Jan to Feb 2012

MICA (P) 083/01/2012
January / February 2012
A Bi-monthly Magazine of the Management Development Institute of Singapore
Leaping
Ahead!
MDIS awards
scholarship
to leap-year baby
again
Quote of the month:
The ultimate test of management is performance.
- Peter Ferdinand Drucker
Contents
2
4
02-09
Newscope
10-15
Around MDIS Circuit
16-17
Students’ Say
18-21
Special Features
22
Upcoming Events
23-25
Members’ Corner
26-27
Contact Point
28-29
The Press Speaks
Editor
Tan Gek Khim, PBM
15
18
www.mdis.edu.sg
Staff Writer
Dila Mahendran
Advisors
Dr Eric Kuan
Dr R Theyvendran, PBM
Roger Tham
Contributors
Angela Lee
Chong Wee Siong
Fiona Gwee
Gowrey Raman
Joey Peh
Liza Hassan
Melissa Chiew
Nur Azimah
Nurul Aqilah
Rasid Bin Adam
Shobana Balakrishna
Shuthamathi Illangovan
Siti Zulaikha
Susanti Wangsa
email: mdis@mdis.edu.sg
MDIS Campus 501 Stirling Road Singapore 148951 Tel: (65) 6278 8000 Fax: (65) 6278 5312
SINGAPORE
MDIS Dhoby Ghaut 20 Orchard Road Singapore 238830 Tel: (65) 6372 1000 Fax: (65) 6338 1048
Horizons is the official bi-monthly publication of the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS). For contributions in the Special Features or other sections,
please email comms@mdis.edu.sg. Editorial material does not necessarily reflect the views of MDIS. Information is accurate at time of printing.
Copyright ©2012 Management Development Institute of Singapore. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced or printed in any form without prior written consent from MDIS.
Horizons is printed by Stamford Press Pte Ltd.
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ISO 9001 : 2008
Editor’s Note
We kick started the year with a night of glitz and glamour on 7 January 2012
at the Staff Appreciation Night held at the Resorts World Sentosa. The theme
‘Masquerade Mystery Night’ created a memorable evening of fun, games and
laughter. Celebrating another year of success, deserving staff were honoured.
Attractive prizes amped the atmosphere and none of the staff walked away
empty-handed!
In recognition of this year being a leap year, MDIS proudly awarded a $30,000
Leap-Year Baby Scholarship to the first baby of 2012, Aadel Bin Mohamad
Khidir. He can choose to pursue a degree programme jointly offered by MDIS
and its university partners. The first Leap-Year Baby Scholarship was introduced
in 2004, and this is the third time that it is being offered.
Two Memoranda of Understanding were signed with the Singapore Insurance
Employees’ Union and the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers’ Union on 11
January 2012 and 28 February 2012 respectively with the aim of establishing
strategic partnerships to support their efforts in developing their members,
professionally and academically.
On 1 February 2012, we were honoured by the visit of a distinguished guest,
Mr Vikram Nair, Member of Parliament for Sembawang GRC to our campus.
It was indeed a pleasure to welcome him and we look forward to working
together for the benefit of the community.
In addition, the MDIS Dance Club members supported the community events
held at the Tanjong Pagar Community Centre and at Takashimaya, Orchard
Road.
Finally, our special feature section focuses on the MDIS College and its efforts in
providing opportunities for ‘O’ and ‘A’ level students to move up the academic
ladder. We share our commitment to quality education and also
testimonials from students who attest to that.
With an issue packed with news and glimpses of campus
life, I do hope your read will be an enjoyable one.
Best wishes,
Tan Gek Kim, PBM
Editor
Newscope
A Magical Night of Ma
No masking the fun at MDI
I
t was a night of glitz and glamour as MDIS staff and guests
gathered at the Resorts World Sentosa on 7 January 2012 to
celebrate the Staff Appreciation Night. Themed, ‘Masquerade
Mystery Night,” over 300 staff came dressed for the occasion, lending
an air of mystery to the entire event by togging masks of all shapes,
designs and hues!
2
Long queues gathered at the Photo Booth, sited at the foyer of the
ballroom, where staff went gaga over getting their glamour shots.
Squeals of excitement were seen as they received copies of their
photos. Guests and staff were also entertained by magicians and the
more adventurous among them, got themselves an air-brush tattoo.
Mask Creation Competition
Yew Yi, lucky winner of the
‘Treasure Hunt’
A creative mask designed by a group
Performance by HODs
Shakira’s Waka Waka set the mood for the night.
MDIS Heads of Departments (HODs), accompanied
by students kick started the night with a spectacular
Pre-event activities and competitions preceded
the BIG night! One of those activities was the
creation of a mask. MDIS staff participated
in the contest which tested their creativity
and teamwork to design their own masks.
Simultaneously, a ‘Treasure Hunt’ was
organised with a total of seven masks hidden
strategically at MDIS Campus and Dhoby
Ghaut. Staff who uncovered the hiding places
were handsomely rewarded. One of them,
Yew Yi from the School of Languages, was a
lucky winner of an iPod Touch
dance to the tune of Waka Waka. Although it was a
milder version sans the “Shakira” jiggle, the HODs’
sporting performance had the crowd crying out for
more. Students from the MDIS Dance Club and
winners from the MDIS Talentime
2011 also entertained the guests
with songs and dances.
Long Service Awards
While dinner was served, Dr R
Theyvendran, MDIS SecretaryGeneral, took the opportunity to
thank staff for their unwavering
support in 2011 and surprised the
audience with announcements of
enhanced benefits for staff.
HODs performing to the ‘Waka Waka’
Newscope
asquerade and Mystery
IS’ Staff Appreciation Night!
Catherine Lim receives the
10-year Long Service Award
Long service awards were
also presented to staff
in recognition of their
long-standing
service
and achievements. Mdm
Catherine Lim (Resource
Hub) received the 10-year
Long
Service
Award,
whilst others with five and
three years of service were
also recognised for their
dedicated services.
Happy Birthday Wishes
The emcee, Wayne Chua, took the opportunity to
call upon Dr Eric Kuan, MDIS President and others
whose birthdays fell in January to proceed to the
stage. All guests joined in singing and wishing them
all a hearty Happy Birthday!
Best Dressed Awards
The Best Dressed Lady and Best
Dressed Gentleman Award went
to Ms Angela Lee, School of Life
Sciences and Mr Albert Lim,
Corporate Administration.
3
All staff walked
away as winners
as
attractive Best Dressed Lady
Award – Angela Lee
lucky
draw
prizes such as gold bars were
given out! Staff were also given
goodie bags with customised
MDIS Staff Appreciation Night
cushioned mousepads and a mini
bean bag. Personalised cards
Best Dressed
with
hand-written appreciation
Gentleman Award –
Albert Lim
messages from the Heads of
Departments (HODs) to their respective staff were
placed on the dinner table. Similarly, HODs also
received personalised decorated mask cards with
appreciation messages from their staff.
The night ended with great joy and jubilation with
everyone feeling appreciated.
January birthday wishes
Best Group Performance
Masks of
various
hue
Five teams selected for their creativity and
showmanship
showcased
their
masterpiece
performances that night. The Student Care and
Administration Department emerged the winner for
their creative and entertaining presentation of the
four masks representing ‘Queens’ across the globe.
Top prize winner – Jessica Sie
Kudos to the
committee
members of
the event!
Best Group Performance Winner - Student Care and
Administration Department
A grand finale!
Newscope
4
Leaping towards Success
MDIS awards $30,000 scholarship for first leap-year baby of 2012
A
adel Bin
Mohamad
Khidir is
one lucky leap-year
baby.
Little
Aadel
will be awarded
the
scholarship
at the time of
enrolment. Besides
meeting the entry
The bundle of joy
requirements for
of Mr and Mrs
a particular degree
Mohamad Khidir
programme,
he
burst into the
must register for
world at 12:57am
the course before
on 29 February
reaching 30 years
2012 at Mount
of age before
Alvernia Hospital,
March 1, 2042. If
Singapore.
the scholarship is
(L to R): Ms Susan Kok, Assistant Director of Nursing (Maternity / Paediatrics),
Weighing 3.4kg, Mount Alvernia Hospital, Mdm Fadhiilah with her two sons, Mr Mohamad Khidir not secured before
and Ms Tan Gek Khim, MDIS Senior Director
the
stipulated
little Aadel is the
date, the offer will lapse. The MDIS leap year baby
second child of Mr Mohamad Khidir Bin Abdul
scholarship is open to all nationalities and races.
Rahman and his wife, Fadhiilah Binte Ismail. His
proud parents said they plan to celebrate their leap
MDIS awarded its first leap-year baby scholarship
year baby’s future birthdays by holding two days of
to Tim Shee Zhe Guang in 2004 and the second
celebrations every year.
leap-year baby scholarship was awarded to Adam
Jamal Clark in 2008.
Mother Fadhiilah Binte Ismail said, “It’s totally
unplanned but we are very grateful, and we feel that
it makes our baby unique.”
MDIS has awarded a S$30,000 scholarship to the
first leap-year baby of 2012. Sponsored by the MDIS
Education Trust Fund, the scholarship covers the
full course fee of any bachelor’s degree programme
jointly offered by MDIS and its university partners.
Aadel may choose to undertake his bachelor’s
degree programme at any of MDIS Campus located
in Singapore, Iskandar (Malaysia) or Tashkent
(Uzbekistan).
Said Ms Tan Gek Khim, Senior Director of MDIS,
“This is the third time MDIS is giving the
scholarship to a leap-year baby to emphasize
our strong belief in lifelong learning. We
believe that education is the best gift for
any child. We hope that the assurance of a secured
scholarship would not only provide some form of
financial relief for the family, but also an incentive
for the child to excel in his studies.”
The very lucky first leap year baby for 2012, Baby
Aadel with his beloved family
Newscope
Smashing ahead!!!
5
Michael Jackson impersonation by MDIS Dance Club members at the Ceylon Sports Club New Year’s Countdown Party
T
rue to their name, Smash.Dis has been
smashing its way to the forefront!
Smash.Dis, MDIS Dance Club members,
participated in the outdoor performance at Ngee
Ann City’s, a Season of Dazzling Delights on 23 Dec
2011 as part of its Christmas Celebrations.
Performing in front of a large crowd, Smash.Dis
wowed onlookers with lively and entertaining Hiphop and judging by the enthusiastic whistles and
claps, it was definitely one of the better performances.
Following this display, Smash.Dis got an invite
to perform at the Ceylon Sports Club New Year’s
Eve Countdown party on 31 December 2011.
Their hip-hop and rock and roll performance rocked
the house. It is worth noting that Smash.Dis’ awesome
display was rehearsed in the midst of their studies,
and all within a month!
The icing on the cake for Smash.Dis was the invitation
to perform before Singapore’s founding father and
former Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew on 3
February 2012. Smash.Dis provided a stirring finale
for guests and VIPs present at the Tanjong Pagar
GRC’s Chinese New Year Dinner, which was held at
the Queenstown Primary School.
Newscope
6
Memorandum of Understanding between
Management Development Institute of
Singapore (MDIS) and Singapore Insurance
Employees’ Union (SIEU)
(L to R): Mr Eric Cheong, MDIS Consultant, Mr Willie Tan, SIEU General Secretary, Mr Terry Lee, PBM, SIEU President,
Mr Chong Kwan Wai, MDIS Vice-President, Ms Tan Gek Khim, PBM, MDIS Senior Director, Ms Lynette Loo,
MDIS Assistant Director and Mr Jason Law, MDIS Senior Manager
M
DIS and the Singapore Insurance Employees’ Union (SIEU) have come together to provide
continuing education to SIEU’s members. To support SIEU’s efforts in developing its members
professionally and academically, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was inked on 11
January 2012 between MDIS and SIEU to establish a strategic partnership in continuing education for SIEU’s
members.
SIEU was established to protect the rights of workers and their jobs in the insurance industry and this has been
its mission since 1955. The current membership strength of the union is more than 8,000, comprising both
Ordinary and General Branch members from 32 insurance and other related companies in Singapore.
The collaboration will further increase MDIS academic presence through various channels, and MDIS will be
awarding study grants and scholarships to deserving members of SIEU to enable them to pursue degree and
postgraduate degree programmes at MDIS.
In addition, members of SIEU and their children would be eligible for special rebates if they choose to pursue
pre-degree courses, selected training or seminars with MDIS.
We look forward to creating value for SIEU members by upgrading their skills and educational prospects.
O
n 28 February 2012, the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) and the Food,
Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU) came together for the beginning of a new relationship.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was inked between MDIS and FDAWU providing
more than 40,000 FDAWU members the opportunity to gain from enhanced benefits through continuing
education.
Food, Drinks and Allied Workers’ Union (FDAWU) was established to promote good industrial relations
between its members and their employers. It represents any food purveying, general catering business concern
or establishment.
Through this collaboration, MDIS will award study grants and scholarships to deserving members of FDAWU
to enable them to pursue degrees and post-degree programmes at MDIS. As a sweetener, members of FDAWU
and their children would also be eligible for special rebates if they choose to pursue pre-degree courses, selected
training or seminars with MDIS.
From left to right: Mr Tan Choon Kiat, Head of Industrial Relations, FDAWU, Mr Tan Cheng Yen, Deputy General Secretary, FDAWU,
Mr Tan Hock Soon, General Secretary, FDAWU, Mr Chong Kwan Wai, MDIS Vice-President, Ms Tan Gek Khim, PBM, MDIS Senior
Director, Ms Lynette Loo, MDIS Assistant Director and Mr Jason Law, MDIS Senior Manager
Newscope
Memorandum of Understanding
between Management Development
Institute of Singapore (MDIS) and
Food, Drinks and Allied Workers’ Union
(FDAWU)
7
Newscope
8
In Memoriam – A True Spirit of
Good Fellowship
W
e are deeply saddened by the loss of a
dear friend of MDIS, the late Dr Lee
Fook Hong, PBM who passed away on
19 February 2011. We extend our deepest sympathy
and heartfelt condolences to the family.
Dr Lee Fook Hong served the Supervisory and
Management Training Association of Singapore
(SAMTAS) since the early 1960’s, in various
committees and the Governing Council. In his
quiet way, he contributed to the stability
and advised the Governing Council on the
future strategic directions for growth. He
provided full support whenever there were
difficult challenges that detracted the good
work put in by the Governing Council.
Remembering Dr Lee, brings back many golden
memories. He would make it a point to attend the
Annual General Meetings, Scholarship and Bursary
Award Ceremonies and Graduation Ceremonies and
several other MDIS events, often barely having landed
at the Changi Airport from his numerous overseas
business trips. An occasion, etched in memory,
was when he boarded the flight together with the
Governing Council members to Tashkent for the
grand opening of MDIS Tashkent, immediately after
having landed at Changi Airport from a business trip.
For his steadfast support, dedication and tireless
spirit, Dr Lee was conferred the honour of Honorary
Fellow of MDIS in July 2001. He also held the
honorary position of Trustee and Senate Member.
We salute Dr Lee for his steadfast belief and support,
and valuable contributions to the success and growth
of MDIS.
Dr Lee had an illustrious career and contributed
immensely in his profession as a Practising Chartered
Secretary and Management Consultant. He also
served as an independent director of private and
public companies and acted as an advisor and
consultant to several trade associations, foundations
and charitable institutions. He was a speaker at
many conferences and seminars in Singapore and
overseas. He has also published several articles, books
and conference papers on corporate administration,
corporate governance, taxation and investments in
China.
We will always remember him, as a dear friend, a
comrade, a strong supporter of MDIS and a true
spirit of good fellowship.
(Front row): Dr Lee Fook Hong (middle) flanked by Mr RogerTham, MDIS Asst. Secretary-General (right) and Dr Eric Kuan, MDIS
President at the 2009 AGM event
I
t was our pleasure to host Member of Parliament for Sembawang GRC, Mr Vikram Nair on 1 February
2012 at MDIS Campus. He is no stranger to our campus as he had visited us in June 2010.
During his earlier visit he had accompanied Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Law and
Member of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC. This time around, the young and budding politician, Mr Vikram
Nair was shown around the campus and briefed on its developments and future plans. He commented that
he had seen much progress and development since his last visit to the campus. The visit concluded with Mr
Vikram and the management team sharing information on the upcoming MDIS Malaysia campus in Iskandar,
Johor.
He was very impressed with our growth and congratulated MDIS:
Thank you for the kind tour around the campus. I think
MDIS is doing great work, giving people opportunities to further
their education and develop themselves. I wish you all the best
for the future!
We appreciate and value Mr Vikram’s input and we look forward to welcoming him again for our events!
(L to R): Mr Kuna, MDIS Property Manager, Ms Sheila Devi, MDIS Progression Manager, Mr Vikram Nair, Member of Parliament for
Sembawang GRC, Mr Eric Cheong, MDIS Consultant, Dr R Theyvendran, PBM, MDIS Secretary-General, Ms Lynette Loo,
MDIS Assistant Director
Newscope
Encore visit by MP Vikram Nair
9
Around MDIS
Circuit
10
A profound experience
MDIS students from the School of Psychology and School of Life
Sciences gain insights into the miraculous machinery of the human
body at the NUS Anatomy Museum, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
O
n 20 January 2012, a group of students and
staff from the MDIS Schools of Psychology
and Life Sciences visited the NUS Anatomy
Museum at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.
After a short briefing by lecturers from the Department
of Anatomy, we toured the facility. We were
amazed by the body parts displayed in various jars:
skeletal, nervous, circulatory, respiratory, digestive,
reproductive systems. The gallery is subdivided into
sections. For example, in the nervous system area,
we discovered how different parts of the brain are
responsible for discrete functions of the body; whilst,
when observing the skeletal displays, we were able to
learn not only by looking, but by touching as well.
When we entered the area on respiration and
breathing, very few of us were surprised at the
appearance of a pair of lungs, but what did shock
us was the state of them! Blackened, as they were,
by years of tar, accumulated through the inhalation
of cigarettes…these were the lungs of a heavy
smoker. Even so, of by far the greatest interest, was
the “restricted zone”, which captivated our attention
with the preserved specimens of aborted, deformed
and stillborn babies.
We also learned that every single bone (206 of
them in an adult human), every muscle, every nerve
and every blood vessel in the body has a name –
and medical students are required to memorise
all of them! The functions of the brain intrigued
us psychology students the most. It is amazing to
consider that so many neurons are firing and so many
coordinated requirements are made between mind
and body. These firings are not, however, manifested
physically alone, but also represent the mechanism
of communication which impacts and measures how
we behave, how we interact with and perceive our
surroundings, and even how we feel! Our brain is
so incredible! There have even been cases wherein
people have survived (functioning almost normally)
with just one hemisphere of their brain intact!
Overall, we agreed that this trip was an enriching
learning experience – one in which we not only
acquired some enhanced academic knowledge, but
also received a humbling reminder of the miraculous
machinery we have each evolved to become.
We thank MDIS and the NUS Anatomy Museum
for giving us this opportunity.
The article is contributed by Shuthamathi d/o Ilangovan, who is pursing the Diploma in Psychology and Fiona Gwee Xui Ron
pursuing the BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Counselling, University of Bradford, UK.
MDIS Psychology students bring cheer to residents of IMH
Around MDIS
Circuit
Touching Lives, Warming Hearts
11
M
DIS Diploma students from the School of
Psychology visited the Institute of Mental
Health (IMH) on 6 February 2012 at
Buangkok Green, led by Mr Amir Singh, Head of the
School of Pyschology.
The former Woodbridge Hospital is Singapore’s only
institution providing multi-disciplinary psychiatric
services. Started in 1928, it has evolved into an
internationally acclaimed and award-winning facility.
With 2,000 beds set amidst a serene 25-hectare parkland
campus, and a satellite network of outpatient clinics
and day-centres around the island, the IMH aims to
care for, and rehabilitate Singapore’s emotionally and
psychiatrically challenged, of all ages and backgrounds.
We were warmly greeted by Mr Lee Poh Leng, Planner
for the IMH facility upon arrival at IMH and were
briefed of its history, purpose and its landscape. Mr
Lee then divided us into two groups allocated us to two
different long-stay patients.
The bell cast in Leicester, England at IMH,
Buangkok Green is a reminder of the historic link
to the former Woodbridge Hospital built in 1928.
To spend time with the patients helping in bringing
cheer through fun social activities, art and craft,
painting, dancing, and singing was an immense
privilege. But there were strict rules too!
Armed with our rules, and our “tools of the day’s trade”
(a colouring book, a Mahjong set, a chess set, and a
jigsaw puzzle), we were eager to engage, learn and help
– one of our classmates was so well-prepared that he
even brought along a guitar to entertain them with a
sing-a-long session.
My companion that afternoon was a charming 58 yearold man who took delight in drawing a picture of me
in crayon. I was deeply touched by this, and greatly
enjoyed chatting with him.
Our visit to IMH helped us to understand the everyday
life of its residents. It was an insightful experience that
taught us the value of psychiatric care in a tangible way
– allowing us to truly believe that with strong support,
care and guidance, their lives could be made more
meaningful.
MDIS students and staff greeted upon arrival by Mr Lee Poh Leng,
IMH representative (extreme left)
This article is contributed by Nur Azimah Bte Musa, who is pursuing the Diploma in Psychology.
Around MDIS
Circuit
Safeguarding O
12
MDIS
students
gain
valuable
MDIS
students
gain
valuableinsight
insight
O
n 21 November 2011, the Central Narcotics
Bureau (CNB) marked its 40th anniversary with
the unveiling of their new “Heritage Gallery”.
Established as part of the continuing fight against drug
abuse and trafficking in Singapore, the purpose of the
gallery is to provide public education on the dangers of
substance abuse and the harmful effects drugs can have
on our physical, psychological and social well-being.
The students of the MDIS Mass Communications
programme visited on 9 January 2012 CNB located within
the Cantonment Police Headquarters. The exhibits at the
gallery graphically illustrated the information provided
by our exceptionally competent and knowledgeable tour
officer, DSP Omeer Ali Saifudeen.
Within the gallery, historical artefacts (including those
depicting the early formation and development of CNB),
allowed visitors the chance to learn how CNB came to be
what it is today, and to witness, firsthand, the dedication
of its officers
Our tour began with an informative lecture by a CNB
field officer, who then guided us around the gallery
- beginning with the early opium trade. The story of
how drugs were first introduced to Singapore was both
informative and educational – and it was enhanced by
the exhibits of real drugs and their associated devices
(such as opium and the opium pipe) – all confiscated
from drug abusers during the several CNB “busts”.
The harsh realities of drugs and the consequences to users
were highlighted at every turn: with reports of repeat
offenders on display for the public to read - even down to
details on the location of the capture and the substance
abused!
We also learnt that CNB does not work in isolation.
Co-operation with international and regional drug
agencies is paramount, both for the promotion of
preventive education and to assist in the solving of
drug-related crimes both inside and outside of Singapore.
One of the displays I found most cool was one featuring a
This article is contribute
ts on
CNB’s fifight
ghtagainst
against
drug
abuse
on CNB’s
drug
abuse
Around MDIS
Circuit
Our Well-being
13
MDIS students at CNB
virtual globe displaying all of the various agencies around
the world with whom CNB is actively corresponding, and
the global “hot spots” for trafficking in different types of
drugs – citing their origins and methods of distribution.
Sadly, it seems a universal constant that, in every part
of the world, drug pushers target the most vulnerable:
teenagers and young adults - known as the “party-going
generation”. Most of us understand the consequences of
using any of the “heavy drugs” - like cocaine or heroin,
and are wise enough to steer clear of them.
All “recreational” drugs (as well as many medical drugs
abused for recreational purposes) have potentially
addictive properties, and are, therefore, understandably
listed as controlled substances. A secondary consequence
of this limited access is that these substances “do not
come cheap”. Hence, many abusers go to extreme lengths
just to get their next ‘kick’ - very often causing additional
suffering to themselves, their families and society in
general.
ed by Pereira Mitchell Christian, who is pursuing the Diploma in Mass Communications.
Around MDIS
Circuit
14
Energy Hype
A
s a sequel to the popular Energy Day held in September 2011 and owing to the overwhelming request,
the Membership & Alumni Relations Department held its first Aerobic Kickboxing class on 6 February
2011.
Participants had the perfect opportunity to have a proper workout, de-stress after work and more importantly,
bond and get to know each other better.
Taught by Dansfit, which has been providing quality programmes to various established agencies for the last
few years, its instructor, Edwin engaged and hyped up the class. Not only were the sessions fun and enjoyable,
participants were one step closer to achieving their fitness objective of having a fitter and leaner body as a total
body workout of an hour’s session can burn as much as 500 calories!
For those who missed the earlier session, please do look out for the next session, which is due to commence
soon!
Learning the footwork in kickboxing
Kickboxing in Action!
Quote of the month:
You can have ordinary parents, ordinary schools, ordinary teachers,
but you can still achieve extraordinary results.
-The Founder and CEO of Osim International
Around MDIS
Circuit
15
Spreading Love for a
Good Cause
O
n 14 February 2012, MDIS students took
to a different way to celebrate Valentine’s
Day on campus.
Jointly-organised by the School of Life Sciences
Student Club (Biognosy) and the MDIS Student
Council (Sparks), a booth was set up in the bustling
MDIS Kopitiam to “Spread the Love”. Roses and
chocolates were on sale at affordable prices for those
who wanted to buy them and express their love for
that special person or just to express love for their
friends.
The event planning and organisation was wholly
student-led, to develop leadership skills and
Love is in the air
entrepreneurship spirit amongst the students from
Biognosy and Sparks. Students from the School of
Media and Communications Club (Radio Unit)
offered lively music and DJ coverage to create
excitement to the event. Close collaborations,
planning and festivity resulted in friendship being
formed between students from different countries.
For those who bought roses and chocolates, a good
deed was also carried forth. All proceeds generated
from the event were designated to be dedicated to
the Villa Francis Home for the Aged, to “Spread the
Love” to the less fortunate.
Organising committee members
Student’s Say
LASTING TIES
16
MDIS students gain a new appreciation for life having experienced
the American lifestyle and culture whilst on a summer work holiday
programme in Delaware, USA
I
t all started with an email sent out by the MDIS
Career Assistance Unit (CAU), inviting us to
an information
session
presented
by Ms Eunice Lu of
Dorgan Connect.
Brushing aside our
doubts, we stepped
forth and prepared
for the holiday
programme.
But
even then, at the
airport while waiting
for our flight to
the US, butterflies
had a field day
flitting about in our
stomachs!
to overcome these disasters through sheer courage
and force of will, making it through the darkest
storms with our
new friends by
our side - for
they were the
closest to family
we had during
those times.
Such indelible
events
aside,
working
in
the states was
an
incredibly
enjoyable
affair!
Delaware, made famous by the painting, “Washington crossing the Delaware”.
The place Siti and Nurul called their summer “home”
So much so, that
it never really
felt like work at all! Our employers were honourable
people who did not regard us as foreigners, but as
Thus began the expedition of our lifetimes.
“friends from across the world”. This welcome went
Upon reaching the States, we travelled - under strict
beyond just being hospitable for they treated us with
instructions from our Dorgan friends, to Sussex
much love and respect that our co-workers soon
County, Delaware. Located in the Mid-Atlantic
became friends.
region of the United States, Delaware is a suburban
In the end, we can now proudly proclaim that we lived
state bordered to the south and west by Maryland,
our “American Dream”. In the process, we gained a
to the east by New Jersey, and to the north by
new appreciation for life and a level of autonomy
Pennsylvania. Delaware, made famous by the
that we hope, will pay us dividends throughout our
phrase and the painting, “Washington crossing the
careers and lives ahead.
Delaware”, was the place we would call “home” for
the summer.
For these experiences, the friendships that will last
Travelling alongside our fellow Singaporeans, we
had a ball crossing America from the East Coast to
the West Coast. Gaining first-hand experience of a
new culture; embracing new customs and learning so
much about ourselves in the process.
forever and the memories that we will never forget,
we want to say a huge “THANK YOU!” to MDIS
CAU for adding this wonderful programme to the
multitude of opportunities you provide to us as
students.
Being so many miles away from home helped instill
in us a new found sense of personal responsibility.
Hurricane Irene anchored this point unlike no other.
Survival became our singular goal, and we managed
To the folks at Dorgan Connect: How could we ever
have done it without you? Thank you, for aiding
us throughout this journey and for making it an
invaluable experience in every way!
Student’s Say
17
Siti and Nurul at the
Siti and Nur
ul at the Stat
Singapore Embassy
in New York
ue of Libert
y
Nurul working at the supermarket in Delaware
Siti and N
urul in fr
ont of Ca
pitol Buil
ding, Wa
shington
DC
Siti posing wi
th street perfor
mers at the N
ew York City Su
bway station
This article is contributed by Siti Zulaikha Binte Mohd Yazis and Nurul Aqilah Bte Yunos, former
MDIS students of the Diploma in Psychology programme.
Special
Features
Leg-up to a Br
18
MDIS College provides students opportunities to pursue their ‘O’ and ‘A’
Levels in achieving their academic goals
M
DIS College Pte Ltd, a wholly owned
subsidiary of the Management
Development Institute of Singapore
(MDIS), is registered with the Council for
Private Education (CPE), Singapore. Launched
in February 2006, the college aims to inspire
our students to reach their true potential.
MDIS College not only emphasises on
teaching excellence but also recreational
activities. Our dedicated faculty and staff create
a caring and academic environment where
learning takes place inside and outside the
classroom. We believe that these activities can
help all our students experience an enriching
student lifestyle while providing a high quality
education.
Commitment to Quality Education
We are committed to supporting and helping
students throughout their time at MDIS College.
Our dedicated staff are always willing to go the extra
mile for our students so that students from all social
and ethnic backgrounds can integrate well at MDIS
College. MDIS College recognises all students as a
valuable part of our college community and will strive
to constantly provide them with the best services and
care required.
Local Students:
- intensive 10 months programme
International Students:
- intensive 10/16/22 months programmes
Preparatory Course for Singapore-Cambridge
General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level)
Examination Programme
Local Students:
- intensive 10 months programme
Programmes Offered
International Students:
intensive 10/16/22 months programmes
Preparatory Course for Singapore-Cambridge
General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level)
Examination Programme
For more information, please log on to
www.mdiscollege.edu.sg or give us a call at
67967785 or 67977781.
Special
Features
righter Future
What our current international students have to say…
19
MDIS College has undoubtedly equipped me
with the education I needed. The mentors, staff and
teachers are ever so zealous in their work. I have
definitely made the right choice by choosing this
school. Thank you MDIS College!
Effendi Wibowo
16 years old, Indonesia
Mok Ka Chun, Keith
Effendi Wibowo
MDIS has a very good environment to study
and as a student this is very important. We have nice
classrooms to attend our lessons and a library for us
to find our resources. Teachers are friendly and helpful
and they go all out to help us in our studies. Lessons
are never boring as they are lively and fun. In the last
few months, I have realised that I’ve improved greatly
and I will work harder to excel in my GCE ‘O’ level
examinations.
Mok Ka Chun, Keith
19 years old, Hong Kong SAR
I remembered when I first came to MDIS,
I felt very nervous and worried. I did not know
what to expect when I joined. After studying here
for a few months, I am convinced of my choice
to study at MDIS College. Besides acquiring the
necessary knowledge, I am grateful to meet a batch
of wonderful teachers and classmates.
Tu Yu Sheng
17 years old, China
Tu Yu Sheng
Special
Features
What our current international students have to say…
I met a lot of friendly teachers and classmates,
and the classes are very interesting too. We are also
given projects to do which is a good experience and
chance for me to explore many places in Singapore.
Overall, studying in MDIS is a thumbs up experience
for me. Cheers! :)
20
Chong Xiao Wei, Violet
19 years old, Malaysia
Chong Xiao Wei, Violet
I enjoy our class very much. MDIS
is an International College. You will
definitely enjoy it when you come here to
study.
Tanakit Ngamlam
19 years old, Thailand
Tanakit Ngamlam
Lin Lingshan, Yumo
Currently, I am studying at MDIS and am
happy to study here. MDIS is an ideal place for a
student to study and live in. This is because after
class you can continue to study outside on campus
or at the study rooms, the environment is quiet and
clean. Also, you can study at your room if you live in
the hostel. As for the food, at MDIS, you can choose
any food you like because it has a big food court MDIS Kopitiam, selling different varieties of food
at a reasonable prices. Furthermore, you can watch
television programmes while enjoying your meal.
This is my MDIS.
Lin Lingshan, Yumo
16 years old, China
MDIS College Preparatory Course for Singapore-Cambridge
General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level)
Examination Programme (10 months) 2009 – Shirley Kettler
Enroled into Republic Polytechnic, Communication and
Information Design
MDIS College has undoubtedly
equipped me with the education I needed.
The mentors, staff and teachers are ever
so zealous in their work. I have definitely
made the right choice by choosing this
school. Thank you MDIS College!
Shirley Kettler
MDIS College Preparatory Course for Singapore-Cambridge
General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level)
Examination Programme (10 months) 2007 – Ng Zhao
Ming
Ng Zhao Ming
MDIS College brought me back
down to earth. The teachers are very
experienced and the students equally
hardworking and helpful. I had a
wonderful 10 months with the school
and highly recommend all students to
come onboard!
MDIS College Preparatory Course for Singapore-Cambridge
General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level)
Examination Programme (10 months) 2007 – Jason Leslie
The
Jason Leslie
school has so many great
facilities that encourage better learning.
The staff and teachers are always there
when you need them. In the end, I scored
15 points for my exams! All thanks to the
well rounded education I received from
MDIS College.
Special
Features
What our past students have to say…
21
Upcoming
Events
Professional
Development
Workshops
22
IS
D
*M dents
Stu njoy F
e OF
50%
#
Communications
NEW Connecting with EMPATHY
May 07-08
Writing Good Minutes
May 11
Contract Administration Management
May 09-10
Communication Skills for Cross-Cultural
Business
Jun 11
Internal Controls Introduction for Non-Audit
Professionals
May 11
Power Writing Skills for Executives and
Managers
Jun 21-22
Contract Law Management
Jun 08
Creative & Innovation
Financial Management
Finance for Non-Finance Professionals
May 17-18
Budget Planning and Control
Jun 14-15
Train the Trainer
Thinking Creatively in the Workplace with
SCRAMBLE
NEW Critical and Creative Thinking
May 30
Jun 18-19
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
HR Management & Development
May 15-16
Conducting an Effective Training Needs Analysis Jun 04-05
Service Excellence
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) for Better Working
Relationship
May 14-15
Managing Anger @ Work
May 16
Supervisory Management
Handling Difficult Customers and Complaints
May 21-22
Office Management
NEW Manager: The Communicator
Setting KPIs for Performance Improvements
Project Management: Making Work Effectively
May 24-25
Languages
May 16-17
Personal Effectiveness & Productivity
NEW Coping with Uncertainty and Change
May 08
Power in Changing Mindset
May 22
Understanding Behavior Styles for Improved
Relationship
Jun 01
Doing Your Job and Enjoying It
Jun 22
Sales & Marketing
Romancing the Media 2.0 - Leveraging on
Social and Mass Media
May 10-11
Effective Negotiation Skills
Jun 21-22
May 28-29
Jun 04-05
Team Leadership
Leading with Confidence
Executive English
NEW
Risk & Business Management
May 17-18
I.T. Short Courses
Microsoft Access 2007 - Level 2 Advanced
May 10-11
Microsoft Excel 2007 - Level 2 Advanced
May 14-15
Microsoft Powerpoint 2007 - Level 1
Fundamentals
May 17-18
Adobe Photoshop CS4 Level 2 Advanced
May 29-31
Microsoft Excel 2007 - Level 1 Fundamentals
Jun 18-19
Microsoft Word 2007 - Level 1 Fundamentals
Jun 25-26
*Applicable for Professional Development Workshops except IT Short Courses
For more information,
visit www.mdis.edu.sg/mdc
call (65) 6842 6666 or email mdc@mdis.edu.sg
T H E
B O O K S H O P
Play Your Brain
Adopt a Musical Mindset and Change
your Life and Career
Author: Anette Prehn & Kjeld Fredens
Marshall Cavendish Business
2011
Soft Cover
The brain holds the key to
success. What actually happens
in the brain determines the
level of success in attempts
to gain control of one’s
life. This book introduces a
groundbreaking approach to
coaching oneself: through
the knowledge of how the
brain functions combined
with a playful, flexible,
musical
attitude
in
working along with it.
Retail Price : S$30.00
Member’s Price : S$25.50
Seven Keys to Imagination
Creating the Future by Imagining the
Unthinkable – and Delivering It
Piero Morosini
Marshall Cavendish
Editions 2010
Soft Cover
Create the success in the future
by using the power of your
imagination. In his new book,
Piero Morosini unravels seven
essential elements - the seven
keys to imagination – which can
be recognised, developed and
applied to any individual, team
or organisation which has the
courage and determination to unlock their power to
imagine and build successful future for themselves.
Retail Price : S$32.60
Member’s Price : S$26.05
Brainwaves the Bookshop
Block B, Level 1, 501, Stirling Road, Singapore 148591
Tel: 67967901 Email: brainwaves@mdis.edu.sg
Our Librarian recommends…
Members’
Corner
BRAINWAVES
My Lifelong Challenge
Singapore’s Bilingual Journey
Lee Kuan Yew
Singapore Press Holdings
2011
Hardcover
The book My Lifelong
Challenges gives readers a
glimpse into the founding
prime
minister’s
50-year
struggle to transform Singapore
from a polyglot former British
colony into a united nation
where everyone, while knowing
English, are fluent in their own
mother tongue.
Mr Lee shares insights of why he did away with
vernacular schools in spite of violent political resistance and
why he continues to urge all ethnic groups in Singapore today
to learn their respective mother tongue languages.
Who should read it: Anyone interested in learning more about
Singapore’s history and struggles faced by the government to
create and maintain a multi-racial society, while ensuring that
citizens stay rooted to their respective ethnicities.
Steve Jobs
JWalter Isaacson
Little, Brown
2011
Hardcover
Steve Jobs is the study of the man
himself, but along the way it’s also
a fascinating history of the genesis,
near-death, and resurgence of Apple.
It covers the birth, near-death, and
ascendancy of Pixar. Readers will
follow Jobs journey through the
personal
computer
revolution,
the birth of the Macintosh, his
“wilderness years” at NeXT and Pixar, and his
return to Apple. Steve Jobs’ biography also offers incredibly
detailed insights into how our world shifted from the hobbyist
computing era of the mid -’70s to the ubiquitous domain of
smart phones, and tablet computing that we live in today.
Who should read it: Anyone looking for creative ways to
create a small business or get started in any online endeavours.
Resource HUB (Library)
Block C, Level 4, 501, Stirling Road, Singapore 148951
Tel: 67967828 Email: resourcehub@mdis.edu.sg
23
Members’
Coner
MEMBERSHIP
ACTIVITIES
24
PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST
Send us your entry to walk away with great
prizes.
Date
Venue
: 1 May to 31 May 2012
: MDIS Campus
BREAKFAST TALK: HARD & SOFT
SKILLS; SCISSORS, PAPER OR ROCK
Learn more about Emotional Intelligence
and explore some of the soft skills that
you may find helpful in your life.
Day/Date
Time
Venue
Fees
:
:
:
:
Wednesday, 23 May 2012
8.30am – 10.30am
Auditorium, MDIS Hostel (Level 2)
Free Admission
BASIC VOCAL SESSION
KICKBOXING
Join us for a basic vocal session to get the
techniques to warm up your vocals for any singing
competition.
Join us in athletic drills with martial arts to create an
intense cardiovascular workout. You can burn as many
as 500 calories in a one-hour class and achieve a total
body workout.
Day/Date
Time
Venue
Fees
:
:
:
:
Friday, 25 May 2012
7.00pm
MDIS Campus
Free Admission
Day/Date :
Time
:
Venue
:
Fees
:
Monday, 4, 11, 18, 25 June 2012
7.00pm-8.00pm
Dance Studio, MDIS Hostel (Level 5)
$35 (Member)
$40 (Alumni Member)
$45 (Non-Member)
SOCCER TOURNAMENT
INTRODUCTION TO PRODUCT DESIGN
Are you up for the soccer challenge to win attractive
prizes?
Do you have ideas for designing a product? Join us to
source more ideas for product design.
Day/Date
Time
Venue
Fees
Day/Date
Time
Venue
Fees
:
:
:
:
Saturday, 16 June 2012
9.00am
MDIS Campus
$15 per team
:
:
:
:
Saturday, 23 June 2012
9.30am
MDIS Campus
Free Admission
MDIS Interest Groups
Special Interest Groups
Get active in pursuing your personal interests and share sports
passion with like-minded friends. Grab the chance to represent
MDIS in various sports competitions or tournaments and keep
yourself healthy and fit. Join us now for that spice of campus life!
Toastmasters Club
Human Capital Network Group
MDIS Drama Club
For registration and payment of workshop/activity, please proceed
to Membership & Alumni Relations, Energy HUB, MDIS Hostel,
Level 5 or register your interest at events@mdis.edu.sg
For more information:
64735885
events@mdis.edu.sg
www.mdis.edu.sg/Membership/interest-groups/overview
Sports Interest Groups
Badminton Club
Basketball Club
Cricket Club
Modern Dance Club
Soccer Club
Fees quoted are inclusive of GST.
Members’
Corner
25
Tea Chapter Trading Pte Ltd
10% off total bill for Tea House
Consumption Only
Present your MDIS membership
card at the following merchants to
enjoy these exclusive benefits!
http://www.tea-chapter.com.sg/
Deal.com.sg
Additional 5% off published rates.
http://www.deal.com.sg
Mary Chia and Urban Homme
First Time Customer Bonus
• $58* for 1 session of Diamond Microdermabrasion Programme OR Body Contouring
Programme (UP $280)
Year-Long Privileges
• Enjoy 15% off all ala-carte retail price treatments
• *Prices before prevailing government taxes. Discount is not applicable with pre-discounted
promotional treatments/products/packages. Please present NRIC & staff/student pass for
verification. Prior appointment is required; Please call 1800-250-2001 and quote “SJ-MDIS”.
www.marychia.com
www.urbanhommeformen.com
BONAFIDES
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
*20 % off for ala-carte treatments
*$23 to student members for any 1 treatment below:
Shine ‘N Heal Facial
Eye Anti-Dark Circles Treatment
30 minutes Foot Relief Massage
Hair Protein Treatment
30 minutes shoulder pain relief massage
Express Manicure and Pedicure
http://www.bonafidesbeaute.com/
For more discounts and
privileges from our other
merchants, please log on
to our website at
http://www.mdis.edu.sg/
Membership-benefits/treats
LCC
LCC SERVICE (49 STIRLING ROAD)
10% off total bill for ala carte F&B Only
Contact Point
26
Kudos to
Dear Vanees
a,
Thank you so
much for you
r email.
Honestly, I h
ave studied in
many college
have not com
s, but I
e across a St
udent
Coordinator
like you. You
are the best!
Thank you so
much! Have
a blessed da
y.
Regards,
K. Nithya
Higher Diplo
ma in Interna
tional Busine
ss
D e a r R a s id ,
pliment
m
o
c
o
t
e
k
i
l
d
l
I wou xecutive , Student
Adam , E tration on his ded
Adminis g to enquiries that
attendinto his attention . N
brought tor been so attenti
coordina n answering our
prompt i ank him for his
like to th ent towards his
commitm
Thank you !
rds,
War mes t rega
Wang Znhsi)WIeni Banking
BSc (Hosity of Wales,UK
Univer
Dear Veronica,
na,
Dear Saki
e
ble advic
a
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l
a
v
r
u
yo
e
the cours
much for
t
o
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ro
Thank
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m
and pro
n!
dies.
the drago
of my stu
f
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l the best
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Wis
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Master o
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s
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I would like to say than
ks t
the following:
(i) Arrangement of re
subm
(ii) The prompt notice
of SM
(iii) For your advice on
how
for a courier to pick up
the
I appreciate the assist
ance
this time. MDIS truly
provi
Have a great week ah
ead.
Thanks and regards,
Agnes Kwa
Diploma in Business M
a
Hi Mich
ele,
t Rasid d
Care an wards
dication teon
t had be a
Never haedtails and
ive in d s. I would
enquirie n and
dedicatio
s work .
K
Contact Point
MDIS Staff
Thank
s for t
he pro
very im
mpt re
presse
ply! I’m
d! 
Thank
you so
much!
Cheers
,
Sherm
ai
Diplom ne
a in Ma
ss Com
munica
tions
and Finance
ee,
to you for assisting m
e with
mitting my applicatio
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MS messages
w I should go about ar
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certification
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ides excellent service.
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27
The Press
Speaks
Special
28
PRODUCED BY THE SPECIAL PROJECTS UNIT,
MARKETING DIVISION, SPH
Postgraduate Studies
1
thesundaytimes
January 8, 2012
Learning together
Tey Wee Meng and Ooi Sian Yee successfully
juggle work and family commitments to attain
their MBA from MDIS-UOB
three hours of weekly classes held over
seven weeks as opposed to some MBA to broaden my limited knowledge on making fast decisions. We had to balance
program mes that squeeze 20 hours theories and models of business man- studying, working and baby-sitting. Wee
agement to overcom e some bottle- Meng and I took
into three to four consecutive days.
turns to study while the
necks at work,” says Ms Ooi.
other one babysat. We were blessed that
“The structure suited my learning
Mr Tey and his wife enrolled in the our parents were
style as I prefer to understand basic
very supportive.”
Teo Kuan Yee
rankings and affordability. Mr Tey had
evening
class
part-time
programme
The programme consists of 14 modconcepts sufficiently before moving to
also got positive feedback from his
and tackled one to two modules each ules and a managem
more complex topics,” he explains.
ent project. LecTHE learning journey never ends, even then-manager
time over three months. The greatest turers from UOB
who was attending the
Inspired
fly to Singapore for a
by her husband, Ms Ooi, a
after marriage and parenthood. In the same programm
e.
senior mechanical engineer and cur- challenge for him was in delivering three-day intensive workshop for three
midst of their Master of Business AdHe had wanted to pursue an MBA
results
and
meeting deadlines both at modules . Students can
rently a stay-at-home mother, decided
ministra tion (MBA) course, Mr Tey to learn how
opt to comwork and in his studies.
successful businesses are to join
plete two elective modules on-campus
him. She was fully convinced
Wee Meng, 36, and Ms Ooi Sian Yee, managed —
knowledge that will help with the
in UOB.
choice of UOB after reading
33, found out that they would soon him scale greater
heights in his career. up the course
Strategic managem ent and busibecome parents.
descripti on that adHe says: “I love the feeling of going back
ness economic
dressed her interest in business and
Luckily, the MBA course they se- to school to acquire
Ms Ooi says: “I challenged myself to ite modules s were Mr Tey’s favournew knowledge.”
management.
— they provided him
lected — a tie-up between Managework smarter and more effectively by with
He decided on the UOB’s proknowledge on business strategies
“Although I had not thought of doment Development Institute of Sin- gramme as
its structure comprise s ing my
focusing on the crux of in dynamic and complex
MBA then, I had a strong urge
gapore (MDIS) and the University of
business enthe problem and vironments under varying
Bradford (UOB), UK — had the flexeconomic
conditions.
ibility to accommodate their schedule.
Their class had about 30 students
The couple deferred the fourth
from different backgrounds including
term of the first year of their
financial, engineering, government
studies when their daughter was
sectors, education, logistic, busiborn, and took an extra four
ness — this gave the couple a
months to complete the twovariety of discussions and
year programme. They graduated
viewpoints.
with Distinction — an achievement
To anyone hesitant
given to only five out of over 40 stuabout doing an MBA
dents in their cohort.
while holding a full-time
The program me’s flexibilit y was
job,
Mr
Tey advises: “Go for
what attracted Mr Tey, a business
it! It is something that you
excellence project manager in a USwon’t regret — the breadth
based MNC in the automat ion inof knowledge you gain teachdustry, when he was choosing a MBA
es you to evaluate situation s
programme more than two years ago.
from various angles.”
They were given up to five years to
Says Ms Ooi: “Don’t wait. You have
complete the entire programme durto believe that now is the best time to
ing which they could stop any time
do it. As long as you are committed,
due to work commitments or personal
you will be able to make it. If there’s a
reasons, and resume later.
will, there’s a way.
Other factors that swayed him to
“I’m grateful for the chance to
pick the MDIS-UOB MBA programme
study together with my husband. Bewere its class structure, excellent track
sides discussing and sharing inforrecord of consisten tly high global
40
2
201
day 9 January
mation, we encouraged and motiPAPER Mon
THE NEW
vated each other to succeed.”
Work smart

PHOTO: WHITE ROOM STUDIO
At a glance
n
 Ashley Cha lege’s pace
said MDIS Col trate on a
lets her concen a time
few subjects at
GRAMMES
AVAILABLE PRO rse for
cou
vel
 Preparatory
ridge GCE O-le
amb
re-C
Singapo
examination
course for
 Preparatory
ridge GCE A-level
Singapore-Camb
examination
Stirling Road,
Address: 501
pus)
951 (MDIS Cam
Singapore 148
oy
j
o
t
e
l
g
g
u
r
t
s
From
MDIS College
n dresses up for
e” style and eve
well to the “colleg
paring her for
school.
IS College is pre style
MD
that
said
She
technicic step – a poly
the next academ
degree in
education.
sue a diploma and
She plans to pur also at MDIS, and work in
ool, where
ication,
secondary sch
mass commun
stry.
classes
learn, unlike in
indu
into
to
el
d
trav
’t
ame
or
ldn
were stre
ses, she works
the media
what she cou
she has no clas trainee tour
students like me
could pursue
On days when
jects.
FINALLY, she
a part-time
nge
learning fixed sub
school.
lance model and
hassle just to cha
found
a
n
free
a
was
Cha
as
it
,
ley
in secondary
then
Ash
“Back
flexibility.”
ary 5, Miss
a
helped her
, there is more
agent.
Back in Second
geography as
MDIS College has
subjects. But now College’s pace suits her better
ng to appreciate
She believes that el in their studies as the
a
herself struggli
She said MDIS
concentrate on
rs to exc
ject.
and many othe
not offered
ool’s as she can
tives and has
was
sch
,
humanities sub
elec
cal
of
ject
typi
ety
sub
a
vari
urite
than
school offers a
History, her favo
a time.
ic stream in her
educators.
only two
few subjects at
normal academ
s a second
knowledgeable
a maximum of
to students in the
IS College give d in or
Students attend ults in a focused yet fast
Said Ashley: “MD
cee
school.
day. This res
MDIS College last
who do not suc
a
in
n.
d
ons
ents
olle
Cha
less
stud
s
their
enr
to
Mis
chance
But after she
learners like
ventional way in
for
con
e
the
lly
mm
d.
go
rea
gra
to
nge
pro
cha
choose not
history as a
lecturers are also n it comes
January, things
She said: “The
could finally take
on.
ing is based
ward whe
cati
ryth
-for
edu
eve
ight
re
The 18-year-old elective.
stra
whe
re,
professional and
anities
“Even in Singapo y people may not be lucky
after having
combined hum
man
reinforce the
iting her results
to teaching.
on meritocracy, chance to shine in a typical
a step back and
She is now awa
preparatory
the
“They often take ject so that students who
month, O-level
enough to have
sub
undergone a 10the
of
can
ons
ind
foundati
ing beh
use of the
school.
private school
course.
ject or are lagg
ses and makes
an established
are new to a sub ed.
“Either one focu a secondary school, or,
MDIS College is rs preparatory courses for
add
ying in
offe
catch up,” she
a trusted school
privilege of stud
in Singapore that vel examinations.
nce to study in
cha
a
n
give
n
nt
A-le
’s fullest
whe
Manageme
the GCE O- and
perform to one
d subsidiary of
DIVERSITY
MDIS College,
It is a wholly-owne of Singapore (MDIS), and is
IS College, like al,” she advised.
itute
diversity at MD pted
potenti
the
ys
enjo
n
Development Inst the Council for Private
Cha
Miss
She has ada
with
are of all ages.
also registered
where students
choice of what
Education.
“I finally had the
Said Miss Chan:
ation
s flexible educ
MDIS College’ akes learning enjoyable
programme m
lty and
dedicated facu place
cellence. Our
s
ex
ke
ta
ing
ing
ch
rn
tea
ere lea
emphasises
mosphere wh
MDIS College
d academic at
an
g
rin
ca
a
staff create
oom.”
tside the classr
ge
inside and ou
er, MDIS Colle
anag
e enquiries):
Tel (programm
6278-8000
du.sg
ollege@mdis.e
E-mail: mdis_c
.sg
discollege.edu
Website: www.m
class
per
30
m
imu
Class size: Max
Total enrolment
 O levels: 215
 A levels: 103
for 2011: 318
d
one Kopitiam foo
Food: There is
the
leven outlet on
court and a 7-E
pus. Chinese,
Stirling Road cam ay, Vietnamese,
Mal
Western, Indian,
ls are
Korean food stal
Japanese and
also available.
A DAY
THE LI
of a first-y
stud
Follow Miss C
Hiong as she brin
journey of her s
Yes
Wi-fi access:
town
station: Queens
Nearest MRT
shuttle service
IS
MD
s:
vice
Bus ser
the
n MRT station to
from Queenstow Saturday.
to
,
campus, Monday
, 196, 198, 147
111
,
100
vice
Ser
51, 970
 (Above) Miss Chia Hiong Hiong goes to th
to collect new books. There,she meets MDIS
 (Above, right) Miss Chia having a molecul
her classmates.
 (Right) Mr A Saravanan, a student coordin
by Miss Chia about her time-table, at the Stu
year
dent
Managemen
Institute of St Development
ingapore
ww
w.mdis.edu.sg
20
lar cell biology lesson with
nator, addressing questions
udent Service Centre.
15 January 2012

THE NEW PAP
PEOPLE
ER ON SUN
Founded in 1956,
the Management
Development Ins
is Singapore’s old
titute of Singapore
est not-for-profit
(MDIS)
professional institut
It provides academ
e for lifelong learnin
ic programmes in
g.
Business and Ma
munications, Life
nagement, Mass
Sciences, Travel
Com, Tourism and Hos
Information Techno
pitality Managem
logy, Psychology,
ent
,
Engineering and Fas
hion Design, offered
in collaboration with
acclaimed univers
ities in the United
and Australia. MD
Kingdom, United Sta
IS achieved the fou
tes
r-year EduTrust Cer
the Council of Priv
tification awarded
ate Education in 201
by
0.
Diploma in Busin
ess Management
(awarded by MD
Institute of the Un
IS, an Associ
iversity
of Bradford, UK)
ate
This programme
equips students wit
h the fundamental
management. Stu
principles of busine
dents can progress
ss
to a degree in Bus
Accounting and Fina
iness and Manag
nce, International
ement,
Business or Marke
ting.
Korean entertainme
nt
companies shortlist
thr
out of 1,000 local hop ee girls
efuls
REPORT: CHARLENE
cchar@sph.com.sg
Diploma in Mass
Communications
(awarded by MD
by Oklahoma City
IS and valida
Universit
ted
y, USA)
Established in 199
2, this successful
American programm
for those keen to pro
e is a foundation cou
gress to an underg
rse
raduate course in
Topics covered incl
Mass Communica
ude Advertising, Pub
tions.
lic Relations, Journa
lism and Broadcasti
ng.
Dip
CHUA
Singapore has
come out tops
in the
race to K-pop
stardom.
Three local
loma in Information
Technolog
y (awarded by MD
Covering the fun
IS)
damental aspect
s of both academ
development in the
ic and profession
IT industry, student
al skill s
s can then pursue
Computing or Com
a degree in IT, Bus
puter System (Fo
iness
rensic and Securit
y).
girls were short
listed out of 1,000
fuls at auditions
hopeheld by two Kore
companiesyeste
an entertainment
rday.
The casting direc
tors from JYP Enter
manage superstars
tainment (they
like Wonder Girls
and Alpha Kore
,
2PM
and
miss
a (former manager
A)
of Girls’ Generatio
and Super Junio
n
r) are here for
a two-day sessio
check out hope
n to
fuls –
gent selection criter and they have extremely strinia.
The shortlist rate
is typically less than
1 per cent.
Just last month,
the same comp
anies held auditions in Shanghai,
Beijing and Guan
gzhou. Only five
out of 6,000 peop
le who auditioned
were shortlisted
and none of the
five made the final
,
cut.
It took almost
eight hours – the
Singapore audit
first day of the
ions started at
8.30am yesterday
before the castin
–
g directors picke
15-year-old Dam
d
ai Secondary stude their first girl,
who sang Stron
nt Carinda Kao,
ger by Kelly Clark
son.
She tells The New
Paper on Sund
shocked when
ay: “I was very
they called my
number and told
meet someone
me to
who would take
me to another room
“I feel that my singi
.
ng wasn’t at its
picked, so I’m just
best but I still got
so happy.”
By 6pm, two other
da Go – were picke hopefuls – Tricia Teo and Bren
d from the hord
es that had turne
up at the Managem
d
ent Development
pore (MDIS) on
Institute Of Singa
Stirling Road.
Tricia, a 14-year-ol
student, was only d St Margaret’s Secondary Scho
ol
30 seconds into
Like You when
Adele’s Someone
she was cut off
and told to step
and smile.
forward
She was terrified
as she had thou
ght that the judge
were unhappy with
s
her braces.
ELATED: Carinda PICTURES: KELVIN CHNG, TRICIA TEO
Kao (left)
and Tricia
(above) are still reelin
g from being short Teo
Day 1 of the audit
listed at
ions.
Carinda says she
was
y will only kno
w in a
month’s time
whe
K-pop stardom ther
is in their
future.
For now, they
are still reeling
from the
euphoria of being
shortlisted.
Tricia says: “I will
definitely quit scho
I am selected to
ol if
be in a Korean girl
group.
“My parents have
given me their
consent to do so alrea
dy.”
This is the secon
d time the JYP
Alpha auditions
&
are taking place
here.
Two local girls –
Natasha Low and
lyn Wong – were
Ferpicked from the
audition two years
first
ago and they will
their debut as part
make
of
Korea in a few mon a K-pop girl group in
ths’ time.
The auditions,
open to hopefuls
nine to 26, conti
nue till 5pm today aged
Management Deve
at the
lopment Instit
ute Of
Singapore (MD
IS) at Stirling Road
.
THE NEW PAPER Monday, January 9 2012 11

THE first thing that struck Miss Chia Hiong Hiong when
she entered the Management Development Institute of
Singapore (MDIS) was how she had to pick different
clothes to wear every single day.
Said Miss Chia: “In JC, I didn’t have to think about clothes.
We just wore a uniform every day and that was easier.”
The 19-year-old, who is doing the Foundation in
Biomedical Sciences course at MDIS, said entering a private
school means you have to make more choices on your own.
It may be a whole new world for new students entering
MDIS, but Miss Chia said they get a lot of guidance from the
lecturers and other staff.
She takes us on a journey of what her typical day is like at
face as
reer in TV
“They said some
thing in Korean,
understand, then
which I didn’t
I was just told to
step back in line.”
It was only after
the other nine hope
finished singing
fuls in the room
that the 2PM fan
realised that she
been shortlisted
had
.
The shortlisted
girls were ushe
red into a priva
room on the fifth
te
floor where they
did a photoshoot
a video.
and
They introduce
d themselves in
English and Man
rin, then posed
dafor head shots
and full-length
graphs.
photo-
the school.
Miss Chia first makes a stop at the Student Resource
Centre at the MDIS campus on Stirling Road. “Here is where
we collect new books for new modules. We have six books
per term for this course,” she said.
She started the six-month course in August last year and
will finish it next month. She takes six modules per term and
she is now in her second term.
She then heads next door to the Student Service Centre
to meet up with her student coordinator to ask some
questions about her timetable.
Miss Chia said: “Our timetable takes some getting used
to. For example, we never have the same lesson during the
same time slot every week. It depends on lecturers’
timetables and other resources.”
She added: “Last semester, I wanted to drop a
asked to relax her
While Tricia jived
easily to Beyonce’s
World (Girls) –
Run The
thanks to her
year’s worth of
dance lessons
– Carinda panic
ked as she had
only prepared to
sing at her audit
ion.
Carinda, a SHIN
ee
some random musi fan, says: “They played
c and told me to
when I heard
dance. So
Be My Baby (by
the Wonder
Girls) come on,
I made random
movements.
“I’m not a danc
er so
ing. It was very emba I’m not good at dancrrassing.
“But they told
me it was okay
better after that.”
so I felt
[ Miss So
After dancing, each
Patcharap nya
girl had to sing
more
iny
three
song
op
s
in
ong
the gruelling sessio
aims for a
n.
ca
The
She says: “As I
smiled, I though
‘Oh dear, it mu
st be my braces t,
’.
“I thought the
y were going to
me home.
send
VEENA BHARWANI
veenab@sph.com.sg
29
DAY
K-pop stardom for
lucky trio?
mathematics module as I was already exempted from it, so I
went to see the coordinator to arrange that.”
Mr A Saravanan, 21, who is in charge of three courses at
MDIS, said: “I have a lot of students coming to see me and
calling me every day asking questions about lab groupings
and other administrative matters. We make it easier for
students to ease into their schedules at MDIS.”
After that, she heads for the library to meet her
classmates to discuss homework.
“It’s always easier to discuss stuff with classmates to
clarify any doubts we might have,” she said.
Another way students can clarify lingering doubts is by
watching previous lectures online. All lessons at MDIS are
recorded and uploaded online on their virtual learning centre
called the MDIS Blackboard.
Said Miss Chia: “All you need is your student ID and your
password to login to the learning centre. All students are
issued a student ID and the password when they enrol.”
Foundation Certifi
cate in Biomedic
al Sciences (award
Associate Institu
ed by MDIS, an
te of the Universit
y of Bradford, UK
Designed to foster
)
opportunities
for entry into the bio
by furnishing stu
medical sciences
dents with necess
industry
ary knowledge and
provides a good fou
skills, this progra
ndation for studen
mme
ts who wish to pur
Biomedical Scienc
sue higher trainin
es, Biotechnolog
g in
y, Pharmaceutica
Life Sciences disc
l
Ma
nagement or oth
iplines.
er
Nanyang Aca
demy of Fine
Arts
ment De
She wants
velopm
Since she has a bit of time just before her lab lesson, she
heads down to the Kopitiam foodcourt for a quick lunch. She
takes her Kopitiam card which was issued to her when she
started school.
“Students get a 20 per cent discount when they eat at
Kopitiam. We can also use the card at other Kopitiam outlets
in Singapore and enjoy a 10 per cent discount,” she said.
After lunch, she rushes off to Block G for her three-hour
molecular cell biology laboratory lesson, where she and her
classmates make copies of a strain of DNA which they
extracted in a previous lesson.
coats for the
She said: “We all have to wear our laboratory
MISS
So
lesson and remove them when we leave the laboratory tonya Patcharap
with the Ma
inyopong
prevent contamination.
enrolled
nagemen
in JC and
those
t Develop
“The labs at MDIS are much better thanof
Sin
gapo
ment Institu
secondary schools. The equipment is better here and we arere (MDIS) in
te
be
April with
ing on telev
exposed to a wider range of materials.”
the
isi
hope of
on
a week.
some day.
This term, she has a laboratory lesson onceTh
e 18-year-old
“For one module, students doing this foundation course
is pursuing
Dip
lom
term.”
per
a
sessions
a in Mass Co
12-month
have two to three lab
mmunicatio
and plans
MDatISMDIS
In all, she has been enjoying her journey
and
n awarded
va
to enrol in the biomedical sciences degree programme inlidated
by
– Miss Chia Hiong
Hiong
W
Since its establishm
ent in 1938, the
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IS
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And MDIS
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Our timetable takes
some getting used
to. For example, we
never have the
same lesson during
the same time slot
every week. It
depends on
lecturers’ timetables
and other other
resources.
THE NE
www.nafa.edu.s
g
Diploma in Arts Ma
nagem
Manage
LUNCH AT FOODCOURT
Chia Hiong
ngs us on a
school day
he Student Resource Centre
officer Mr Chua Halim.
T 22
The Press
Speaks
IN
IFE
To da y Mo nd
ay Jan ua ry
9, 201 2
V
Miss Patch
arapinyopo
Advanced
Diploma pro ng intends to pursue
the
gramme fol
Bachelor’s
lowed by a
degree, sp
urred by the
schoolwork
month-long
promise of
?
residency
the
programm
final year of
She said: “I
e
at
the
OC
degree pro
U in her
timetable is can cope well becaus
gramme.
The reside
manageab
e
ncy progra
le, giving me the class
for work an
internship
d play.”
ample time
and a gradu mme will include an
ation cerem
She also be
Sh
e
ad
on
vis
y.
by Oklahom
es potentia
(OCU).
which let stu nefits from MDIS’ ca
a City Unive
l stu
best options
April .
reer
de
rsity
for themselv dents to think of the
here,” she
“I like this place and I want to continue studying
And to
professiona nts network with indus seminars, institutio
es before pic
apply what
n.
ls.
said.
try
king any
she learns
participates
in class, sh
Mi
ss
Sh
in activities
Pa
e
said: “I
tcharapinyo
e
org
of the MDIS
po
to several
educational picked MDIS becaus
Media Comm anised by the TV un
success sto ng said: “After listen
e
ne
it
it
me
ed
un
s
ets my
ing
an
ica
ries, I was
She said: “Th
d makes it
motivated
tions Club.
graduate fas
inspired an
possible for
to work ev
e TV unit giv
ter than my
d
opportunit
en harder
me to
es me the
peers. It de
me a head
When aske
y to create
and succee
start in the
finitely gives
my own sh
d.”
films.
wo
immediatel d about the highlights
ows and sh
rking world
MDIS has a
y said that
of MDIS, sh
ort
.”
host of pro
the school
e
“I’m intereste
and boasts
ind
gra
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is
mm
try
we
-fo
a
d
es
ll-e
conducive
in worki
cuse
that are
quipped
after gradu
learning en
and manage d and relevant, such
She added:
ation and the ng in the media indus
vironment.
as busines
ment, engin
try
co
platform to
lecturers ma “Lessons are intera
s
ee
technology
flourish in tha urse at MDIS is a go
ctive and the
ke an effort
, life science ring, information
od
t area.”
So how do
more intere
to make the
s,
ps
ma
yc
ss
ho
es she juggle
co
log
sting and un
lessons
mmunicatio
y, travel, tou
her activitie
derstanda
O-level gra
n,
rism and ho
manageme
ble. That is
s and
duates find
spitality
nt,
an
d
wh
it
fas
y
easy to ad
curriculum.
hion desig
They are off
apt to MDIS’
n.
”
ered in collab
acclaimed
oration
universitie
s in Australia with highly
the UK and
, France,
US.
“T
he Mass C
the Oklaho ommunication pro
gramme o
ma City U
industry.
ffe
niversity o
Stu
ffers a uniq red in MDIS in co
llaboratio
build on th dents are encoura
n
ged to be ue perspective on
eir skillsets
the globa with
active in m
and capa
– Mr Vinod
l media
ed
b
ili
ia
ties.”
-related a
Kumar M
ctivities to
, Head of
School, M
DIS School
of Media
and Comm
unications
n food are
availab
MDIS Dhob
y Ghaut
Wi-fi acce
ss: Available
Nearest MR
T
MDIS Cam stations:
pu
MDIS Dhob s: Queens
y Ghaut: Dh
o
Bus servi
ces:
There is a
MD
IS
shuttle
Queenstow
n MRT to the
Monday to
Saturday. cam
Service 10
0,
11
1,
196,
51, 970
Total enro
lment: 13
,500
CCAs avail
able
Badminton
Club
Basketball
Clu
Soccer Clu b
b
Cricket Clu
b
Modern Da
nc
Toastmas e Club
ters Club
Human Ca
pital Network
Group
Manage your
future or
someone else
will.
- Peter Drucker
Success begins
with a dream.
Think MDIS.
An education at MDIS is more than just a certificate. It’s about inspiring your mind,
developing your passion and providing you with a foundation to build a career.
MDIS BUSINESS SCHOOL • SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING • SCHOOL OF FASHION & DESIGN
SCHOOL OF LIFE SCIENCES • SCHOOL OF MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS • SCHOOL OF PSYCHOLOGY
SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY & E-LEARNING • SCHOOL OF TOURISM & HOSPITALITY
SINGAPORE
Cert No.: EDU-2-2016
Validity: 30/12/2010 - 29/12/2014