ANOTHER MILESTONE RECORDED: UCSI University Group Corporate Affairs’ Vice-President Mr Leong Sat Sing (right) and Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association President Mr Soo Khoon Poh, officiated the semi-finals of the 8th Malaysia Footwear Desi

TOUGH DECISIONS: The 8th Malaysia Footwear Design Competition semi-finals received over 70 entries from students of institutions of higher learning from all over the country.

KUALA LUMPUR: UCSI University (UCSI) joined the initiative to revolutionise Malaysia’s fashion industry by hosting the semi-finals of the 8th Malaysia Footwear Design Competition (MFDC). 

It is the first time a private higher education institution has been selected as a supporting partner for this prestigious event organised by the Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association. 

According to UCSI University Group Corporate Affairs’ Vice-President Mr Leong Sat Sing, UCSI’s collaboration with the Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association is the perfect opportunity to expose the younger generation to the industry’s lofty standards while nurturing their interest to be more passionate about the country’s footwear industry. 

“Its goals are in line with that of UCSI and the University is committed to develop our students’ potential by elevating their learning experiences through high-quality curricula and engagements with outstanding industry players. 

“We believe that talent must not, and cannot, only be taught. It must be challenged and given opportunity to shine,” he added. 

Mr Soo Khoon Poh, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association President said that the competition would go far to elevate Malaysia’s fashion industry to greater heights. 

“The MFDC is not just about discovering and nurturing young talents,” he said. “This competition is all necessary and important to keep the universities and industry in sync, to introduce students to the business and benefit the growth of the country.” 

The MFDC has received over 70 entries from institutions of higher learning from all over the country and UCSI is well represented with 10 entries. 

The competition is part of the larger KL artREKA Festival 2015 that aims to provide a platform for local talents to showcase their creative works. 

Mr Leow Yong Seang, Permanent Honorary President of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Shoe Industry Association and Mr Woo Sooi Peng, Vice-President of Perak Footwear Industry Association along with Nelissa Hilman, Director of Creativity & Innovation of Malaysian Footwear Manufacturers Association were among the representatives from the various associations present at the event. 

The awards ceremony for both the MFDC and the De Institute of Creative Arts and Design (ICAD) mySENI 2015 Painting Competition will be held on November 28, 2015.