Our Notable Alumni

Dato' Sri Suriani binti Dato' Ahmad is a distinguished Malaysian senior civil servant. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree (Hons.) in Communication from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, a Master’s Degree in Strategy and Diplomacy from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and a Diploma in Public Management from the National Institute of Public Administration (INTAN). She began her career in communications with BERNAMA PR before joining the Malaysian Administrative and Diplomatic Service (PTD) in 1994.

Throughout her career, Dato' Sri Suriani has served in senior leadership positions across several federal ministries, including ministries responsible for women, family and community development, communications and multimedia, entrepreneurship, cooperatives, and rural development. Her decades of service and leadership have established her as one of Malaysia’s respected senior public officials.

YB Datuk Ricky, also known as Muhammad Razi Sitam, is a member of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly representing Saribas. He has represented the constituency since 2011. A member of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), part of the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition, he has held several leadership positions within the Sarawak state government. Before entering politics, he served as an educator, an experience that helped shape the focus and priorities of his political career.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Datuk Ricky has served in community wellbeing development in Sarawak. He has been involved in initiatives promoting social welfare, poverty alleviation, youth development and support for vulnerable groups. His close engagement with local communities and advocacy for inclusive development have made him a respected figure in Sarawak’s political landscape.

Teresa Kok Suh Sim is a Malaysian politician who has served as the Member of Parliament for Seputeh since 1999 and is a prominent member of the Democratic Action Party (DAP). Born on 31 March 1964 in Selangor, she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree (Hons.) in Communication from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and later obtained a Master of Philosophy from the University of Malaya. Before entering Parliament, she worked as a columnist and political secretary.

Throughout her political career, Teresa Kok has been involved in policymaking, economic development and parliamentary affairs. She served as Malaysia’s Minister of Primary Industries from 2018 to 2020, overseeing policies related to palm oil, rubber and commodities. Her public service has focused on governance, social justice and economic development.

Datuk Dr Chamil Wariya is a distinguished Malaysian journalist, media executive, author and communication scholar with more than four decades of experience in the media industry. He began his journalism career as a cadet reporter with Utusan Malaysia in 1971 and later served in editorial and management roles, including with the BBC World Service in London, Utusan publications and TV3’s News and Current Affairs Division. He subsequently served as Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Press Institute.

Beyond journalism, Datuk Dr Chamil is an accomplished author and academic who has written numerous books on media, politics and journalism. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Communication from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, with research focused on political communication and persuasive strategies in the speeches of Malaysian prime ministers. He continues to contribute to media education, professional training and ethical journalism.

Dato' Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz is a director and film producer whose works include Perempuan Melayu Terakhir and Persona Non Grata. He also established his own production house, Saspintar Sdn. Bhd. He graduated from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, in 1994 with a Bachelor’s Degree.

Beyond film and production, Dato' Syed Azidi is also known as a political commentator and strategic communicator. His professional portfolio includes serving under YB Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamed, leading corporate communications within the Ministry of Education, and working in strategic corporate liaison at Kelantan Menteri Besar Incorporated.

Dr Christina Chin Swee Gaik is a Deputy Executive Editor with Star Media Group and has built a career within the organisation spanning approximately two decades. She obtained her Master’s degree in Communication from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, in 2009 before advancing her career in journalism.

She was also a Khazanah-Wolfson Press Fellow at the University of Cambridge. Through her editorial leadership and extensive experience, Dr Christina has become a respected professional within Star Media Group and the Malaysian media industry.

Daphne Iking is a television host, journalist, actress, emcee and media personality who has been one of Malaysia's most recognised broadcasters since the early 2000s. Born on 6 July 1978 in Keningau, Sabah, she obtained both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Communication from Universiti Sains Malaysia before beginning her successful media career.

She first gained national recognition as the host of Ringgit Sense before becoming widely known through programmes such as Explorace, The Breakfast Show and Bella. Her engaging presentation style, professionalism and versatility have established her as one of Malaysia's most respected television personalities.

Beyond broadcasting, Daphne is an accomplished public speaker, corporate trainer, producer and advocate for social causes, particularly children's rights and statelessness in Malaysia. She is also active as a moderator, wellness advocate and content creator, using her platform to promote education, family well-being and community development.

Throughout her career, she has successfully balanced her work in the media industry with meaningful advocacy initiatives, earning recognition as an influential voice both on and off screen.

Douglas Elliot David, also known as Douglas Elliot anak David Ebol, is a media personality, multimedia journalist and news presenter known for his work with TV3 and Media Prima. He graduated from Universiti Sains Malaysia in 2017 with a Bachelor of Communication (Hons.).

Before joining TV3, Douglas gained experience in journalism and media production through roles with TVS, Star Media Group and other media organisations. He is recognised as the first Sarawakian and the first member of the Dayak community to present prime-time news on TV3, marking an important milestone for representation in Malaysian broadcasting. He continues to contribute through credible journalism and engaging news presentation.

Ahmad Fedtri Yahya is a prominent Malaysian television presenter, journalist, author and motivational speaker. A graduate in Communication and Media Studies, he is widely recognised for his broadcasting career, articulate presentation style and ability to connect with diverse audiences.

Beyond television, he is also an accomplished writer and public speaker who shares insights on leadership, personal growth, travel and life experiences.

Kamarul Bahrin Haron is a Malaysian veteran journalist, broadcaster and media professional with more than two decades of experience in news reporting, current affairs and media leadership. A graduate in Broadcasting from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, he became one of the country’s recognised television journalists and news anchors. He gained prominence through his work with Astro Awani, where he served in senior editorial positions, including Editor-in-Chief.

Beyond journalism, Kamarul is recognised for his contributions to media innovation and communication development in Malaysia. He has participated in discussions on digital journalism, media inclusion, the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the changing relationship between audiences and news platforms. As an award-winning journalist and media consultant, he continues to advocate for responsible storytelling and grassroots-focused journalism.

Keoh Chee Ang is a prolific member of the Malaysian film and television industry with credits as a producer, editor, actor and writer. He obtained his Bachelor of Communication (Hons.) from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, in 2007.

Throughout his career, Keoh has produced several notable Malaysian films, including PASKAL: The Movie, WIRA and AIR FORCE: The Movie – Selagi Bernyawa. His work often involves collaboration with Malaysia’s armed forces and public agencies to create authentic, high-quality productions that showcase national stories and capabilities. He continues to contribute to the growth of Malaysian cinema through ambitious productions for domestic and international audiences.

Lina Tan is a Malaysian film and television producer, director and entrepreneur who founded Red Communications in 1999. A graduate of the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, she began her career in television commercial production before establishing the company to develop original Malaysian content. She has worked with broadcasters such as Astro, Disney, Discovery and National Geographic while championing locally produced stories with strong social and cultural themes.

Her production credits include 3R (Respect, Relax, Respond), Gol & Gincu, Kami, Pisau Cukur, Songlap, Istanbul Aku Datang! and Oh My English!. She is widely recognised for promoting female-led narratives and nurturing emerging Malaysian filmmakers. She has also served on the board of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and continues to support the creative industry through mentorship and leadership.

Selwam Arjunan is an experienced communications specialist and broadcast journalist with more than 16 years of expertise in media relations, strategic communication and content development. He graduated with a Bachelor of Communication (Hons.) from the School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, in 2007 and built a respected career with Media Prima as a regional correspondent.

Throughout his career, Selwam has demonstrated expertise in journalism, media communication and news production across multiple platforms. His work focuses on delivering timely and credible news while helping audiences understand complex issues affecting Malaysia and the region. He continues to contribute to the country’s media landscape through impactful reporting and high standards of journalistic integrity.

Shanjhey Kumar Perumal is a Malaysian filmmaker, screenwriter and producer known for his contributions to Malaysian independent cinema. A graduate of the School of Communication with a degree in Communication majoring in Film and Broadcasting, he began his career writing and directing television programmes before expanding into documentaries, short films and feature films. He has directed more than 300 television episodes and gained recognition through award-winning short films such as Thaipoosam, Machai and The Day That River Ran Red.

Shanjhey is best known for writing and directing the critically acclaimed feature film Jagat (2015), which explores the struggles of the Malaysian Indian community. The film received numerous accolades, including Best Malaysian Film at the 28th Malaysian Film Festival. As the founder of Skyzen (M) Sdn. Bhd., he continues to develop films combining compelling storytelling with social commentary.