Cafeteria, cafeteria… how is the food I wonder?

By: Farah Nabilah

School cafeteria food varies widely in its quality and nutritive benefits, depending on local regulations and oversight.

In brief, a balanced diet that will be beneficial to the students should consist of fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains and healthy proteins, such as poultry, nuts, seeds and legumes.

Besides being nutritional, cafeteria items also should be appetizing to students. If students find the food distasteful, they might throw it away, leading to undernourishment.

In SEGi University Kota Damansara, there are more positive reviews than negative about the cafeteria.

“The food is quite delicious, so many varieties and it is not too expensive. They should keep it up.” says Zaffuan 22, ADP student.

Zoom spent a day on a walkabout speaking to students on the cleanliness, price, taste and overall review of the cafeterias on campus. 

Warung 1 Muhibbah is located next to Barakah Cafe

Clean, cheap and many varieties

There are 2 stalls in the cafeteria which is Warung 1 Muhibbah and Barakah Café.

Warung 1 Muhibbah serves mixed rice and it has many varieties like Chinese and Malay food.

One is able to buy a complete set of chicken rice for RM3.50 and drinks between RM1 and RM3.

Barakah Cafe that situated beside to Warung 1 Muhibbah serves mixed rice too but specializes in Malay food.

At Barakah Cafe, there is a meal set called ‘Nasi Ekonomi Melayu’ that serves main course, soup of the day, Malay delicacies with a soft drink of our choice for RM5.

A la cart price ranges between RM3 and RM7.

Both cafes have maintained commendable cleanliness and most students are satisfied with the hygiene and the prices of the restaurants.

‘The food is okay, and the price is reasonable for students,’ says Nur Azimah Yusop, 20, a nursing student.

American Degree Program student Nur Afifah, 20, says that the food is perfect and the price is really cheap.

She is pleased that she doesn’t have to go out of the college and that everything is there.

Sakura and Rainwater are restaurants in the college that are independent of the college cafeteria.

However, there are some negative reviews about these restaurants.

Some students claim that the prices are expensive and the foods taste flat. Some complain that there are not much options to choose from.

Sakura Kristal’s price is bit too expensive compared to the cafeterias.

For a simple English Breakfast and a drink that is limited choice for RM7 and we can get ala carte meals RM7 to RM12.

On the other hand, Rainwater provides limited ranges of food that costs RM7 to RM12.

These restaurant had some bad reviewsfor the taste and prices of food but not the cleanliness as both restaurants observe high levels of hygiene.

“Nothing’s special,” sighed Charandeep Kaurdhup 21, student from ADP about the Rainwater restaurant.

Charandeep's lunch from Rainwater Restuarant

“The price is reasonable but they taste normal, nothing ‘wows’ me.

“I am 70% satisfied because I don’t have to walk so far just to eat.”

On the other hand, Fazlie Nordin 22, claims that Sakura provides food that is too expensive.

“Baked beans, plain bread, small bowl of scrambled eggs with two not-so-delicious sausages for RM7? I can be broke just like that!” complained this ADP student of Segi University, Kota Damansara

It appears obvious to ZOOM that taste and the idea of what is affordable is subjective but the idea of cleanliness is relatively universal.

Cats on campus – a furry friend or foe?

By: Lee Chia Chee

The food operators of the open air cafeteria are accused of feeding the stray cats there. 

Students claim that the feeding behavior leads to the breeding of more offspring.

 "We have to feed them; otherwise, the cats will crawl onto the tray area, contaminating the food and disrupting our flow of work," Siti Maisyaroh, 36, explains.

She adds, "I do not like cats, but I have to feed them to continue working – imagine, do you want cats meowing and tailing along when you scoop the food for students?"

Contract janitors from Jawa Timur, Indonesia

The janitors are frustrated by the frequent complaints of students regarding the hygiene of the open air cafeteria.

"Students should refer to those at higher level regarding the issue instead of complaining to us; we have no idea where the cats come from, where they stay, and why they are here," say Fitria, 24; Misriana, 35; Rina, 35, and Maida, 29.

"What can we do? We chase away one cat; the cat brings back its family," says Rose, the person in charge of the cleanliness of open air cafeteria.

"Once we manage to chase the cats, the students from hostel bring back their pets – it is a never-ending cycle,"she added.

When asked why she did not refer to her superior about the issue, Rose says that she, like the rest, is contract workers. 

She fears that by doing that her job will be in jeopardy.

According to the janitors, the Management of SEGi does not think that the existence of stray cats in the cafeteria is an issue.

Chin, 20, concerns about the hygiene of stray cats in SEGi open air cafeteria 

Chin Jia Ying, 20, who is currently studying for Bachelor of Dentistry says: "In fact, I do not really mind if there are stray cats around the open air cafeteria. 

"Sometimes, I feed them with my leftovers, and I am grateful they eat."

"But I do not touch them; even if I did, I will wash my hands immediately," she says. 

Chin thinks that since nobody is takes care of stray cats, they are dirty, probably unvaccinated and hence might make her sick.

Dr. Lee, 25,  explains about toxoplasmosis

According to Dr. Lee Kah Wei, 25, Medical Officer of Malacca General Hospital, contact with cats’ feces can transmit toxoplasmosis.

"Toxoplasmosis has flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, tiredness, fevers over 38°C, and aching muscles. 

"About 80 to 85 per cent of victims are not aware of being infected."

"Naturally, our immune system is strong enough to prevent us from toxoplasmosis, but we have to get rid of toxoplasmosis to avoid it causing serious illness. 

She adds:"Future infection will cause a relapse of toxoplasmosis and cause severe damage to our eyes, brain, and our organs."

However, most interviewees who frequently have their meals in the open air cafeteria do not know nor mind the existence of stray cats and the disease they carry.

In fact, some students enjoy the cats’ company.

Abdulla Suha Mirayami, 19, a student of Bachelor of Accounting and Business Management says: "I love them even though they are stray cats."

Abdulla's favorite cat, Rumi, waiting for her arrival

"I come from Philippines and I feel lonely studying here at SEGi. The cats stave off my loneliness; when I play with them, I feel connected, a sense of warmth and intimacy."

Three consecutive "Meow" means "I love you" to Abdulla

She continues: "Cats are good “snugglers”, they always rest on my lap while I am doing revision in the cafeteria. 

Rumi is grooming herself after high tea with canned-Tuna

"Also, cats help to reduce my stress especially during exam season - I play with them to relieve the pressure." Abdulla adds.

According to University Putra Malaysia (UPM) counselor Chin, despite the health risk associated with stray cats, in Abdulla’s case, the cat is treated as a “self-object” which supports her sense of self.

"Abdulla becomes happier, gains more strength and more confident with the company of the cat," Chin says.

"Spending time playing with the cat eventually becomes part of Abdullah’s personality.

"This cat sustains Abdulla’s self by providing her the experience of being loved and being accepted in an unfamiliar environment, reduces her anxiety and stress, as well as her needs of recognition of belongingness," Chin explains.

"Hence, the cat is very crucial to her sense of self and well-being while studying in SEGi," she concludes.

However, Edwin Liew Kai Sheng, 21, a Dentistry student, with friends Josephine Lee Khi Lin, 20; Cherlyn Chan Gaek Theng, 21; as well as American Degree Program Student: Hia Yi Zhen, 24; Chua Zi Leng, 18; and Tan Ting Li, 22, collectively agree that stray cats in the open air cafeteria might cause sickness to students, particularly those who are allergic to cats.

 "A university should be an ideal place for students to study comfortably, free of external distractions like politics, pandemic and potential harm," Edwin reasons.

"The stray cats in cafeteria are noisy, annoying and unclean – should not SEGi restrict animals from entering the campus for the sake of students’ well-being?"

Restrict animals from entering the campus

Upper Iowa University landmark opening at SEGi Kota Damansara

By: Nadira Azhar

T

he bright beaming office of Upper Iowa University (UIU) -Malaysia stands proud and tall being the first office of its kind to be established in SEGi University in Kota Damansara, Malaysia.

Launched on September 16, 2011, Upper Iowa University now has stronger presence in Malaysia, particularly at SEGi University.

Upper Iowa University-Malaysia office in SEGi Kota Damansara

UIU serves its students, particularly with 3^rd and 4^th year students, better in terms of teaching and learning as well as offer advice and academic support directly to UIU students in Malaysia.

The office headed by Director of Malaysia Operations, Kalai Ponniah, who worked as a Dean and an Academic Chair both in Canada and in Malaysia for more than 15 years.

Director of Malaysia Operations,
Kalai Ponniah

“I am very happy with how things have progressed since our opening here in UIU-Malaysia.

“What we try to do here is plant the seed and in time, with fertilizing and nurturing that seed, we will eventually see the fruits of our labor,”Kalai states.

Since their opening in Malaysia, they have made many achievements such as creating the UIU Malaysia website, gathering alumnus for the Alumni Reunion 2011/2012, and organizing the Commencement Ceremony for 2011/2012.

Alumni Reunion, December 1st, 2012 at Sunway Resort Hotel

One of the seniors in UIU, Sanjay Velan, has praised the efficiency and hard work of the UIU-Malaysia office.

He states, “I can see how much effort Kalai and his staffs puts in everyday for the well-being of the students of the ADP courses in SEGi campuses, especially here in Kota Damansara.”

New policies have also been implemented as of January 2013 such as the new grading system and the requirement in taking 20 ADP subjects before moving onto 20 UIU subjects.

Kalai adds, “We try to be in consistency with the main campus.

“We always want to bring a similar, seamless environment for our students, so they know how the main campus in Iowa runs with the same agenda.”

UIU also offers students services such as a free SPSS Session for those who are taking their senior projects, free institutional TOEFL Test for those who have not completed their English Proficiency Test (EPT).

Recently added in the program is the Student Presentation Fund, which provides monetary support to students who are presenting a research project or relevant academic paper at a local, regional, or national conference.

Kalai concludes, “I hope in 10 years’ time there will actually be an Upper Iowa University campus here in Malaysia.

“That’s our vision. We are taking baby steps.

“Eventually, when you make a tree good, its fruit will be good too.”

Independence Day Celebration in SEGi Kota Damansara by UIU students

FriendsBOOK, the only BOOK I read

By: Jan Xixian Tan

They are filled with photos, comments and arguments which are sometimes amusing.

Facebook is one of the most trafficked sites that keeps user up-to-date with their friends every second, every minute, and every hour.

SEGi management have monitored students’ performance before they implementing the policy to block access to Facebook on all college computers on June 2010.

“Some students complain that they have no computer to use as there are too many students occupying the computers for hours on Facebook games”, says Joseph Lee, assistant IT manager.

  

After a few observations and meeting with the managing department regarding this issue, the management finally has decided to implement this policy in forbidding students to accessing to social networking websites using computers at IT lab, as well as in the library.

  

“I believe that Facebook should be 

something that students

should do during their free time."

Former American Degree Program (ADP) psychology lecturer Ms Samantha states: “I believe that Facebook should be something that students should do during their free time.

“The IT lab is for academic purposes not for entertainment.

“Unless they have a very good reason like academic-related matters, they should not be allowed to access Facebook.

“Since the IT lab forbid it, then, (it) is good,” she adds.

The management urges students to make full use of the computer for academic purposes instead of checking in every few hours on social networking sites.

Therefore, the IT department suggests that students should be prevented from accessing these social networking websites.

Also, a student from ADP, Polaris, 22, asserts that the restriction is a good way as somehow students occupy the computers for hours on social networking websites playing games or chatting with their friends.

There are even students watching drama series online.

He feels frustrated as he, like other students, is not able to use computer to complete or even print out their assignments promptly.

To be fair, this policy also applies to lecturers and administrative staff.

Joseph Lee declares that during working hours and lecturing, students and lecturers must focus on the studies.

Browsing through social networking websites on campus will only distract them from what they are supposed to do.

Nevertheless, the IT department will unlock Facebook upon request.

A Marketing lecturer, Dannie Lim is of the opinion that: “Facebook is a good platform for social networking and I have conducted a few classes via Facebook.”

He adds: “We must at least be ready for it when technology totally takes over our lives as it already is.”

Another student, Ho Pooi Kwan, 25, from Business Faculty claims that she spent approximately 5 hours on Facebook every day.

Ho also occasionally attends virtual class via Facebook.

She, therefore, views not being able to access the site on college campus as a hassle.

The IT department welcomes students to fully utilize the computers at the lab; they have no intention to prevent students from using the facility.

IT department staff, Tham Chye Leong, says: “We are observing the students all the time, there might be more websites banned in the coming days.”

He says student can use their own computers to log in to social networking websites if they wish to search for other information or communicate with their course mates and lecturers. 

Happy being told what to wear?

By: Amanda Imani

SEGi new dress code rules will take effect on February 1st, 2013.

This applies to all students of SEGi University.

This newly-implemented rule focuses on what students should and should not wear when they are on the campus.

The rules include: no slippers, colored or dyed hair for both boys and girls.

Restrictions for male students

Similarly, girls are not allowed to wear short skirts, hot pants and minis, unless they pair it up with tights or stockings underneath.

Restrictions for female students

Also, students are required to wear their identity cards all the time.

A 4th year Psychology and Communication major student, Joshua Michael, 22, says: “I think it’s impossible! They can’t just start implementing new rules and orders and expect students to follow them. I’ve been in this institution for 4 years, and I think it is unfair that new rules have been decided, especially when it touches on personal grooming and dress codes.

“We are in university, not school. We should be treated like adults, not children. Plus, it is not a government university, anyway. Why should we oblige?” he says.

Many conflicting and mixed views were obtained during the interviews among the university students.

Some nursing students found that it is a good move to have guidelines and limits in order to portray a good and clean image of the university.

“I think it’s fine for them to implement these rules. For us nurses, we have to wear our nursing uniform every day. It has never been a problem for us to express our individuality. It just gives us a sense of belonging,” shares Nurul Huda and Farah Izzati, both 24.

The management is implementing this new rule to prevent suggestive and inappropriate dressing among the college students.

In order to maintain a safe environment for students, the university feels that it is important to have certain guidelines on dress codes and boundaries for both girls and boys.

One of the Psychology lecturers, Mr. Shankaresh, finds the newly-announced rules rather interesting.

“I think it’s best they remove the rule, unless they want their students to rebel against them, because they may feel a little confined and trapped, and not given the opportunity to dress as they please,” he says.

Another American Degree Program student, Nazrila Shaherah, 21, shares her thoughts on the implementation of these new rules:

Nazrila Shaherah, 21, ADP

“It’s totally unfair. How can they do that? It is in the way of us adolescents expressing our individuality, style and uniqueness.

“University is supposed to be a place where you can find yourself, and explore oneself among others – but by having strict dress codes, how can we? I also think that by implementing these rules, the institution is limiting our education.

“In my opinion, by limiting our freedom to dress accordingly to our liking, they are limiting our interest and desire to attend classes. I think this change will backfire and have a negative effect on the university.”

SEGi University hit by 'white flood'

By: Yana Ibrahim

SEGi University is a well-known private campus which offers Diploma in Nursing along with hospital facility.

This had created a phenomenon which many SEGi students call the “white flood.”

The “white flood” illustrates that the nursing students are flooding public areas in campus.



Good education for bright future as hoped by these nursing students.

This has become a source of inconvenience and frustration to students from other departments.

Students from other departments perceive nursing students negatively, label the latter as ‘termites’ because nurses normally walk around the campus in groups.  

“We are doing the same thing. We rush against time, hurry to classes and wear white uniforms all the time.

"(It) is an effective method to form our discipline,” Siti Atika, 21, a second year nursing student said when asked about the white flood issue.

“Plus we are all look alike and are large in numbers, that’s what resulted in the ‘white flood’,” she concluded.

The management of SEGi admits that the phenomena of “white flood” occurred due to their open intake of nursing students six times a year with minimum entrance qualification of 3 credits in SPM.

In addition, in order to encourage the enrollment of nurses to the university, PTPTN is offering a full loan up to RM62, 000 for nursing courses.

Attentive in class is a quality practice by these nursing students

"Nursing students enrollment had  never impact SEGi status being upgraded as assumed by everyone, the Ministry of Education had granted us University status from overall evaluations," said Nash, a SEGi Marketing Officer.

Fortunately, in early 2012, the intake system was changed to the minimum qualification of 5 credits in SPM to ensure the nurses here are better in quality, not in quantity.

“I have no regrets at all enrolling into this course from day one until our current semester, which is my last,” said Nur Aniqa, 23, a third-year Nursing student.

She added that: “Besides opening up job opportunities, the syllabus is complete with updated theories and practice in real world basis in order to prepare us to face the real world.

Theory needs practical as above shown a CPR process being carried out.

“Don’t be surprised to know that our course is similar to medical students - the only difference is that our focus is more on care and treatment,” she continued.

With the new system implemented, it is believed that the white flood phenomena will gradually decrease while the graduated nursing student's quality will increase.

SEGi serious about clear vision and sparkling teeth

By: Rachel Chew

Two years ago, SEGi University established the in-campus oral and eye health care center which offers free checkups to students.

The university is aware about the importance of preventative dental care and effects of vision deterioration.

Student should utilize this best opportunity of free services given by the campus for their own health benefits by just simply walk-in the center during operating hours and make an appointment.

Dental Services Operating Hours

Based on the survey of students’ acknowledgement regarding these free services, 7 out of 10 students were surprised.

The dental clinic comes complete with a reception and a waiting area.

It is located at the left wing of SEGi main building, on the 2^nd floor, the dentistry faculty.

Comfortable and Spacious Waiting Area

“Compared to private clinics in Kota Damansara, the price is 80% cheaper,” said Cheng Melcyn, 21, who is an American Degree Program (ADP) student.

Students who received dental treatment reported that they are satisfied with the service.

According to the faculty, students may get dental treatment services for as low as RM10 for tooth polishing service, and RM20 for an extraction.

“I’ve been there for teeth polishing once. It’s a lecturer, and she’s professional,” said Lisa Marissa, 18, from nursing faculty.

“However, they sometimes allow students to use you as lab rat for their in-house training purposes,” Melcyn claimed that he felt more confident on lecturers of Dentistry Faculty than dental students to perform dental treatment for him.

“It’s okay if it’s just a [normal dental] checkup but when it comes to [dental] treatment, I have less confidence in students,” said Gan Xing Rui, 19, from Diploma in Accounting.

On the other hand, the Faculty of Optometry, also known as SEGi Eye Care, is located on the 4^th floor.

This bright and spacious environment contains a reception, a waiting area and an eye examination room.

SEGi Eye Care “Their checkups are done very professionally, it takes you around half an hour, (and) they perform every single test in details,” said Lee Kok Sen, 20, from ADP. “The price here is very cheap compare to optical shops in Kota Damansara area, they only charge me RM80 for my spectacles,” said Wong Wei Lun, 21, from Business Faculty.

"I like my new spectacles." Students that have tried the optometry service were overall satisfied with the checkup process and the price of products. However, they put forward that the faculty should increase their efficiency. “The personnel are not always in the centre, sometimes, when you are in a hurry it’s quite frustrating,” said Ninie Roslan, 24, from Business Faculty. “I got annoyed because it took them one whole week to get my spectacles ready, which I think it’s quite long.  “Normally in optical shops, it only takes a maximum of 3 days,” said Yeo Chee Wah, 21, from ADP.

"1 week of waiting is too long." The university is aware about the importance of preventative dental care and effects of vision deterioration.

Students should utilize this best opportunity of free services given by the campus for their own health benefits.