Usually when we mention Felda youth, people would have negative connotations and impressions associated with drugs, rape, theft and other social problems. The reason is that society still stimatises them for what some of them have wrongly done in the past.

In this modern age, the negative elements are declining though the stigmas still remain. Sadly, there are also wrong impressions that the young Felda people are not smart and that they have failed to land themselves in universities.

Such impressions proved to be misconceived as 416 students from four faculties at the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology showed their ability to graduate with diplomas. They were the pioneer batch of Felda students who were sponsored by the Federal Land Development Authority under the Generasi Baru (New Generation) programme.

The success of 139 students from the Faculty of Multimedia Creative, 100 from the Faculty of Communication, Multimedia and Broadcasting, 63 from the Architecture and Built Environment Faculty and 114 from the Design and Innovation Faculty had opened the eyes of many parties.

Right exposure to creative industries

At their convocation, which was themed Towards Empowering Generasi Baru Global Graduates, the guest of honour, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, could not help feeling proud. The Generasi Baru programme was his idea and a fulfillment of his determination when it was introduced in September 2005.

“The programme is to train the young minds towards the world’s latest technology and creative industries, besides giving them the needed exposure to English.

“I selected Limkokwing for the Generasi Baru students, because I felt this university could stimulate all of you to be more creative thinkers and be innovative,” he said, adding that the English language, creative thinking and innovation are important aspects to develop and build the country.

The Generasi Baru programme is aimed at producing high-calibre global graduates who possess unique experience and qualities. Interestingly, the students are placed in a competitive environment and beyond the comfort zones that they were used to. A challenging environment will give the students the impetus to produce the best results, as they gain experiences from a highly industry-driven university.

What is further encouraging for the Felda community was that 49 Generasi Baru students were recognised for their academic and co-curricular excellence.

According to Mohd Radzi Rajudin, 23, the reputation and course available prompted him to enroll. He said that studying with students from 70 countries was something sweet and unforgettable. “In Limkokwing, I managed to interact and exchange ideas with students from the Middle East, Africa, Indonesia and other regions,” he said.

“Now with this diploma scroll in my hand, I can prove that not all Felda children are involved in negative activities. For me, everything depends on the individual to chart his path,” said Mohd Radzis from Raub, Pahang.

Cheerful environment on campus

The creative multimedia graduate was one of three recipients of the Datuk Sri Mohd Najib Tun Razak Creativity and Innovative Award.

“What is enjoyable in studying at this university is that students are free to choose what to wear as long as it does not damage the university’s reputation. This freedom has helped to create a cheerful environment on campus. If the university sets a dress code there could be students who may protest,” he said.

Mohd Jaslin Puasa, 21, another recipient of the prestigious award, felt proud and humbled for being able to complete his studies at this renowned private institution. He said the facilities and the professional level of its lecturers enabled them to work hard and succeed.

“I like the challenge, especially in the academic field. Hence, as soon I obtained the opportunity to join the Generasi Baru programme at this university, I felt challenged to seek knowledge. I focused my attention on lectures and revision, and I completed my assignments after each lecture. I also received support from and shared information with my friends, especially those from foreign countries,” the architecture and built environment graduate said.

The graduates were happy to have achieved their mission which was expected from them. Some of them felt sad to Part Company with their lecturers, saying they would miss the environment.

The experience the Generasi Baru graduates had gained would be invaluable. The well-executed programme has allowed them to think creatively, develop their discipline and commitment, and open their minds through the exposure of various cultures. It has also provided an opportunity for some students to study at the university’s campus in London.

“Interestingly, the Generasi Baru programme gives the Felda students an opportunity to showcase their talents and academic ability. I want to prove that Felda settlers do not only accept government assistance, but we also become successful individuals,” said Nur Ainiah Che Rashid, a communications, media and broadcasting graduate.

Opportunity to study in London

The awards given during the convocation were Limkokwing Highest Achievement Award, Limkokwing Excellence Award, Youth Achievement Award, Industry Excellence Award, Limkokwing Global Classroom Award and Student Ambassador Excellence Award.

What did the students say?

“Limkokwing has made me possess a global outlook. I gained the opportunity to travel abroad and study in London,” Mohd Shahrizat Saad – Diploma in Broadcasting.

“I recently finished my practical training in one of the production companies and I admire the dedicated of one director. Studying at Limkokwing is not only from reading textbook, but it involves real practical experience,” Jasnida Mohamad Jamil – Diploma in Broadcasting.

“Studying here made me more creative than my friends in the Felda settlement. I always think and see things more creatively to find innovative solutions,” Zainorhuda Damain – Diploma in Hair Styling.