Latest news with #TunkuAbdulRahmanUniversityofManagementandTechnology
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Experts: Adopt diesel template
Scheme's success shows benefits of phased, well-planned rollout PETALING JAYA: With the impending rationalisation of the RON95 petrol subsidy, experts from the economic and industry sectors have called on the government to draw lessons from diesel rationalisation to ensure inclusive and widespread acceptance. They stressed the need for clear criteria and a robust verification system to avoid public confusion. With this rationalisation impacting a broader section of society, continuous feedback and transparent processes are vital to ensure the subsidies reach those most in need. Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology's Centre for Business and Policy Research chairman Assoc Prof Dr Foo Lee Peng said the phased introduction of the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) 2.0 helped reduce leakages and refine delivery mechanisms. 'The pilot rollout in February, followed by expansion in March, gave the government time to adjust its approach and manage disruptions,' she said. However, she noted that reforming RON95 subsidies will require stronger public engagement, clearer messaging and inclusive delivery. 'Digital platforms like the Central Database Hub (Padu) can support targeting, but must be complemented by offline support to avoid excluding rural and low-income communities,' she said. Prof Foo urged the government to reframe subsidy rationalisation not as cost-cutting, but as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen governance, reduce the fiscal deficit and pave the way for reforms such as a carbon tax. She proposed a hybrid model that combines income-based eligibility, vehicle profiling and digital systems. She said digital delivery must be integrated with existing databases from the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), Road Transport Department (JPJ) and Statistics Department, while offline channels should remain available to ensure no one is left behind. Sunway University economics professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng said the diesel rollout offered a strong example of how good governance and planning can support targeted assistance. 'Producers, suppliers and retailers must fully understand the mechanism and be equipped to deliver it effectively,' he said. He said a combination of needs- and income-based criteria could help strike a fair balance between reducing government spending and easing the cost-of-living burden on vulnerable groups. He added that the choice of delivery mechanism – whether through petrol cards, MyKad-based systems or direct cash transfers – must be evaluated for ease of implementation, cost-effectiveness, administrative efficiency and its ability to minimise abuse and leakages. Economist Dr Geoffrey Williams described the diesel rationalisation as 'completely successful'. 'It reset the system by requiring re-registration, which alone was enough to eliminate misuse by ineligible individuals,' he said. He said there was 'almost no pushback' and strong stakeholder buy-in, while savings were nearly double what was anticipated. 'This equates to 2.2% of operational expenditure or 8.7% of development spending – a major contribution,' he said. For RON95, he recommended a tiered pricing system similar to electricity tariffs. 'Consumers receive full subsidy for small volumes. As usage increases, the subsidy tapers off. Beyond a set threshold, they pay full market price,' he said. This approach, he added, is simpler, fairer and mostly spares low-income groups, while encouraging more efficient fuel use – which also benefits the environment. Federation of Malaysian Freight Forwarders president Datuk Tony Chia called for a review of the outdated traditional income categories like B40, M40 and T20 to reflect the current cost of living. Reflecting on the Budi Madani scheme for diesel, Chia said logistics players had to ensure accurate vehicle registration, which, while administratively burdensome, improved transparency and fleet management. 'Similar controls for RON95 could affect the private transport and ride-hailing sectors. Early engagement with stakeholders is crucial to ensure smooth transitions,' he said. Chia recommended using income tax data to determine subsidy eligibility, urging readiness to identify relevant individual data. He cautioned against state-level implementation due to worker mobility, which could complicate matters. To encourage responsible usage, Chia suggested capping the subsidy at RM1,000 for those commuting long distances, with market prices applying beyond this limit. Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Faculty of Education, Language and Communication senior lecturer Chuah Kee Man suggested leveraging lessons from the Budi Madani scheme to enhance the RON95 subsidy system. 'By linking RON95 subsidies directly with MySejahtera or e-wallets, we could reduce fraud and expedite payments,' he said. This integration, he said, could facilitate rapid verification and instant notifications, benefiting both the government and users by tracking fuel usage patterns effectively. With the broader use of RON95 compared to diesel, Chuah said it raised significant data accuracy concerns. 'Some people might fall through the cracks or misuse the system,' he said, recommending cross-referencing data with LHDN or JPJ databases. He also cautioned that using MyKad at petrol stations might create bottlenecks, disadvantaging households with shared resources. Advocating for a hybrid approach, Chuah also proposed automatic eligibility for known low-income households alongside an appeal system for others, such as gig workers or those recently retrenched. 'Digital tools must be backed with human checks to ensure no one deserving is left out,' he said, underscoring the need for manual reviews and compassionate discretion for cases that algorithms might overlook.
Hype Malaysia
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
TAR UMT Announces Music Fiesta 6.0 In Line With Grand Opening Of New Student Centre
Do you remember your time in university when everything seemed possible? Forming a dance group, playing all types of sports or even hosting your own concert? Yes, your university days are the time when you can indulge in all your hobbies and talents, which could pave the way for a successful career. Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) will be holding its annual Music Fiesta 6.0 from 17th to 21st September 2025. The event promises to bring in local artists and performances from students for a rooftop concert, which coincides with the opening of TAR UMT's newest six-storey student centre. Music Fiesta 6.0 Organising Committee member, Naomi Teoh, said that the event aims to commemorate the state-of-the-art student complex with students, staff and the wider public, which represents a significant advancement in the university's efforts to enhance an optimal learning environment for students. 'This is more than just a building. It's a space for students to express themselves, to unwind, and to build memories that will last beyond graduation', she told FMT. Last year's Music Fiesta saw the likes of Malaysian singers, Firdhaus, and Diorlying, which attracted over 2,000 attendees. Lineups are yet to be announced, but the committee promises a fun-filled 5-day event packed with activities, booths and performances by special guests as well as TAR UMT students. Music Fiesta (Rooftop Concert) 6.0 At Tunku Abdul Rahman University Date: 19th September 2025 (Friday) 19th September 2025 (Friday) Time: 5:30pm – 10pm 5:30pm – 10pm Venue: Student Centre, TAR UMT Student Centre, TAR UMT Organiser: Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Ticketing: TBA Head on over to their socials for the latest updates on ticketing and lineup announcements. Don't miss out on Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology's (TAR UMT) Music Fiesta 6.0 coming soon! Sources: Free Malaysia Today, Instagram Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
The Star
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
TARCian to rep M'sia on global stage
Dynamic duo: Wong posing for a photo with Mohd Rizzham after being crowned champion during the national round of the competition. Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) student Venice Wong Wen Xuan is set to represent Malaysia at the Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) World Championship 2025, to be held in Florida, United States, next month. The Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Graphic Design student topped a talented lineup of 30 finalists from across the country in the Creative Cloud Community (CCC) ACP Malaysia National Championship 2025 and was crowned winner on May 22. She will be competing in the global challenge from July 27 to 30. 'I was genuinely surprised to be named the champion, as I only expected to be a finalist. 'It is a very humbling experience and a great source of motivation to have my skills and efforts recognised. 'Representing Malaysia is a great honour, and I want to make my university, lecturer, and everyone who has supported me proud,' she said, vowing to give her absolute best in the global round of the competition. 'I'm not only hoping to grow as a designer, but also to come back with new perspectives, valuable lessons, and no regrets – knowing that I truly embraced every part of this journey,' said Wong, who credited her lecturer Mohd Rizzham Ishak for mentoring her. Mr Rizz, as she fondly refers to him, was instrumental in her success. 'We have built a strong mentor-mentee relationship since my diploma studies, and he has always given me constructive feedback and insights that helped me improve my creative and design skills considerably. 'His dedication and guidance led me to this achievement,' she said in a press release. Expressing his pride, Mohd Rizzham said he felt happy and rewarded to see his student grow and achieve something so significant. 'Her success brings meaning to my role as an educator. 'I hope Venice will stay true to herself and make her mark with purpose and passion when she competes on the world stage,' he said.
The Sun
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
TAR UMT Foundation: Business Success
IN an ever-evolving educational landscape, choosing the right university can significantly influence one's academic and professional career. Low Ee Xuan, currently a student at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), choose the Foundation in Business as it met her aspiration to pursue her ambition in commerce. Low's decision to study at TAR UMT was driven by both practical and personal considerations. 'I chose TAR UMT because of its high-quality education and affordable fees. I also have a friend studying at TAR UMT and she spoke about the conducive learning environment, vast campus surroundings and the university's good support system to help students in all aspects, including financial support,' she shared. 'Another key advantage, the university offers a dual degree programme. The option to pursue a dual degree is attractive as I have the opportunity to study abroad, where I can experience different cultures, and environments as well as work with peers from different countries. Such experiences are essential in today's landscape,' said Low. Another reason she chose to study the Foundation in Business was her interest and ambition to learn more about the different aspects of business. 'I was attracted to the programme's comprehensive approach, which covers topics like accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Also I was eager to understand how businesses adapt to a changing world, and my belief was in the foundation programme,' she shared. The shift from high school to the foundation programme posed a challenge for Low, 'Compared to my high school years where the pace and structure was more controlled, university life is different as each course in the foundation programme delves deeper into a specific subject. 'The assignments are more complex and specific. For example, one of the assignments included examining the nature of a company's surrounding competitors, its financial status and marketing activities. The experience was not only interesting but also surreal, similar to an actual business analysis. 'I also enjoyed the subject, 'Principles of Marketing', especially the connection between psychology and consumer behaviour. Certain courses were challenging especially Management Information Systems (MIS). Fortunately, I received help from my lecturers and friends who were willing to explain the concepts to me, so I could better comprehend the subject,' shared Low. Although the programme duration is only for a year, foundation students are still required to be active in co-curricular activities. 'It was challenging in the beginning having to maintain a balanced campus lifestyle but this taught me how to manage my time well. I prepared a detailed daily schedule for attending classes, studying and participating in co-curricular activities. In following this schedule, it became a habit and I felt good that I could spend my time well in a day with important and useful activities and tasks,' said Low. For more information on TAR UMT's Foundation programmes, visit TAR UMT's Open Day on 17-18 & 24-25 May & 14-15 June 2025, 10 am to 5 pm. Call 01110758537 or log on to for information on TAR UMT and to apply online. Various financial aid and merit scholarships are available for qualified students.
The Sun
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Choosing the right foundation
IN an ever-evolving educational landscape, choosing the right university can significantly influence one's academic and professional career. Low Ee Xuan, currently a student at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), choose the Foundation in Business as it met her aspiration to pursue her ambition in commerce. Low's decision to study at TAR UMT was driven by both practical and personal considerations. 'I chose TAR UMT because of its high-quality education and affordable fees. I also have a friend studying at TAR UMT and she spoke about the conducive learning environment, vast campus surroundings and the university's good support system to help students in all aspects, including financial support,' she shared. 'Another key advantage, the university offers a dual degree programme. The option to pursue a dual degree is attractive as I have the opportunity to study abroad, where I can experience different cultures, and environments as well as work with peers from different countries. Such experiences are essential in today's landscape,' said Low. Another reason she chose to study the Foundation in Business was her interest and ambition to learn more about the different aspects of business. 'I was attracted to the programme's comprehensive approach, which covers topics like accounting, finance, marketing, and management. Also I was eager to understand how businesses adapt to a changing world, and my belief was in the foundation programme,' she shared. The shift from high school to the foundation programme posed a challenge for Low, 'Compared to my high school years where the pace and structure was more controlled, university life is different as each course in the foundation programme delves deeper into a specific subject. 'The assignments are more complex and specific. For example, one of the assignments included examining the nature of a company's surrounding competitors, its financial status and marketing activities. The experience was not only interesting but also surreal, similar to an actual business analysis. 'I also enjoyed the subject, 'Principles of Marketing', especially the connection between psychology and consumer behaviour. Certain courses were challenging especially Management Information Systems (MIS). Fortunately, I received help from my lecturers and friends who were willing to explain the concepts to me, so I could better comprehend the subject,' shared Low. Although the programme duration is only for a year, foundation students are still required to be active in co-curricular activities. 'It was challenging in the beginning having to maintain a balanced campus lifestyle but this taught me how to manage my time well. I prepared a detailed daily schedule for attending classes, studying and participating in co-curricular activities. In following this schedule, it became a habit and I felt good that I could spend my time well in a day with important and useful activities and tasks,' said Low. For more information on TAR UMT's Foundation programmes, visit TAR UMT's Open Day on 17-18 & 24-25 May & 14-15 June 2025, 10 am to 5 pm. Call 01110758537 or log on to for information on TAR UMT and to apply online. Various financial aid and merit scholarships are available for qualified students.
