TogetherLAH! Closing Ceremony (2/11/18)

One and a half months had gone in a blink of an eye, it’s time for the students of DCLA to wrap up the TogetherLAH campaign with a closing ceremony. In case you are wondering what is the campaign about, let me tell you to refresh that memory.

TogetherLAH! is a Malaysian themed campaign run by DCLA’s Year 2 students of PR Project Management and Corporate Communication at Sunway University. Our aim is to inculcate the Malaysian culture and create favourable attitudes towards the country.

Everyone arrives at the Art Gallery to finish up the final touches of the decorations, to make sure everything is in top shape. Once settled down, I look around the room to see all the decorations, including all the flags we have created out of sticky notes- leaving "love letters" as part of our MY Home Gallery. I found three of my letters, not sure where are the remaining six, probably they are around somewhere.

I go back to my seat to watch the rehearsal of one of the performers, Steven Soon. As the time nears 9.45am, time for us to take into positions. As always, I’m in the registration along side Jaya, Veronica, Sonia and Chelsea. There is a little hiccup during the registration as I’m super nervous but luckily I’m back on track in that split second.

Once I’m off from the job, it’s time for me to go in to relax and enjoy the closing ceremony. At 11.00am, the VIPs are escorted by our very own Sunway Kompang Club. The event begins with the singing of the national anthem the Negaraku, then follow by the speeches from our sponsors and collaboration partner, Projek 57, and of course, our campaign director, Ms. Joanne Yep herself. In her speech, she emphasises that the key for the success of the campaign, is the trust between team members, besides communication.

To live up the atmosphere, we have performances from UiTM’s Gelai Qamar Dansa, who perform a traditional Malaysian dance which combines the three main races- Malay, Chinese and Indian. The event continues with a lucky draw session. Too bad I didn’t get a lucky draw number, if not I would enjoy a high tea session! Okay, let’s get back to the ceremony.

I’m enjoying throughout the ceremony, Jaya escorts our national ice hockey player- Low Jun Ming, alongside his girlfriend to their seats which are just right beside me. Oh wow, is this a dream? I’m siting next to a national athlete! I introduce to Jun and his girlfriend, Robyn. A full video montage is shown on the screen which comprises all of our events- the opening ceremony, Lokal Bazaar and Lokal Night.

"It’s so thoughtful of your course mates to include you in the flash mob dance," Robyn says when she sees my appearance in the final dance number of the flash mob. I thank her for the compliment. An interview of Jun pops up on the screen, and later he is introduced to everyone in the room after that.
The ceremony continues with a second session of lucky draw and a Bollywood dance, once again from the dancers from UiTM! After Steven’s final performance, it’s time to dig in some food! I know everyone is hungry for the whole day! We have karipap, kuih lapis, muruku and onde-onde just to name a few.

A group photo is taken to commemorate the memorable moment! Thank you everyone for supporting our campaign. We hope you that your inner Malaysian is found and a whole new perspective of being a proud Malaysian in this new era! It’s a double celebration for me as well, as I turn 21 today!

I would like to thank my campaign director and co-director, Joanne and Gene for leading the team. The patience, guidance and trust which leads the team to victory! Of course, our campaign would not be a success without the guidance from our lecturer, Mr. Suffian, himself for believing in us.

This is not the end, this is just the beginning. We hope that the patriotism towards the new Malaysian era does not end here. As young Malaysians, we are the future of the country and hope to inspire other young Malaysians to develop a love for Malaysia. It doesn’t have to be big, even a smallest act can turn into something big.

I’m proud to say that I’m a Malaysian! Saya anak Malaysia! 我是马来西亚人！Malaysia boleh! 🇲🇾

TogetherLAH! Team 

Director and co-director of the campaign: Joanne and Gene

I'm proud to be in the research department

The best birthday surprise ever when I'm arranged to beside national ice hockey player- Low Jun Ming

Steven Soon as one of the performers at the closing ceremony

Punchlain SU Comedy Night (20/10/18)

Are you feeling stress about the piling assignments these days? Or you feel down over a recent incident? Can't find anything to cheer you up? Head over to Punchlain SU organised by DCLA's Year 3 students of PR Project Management at Sunway University! 

Weeks before the event, the seniors came to drop by promoting their event during Issue and Crisis Communication lecture. I was a little hesitant to come because I was not sure about my plans in hand yet., until yesterday one of the seniors, Amanda, that the team had five free tickets. At one point, I was thinking, "Hey, since there is a free ticket, why not give it shot?" It's worth a shot since I didn't go to a comedy night before. My seniors are super supportive, why not return them favour? 

I make my way up to JC 2, the seniors are still doing some last-minute checking to make sure the event is in top form. Most of them recognised me because I covered their previous event during the last semester- BeYoutiful. My tummy starts to rumble when I see the food pantry but it is not opened until 7.00pm. Oh yeah, I also receive my free tickets while waiting. 

Once the food pantry is opened, everyone heads to the food pantry to dig in. My favorites are the curry puff and the brownies, and especially the egg sandwich! I also bump into my course mates too! They are surprised to see me at the event, "Hey Kar Marn, I didn't know you are here! Did you buy a ticket?" they ask, "No, I got it one for free from one of the seniors," I say. 

I take two photos at the photo booth by Fuji Film, one is with course mates and the other one is with my seniors. As we are waiting patiently for the photos to be printed out, the doors are opened and it's time for us to go in. It's okay I can collect the photos later when the show ends. 

 Once everyone settles in, our lovable emcee, Ruwan, takes the stage. "As they always say, laughter is the best medicine!" the crowd cracks up, and it's true! I have to agree with that saying 100%. We have performances from Kavin Jay, Ayim Razak, Papi Zak, Chrissy Wu and Gajen Nad. Overall, my favorite performances are from Gajen Nad, who kills his last performance with a Hindi and Indian dance. It's totally awesome! 

We also have a game in between to ease up the atmosphere. I'm not good with jokes so I didn't have anything in mind. If I had ever come up with one, trust me, it's not funny at all! Anyway, back to the show! 

After the event, tokens of appreciation are given out to the VIPs and the event director, Ms. Sheena herself, make a speech to thank everyone for coming and making the event a huge success.  I have my one-on-one interview with one of the crews, Angie. 

Katelyn (K): What is the main purpose of the event? 

Angie: (A): We have three goals when planning the comedy night. First of all, the Malaysian comedy scene is under appreciated, cause most of them think that comedy won't make out of money. Secondly, we want to nurture fresh and young talents in the comedy scene. The third and final goal is give people a relaxing time to distress themselves from their hectic work and assignments, especially. Also, we have collaborated with Shelter Home, a there is not enough donations for the children who are living at the home itself. 

K: Why did the team choose a comedy as the theme for this semester's event? I realised that previous semesters, they held balls event. 

A: Like you have mentioned earlier, they held balls event in previous semesters which the team think is common. So we decide to be different by having this comedy night so that everyone can have fun. It also benefits people too. You know the people in big states like KL and Selangor, they are really stress out from work and studies, it may lead to depression or any mental health related issues. With this event, we hope they can relive the stress through laughter. 

K: How did the team overcome conflicts? 

A: We overcome conflicts by talking it out on whatever we do or anything comes out of hand instead of keeping to ourselves which can lead to miscommunication. The key is to communicate! 

K: Anything you want to say to the team? 

A: Although it's tough, we are grateful that each of us in the team did a fantastic job to make the event. We're happy and satisfied on the outcome of the event. 

K: Thank you! 

A: No worries! Thank you for coming to the event. 

Congratulations on the success of the event, it is definitely a night fill with joy and laughter. If you miss you out that night, you can catch all the highlights on Punchlain's official FB page and Instagram account. 

FB: Punchlain_SU 

Instagram: @punchlain_su 

TogrtherLAH! Lokal Night (17/10/18)

After a week of semester break, it's time for the students of Sunway University to head back to campus. But for the DCLA students, something really got them excited, what is it? I'll tell you in a bit later on. And guess what? The TogetherLAH! team is back!

In case some of you have forgotten what is TogetherLAH! campaign is about, let me refresh the memory. TogetherLAH! is a Malaysian themed campaign run by DCLA's Year 2 students of PR Project Management and Corporate Communication  at Sunway University, to inculcate the Malaysian culture among Malaysians and create a favourable attitude towards the country for our international counterparts. 

I'm sure most of you are really curious what is the big event right? Drum rolls please! We bring you Lokal Night also known as cultural night! Isn't this exciting? Before the big event, I'm going to take you on behind-the-scenes to see what we are up to prepare the big night. 

The team gathers at the corridor of LT 7 and 8 to finish the final details. Some of them are in charged of the photo booth decoration, the completed flag expression board as well as blowing up the balloons. I'm a little bored as I have nothing to do and not much to help out at that time, but I entertain one of the performers. 

As the time nears 6pm, we all head to the entrance of JC 1 to get our positions ready. I'm at the registry counter along side Mei Fong, Chivonne, Jessica, Christine as well as Ezac. My position is the VIP attendant, which means I'm in charged of the VIP guest list. Upon registration, VIP and guests will receive a goodie bag which contains Malaysian childhood snacks- Apollo biscuits, jelly, Kopi O sweet etc. Don't they just bring back the childhood memories? Even Sunway Education Group Senior Executive Director, Dr. Elizabeth Lee is impressed and surprised with the door gifts when presented.  

I'm star struck when I attend Talitha Tan, who is the guest performer for the night. I even take a selfie with her. Okay, back to work! All the VIP guests list are done, it's time to move on to the normal guests list and walk-ins.  

The doors are opened as scheduled at 7.15pm, students and guests start to fill up the hall. The registry team is still on duty.

When I’m told that I have to stay up until 10.00pm and miss the whole performance, I’m a little sad and disappointed. I missed my favourite performances which are the wushu and tai chi as well as the Chinese orchestra. 

To cheer myself up, I munch on the childhood snacks. After awhile, our event supervisor, Kavind, leads me into the hall to enjoy the rest of the show, which means I’m off from the job! 

The lucky draw is up. One of our course mates is the lucky winner of the night. Our guest performer, Talitha, performs three songs: America Boy, Mine, and her original- Okay, follow by a sharing session on what makes us Malaysians. The final performance which is another traditional Malay dance by the MSU’s Performance Arts and Cultute Club (PACC). 

The event ends with the appreciation ceremony and a group photo. With that, lokal night is a success! 

As a Malaysian, I'm proud of our diversity. Our campaign is coming to an end with our closing ceremony on 2 November 2018. 

Follow our FB page and Instagram account for more updates of our campaign. 

FB: Togetherlah_su 

Instagram: @togetherlah_su

Hi I'm Kar Marn, I'm going to be your attendant for Lokal Night! 

TogetherLAH! Lokal Bazaar (26/9/18-28/9/18)

Hey! It's TogetherLAH! campaign's first main event! What is it? It's the Lokal Bazaar! Isn't it exciting? After Global Branding and Identity lecture, we head to the boulevard, college link bridge and the walkway respectively to get into our positions. Although I'm not on the job today, I have to help out my department- research and evaluation team, to collect surveys for those who drop by at our booths at the college boulevard.

Most of us are at the boulevard to help to set up the photo booth in collaboration with MY Home Gallery for our social media photo contest. I sit on the round bench at the boulevard with my own "personal booth". The time is still early, only a few students drop by to check out the booths. Don't forget we have food as well, such as our signature onde-onde, cakes from Good Memories cake house, muruku to make your tummy happy! Not enough? Head over to the walkway between the college and univerity, there are four food vendors selling Malaysians' all-time favourites- nasi lemak and satay!

We all know that when it comes to food, Malaysians love to have a good treat! If you missed our publicity week, fret not! Because here's your second chance to write your "love letters" to Malaysia.  It's located at the college link bridge.

On the second day of the bazaar, no vendors is around at the college boulevard because it's MUFY's (Monash University Foundation Year) Sharity carnival. We still do have the food trucks along the walkway of the campus. Since I'm a MUFY alum myself (class of 2016), why not head over to promote the campaign to my former lecturers and juniors? It's gonna be a win-win promotion! Double the event, double the promotion!

Besides our campaign, there are few booths beside ours. One of them is the Chinese Cultural Society (SUCSS), they are promoting their singing competition finals. I manage to get two of them from the society to write their message on our Jalur Gemilang expression board. They even buy two unity ribbons.

What is the unity ribbon? The unity ribbon is a project by Projek  57. It's exactly like the national flag but only it's in the form of the ribbon, it also has our Father of Independence and first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman at the side of it. All the profits will be going to the foundation  to help the orang asli children to receive education. We'll also doing charity at the same time, because the orang asli is also part of the Malaysian community. Not to mention that our onde-onde is a big hit of the bazaar. We manage to sell all of them!

On the third and final day of the bazaar, everyone gathers at the college boulevard because we are having a photo shooting session. I'm in charge with the attendance. The next hour before the bazaar starts, we put up all the signs around campus and make sure everything is in top form. As the time is near 10.00am, Chivonne and I head up to the college link bridge to start our duty.

My job is to wave the flag to attract people and pull some students over to complete our Jalur Gemilang expression board. At one point we lost count the number of sticky notes written, there are too many of them. Nonetheless, we manage to keep track. Since it's the last day of the bazaar, we promote our stickers at just only RM 1!

Once my shift is done, I head to the library to chill off due to the scorching heat. When I head back to the link bridge, they are lacking of manpower at the college boulevard. All that walking sure make my tummy rumbling. I bought lok lok from Mei Tuan food delivery! To get a 50% discount, all you have to do is to like and follow their Facebook page and Instagram account. We also have a lucky draw too! Who knows you might get a cash prize?  The good news is the unity ribbon which we collaborate with Projek 57 have all sold out!

The three-day Lokal Bazaar is a success! Thank you for those who drop by to support the campaign, I'm sure you have a happy tummy after tasting all the delicious food we have throughout the bazaar. Our upcoming event is the cultural night, we bring you Lokal Night, which is happening on 17 October 2018. Sunway campus' student and staffs can get their tickets at RM 18 while external parties is RM 23. It's a night to embrace the beauty of Malaysian cultures! Grab your tickets now!

For more information of our event, follow our official media sites:
Facebook: Togetherlah_su

Instagram: @togetherlah_su

TogetherLAH! Merchandise Selling (20/9/18-21/9/18)

We don't have class for the whole day, that doesn't mean we can sit back and relax right? We still have a campaign to run, I'm sure most of you know which campaign I'm talking about. That's right! It's our Malaysian theme campaign- ToetherLAH! by the Year 2 students of DCLA from Sunway University.

With the huge support we received from last week's flashmob opening ceremony, it motivated us to do even better in this mini event! Start your morning by having a pack of  homemade brownies to light up the day! I bought a pack myself, just in case my tummy grumbles in class or something. Most of our course mates are at the college boulevard, while the rest of us are in class doing our assignments and homework to let the time pass until it's our turn to head down to the booth.

When it's time for my booth duty, I head to the college boulevard with the campaign directors, Joanne and Weng Gene. We step out of the classroom, some of the students say: "Hey, we didn't get the brownies! They were sold out!" Wow! The brownies are the crowd's favorites! Don't worry! We'll be selling more tomorrow.

As we arrive at the boulevard, the flag is almost filled with messages. What you want to say to Malaysia? We bring you "Build a Flag" expression board. We just write what we want to say to the country and paste the message or "love letter" to the board which is in the form of the Jalur Gemilang (Stripes of Glory). Isn't it amazing?

After settling down at the booth, I take a red paper and pen to write my "love letter" to Malaysia. We have three batches of expression boards on the first day itself! We have to keep the third one which is way halfway through as the booth is near closing time.

On the second and last day, we continue with our expression board at the college link bridge. At the boulevard, the brownies are back and we have another delicacy to add to your taste buds- onde-onde! Besides that, stickers to bring fun to your boring lecture notes and henna to show your creative side!

Stay tune for our upcoming big event which is the Lokal Bazzar, happening on the 26 September 2018 till 28 September 2018! Get your taste buds ready and bring that tummy frown upside down!

For more updates of the campaign, follow our official social media sites.
Facebook: Togetherlah_su 
Instagram: @togetherlah_su

TogetherLAH! Flashmob Opening Ceremony (14/9/18)

The students of Department of Communication and Liberal Arts (DCLA) at Sunway University are running a Malaysian theme campaign- TogetherLAH! We decide to launch our campaign in conjunction with the upcoming Malaysia Day. Today is the day, the launch of our campaign! Everyone arrives early to class for the final touches.

At the back of the classroom, all the equipment for the flash mob are ready to go! Our lecturer, Mr. Suffian gives us words of encouragement to give our best during the launch of the campaign. Everyone especially the girls are putting on make up. As I'm making a final appearance, a simple lipstick will do the trick.

Outfit wise, I'm in an all-black ensemble and draped with the Malaysia flag, to show the love of the country.  At 10.00am, we head to another classroom to continue the things we left off just now. We turn on patriotic songs to suit the atmosphere.

Half an hour later, we run through a final rehearsal. We have to move the tables and chairs to a side due to the size of the classroom. I'm in charge of the music as I'm sitting at the computer table. To pass the time, we browse through YouTube videos to search more patriotic songs and music which are made in Malaysia by our very own Malaysian singers.

As the time of the flash mob nears , we have a quick round up of briefing. Besides, the campaign is not all about work. Don't forget to just smile and most importantly have fun! Once we get the signal from Daniel that is time to go down for the flash mob which is held at the university foyer, located near Fresco cafeteria. We split into two groups in either side of the lift to save time.

When we arrive at the foyer, the flash mob starts off with the Malay dance. We clap to the beat and cheer our course mates on, also to live up the mood for the people who drop by to watch our performance. I'm ushered by Kavind to grab my seat which is already prepared for me. Next up is the Chinese dance, follow by the Indian dance- which is one of my favorites.

Towards the end of the Indian dance, it's time for me to get into position for the final song of the performance. At the start of the final song- Malaysia Boleh! Ezac leads the team with the first clap, that's when my cue comes in to join in the final dance of the flash mob. Once positioned in my seat, the song comes in.

The flash mob ends with Joanne, our campaign director, gives an introductory of the campaign and leads the whole team by shouting our tagline: We stand TogetherLAH! With that, TogetherLAH! campaign is officially on the run! We wish everyone an advance Happy Malaysia Day! We stand TogetherLAH! as a nation.

For more updates with our campaign, please follow our official social media sites:
Facebook: Togetherlah_SU

Instagram: @togetherlah_su

Can’t Touch This Campaign: Truth Be Told 2.0 Mini Carnival (4/6/18-6/6/18)

Hey guys, Can’t Touch This Campaign is back! This time with the theme of Truth Be Told 2.0. Before we go a little further, let me tell you about what is Can’t Touch This campaign.
It was set up by students of PR Project Management and Corporate Communication from Department of Communication and Liberal Arts (Jan and Mar 2016 intake). The campaign was to raise awareness of anti-sexual harassment. They had a flashmob dance to kick off the event, poem showcase and maze challenge just to name a few.

Now they are back! But this time touching on the issues of bullying. Did you know? According to UNICEF Malaysia that 84% of children and teenagers are facing bullying issues. What is bullying? Bullying comes in various forms such as verbal, physical, social and especially online which is also known as cyber-bullying, which happen to youths nowadays.

I have personally been through bullying throughout my life- verbally, socially and online, you named it! Let me tell you about my experience on cyber-bullying. A group of my primary school mates (2009 class) created a hate group page on Facebook, they left nasty comments about me. Yes, I was really upset! After a few months, I thought to myself "Hey, what they did was really childish! They are bullying themselves, because you are not only hurting other people's feelings but yourselves as well,"

Hmm, that makes me wonder: How did the CTT team come up with the topic of bullying this time around? Maybe they got inspired by The Star in partnership with Setia on the recent National Kindness Week which was held in April?

What's in store for the CTT campaign team this time? Throughout the three-day carnival, they have henna paintings, pallet decorating, mystery book sales for only RM 5 and a race car too! Well, for the race car we can experience "digitally".

My favorite part of the activity is the pallet decorating. We can express our bullying experience through arts and crafts. What's more? It's a competition too! Post a picture of you and your masterpiece on your social media platform with the #TruthbeToldSU and #NotCool2BeCruel. The most likes gain on social media, you'll win a grand prize- a trip to a rock climbing theme park!

And I have a chance to sit-down with the PR spokespersons, Jia Deng and Mark, on why they decided to come back as a second time around and hold a gala night which is happening on Friday (8/6/18)! 

Katelyn (K): What has made Can't Touch This Campaign to come back a second time around? 

Jia Deng (JD): The successful of the first event of the campaign which came from the active participation of the students like you and me, we have decided to make a come back but this time we are focusing on bullying and to raise awareness about it. 

K: How do you see bullying in the Malaysian society? Why the team decide to hold a dinner gala? 

JD: Bullying is a big social issue in Malaysia, but sadly Malaysians see bullying as a social norm. Through this dinner gala, people will have a better understanding on the effects bullying. There will be special performances from MPO to interact with our guests, as in giving them to experience a feeling of bullying and going through the whole process as well. 

K: What are the challenges that the team face throughout the campaign? 

JD: It's the timing of  booking a slot for the places of  our activities. One advice for the juniors who are planning their future campaigns, book your slots early (laughs)!  

K: On behalf of the team, what do you want to say for those who are being bullied? 

JD: The most important thing is to be strong, stand up for themselves. Also, we can stand up for others too, we might change their lives. 

K: Does bullying affect one's emotional state and mentality? 

JD: Yes, definitely! Bullying does affect one's emotional state and mentality.  Most people won't show it on the outside, but on the inside they are breaking down emotionally and mentally. That's why we have collaborated with BeFrienders KL to let the bullying victims know that it is alright to speak up and talk to someone who we really trust. Besides that, Befrienders KL is a help line for people who are going through tough times, they can be a listening ear when we have no one to turn to.  

K: It's a wrap! Thank you so much for your time! 

JD: Thank you for the interview. 

I give you two words for bullying- not cool! It is not cool to be mean to someone. Bullying is not okay, it is not cool to be cruel! If we have courage and be kind to one another, we can create the goodness and magic around us.

For more information of Truth Be Told 2.0, follow these social media sites:
FB: Can’t Touch This
Twitter: @CantTouchThisSU
Instagram: @cttcampaign

Pallet decorating which we can express our bullying experience through arts and crafts (5 June 2018)   

Day 3: Strike a pose with  the race car (6 June 2018)  

BeYoutiful SU Closing Ceremony (1/6/18)

The feedback of the coverages of beYoutiful campaign had been receiving positively from the seniors. They liked the coverages so much, and offered me to be a part of the press team at the closing ceremony.

I was super duper surprised and happily accepted the offer because I always wanted to be a student reporter to cover big events on campus. Starting with your own course department is the first step. Let’s take a look at the scene shall we?

The event took place at Gallery View, Level 1, NUB. I had a hard time looking for the place as it was located right below the Art Gallery. The moment when I entered, the setting was absolutely stunning or should I say beYoutiful! They had a photo booth, the showcase of the complimentary boards which they had collected messages from students around campus and a food pantry for us to fill up our tummies!

I thought I was going to sit at the back of the room but my seniors told me they had prepared my very own "VIP seat"! Wow, that’s a first! Wait, there’s more! I got my very own media kit- a clipboard with free stickers and the itinerary of the closing ceremony.

Before we go into the closing ceremony, let me tell you about what is beYoutiful campaign. It was set up by Year 2 students from PR and Corporate Communication of Department in Communication and Liberal Arts (DCLA), to raise awareness on self-love and self-acceptance. As they always say,  "Self-love is your first romance" which is so true!

Around 10.10am, students and VIPs started to fill the gallery up. The ceremony started with the welcoming remarks from our loveable emcee- Ruwan! At 10.20am, the closing ceremony of Beyoutiful campaign had officially started. They kicked off the ceremony with promotional videos, highlights of their activities and special shout-out from Malaysia’s famous YouTuber, Dennis Yin.

"Alright! That’s our promotional videos and highlights throughout our campaign. Now, can anyone tell me how do you break your insecurities?" Ruwan asked the questions to the crowd. Ooh, deep question! "Katelyn, I’m sure you have plenty of things to say," Ruwan said as he handed the microphone to me. "Well I think to break that insecurity inside of us, we have to be confident and courageous to stand up, so we can be beYoutiful!" I answered. "So being confident and courageous are the key to break the insecurities! Give it up for Katelyn, everyone!"

Cheers were received from the crowd. Also, my fellow course mate, Oswald, was asked to come infront of the room to have a few minutes of friendly interaction with the emcee. The ceremony proceeded with speeches from the campaign director herself, Ms. Kelsie Keah, DCLA programme chair, Ms. Padma, acting HOD, Prof. Donald William Boyles and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Graeme Wilkinson
.
What’s with a closing ceremony without any entertainment? A contemporary dance from Sunway Dance Club and singing from our very own Amal! Lucky draw and Instagram online contest prizes to the winners. Tokens of appreciation were given to the VIPs and lecturers for thanking them to take their time off from their busy schedules to witness the ceremony. A group photo was taken to mark a close of the campaign
.
After the ceremony ended, I had my one-on-one with the campaign’s PR spokesperson, Ms. Shenna Padman.
Katelyn (K): Thank you for your precious time, shall we begin? 

Shenna (S): Thank you for the opportunity! 

K: What is the objective behind beYoutiful? 

S: We wanna raise awareness among Sunway students and staffs on self-love and self-acceptances. There were some constraints but we wanna be sure that through this campaign, everyone can be comfortable in their own skin. 

K: Who is the brainchild of the campaign? 

S: I would say all of us were the brainchild of the campaign as this is a class team effort. Under the subject of PR: Planning, Implementation & Evaluation (P. I. E.), PR students will work on a possible campaign and they will have to vote on the potential ones that would be running in the next semester.

K: How were you inspired to set up the campaign? 

S: People tend to change based on society’s view, so we thought "Why not creating campaign that everyone feels in comfortable in their own skin because everyone is unique in their own special way. Be themselves instead of what society think about them as a person. 

K: What are the challenges that the team face throughout the campaign? How did you overcome the challenges? 

S: The challenges that we faced as in booking the right venue and getting the correct date etc. The key to overcome the challenges is communication because it is a process builder which can build trust towards each other as a team. 

K: Will you make this campaign a yearly event? 

S: No, but we want to emphasise the importance of self-esteem which can create a deep confidence of an individual. 

K: What are your hopes after the campaign come to a close? 

S: We hope that the students and staffs of Sunway will continue be comfortable with themselves and love themselves regardless of people's opinion.  Besides, self-love is your first romance! Haha! 

K: How the activities help the campaign to achieve its objective? 

S: Again, what we have mentioned earlier that we wanted raise awareness on self-love and self-acceptance. We also wanted to educate the people that it is okay to be yourself and look beyond what we see in ourselves. 

K: Okay, one last questions before we wrap up. Is there anything you wanna say to the team? 

S: Good job! Without the whole team's effort, this campaign wouldn't be a success. I hope they continue to love themselves and spread the love to the people around them. 

There you go guys, the final coverage of beYoutiful campaign! I think I'm more confident with myself now after attending all the fun activities they had throughout the campaign. We must have the courage to step out of our insecurities, so people will see us in a different perspective. We can't change people but the only person we can change is ourselves.

For more highlights of the closing ceremony, visit the Beyoutiful campaign's official social media sites
FB Page: Beyoutiful SU
Instagram: @beyoutiful_su

BeYoutiful SU Photo Exhibition (24/5/18-25/5/18)

   Media technology practical class ends, I head over to the BeYoutiful campaign photo gallery. BeYoutiful campaign? Sounds familiar to you? Well, if you check out my last post on the campaign’s carnival, I’m sure you will recall back what happened on that day.

After settling myself down, I walk around to take a look at the college boulevard. It’s not ready yet as the seniors are doing some last-minute preparation on the photo gallery so students who come to drop by will feel the love all around on this beYoutiful day! Get it? Beautiful, beYoutiful? No, okay! Let’s move on.

I come across the photo gallery. I see the photos which were taken during the BeYoutiful carnival. Most of my course mates pictures are up, but where’s mine? Well, probably I have to drop by tomorrow to see whether it’s up on the second batch of the photo gallery.

Remember about the “breaking barriers”? Writing your insecurities on the board and giving it a good punch after that, it’s back for a second time around! Plus, there’s a message board for us to write encouraging messages to everyone that it is okay to be ourselves and don’t change because of someone else, because we are beYoutiful in our own unique way.

 Unfortunately, I have to miss the performances and the event lauch as I have a lecture to attend. I can drop by on the last day as the event will be running for two days.

Miss out the first day? Drop by on the second and final day of BeYoutiful photo gallery, you might spot yourself in there! It’s a good way to end the first week of university since resuming from the semester break. If you see two “fishies” in yellow and orange, show off some shaking moves to shake a new self.

BeYoutiful SU Photo Exhibition 
Date: 24/5/18-25/5/18 (Thursday & Friday) 
Venue: Sunway College boulevard 
Time: 10am-5pm 
For more details, please visit the BeYoutiful campaign’s official social media sites. 
FB: Beyoutiful_su  
Instagram: @beyoutiful_su 

BeYoutiful SU Carnival (4/5/18)

  Public Relations Writing lecture ends at 11.30am, my course mates and I head over to the boulevard at Sunway College to support our seniors in conjunction with their campaign- BeaYoutiful. What is BeYoutiful campaign? It's about self-love and self-acceptance. I mean we all try to change for someone who we are not right? With this, students can redefine what does beauty really mean to them.

  I'm about to head down the stairs, Ishaq, my best friend, who is also on his way to the carnival. Well, the carnival is not that big but it sure lights up the whole boulevard. There are so many of them, what am I going to choose? I hear some senior students screaming, apparently one of the students is breaking a board with his or her insecurities written on it. Everyone has their insecurities, so it's time to break mine once and for all.

  My insecurity is not fitting in and no sense of belonging when it comes to hanging out with a group of friends. I feel left out at times and still do today. After writing my insecurity on the board, Eric comes over to hold the board. Before that, let's some gloves on to ensure safety- preventing the hand from being hurt when punching it, unless you are a martial art expert, you know where are the pressure and force. If you're not, better to put the gloves on for safe keeping.

  Let's break that insecurity! I try to break it for the first time but it didn't work out, "C'mon, try harder! Punch it real hard this time!" the seniors encourage me. Thinking of all the times of being left out, something tells me that I should break it, show them that they are messing with the wrong person. Taking a deep breath, I punch the board real hard time to break my insecurity. It broke it into two! A survey is required to fill up after you participated in the activity.

   You can't leave the carnival without capturing the moment on a camera right? All that punching and walking made my tummy grumble. My course mates, Mudita, Jaya and Ness walk to the college cafeteria to have lunch before heading to the next class- Media Relations and Public Affairs.

  How do you define beauty? Is beauty really on the outside, not from the inside? Or just within it? Find out more on the BeYoutiful campaign on their official Facebook page and Instagram account. There are tons of competitions and prizes for you to win! Grab the opportunity now!

Facebook page: Beyoutiful_su
https://www.facebook.com/beYOUtifulSU/?ref=br_rs

Instagram account: @beyoutiful_su
https://www.instagram.com/beyoutiful_su/
(T&C Apply)

Industry 4.0: Communicating Strategically (17/4/18)

  Last week, our Media Relations and Public Affairs lecturer, Ms. Yesu mentioned that we were going to help out at a talk held by the Department of Communication and Liberal Arts (DCLA), it's called- Industry 4.0: Communicating Strategically. All of us got so excited.

  The day has finally come. When I step into the first class which is Law and Ethics in Communication, none of them notices my all-pink ensemble but the other girls in the Corporate Communication specialisation are wearing blue, black and white respectively. Am I the only one who didn't "coordinate" their dress code? My fellow batch mate, Zhi Wen, helps me to put on lipstick by Silkygirl to  finish up the look.

 We are excused from Law and Ethics in Communication class at 9.00am. The venue is just the other side of the classroom, it takes about five minutes to get there. The tables and chairs are set outside of LT 5. My job is the easiest- taking the student's attendance. I'm lucky to handle the attendance of my batch mates who are in PR project management specialisation.

  The seniors complement my all-pink ensemble, "Kar Marn, you look so pretty! I like the bows rest on your dress. Absolutely beautiful!" As the time of the talk nears, it's our turn to go in it has already started as scheduled. We have to enter by a back door but there is a flight steps, so it's a challenge for me to get in there. Luckily, I go through the entrance and I sit with one of the speakers, Ms. Kaur. She asked me which course I'm specalising in, "I'm specialising in Corporate Communication," I answer.

  Each of the speaker talks about how communication is transforming at a fast pace. From the olden days using pictures as a message to the devices we are using now as a medium of communication. In fact, we are considered as "journalists" as in "moving journalists" because whatever we posted on our social media sites will form an opinion to the public. In other words, we might be a  Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) because when an opinion is made, it means a lot to the public. Be careful of our contents when posting online.

  After the talk, everyone is served with refreshments and light snacks which had prepared earlier. For us student helpers, we get to have lunch at Gallery View with the speakers and the VIPs! One goal has achieved in my university life- being a student helper at big events like this. I'm looking forward to the next one, hopefully I can work together with the seniors.

Can’t Touch This Campaign Closing Ceremony (17/10/17)

  After eight weeks of the anti-sexual harassment- Can't Touch This Campaign, had finally came to a close. It was right after the morning class, I headed down to the university boulevard, that's where the closing ceremony was held. "Hi Kar Marn, you're early!" said Priya, the director of the campaign. "I just wanna to get a good spot," I said.

  Aliah, who was the emcee of the day, she was doing some final rehearsals. "Hi Aliah!" I greeted her, Aliah gave me a big hug. "Hi, so sweet of you to come and support us," she said. I couldn't miss it for the world! "Why not you take a good seat, so you can take a look at us," she added, guided by my seniors, I was placed in my "VIP seat".

   Every seat had a survey form to get feedback from the students and staff of the campus. It was supposed to be filled at the end of the campaign but I filled in straightaway. Goodie bags as free gift were given to the guests upon arrival and energy drinks from RedBull were distributed as well.

  A few minutes to 10.00am, students and staff started to arrive for the closing ceremony. Invited guests such as Ms. Nisha Ayub, a Malaysian activist, Vice Chancellor, Professor Greame Wilkanson, the Dean of School of Arts, Professor Harold,  and the Head of the Department of DCLA, Dr. Chan Nee Nee.

  The closing ceremony started off with speeches from the campaign director herself, Priya. She was proud of her team that during the eight weeks of running the program, they received positive feeedback from the students, staffs as well as lecturers. "It's time to stop touching the campaign and start touching in our sleep," she said which earned laughters from the audience. A highlight video of the campaign was shown on the screen featuring the students of Diploma in Performing Arts (DPA) and some were from the maze challenge.

  A magical performance from Wayne Liew and singing from Sunway Music Society (SMS) . The ceremony ended with a big punch of the Bobo Dolls and souvenirs as a token of appreciation to the sponsors and VIPs. The moment everyone was waiting for- lunch time! Light snacks and refreshments were served. I had a few rounds of popiah and curry puffs. I took selfies with the seniors to end my day at the ceremony and it was time for me to head back to class for PR lecture.

  Hey, who knows I could run my own campaign when I step into my second year in university next year? 

Can't Touch This! Anti-sexual Harassment Campaign Maze Challenge (3/10/17)

  Can't Touch This! Anti-sexual harassment campaign organised by Year 2 Public Relations and Corporate Communications students of Department of Communication and Liberal Arts (DCLA). It is raise awareness on sexual harassment among Sunway College and University students to provide a more accommodate environment to those facing such hardships and educating the Sunway community's knowledge to overcome such predicament.

  I headed to the Gallery View right after my library time. I was greeted by the seniors upon arrival, "Hi Kar Marn! Are you ready for the maze challenge?" the seniors asked me. "Yes, I am but a little scared," Prior entering the maze, we attended a mini self-attendance class. To defend off the harasser, we can use different parts of the body such as hands and legs. As for me, I have an extra weapon. which is the crutches!

  I was a little hesitated of going into the maze as it was like a haunted-house theme but it just replaced with catcalls and wolf-howling kind of stuff like that. With encouragement from the seniors, I decided to brave myself up for the maze challenge. My team mates were way ahead of me to find the "victim". I was not far behind.

  I wanted to turn back at some point because it was too scary but my seniors kept on giving me words of encouragement to complete the challenge. Finally we found the "victim" by saying the theme of the campaign "Can't Touch This!". There's a VR Lab challenge too but due to my physical condition, I left it to my two teammates. One of them able to defend the virtual harasser, while Lavanya, well she didn't get through. At least, she did her best.

  We realised our "victim" had been "kidnapped" by the "harassers". Man, I should look over the "victim" instead of getting engrossed with the VR Lab challenge, haha! Okay, jokes aside and let's get back to the serious part.  Kirtana accompanied me on the way out, our "victim" was saved! We were greeted by the lovable Sofia, our campus' new mascot. She gave me a big bear hug, "she'll always be there for you when times in need," Kirtana said.

  Aliah, another senior of mine asked me whether I like the challenge. "It was fun and scary," I said. "Glad you love the challenge and thank you for supporting us," she said. A group photo with Sofia to wrap up the maze challenge! Mission accomplished! 

The Death of Advertising (19/6/17)

  After attending "Fly with GOLD" opening ceremony, I went to the library to get some work done. Unfortunately, the upper ground level of the library was full so I had to go down to the basement floor to use the computers. As I was about to head to the Instructional Lab, it was almost packed up. Luckily, the seat beside me was empty and it is my favourite spot! I can take a look of the fountain once in awhile when I feel tired. The seat was a bit hard to handle as the chairs are on rollers. Fortunately, the student helped me to stop the chair from rolling. Otherwise, I'll be on the floor!

  After logging on to the computer, it was time for serious work. I tried to lighten my mood by logging on to YouTube to listen to my favourite hits and catching up the highlights of this year's Trooping of the Colour over the weekend. As I was about to get on with work, I realised I brought the wrong book to study. Oh no! I was supposed to bring the lecture book but I brought the tutorial book instead. Luckily, I saved some tutorial exercises in my pendrive. Around 12.50pm, my friend, Kaz, came to pick me up as we had to go to the college side to attend an advertising forum organised by the Department of Communication and Liberal Arts (DCLA)- The Death of Advertising.

  Both of us went up to meet our other classmates who were waiting for us. As we were at the college side, we were trying to figure out which way was the easiest to go. I suggested that we should go to the third floor from the South Building, there's an exit which would lead us to the North Building of the college but the boys suggested that going up the forth floor because the venue of the forum. Four against one, I guessed stick to their plan.

  We reached the forth floor, passed by the rooftop garden of the college and the Jeffery Cheah Hall (that's where my orientation as a university student and MUFY Talent Quest back in 2015). Turned out we reached for the forum just in time. Mr. Woody, our Principles of Advertising and Design lecturer welcomed us with opened arms. I was about to take the first row as always but it was too glaring to see screen so I shifted up a few rows to have a good view. The first few rows were for the VIPs- Professors, lecturers and Senior Executive etc. Finally I had my lunch because in the library you can't have food.

   We have three distinguish speakers from the advertising industry- Mr. Vince Tan, Mr. John Louis and Mr. Shafiq. The emcee of the forum, Benjamin opened the forum with a warm welcome to the audience. Advertising is really "dead"? No, not really. Mr. John said "We are still using banners. In 40 years to come, we'll still be seeing banners," Mr. Tan talked about on how to create a social media platform through advertising. He mentioned that the target audience is important. Who are we aiming at? Children? Students? Housewives? With enough budget, you can create your own advertising platform in no time.

  Due to the Q&A session, the workshop was late for 5 to 10 minutes. Only eight of the students attended the workshop for Copywriting. I'm not sure how many students attended the other workshop for Design Art. After the workshop, I headed to the university's student hub to meet my friends. Most of them were finishing the assignments we had to hand in this week. At around 5.50pm, we left the student hub and it was time for us to go home to charge up and rush our assignments later on.

Lose the Blues Campaign Closing Ceremony (9/6/17)

  After Principles of Advertising and Design presentation, Joanne & Co bring me to the university foyer where there is a closing ceremony of "Lose the Blues" campaign which was organised by BA (Hons) Communication Year 2 students who are specialising in Corporate Communication and Public Relations. What is "Lose the Blues". To answer your question: "Lose the Blues" is a campaign that to raise the awareness of depression. Did you know that 1 in 4 of the people suffering from depression? It's a serious mental health issue that most of us would just "ignore" and carry on with our own life. Okay, now you know how depression "kills" people silently, let's just lighten the mood and move back to the scene.



  I find a good spot so I can take a good look on the stage. After settling myself down, I walk around the foyer to get my energy pump up. I walk up to the registry booth to sign myself up for the closing ceremony. I get to see my seniors practicing their opening lines and speeches, while I just sitting in my seat observing how they host the event. The emcee, you've guessed it, it's none other than Ruwan! He is wearing a "Lose the Blues" t-shirt with a grey overcoat. He walks over to me and I reach my hand out, he is clueless at first but I give him a hint: "You know what I want." Ruwan says "No, no, not today Kar Marn. The microphone is for the closing ceremony," Well I can have the microphone next time.



  At 10.48am, the VIP start to arrive by the escorts of the crew members of  "Lose the Blues", lecturers, and Directors of Sunway University under the School of Arts and DCLA's lecturers. An opening speech made by the director of the campaign. Her story was moving as she told the audience how her friends willing to get her an Oreo McFlurry even though it's late at night, this follow by the speeches made by Sunway Education Group Senior Executive Director, Dr. Elizabeth Lee and Her Excellency Hannah Yeoh. They show the highlights throughout the campaign from "Happiest in Sun U" Instagram contest to "Colour War" which is also known as the water fight.


  Prizes are given to the winners, and what's with a closing ceremony without a little bit of entertainment? The crew members, lecturers and VIPs are welcomed to the stage to take a group photo. "Lose the Blues" ceremony is officially ended. Now the moment everyone is waiting for the whole day- food! I have two rounds of miniature egg sandwiches. I even got the chance to speak Her Excellency Hannah Yeoh herself. The advise she gave us students is "Don't let attitude change you," Which is true because we are the ones who in charged of our personality and attitudes, it's not the other way round which might end up being depressed at some point.



  If there's something bothering you, don't be afraid to speak up because one voice can change your whole life. Talk to your parents, teachers or lecturers and friends. If you're not comfortable with the people around you, just call up BeFrienders, a Malaysian help line which can help you to go through your times because keeping it to yourself it's not an option, instead it will become a burden not just the one you love the most but also to yourself. If you speak up you help yourself to walk out from the dark to see the bright future ahead of you. If any of your friends or family members suffering from depression, talk to them and understand the situation you might safe a life.

DCLA Communication N Networking Student Club Soft Launch (2/6/17)

  After tutorial for Principles in Advertising and Design, Joanne, Phooi Khew and Mei Fong drop me at the Gallery View, NUB Level 1. When we are about to enter the room it's dark, so we just go in and ask whether it's the right room of the Communication N Network (CNN) student club soft launch. We open the door to see the seniors preparing for the event. "Hi!" Aliah greeted me, who ws the emcee of the DCLA Alternative Media Talk.

  The committees of the student club are wearing in their best, I was thinking: "Maybe I should wear my dress." As you know, I'm just the average university girl. Who knows I'll be one of them some day, only time will tell. I asked Aliah whether she is gonna be the emcee of the day, "No dear, I'm not gonna be the emcee but Ruwan is," she points to the tall boy who looks sharp in his suit. While waiting for the event, I decide to walk around the room to get my energy hyped up, I sign the guest board and had a snack or two with drinks.

  I even get to see my seniors rehearse for the event. I'm hoping that I can host an event one day because when I step on the stage, the spotlight is on me. Yes, I love the spotlight! I feel a little hungry at one point so I go to the back of the room to grab myself a popiah and a box of mango juice. There's a guest signature board for us students and lecturers to leave our autographs behind.

  One by one students are filling in the room. The event begins with the countdown of the launch of the student club, follow by the entrance of the VIPs (Head of Department, Professors, Dean etc.). The committee of the club introduce themselves before we are treated to a magic show by Wayne and a performance by FeedBack. The remaining of the event is a game of charades, you know you can't say out the answer but you can give clues for the person who is guessing.

  My team won so got a big bag of  snacks! And with that ladies and gentlemen, the soft launch of the CNN student club has come to an end! I can't wait for future activities

Back to University (23/5/17)

  One week of semester break just ended, it is time to get some energy and head back to university! It's back to university for me and yes, I have a test later today in the afternoon. What a coincidence my morning lectures and tutorials are cancelled so which leave me a lot of time to prep myself up for the test, more or less since I studied at the last minute when I came back from my hometown, Melaka. I try to kick off this "last minute" habit but turns out it didn't. I guess it's every student bad habit in every part of the education journey. Let's just face it, being students we will always this bad habit- doing everything at the eleventh hour. Jokes aside, let's move on to the serious part.

  At 7.58am, I reach at the parking lot of the campus. Two minutes till the library is opened. The moment when the doors of library is opened, the students are lining up to get their cards scanned prior entering to the library. I arrive just in time and go to my usual computer spot to check out the latest announcements on the campus' learning portal- BlackBoard eLearn. I was caught up with countless assignments over the semester break which I forgot that I have a role to fill in for the upcoming presentation. I went to Google Slides to fill my "empty spot" up. I was too late, my group mate helped me to back up with the details so what I can do is just adding some pictures to make the slides look attractive and a change of font colour to make it more vibrant.

  I booked the computer for two hours, 15 minutes left before the time expires I quickly pack my stuff up and ask one of the students to bring me down to the basement floor. Lucky me, a student just done with the computer. I almost fall off the chair but luckily I ask a girl to help me with it. You know it's really tricky to control the roller chairs when you have bad motor skills coordination.

  After spending four hours in the library, it's time for me to head out to get some fresh air. After having my lunch, I move to the tables near the fountain. I love to listen the incessant of the water which can calm your nerves down. My classmates and I meet up for an assignment which is Corporate Communication. Although I supposed to hand in my part of the report last Saturday but I was too caught up with English synthesis essay.

  Once the test is over for Introduction to Consumer Behaviour, it's time to get my hands on the Crisis Communication report for Corporate Communication. I can do this! I'm happy I'm back to university to reunite with my friends.

DCLA Alternative Media Talk (20/4/17)

  It's as just as any of a normal day in university, you filled up your free period by going to the library to have your "me time" before tutorial class started at 10am. I didn't really care about the pop-up ads on the PC so I decided to ignore and logged on to the campus' email system as always. An email which I received from the Head of the DCLA Department was related to the talk which I saw on the pop-up ad, I ignored it for the second time around.

  At 9.30am, Junta and I always leave half an hour before class because you'll have trouble to get into the lift and you have to wait for another around all walk up the stairs, I think it's 14 flights (a rough guess). As we reached to the 7th floor, I always "popped in" to the Sunway University Business School Office (SUBS). Around 10 minutes before class, I got up and gathered with my friends for a small chat. Once the students from the first class was done, it's our turn to enter to Corporate Communication tutorial with our lecturer, Ms. Priyadarshini.

  We had a little "role play" which was each student will count the number from 1 to 9, the students with the same numbers were gathered into a group. After that, Ms. Priya will assign each group to a sub-function of Corporate Communication. My group was assigned under the Crisis Management. At some point, she asked whether one of us would like to be the host or moderator for the "role play". Oh wow, this is my chance! I've always wanted to be a host. Without second thought, I shot up my hand. Besides, it's a step to my future career as a newscaster. Once everyone got their discussions and names done, some of the boys helped out to arrange the table so that the classroom looked like we were attending a "forum".

  I had to go the back of the class when my placed is set. Once I was seated, each group will represent a "spokesperson" to describe each and every of their sub-function. Thanks to my addiction to television programs, I watched one or two talk shows as well as watching the news every night before bed, I could use some of the tips which learned, turned out it came in handy! After Chivonne's presentation, I warapped up the "forum" saying: "Thank you to our nine speakers on their roles in the Corporate Communication industry and thank you everyone for attending the 'forum', I hope you guys learn from each of the speakers. Therefore I end this forum, thank you."

  Ms. Priya praised me for doing a good job as well as the students who represented the teams. She also encouraged us to attend the talk that every student in the course was talking about. Mr. Philip Chong, our Introduction to Consumer Behaviour substitute lecturer also encouraged us to go. The tutorial class was cancelled and we were "forced" to go to the talk. When we arrived, I was attracted by the food because my tummy was making rumbling sounds. To kill hunger, I dig in the food which they provided. My favorite was the spring roll. While I was eating one of the seniors told us to go into the hall as the forum was starting soon. 

  One last bite of my spring roll, my friends headed inside to the hall. While I was going in, I could hear Dr. Chan, the head of department of DCLA saying to Sunway Education Group Senior Excecutive, Dr. Elizabeth Lee: " That's Kar Marn, one of our DCLA students," Did I mention that the emcee looked grace and poise? She is in Year 2, majoring in Corporate Communication. Each of the speaker talked about the role of social media and how people like us use them on a daily basis and sometimes we misused them. Questions were asked by students and lecturers as well as the Dean of School of Arts (SOA). A photo opportunity is a must at the end of the forum. 

  I even took a selfie with Aliah and it was time for me to head back to class for English listening test. What an experience!