The first book review session was held at the relaxing Tasik Ilmu in UTM to aid in imagination and interpretation
Books are timeless gifts to mankind that hold priceless value. They are to be cherished and passed on not only to improve grasp of language, but to also encourage expression of ideas. The knowledge and information gained from book reading would then be imparted and shared with others, thus promoting better communication. On 22 February 2019, the first ever book review session was organized by UTM International.
The session started with a book authored by the Vice Chancellor of UTM, Prof. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wahid bin Omar, which was launched earlier this year. The book, titled “Memacu Kegemilangan – Pendidikan Tinggi Berpaksikan Kemanusiaan”, was reviewed by the moderator Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd. Ariffin Abu Hassan. The book, loosely translated as “Towards Excellence – Humanising Higher Education”, is about how UTM is a rapidly developing research university that is working hard on stepping up its global rankings while considering humanity as a supporting factor in achieving its goals.
Dr. Ariffin presented a lively review
Next was “A Doctor in the House” by the current Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. The review was mainly on the compelling narration of transforming a country of rice farming to an industrious powerhouse that became among the 20 largest trading countries in the world within 22 years of Tun Mahathir’s first tenure in office. Following that, a review on “The Prince” by Niccolò Machiavelli was shared. The book was about the rise and fall of countries, how to keep power, and how the end justifies the means. Ms. Fasihah Jaslan then shared an interesting review on a collection of poems. The poems mentioned were mainly about the theme of love but not necessarily romantic love.
Arabic version of “The Prince” being reviewed by one of the students with the audience listening attentively.
Between each review, there were many fruitful discussions and questions regarding the contents of the reviews, which made this session more engaging and interactive. The participating students obtained heaps of new knowledge to take home. Along with the provided refreshments, it was a fun evening where everyone conversed happily over bread and water, sitting by the lakeside and enjoying each other’s company. The book review session ended with the review of “The Hero”, a book about how uniquely one can be a hero with the natural special qualities one is born with.
We are excited to see you at our next session of book review coming up on 18 April 2019 , where we will continue the fun. We expect to see more students attending, so claim your seat quickly by registering at our Facebook page when the announcement is given.
Sincerely,
UTM International team