LIfE Cultivates Growth Through Sports and Cultural Engagement

On 30 April 2025, the Learning Institute for Empowerment (LIfE) hosted two impactful talks that encouraged students to explore how both sports and cultural arts can play a vital role in shaping character, resilience, and personal growth. At the Cyberjaya campus, a talk titled “The Inner Game – How Sports Shape Who We Are” featured Mr. Mohd Azlan bin Abdul Mubin, Astro Arena TV host and former national athlete. The event drew over 700 students taking the Sport Science elective and was officiated by Dr. Ong Sue Lyn, Director of LIfE. Mr. Azlan shared powerful insights into how the discipline, focus, and mental toughness gained through sports often mirror real-life challenges, offering valuable lessons in personal development.

Meanwhile, students were immersed in a different yet equally enriching experience during the talk “Cultural Legacy: Inspiring Character Through Performing Arts” by Mr. Hairul Asraf Bin Abu Hussain, a National Cultural Arts Trainer at MMU Melaka campus. The speaker explored the rich traditions of the Baba Nyonya community, with a special emphasis on Dondang Sayang, a poetic and musical art form known for its witty, spontaneous duets. Mr. Hairul stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage not only as a tribute to the past but also as a means of nurturing self-identity and character in the present. The session concluded with a captivating live Dondang Sayang performance that brought the message to life.

Whether through the competitive spirit of sports or the expressive soul of the performing arts, students were encouraged to reflect on their values, embrace resilience, and draw inspiration from diverse avenues of personal growth. The enthusiastic participation and thoughtful questions from students underscored their eagerness to connect the lessons from these experiences to their own lives, reinforcing the belief that true education extends beyond the classroom.