Student Empowerment Agenda: Kelab Orator’s initiatives in developing communication and public speaking skills for UMPSA students

PEKAN, 9 March 2024 – In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation, effective communication serves as the cornerstone for success in various fields. 

Whether in engineering, technology, or related disciplines, the ability to convey ideas clearly, collaborate efficiently, and articulate solutions persuasively is essential. Beyond technical expertise, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah’s (UMPSA) students with strong communication skills can effectively bridge the gap between complex concepts and broader audiences, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and driving innovation. 

Furthermore, in an increasingly globalized workforce, proficient communication enables UMPSA graduates to interact confidently in diverse cultural settings, opening doors to international opportunities and enhancing their competitiveness in the job market. 

Hence, emphasizing and honing communication skills not only enhances their academic experience but also equips them with invaluable tools for future professional success.

In line with MoHE’s student empowerment agenda which includes efforts to improve graduate employability, the highly anticipated Bengkel UniSpeak 2024 hosted by Kelab Orator through Akademi ADAB at Dewan Kuliah Utama, Pusat Bahasa Moden, Pekan stands out as a testament to UMPSA’s unwavering commitment to empowering students’ communication and public speaking skills. 

This event, aimed at enhancing the public speaking skills of students, witnessed an impressive turnout of 50 enthusiastic participants, and 8 dedicated crew members. 

Guided by the expertise of the Advisor, Amy Zulaikha Mohd Ali, and the leadership of the President, Mohamad Faris Izuan Shah Zulkefli, the workshop proved to be a transformative experience for all attendees. 

Under the meticulous coordination of the Program Director, Jochen Venason, and his team, including Vice-Program Director, Pragadesh Thamilarasan, Secretary, Siti Nur Hannah Bahari, and other key members, the event showcased a commitment to excellence in fostering public speaking skills. 

A highlight of Bengkel UniSpeak 2024 was the esteemed presence of guest speaker Irfan Syahmi Nasution, a highly respected figure in the realm of media and communication. 

Irfan Syahmi is renowned for his captivating presence and dynamic speaking style as the host of Selamat Pagi Malaysia, a prominent talk show on TV1 by RTM that has been airing since 1984. 

With a distinguished career as a TV host and emcee, he brings a wealth of experience in engaging audiences across various platforms, from traditional television programs to cutting-edge live-streaming events. 

Participants of Bengkel UniSpeak 2024 were privileged to gain invaluable insights from Irfan Syahmi's expertise, learning firsthand the art of commanding attention and delivering impactful messages. 

Reflecting on the workshop, Irfan Syahmi expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelmingly positive response, underscoring the importance of the engaging and supportive environment cultivated during the event. 

Participants echoed this sentiment, praising the workshop's effectiveness in not only honing their public speaking skills but also fostering a sense of confidence and camaraderie among attendees.

With a diverse representation of students from different academic years and campuses, Bengkel UniSpeak 2024 not only honed public speaking skills but also fostered a profound sense of inclusivity and collaboration among participants. 

As students progress in their academic journeys, programs like these play a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals capable of articulating ideas effectively and navigating diverse professional landscapes with confidence. 

Looking ahead, Kelab Orator is dedicated to organizing more initiatives aimed at empowering UMPSA's students in communication and public speaking. 

By providing ongoing opportunities for students to develop and refine these essential skills, we aim to cultivate a community of confident and articulate individuals who are prepared to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society. 

Through continued dedication and collaboration, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of effective communicators and leaders within UMPSA and beyond.

By: Amy Zulaikha Mohd Ali, Centre for Modern Languages and Jochen Venason, Program Director of Bengkel Unispeak 2024)