BMCC Newsletter Issue #387 - (15 January 2024)
Dear Subscriber, |
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Highlights from Ministry of Higher Education Strategic Discourse Malaysian Prime Minister Delivers Key Messages on Higher Education in Malaysia |
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On 5 January, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivered multiple key messages regarding the current state of Higher Education in Malaysia. Here are some of the key highlights from his speech and the dialogue session that followed.
Adaptability of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): - Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised the need for HEIs to be agile, dynamic, and responsive to the current and future needs of its various stakeholders, in the face of increasing complexity and uncertainties.
- He called for greater flexibility and autonomy for HEIs to develop innovative programmes and initiatives to serve the current and future needs of society and industry, and urged the Ministry of Higher Education to streamline processes and approval to enable efficient adaptation to educational innovations.
Language Proficiency: - While highlighting the importance of strengthening Bahasa Melayu to build national pride and the nation's identity, the Prime Minister stressed the equal importance of English language proficiency among students and graduates, and that it should be further emphasised.
- The emphasis on English language skills aligns with fulfilling the global demands of a rapidly changing landscape.
Private HEIs and International Education Hub: - The Prime Minister acknowledged the role of private HEIs in contributing to Malaysia's goal of becoming an international education hub.
- He outlined the government's commitment to reducing some barriers and challenges faced by the HEI industry in attracting international students. The recent offering of 1-year social visit passes to students from 23 countries to stay in Malaysia for up to a year after graduation is an example of the Government's commitment to progressively remove some of these barriers while mitigating some of the associated risks.
Globally Competitive Ecosystem and Values Transformation: - To foster a globally competitive Malaysian higher education ecosystem, the Prime Minister urged the embrace of Malaysia Madani principles within HEIs.
- He highlighted the moral imperative for HEI academics to drive the transformation of values in society, emphasising the social and professional responsibility of higher education.
Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir's Commitment: - Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Malaysian Minister of Higher Education, expressed his commitment to continuing existing policies and strategic plans to avoid unnecessary effort and resources to reinvent the wheel.
- However, he emphasised the need for the Ministry to transform its practices for more efficient execution and effective delivery of service. In addition, he also welcomed private HEI and industry engagement as it would better inform MOHE's programmes and plans.
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Two presentations and two forums were also held during the strategic discourse.
Forum 1: Malaysia Madani in embracing the challenges in the post-normal times - The forum discussed the alignment of Madani values to the founding principles and the progressive evolution of our national education philosophy to one that promotes a more inclusive higher education, where nobody - independent of race, gender, and creed should be left behind.
Forum 2: Preparing our higher education ecosystem in navigating the world of Artificial Intelligence - Panellists explored the threats and opportunities of AI in shaping society and nation-building, emphasising the role of HEIs in developing new programmes and adapting existing programmes based on AI-relevant future jobs that will intersect with every facet of life as well as the current state of AI- and digital-readiness of HEIs was discussed.
Presentation 1: Position Paper on A New Horizon for Science, Technology and Innovation (NHSTI) – A Strategy to Enhance Higher Education in Malaysia - Based on the MOHE-commissioned Academy of Sciences Malaysia study, the study’s Chair, Professor Dato’ Asma Ismail presented a framework that seeks to shift from an anthropocentric or human-centric focus to one that is humanity-centric, where priorities are calibrated to equally promote economic growth, social good, and environmental stewardship for the well-being of people and the planet. Twelve key transformation recommendations that span the 3 pillars: Research, Education, and Governance, were presented.
Presentation 2: Review Taskforce Report on Transformation and Empowerment of the Technical Vocational and Education Training (TVET) in Higher Education - Professor Datuk Dr. Shahrin Sahib, UiTM Vice Chancellor, presented the key recommendations of the Committee on the transformation of the MOHE polytechnics and community colleges; primarily focusing on the re-delineation of their roles within the HE landscape, refining the curricula of TVET programmes for fit-for-industry, promoting the development of advance TVET programmes to bridge the nation’s skill gaps, enhancing the attractiveness of TVET programmes and graduate employability, and the enculturation of a nation of life-long learners.
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We would like to applaud our representative, Professor Dr. Abhi Veerakumarasivam, Provost of Sunway University who also leads the advocacy group for the BMCC Higher Education Committee, for representing the BMCC and providing us this brief report. His pivotal role in MOHE-commissioned studies, which contributed to the Ministry's strategic direction for 2024.
The full-day event provided HEI leaders, Ministry officials, and stakeholders, including the BMCC, a platform to interact, engage, and network, to better support MOHE in its earnest efforts to bolster the Malaysian HE ecosystem and future proofing the nation. |
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If you are a member in the Higher Education sector and wish to broaden your network with like-minded businesses, join the BMCC's Higher Education Committee! For more information, please contact Yoong@bmcc.org.my. |
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| Reminder to Renew Your BMCC Membership |
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As we journey into 2024, we kindly remind those who have yet to renew their membership to seize the opportunity. Lots of upcoming events, engaging committee involvement, platforms to elevate your company brand and visibility as well as networking opportunities await you.
To renew your membership or check your current status, please do not hesitate to reach out via email to membership@bmcc.org.my. Your prompt action ensures seamless participation in upcoming events and access to exclusive opportunities throughout 2024. We look forward to assisting you in maintaining your active involvement within our vibrant community. |
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| BMCC Excellence Showcase Series: Site Visit to Weirs Minerals |
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Introducing the BMCC Excellence Showcase Series. This series is dedicated to highlighting the outstanding achievements of our members in their respective aspects of excellence. The Showcase will feature a captivating series of programmes, unveiling best practices, sharing experiences, and showcasing remarkable stories of BMCC Members who are successfully advancing towards their overarching objectives in excellence. |
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For this inaugural session, join us to discover the sustainable environment journey of Weir Minerals Malaysia.
Weir Minerals Malaysia is committed to taking action to tackle climate change. Be captivated by their dedication to combat climate change through their groundbreaking initiatives. Learn how they are minimising their carbon emissions through the use of renewable energy from in-house solar, Green Electricity Tariff, and Recycling Rubber Waste. Their efforts are aimed to aim their objectives to reduce 30% of carbon emissions by 2030. Secure a spot now to learn and gain valuable insights into Weir Minerals Malaysia’s climate action commitment for a better future! |
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| Welcome our Newest Member, Red Bean Consultancy! |
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Red Bean Consultancy is a London property consultant in Malaysia specialising in UK property investment, property management and real estate consultancy. We aim to bring a streamlined experience for home buyers and real estate investors to invest in UK property/purchase London property in Malaysia with ease. With years of global experience, RBC is committed to providing friendly and professional property advisory services to help make smart decisions in the global real estate scene. |
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| Toasting to 2024 with our New Year's Drinks! |
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Ringing in the new year has never felt so good!
Our New Year’s Drinks to kick off 2024 was filled with laughs and vibrant conversation. It was a great opportunity to mingle with sharp enterprising minds and impressive powerhouses of various industries who are part of our network of members.
We would like to thank the British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Her Excellency Ailsa Terry, and BMCC’s Chair Mark Arthun, for leading the toast to 2024 and inaugurating the launch of our newly refurbished website! |
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The product of months of hard work, our website’s new design displays the full extent of the Chamber’s services in clearer detail, highlights the latest news on events that we are hosting, and grants our members more space to advertise with us. To check it out, click here!
We would also like to thank you Royal Selangor for generously granting us a space to host this sparkling event near their impressive gallery of pewter masterpieces. Royal Selangor also offered us and our members professionally conducted tours through their galleries and showed us their company’s history, various works by their pewtersmiths, and artistic collaborations with Comyns and Selbaran. |
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We would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to fill up our feedback survey. Help our next event be better than the last. To access the survey, please click the link here.
The BMCC wishes you a Happy New Year and hopes your year is filled with prosperity, knowledge, and good company.
We’ll see you at the next event! |
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BMCC recently had a meeting with the Malaysian Board of Technologists (MBOT). We discussed potential areas of collaboration, primarily in the areas of access to professional talent, assessment and accreditation of professionals in technical areas; and the facilitation of support towards international recognition of professional bodies in the UK. |
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| Member Visit to KVALITO Consulting Malaysia |
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Today, representatives from the BMCC visited Kvalito Consulting at their office and met with their Director of KVALITO APAC, Selvi Nadarajan. The objectives of the visit were to primarily discuss how the BMCC and KVALITO could collaborate in the future, as well as have Kvalito officially join our Healthcare Committee to contribute to the discussion on the healthcare ecosystem. |
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KVALITO Consulting was set up in Malaysia in 2020 to accommodate the increasing number of opportunities present in Asia, especially in Malaysia, China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Director Selvi Nadarajan was integral in setting up the Malaysian office to grow new partnerships in the region.
KVALITO is exclusively focused on the regulated Life Science and Healthcare market. KVALITO Consulting manages Quality and Compliance in the pharmaceutical industry, building global and local regulatory requirements and industry standards into business processes to build trust with regulators.
The BMCC was represented by our CEO Jennifer Lopez; Business Development Manager for Membership, Shaayla Jayabhalan; and Membership Engagement and Partnership Manager, Louis Denis.
To read more on KVALITO, visit their website here. |
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| Congratulations to the New Director General of the Public Service Department Malaysia! |
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The British Malaysia Chamber of Commerce would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to Yang Berbahagia Dato' Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan bin Haji Abdul Aziz for his appointment as the new Director General of the Public Service Department of Malaysia.
We look forward to working closely with Dato' Sri Wan Ahmad Dahlan in efforts to develop the public service sector.
We would also like to thank Yang Berbahagia Dato' Seri Dr. Zulkapli bin Mohamed, the former Director General for his contributions and service in leading the Public Service Department.
We wish him the best in his future endeavours.
To read more, click here! |
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| Call for Input: Shaping the CPTPP for UK Businesses in Asia Pacific |
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The UK Government has launched a 6-week public consultation for the General Review of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Agreement. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is eager for your input. |
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Background - In 2023, the UK made history by becoming the first new member to sign up to the CPTPP, one of the largest free trade areas in the world. You can find more information about CPTPP here.
- The agreement was initially signed in 2018 between 11 economically diverse countries with an extensive coverage including trade in goods, services, government procurement, digital trade provisions, labour and environment standards. The agreement also contains a “General Review” mechanism to keep it up to date.
General Review - CPTPP Members, including the UK, have reaffirmed their commitment to a General Review of the agreement and in November 2023 agreed on the Terms of Reference for the review, which will commence later this year. The review process will seek to maintain CPTPP’s high standards and keep the agreement at the cutting-edge of international trade.
Request for Input - The UK Department for Business and Trade is launching a public engagement in preparation for the upcoming General Review of CPTPP. We are seeking views from chambers, businesses, individuals, and other interested stakeholders on how the deal could be enhanced through this process.
- CPTPP is already a high standards agreement, and that is the basis on which the UK applied to join. Any changes made as a result of the review will therefore be targeted and focused, requiring consensus from all members. But we need your help to decide how the UK should input into that conversation with other CPTPP Members.
- This period of public engagement will be open from Thursday 11 January to 22 February. Please have your say here.
- As well as informing the UK’s approach to the General Review, input from you (and your members) into the public engagement consultation will also help us understand how we can best support on any wider challenges that UK companies might be facing in doing business in Asia Pacific.
General Review Briefing Webinar - HM Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, Martin Kent will host a briefing to explain what the General Review will entail, why it is relevant to businesses, and how businesses can provide the most impactful feedback. The webinar on 26 January (11 am Singapore time) will also set out how DBT APAC is working to support businesses. Interested members can sign up here.
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| BCC Quarterly Economic Survey: Business Confidence Boost Fails To Revive Investment |
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The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey – the UK’s largest and longest-running independent business survey – shows a small rise in business confidence in the final quarter of 2023. The percentage of firms expecting an increase in turnover over the next year (56%) has risen to the highest level since Q1 2022 when Covid restrictions were lifted. The data also reveals that more firms expect price hikes, ending the downward trend of the last two years. |
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The survey, conducted in November, of over 5,000 firms across the UK – 91% of whom are SMEs (fewer than 250 employees) - also reveals business performance across different sectors varies considerably.
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| Indonesia 2024: Economic Outlook and Future Directions |
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The British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia is hosting an event on Economic Outlook and Future Directions on 23 January 2024.
For more information and to check out some of their other events, visit their website. |
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| BSI Malaysia | From Farm to Fork Luncheon and Other Updates |
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Complimentary Seminar and luncheon: Date: 31st January 2024 (Wednesday) Time: 9am to 1pm (MY time) Venue: BSI's office, Level 29, The Gardens North Tower, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur. Unable to join the onsite Seminar? You may also join online here! |
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On behalf of BSI Malaysia, we would also like to share some exciting updates and research that they have done.
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| International Schools Partnerships | Transformative Learning Fair 2024 on 19 Jan |
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Ignite your child’s passion for learning at the International Schools Partnership's (ISP) Transformative Learning Fair 2024!
Join us at Asia Pacific Schools (Subang) and see how our students embrace transformative learning, both in and beyond the classroom.
Spots are limited. Click here to sign up. Register today! |
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Congratulations Elisa Yicen See for Her Placement at Harvard University! |
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Exceptional student from Marlborough College Malaysia gains Harvard University place. Elisa Yicen See from Marlborough College Malaysia has achieved an extraordinary milestone by being accepted into Harvard University, one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions. |
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The Master of Marlborough College Malaysia, Mr Simon Burbury said, “The College is absolutely delighted to hear that Elisa has been offered a place at Harvard to study. She is an exceptional student who achieved a perfect score of 1600 out of 1600 in her recent Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT). Last year out of the 1.7 million students to take the test only 300 achieved full marks - that’s 0.0002%. Her result was outstanding.” Elisa who is a boarder at the College has always been committed to all parts of College life from the sports field to her Academic Scholarship, as well as contributing positively to the community with her outreach projects. She is thrilled to receive this opportunity to join the Harvard community and said, “Concentrating in Government at Harvard will allow me to explore not just the theories I have been introduced to in my IB classes but current social movements, especially social media’s role in political activism, allowing me to develop the techniques I currently employ in NGO initiatives" We are so proud of Elisa’s hard work and dedication to her studies and congratulate her on this |
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Join Us For an Admissions Open Morning |
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Attend Marlborough College Malaysia's Admissions Open Morning and discover a world-renowned education!
Date: Saturday, 20 January 2024 Time: 8.30am - 12 noon. Venue: Marlborough College Malaysia |
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Join an Online Admission Evening! |
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Discover Marlborough College Malaysia online!
Event: Admissions Online Evening Date: Thursday, 25 January 2024 Time: 5.30pm - 6.30pm Venue: Online |
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| Marlborough College Malaysia | Admissions Event on 30 Jan at Four Seasons KL |
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Discover a world-renowned education with Marlborough College Malaysia at this exciting Admissions Event!
Event: Kuala Lumpur Admissions Date: Tuesday 30 January 2024 Time: 12:00 noon Venue: Four Season Hotel, Kuala Lumpur |
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| XCL Education | Sri KDU Kota Damansara | Don't Miss the Watoto Children's Choir from Uganda |
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Exciting News! The vibrant music of Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda is making an exclusive stop at Sri KDU Schools, Kota Damansara campus! As part of their Southeast Asia tour, these incredibly talented young singers, aged 10-13, will bring their energy and passion to our students through interactive Music and Dance workshops. |
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But here's the best part! We cordially invite you to join us for an enchanting concert featuring the Watoto Children’s Choir. Event Details: Date: Tuesday, 16 January 2024 Time: 4.30pm - 5.45pm Venue: Sri KDU Schools Primary Hall Tickets: RM30.00 (Adult); RM15.00 (Child) You can purchase the tickets and support Watoto by completing this form: And that's not all! Every single penny raised from this concert will directly support Watoto, an extraordinary charity with a mission to empower orphaned children and vulnerable women across Uganda and South Sudan. For further details, feel free to reach out to Ms Moreton (Head of Performing Arts, Sri KDU International School) at a.moreton@srikdu.edu.my Let's come together for an unforgettable experience and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. |
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| XCL Education | Sound of Music at Sri KDU Kota Damansara Raises RM100,126 for Teach for Malaysia! |
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Sri KDU National Primary School's 'The Sound of Music' Production Raises RM100,126 for Teach for Malaysia, Showcasing the Academic Brilliance, and Social Impact of Youth in Performing Arts!
Engaging children in the performing arts yields benefits that extend beyond mere applause.
Research indicates that youngsters who actively participate in singing, dancing, acting, or playing on stage are four times more likely to receive recognition for their academic accomplishments compared to their non-performing peers.
"The Sound of Music," presented by Sri KDU National Primary School Kota Damansara, goes beyond entertainment, the annual school production also commits to addressing educational inequity by contributing to Teach for Malaysia an independent, not-for-profit organisation.
In total, the charitable efforts, including the sum of RM4848 collected through the donation box and food sales during the charity nights, culminated in an awe-inspiring total charity contribution of RM104,974 for Teach for Malaysia.
To read more on this incredible endeavour, click here! |
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| XCL Education | Sri KDU International School Subang Jaya Taster Week |
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Discover the World Inside Our Classrooms!
Give your child the opportunity to immerse themselves in the captivating learning environment of Sri KDU International School in Subang Jaya. Experience a day as a Sri KDU student by joining our full-day Free Trial Day!
Date: January 22 – 26, 2024 (Choose one day) Time: 8:00am to 3:00pm |
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During this Taster Week, your child will have the chance to explore our purpose-built institution that fosters a secure, joyful, and thriving learning atmosphere. Our top-notch facilities ensure an exceptional educational journey for our students.
Don't miss out on this valuable experience! Secure your child's spot by registering here!
We look forward to welcoming your child and providing them with an unforgettable day of learning and discovery.
For any inquiries or further information, please feel free to reach out to our Admission Team at 012-224 7846 or via email at info.subang@srikdu.edu.my. |
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| XCL Education | REAL Schools Shah Alam Open Day |
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Date: 20 Jan 2024, Saturday Time: 9.30am to 2pm
Speak to our passionate educators. Explore our innovative curriculum and the wide range of extra-curricular activities we offer. |
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Find out about our unique leadership programme.
For further information, please feel free to reach out to our esteemed Admission Team. You can contact us at 03-7842 3228, reach us via WhatsApp at 010-378 9050, or send us an email at enquiry_sa@real.edu.my. |
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| CMI | Navigating Success: The Power of Purpose and Direction in Leadership |
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The CMI Malaysia Regional Board is delighted to invite management professionals in Malaysia to our first in-person event of 2024, on 30 January from 5pm at the Element Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
This session will explore the power of providing purpose and direction in effective management and leadership, and will feature the sharing of key insights and an overview of the benefits of purpose-driven leadership. The session will be followed by drinks, a light buffet and networking, but places are limited so early booking is advised.
For more info / To book your place now here! |
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| IGB International School | IGBIS Scholarships 2024/25 |
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Life-changing opportunities with us!
IGB International School (IGBIS) extended to provide full academic scholarships and outstanding achievement partial scholarships. - IBDP & IBCP Full Academic Scholarships for Grades 11 & 12
- Outstanding Achievement Partial Scholarships for Grades 6 - 11
The scholarship application closes on 29 February 2024. |
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Find out more at our scholarship page. Be part of an educational journey that shapes futures and nurtures excellence at IGBIS!
IGB International School having 35 student nationalities, with state-of-the-art facilities and 92% of expatriate IB experienced teachers, is the only complete 4 IB continuum programme in Malaysia. |
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| Knight Frank Malaysia | Launcing Real Estate Highlights for 2nd Half of 2023 |
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This highly anticipated bi-annual report offers a comprehensive analysis of the residential, retail, office, and industrial markets in Kuala Lumpur / Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu. For more information, click this link here. |
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Or get in touch with our team:
Judy Ong, Senior Executive Director, Research & Consultancy Natasha Abd Rahim, Assistant Manager, Research & Consultancy |
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| Prince of Wales Island International School | Join the Student Leadership Conference |
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Dear BMCC Members, We invite you to support our member Prince of Wales Island International School as a business mentor at the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) Student Leadership Conference 2024. They are looking for 40 mentors, from CEOs, C minus one level, Head of Departments, and Business entrepreneurs) to participate in this amazing initiative.
All they need is your commitment of 1-day: 2 February 2024; 10am - 6pm. Lunch and dinner are provided. |
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As a business mentor, you will be guiding teams of students to prepare their plans and solutions for a business-like challenge with a modest budget. Your leadership and business acumen can inspire innovative problem solvers, contributing to meaningful social change. No geography knowledge needed.
*More info about the conference can be found on the flyer. Please contact |
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| Stonyhurst International School | Open Day on 20 Jan |
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Open day is a great opportunity for you and your family to discover more about life at Stonyhurst. The event will include a welcome and presentation from the Head of Schools, a full tour of our campus with refreshments, and an opportunity to meet key staff with plenty of time to ask any questions you may have.
Date: 20 January 2024 Time: 10.00am - 12.00 noon Sign-up for the Open Day to find out more. |
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| Turner & Townsend | Read their Latest Research in their Global Occupier Fit-Out Report |
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Turner & Townsend has recently published our global occupier fit-out guide.
Global occupiers are facing the challenge of how to create workspaces for a fast-changing world. Cultural and lifestyle trends are combining with new technology and economic headwinds to create a new landscape for businesses. The need to attract, retain and support talent whilst also driving cost efficiencies and productivity is not an easy equation to solve.
Should you wish to find out more about our research, we’d be delighted to hold a knowledge-sharing session with you upon request. Please feel free to reach out to our Malaysia Occupier and Retail Lead, Navaneethan Rajan.
To read the Global Occupier Fit-Out Report, click here! |
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Stay up to date with the Chamber’s latest news and activities through this newsletter or follow us on our social media platforms. |
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British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce Berhad 201801018075 (1280091-P) Copyright © BMCC 2024 |
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