527-korean-volunteers-to-provide-ict-training-in-sri-lanka

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Economic turmoil pressurizing Samsung, LG

08-08-2011 18:27

Economic turmoil pressurizing Samsung, LG

Top TV makers challenged to achieve sales targets

By Kim Yoo-chul

As concerns are high about the inability of world leaders to deal with the European debt crisis or the faltering U.S. economic recovery, the world’s two biggest TV makers questioned the challenge of achieving their television sales targets that had been set early this year.

The United States and Europe are strategically important consumer markets for Samsung and LG Electronics, generating more than half the groups’ annual revenues, respectively.

But what’s more problematic is that it’s not clear how long this economic turmoil will go on.

Consumer sentiment for digital devices was freezing and product inventories were still high, while demand for premium televisions such as 3D TVs has been stalled.

Volatilities in foreign currencies were unexpectedly high, forcing the electronics duo to apply what they call ``contingency plans’’ amid unfavorable dollar-won moves.

Samsung and LG officials said they are closely monitoring the effects of the first-ever downgrade of the United States credit rating by Standard & Poor’s (S&P).

Despite such unexpected alarming signs even in Europe, the Korean electronics giants are a bit cautious for the business outlook and they are continuing a so-called ``scenario-based’’ management strategy, officials said.

In accordance with such uncertainties, global sales of TVs using liquid crystal display (LCD) screens this year are expected to be well below earlier market estimates of 220 million, a top LG executive said.

``Some market research firms were estimating that the market was at around 215 million units, however, the outlook was quite bullish and the growth will even be below that level,’’ said Kwon Young-soo, the chief executive of LG Display, the world’s second-largest manufacturer of LCD screens.

LG declined to give its outlook in the latter half, while the sector leader Samsung also has sided with LG by saying that the remainder of this year will be difficult.

And such a bearish business outlook even in the latter half of a year by the industry giants is rare, and officials say the stepped-back outlook is a first in the last few years.

Samsung warns currency volatilities

``We will try our best to achieve this year’s TV sales target despite worries over the global economic outlook throughout this year,’’ said Yoon Boo-keun, the head of Samsung’s TV division, Sunday.

Yoon, who is the top confidant of Samsung chief executive Choi Gee-sung, admits that more competition between rivals and lower-than-expected demand for digital products caused Samsung to suffer from consecutive declines in profit.

``Situations are very tough, however Samsung won’t cut our sales target this year,’’ said the Samsung president, adding the company’s fine-tuned supply chain management (SCM) structure will help it save its bottom line even amid the ongoing struggle.

The world’s biggest television manufacturer, Samsung’s target for televisions this year is 45 million units, which officials say is quite conservative.

``Usually, the latter half of a year is seasonally strong in terms of demand thanks to the back-to-school season and appetites to stockpile inventories ahead of year-end shopping season. But this year, we don’t expect to benefit from such seasonal factors,’’ said another Samsung executive, asking not to be identified.

Market research firms have cut their expectations for global TV shipments citing strengthening signs of economic downturn and a lack of interest in premium TVs such as 3D ones from much of the public in Europe and North America.

Strengthening South Korean currency against the U.S. dollar is posing another threat for Samsung’s overseas businesses as the gain in won makes Samsung products less competitive than products by rivals.

``Samsung’s average dollar-won currency rates in the second half is 1,040, which was revised from an earlier 1,100,’’ said a Samsung spokesman, adding a gain of 10 won against the greenback to cost 300 billion won to the electronics giant, annually.

LG to miss target?

Against the sector leader Samsung, its biggest cross-town rival LG Electronics is mulling the possibility of lowering this year’s TV sales target as LG forecast a worsening economy in Europe and the U.S. will threaten its business outlook.

The updated business plan by LG comes after the world’s No. 3 TV maker Sony of Japan has lowered its target for televisions in the fiscal year of 2011 to 22 million from a previous 27 million units mostly due to the sluggish TV demand in markets.

``LG Electronics is planning to lower its target by 20 percent to around 32 million and LG won’t spend more money for TV promotional campaigns as a strategy to secure profitability,’’ said another high-ranking LG executive who is familiar with the matter.

LG’s previous TV sales target was 40 million. The new plan is calling for LG Electronics to sell 28 million TVs with liquid crystal display (LCD) screens and 4 million plasma-based televisions, according to LG executives.

LG, which sold 13.6 million televisions during the first half of this year, has been known to be struggling to lower its TV inventories in North America and Europe.

``LG Electronics is checking sales and inventory figures on a monthly basis as the market is heading toward a downturn amid concerns about the U.S. economy and Europe’s capacity to overcome their debt problems,’’ said a senior LG spokesman.

But the official declined to confirm whether or not it has cut its previous sales targets.

LG Electronics also predicted that the dollar-won range will remain between 1,040 won and 1,050 won level from its early prediction of 1,080 won against the greenback.

``Chances are quite low that the U.S. economy will fall under a so-called `double-dip,’ however, business circumstances are very tough in last few years,’’ said the LG executive.

KOSPI, South Korea’s benchmark stock index, plunged more than 10 percent in only the last week ― Asia’s worst performer ― with key exporters including Samsung, LG, steel giant POSCO and the nation’s leading automotive group of Hyundai-Kia had stretched their heavy losing streaks, hit by heavy unloading by foreign investors, data from the Korea Exchange (KRX) showed.

check this out: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/tech/2012/07/129_92411.html

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LG looks to Hollywood for 3D content

03-05-2012 16:16

LG looks to Hollywood for 3D content

By Kim Yoo-chul

LG Electronics, one of the world’s leading makers of consumer electronics products, is looking to partner with several Hollywood studios in an attempt to boost content for its three-dimensional (3D) televisions.

LG, which trails only Samsung Electronics in the manufacture of flat-screen televisions, is talking with Paramount, Fox, Sony Pictures, Walt Disney, Universal Studios and Warner Brothers to use their stereoscopic content, company officials said.

``We’ve seen substantial progresses for such business talks with the six Hollywood studios. An official announcement will be made soon,’’ said a high-ranking LG executive, who is close to the negotiations. LG spokesman Yoon Won-il declined to confirm the talks.

Along with ``smart’’ televisions with Internet connectivity, 3D television has been touted to replace conventional liquid crystal display (LCD) television as the standard for the future.

To improve its sales of 3D televisions, LG has been looking to add wealth to its pool of content.

Inking partnerships with Hollywood studios will also help LG provide a stronger foundation for its smart televisions, company officials said. Kwon Hee-won, who heads LG’s television business, said earlier this year that the company is seeking broader alliances with content providers to promote its own smart television platform, NetCast.

``LG Electronics is expanding the number of countries that offer our Web-enabled TV services to 120 from North America, Europe to South America. We are hoping to enjoy first-mover advantage,’’ said the LG executive.

LG expects global sales of Web-connected televisions to more than double this year and account for 10 percent of the entire flat-screen market. However, lavish price tags have been preventing the products from hitting the mainstream.

``The products are still 30 to 50 percent more expensive than conventional flat-screen products and it’s hard to say that prices will be falling any time soon. However, the entry of more products will stoke competition,’’ said the LG executive.

yckim@koreatimes.co.kr

check this out: http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/tech/2012/07/129_106263.html

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Yahoo breach puts users of other sites at risk

Published: Friday July 13, 2012 MYT 3:56:00 PM
Updated: Friday July 13, 2012 MYT 3:58:09 PM

HACKED: Yahoo! Inc has reported the theft of 400,000 usernames and passwords to access its own site as well as those of other companies, saying that hackers had taken advantage of a security vulnerability in its computer systems. - Reuters

BOSTON: More than 400,000 Yahoo Inc user names and passwords were stolen and published on the Web, putting other websites at risk as well, after hackers exploited a vulnerability in Yahoo's computer systems.
Some logins for Google Inc, AOL Inc and Microsoft Corp services were among those compromised. The three companies said they required affected users to reset passwords for sites including Gmail, AOL, Hotmail, MSN and Live.com.
Yahoo issued a statement apologising for the breach, the latest setback for a company that has lost two chief executives in a year and is struggling to revive stalled revenue growth.
Chairman Alfred Amoroso acknowledged that Yahoo had experienced a "tumultuous" year at its annual shareholder meeting on Thursday morning. Interim CEO Ross Levinsohn told attendees he was optimistic about the company's progress.
The breach prompted criticism from security experts who said that a major Internet firm like Yahoo should do a better job at protecting user data.
"This points to some very lax security practices," said Rob D'Ovidio, associate professor of criminal justice at Drexel University.
As an example, he noted that the hackers were able to produce more than 400,000 cleartext passwords within a day. That indicates that Yahoo either did not encrypt them at all or used an encryption method that was easy to crack, he said.
The professional networking service LinkedIn recently came under similar criticism. Security experts chided the company for failing to use sophisticated encryption practices to secure its passwords, millions of which were released following a breach last month.
What happened?
Yahoo spokesman Dana Lengkeek said "an older file" had been stolen from Yahoo Contributor Network, an Internet publishing service that Yahoo purchased about two years ago. It helps writers, photographers and videographers to sell their work over the Web.
"We are fixing the vulnerability that led to the disclosure of this data, changing the passwords of the affected Yahoo! users and notifying the companies whose users' accounts may have been compromised," she said.
AOL said the Yahoo data published on the Web included valid passwords for 1,699 accounts. Microsoft and Google declined to provide similar numbers.
Other firms whose customers were at risk include Comcast Corp, Verizon Communications Inc and AT&T, Rapid7 researcher Marcus Carey said. He estimated that tens of thousands of accounts of users of services other than Yahoo were affected by the breach.
AT&T and Verizon did not have any immediate comment. Officials with Comcast could not be reached.
AOL senior vice-president David Temkin said spammers typically use credentials like the ones stolen from Yahoo! to break into e-mail accounts and use them to send out spam.
"In this case, I think we actually got ahead of it before the people who stole those accounts were able to use them," Temkin said.
The five most popular passwords in the group were "123456", "password", "welcome" and "ninja", according to an analysis by anti-virus software maker ESET. - Reuters

check this out: http://techcentral.my/news/story.aspx?file=/2012/7/13/it_news/20120713161150&sec=IT_News

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RSA: Experts hail early success for DNSSec - IT News from V3.co.uk

by Shaun Nichols

16 Feb 2011

A panel of security experts has given an early thumbs-up to the DNSSec security protocol.

Icann chief executive Rod Beckstrom, cryptography pioneer Whitfield Diffie and security researcher Dan Kaminsky were among those who spoke on the progress of the security standard at the 2011 RSA Conference in San Francisco.

"What has been happening so far with this rather rapid propagation… I think this may well continue and may make a genuine difference in overall security," said Diffie.

Designed to prevent "cache poisoning" security attacks, the DNSSec system is designed to provide a secure method for exchanging and verifying DNS traffic. Rollout for the platform began last year when DNSSec was put in place for the .org and later the .net domains, with plains to extend into the .com space

Kaminsky, whose research into DNS vulnerabilities made headlines in 2008, admitted that while he didn't think he would ever be on a panel extolling its virtues, he now had to concede that DNSSec had shown great promise thus far.

"We have a lot of things to fix, and I don't think I have seen in my entire career a budding technology that has the potential to fix as many things as DNSSec," said Kaminsky.

The panel warned that challenges could lie ahead for the system. Nominum chief scientist and DNS inventor Paul Mockapetris warned companies to adopt DNSSec early and plan in advance to deal with the system's inevitable growing pains.

"You need to make sure that your DNS software is updated," Mockapetris cautioned.

"You have to make sure that you keep up with it because there are going to be some bumps in the road along the way."

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