INTI International College Subang hosted an event on 24 March which highlighted two crucial initiatives: the launch of “Trail of Lights”, a book by Datuk Tan Yew Sing, founder and chairman of the INTI Group, and a stimulating conference centred on private education in Malaysia.
The book launch was officiated by YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, who also delivered a keynote speech. The book showcases Datuk Tan’s multifaceted life as an educationist, entrepreneur, and social activist. It also highlights his journey, from public work aimed at strengthening the Chinese community within the country to leading one of the nation’s top tertiary private education institutes, shaping the skills of many young Malaysians over the past 35 years. With a spirit of national harmony, inclusiveness, and democratic ideals, Datuk Tan has also been actively involved in trans-ethnic civil society endeavours, promoting reforms toward a pluralistic society and establishing a harmonious civilisation.
Datuk Tan shared his aim when he first founded INTI, stating, “Our goal at INTI is not to cultivate students to become the sun or moon, nor are we trying to produce Nobel Prize winners. Instead, we train all students to shine brightly in their unique ways. Like every star has its path, we want every student to secure a good job and a bright future.
“Within six months after graduation, 99% of INTI students secure a job, with 91% earning higher than the market’s minimum average. This achievement is a testament to our record, and we are incredibly proud of it!”
In his keynote speech, YB Liew Chin Thong emphasised the need for both public and private tertiary education sectors to prioritise research over solely producing graduates. “As a nation, we must find ways to fund more research by both public and private institutions, including support from the public purse or corporations, particularly those in new and emerging industries.
“A university must be more than a degree-granting institution; it should also prioritise research and development (R&D) and incubate new ideas, ventures, and industries. This requires collaboration between public and private institutions in Malaysia, with private education potentially partnering with public education and businesses to strengthen the nation’s R&D capabilities,” he said.
The conference, themed “The Way Forward for Malaysian Private Institution”, featured prominent figures in higher education, namely UCSI chairman Dato’ Peter T.S. Ng, APIIT Education Group founder and CEO Datuk Parmjit Singh, and INTI Group Board of Governors member Professor Emeritus Dato’ Ir. Dr Mohammad Zawawi. Together, in a forum moderated by Dr Joana Jaya, Head of the Programme for Mass Communication at INTI International University, they shared ideas and discussed essential areas such as academic achievement, technology integration, collaborative partnerships, and the changing educational environment.
Datuk Parmjit stressed that the ultimate test of any good university is employability. He explained, “Universities must offer current courses, maintain industry connections, provide quality teaching, and prevent unjust student failures. Entry qualifications indicate a person’s capability to undertake a course. If a student can complete the course, why should they fail?”
Meanwhile, Datuk Peter shared that 50% of higher education students are enrolled in private institutions. He said, “We take pride in awarding their degrees and attracting international students who recognise the quality of our education.
“By collaborating closely with the government, we can double these numbers tomorrow,” he added.
The event wasn’t just about launching Datuk Tan Yew Sing’s book “Trail of Lights”; it highlighted the crucial role of private education in Malaysia’s growth. Education leaders discussed the importance of research, technology, and high-quality teaching, emphasising the vital role of private universities in developing adaptable and globally competent graduates.
Datuk Tan Yew Sing, founder and chairman of the INTI Group, presenting a token of appreciation to YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry.
YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, stresses the importance of prioritising research in both public and private tertiary education sectors beyond just producing graduates.
The discussion covered various topics such as academic achievement, technology integration, collaborative partnerships, and the evolving educational landscape.
Datuk Tan Yew Sing, founder and chairman of the INTI Group, signs his book ‘Trail of Lights,’ which chronicles his life as an educationist, entrepreneur, and social activist.