A Night of a Thousand Dreams

By Serena Ng, KDU Marketing

Imagine being in the lush jungles of east Malaysia, feeding and petting orangutans. Imagine diving into the ocean and being near fishes and corals. Imagine playing with your first remote control car set. Imagine feeling stress-free, exhilarated and amazed by your surrounding. Imagine that would be the last time you feel that way.

The Children’s Wish Society (CWS) is a foundation that over the years has helped children suffering from terminally and life-threatening illness realise their last wish. The society is largely funded by donations and this time, they were assisted by the KDU Mass Communication students to raise funds to support their cause.

A little over 3 months ago, the CWS was contacted by the students of PR Class March 2010 under the College’s School of Mass Communication and was presented a proposal that would help raise funds for the children. Overcome with gratitude, both parties set out on this collaboration and a ‘Night of a Thousand Dreams’ was born. To raise awareness for the plight of the society, a charity dinner would take place and would attract KDU College’s staff, students, parents and the general public.

A total of 56 energetic students had three months to plan and execute the event scheduled on 1 July 2010. Under the guidance of PR lecturer, Mr. Hardip Singh, the class was divided into departments as seen in a real Public Relations company and was tasked to work as an organisation. This task was to be a part of their academic assignment and students were graded on their performance and creativity. Jobs were assigned and they were encouraged to work as a team, communicate professionally and solve problems independently. As a result, many sleepless nights followed and the team’s highly charged energy was evident as the event drew nearer.

The end result was an enchanting location at the Holiday Villa Subang Jaya, a packed audience of more than 300 guests, the presence of VIP Deputy Minister Human Resources, Y.B. Dato’ Maznah Mazlan and highly entertaining performances by celebrities and students.

The highlight of the event was not merely the glitz and glamour but the successful combined effort of RM10,000 being donated to the CWS to realise more dreams. Heartfelt guests were touched to know that they played a part in bringing a special moment of joy into the lives of many special children diagnosed with life threatening illnesses.

The event lasted close to midnight. And as students bade farewell to their guests, each of them had taken back valuable lessons on teamwork, competence and humanity. The Deputy Minister of Human Resources complimented the students for their professionalism and being work-ready based on their positive attitudes and the success of the night’s events.

A subject in the Diploma in Mass Communication, PR is one of many subjects that incorporates practical aspects to prepare students for real life work.