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It may not be the eighth wonder of the world, but it is already gaining attention as a wonderful icon portraying the concept of 1Malaysia. This is the immediate reaction of students and visitors setting foot on the Plaza concourse of the Cyberjaya campus of Limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

Erected to commemorate the launching of the historic Malaysia: Innovation Nation convention on 20 July 2010 by the Prime Minister, the largest indoors ’monument’ is generating curious looks from both the local and international students, especially international students keen to learn more about the significance of the towering structure.

1Malaysia, one unity

1Malaysia is built upon the foundations of the Federal Constitution, the Rukun Negara, Vision 2020 and various government policies and is founded on the precepts of unity in diversity, inclusiveness, social justice and moral and inspirational values.

One of its core values is to inculcate “a culture of excellence” and “a culture of innovation, which Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Abdul Razak espoused in his opening address to over 500 delegates, invited speakers and industry captains and others that filled the Limkokwing Hall of Fame to the brim.

“The government is with the people and the industries on this exciting passage towards a nation that is innovative and creative. The entire country has to come together, in true 1Malaysia fashion, to make this dream a reality. Innovation is a culture and this culture has to be ignited in our country. Malaysia must regain its competitiveness and move on to become one of the greatest nations in the nation. To do this, we must all work together, the public and private sectors; industry-players and individuals; on Malaysian, undaunted and relentless in the pursuit of excellence.” Height of excellence Probably the only one of its kind to be assembled by an institute of higher learning, the 1Malaysia edifice stands at over 50 feet in height and occupies the entrance area of the massive Plaza and faces the equally enigmatic globe sitting majestically at the far end of the concourse. Since the 70s, Limkokwing University has been pioneering creative education in the country and trailblazing the pathway to a more innovative learning and teaching system in the country. In fact, as the organizer of the convention, Limkokwing has brought its quest to promote innovation in the country a milestone closer by inviting national leaders, industry captains, academicians and professionals to suggest ways and means to make Malaysia an innovative country. Thriving ecosystem The founder president of Limkokwing University, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Lim Kok Wing, the country’s leading advocate of creativity and innovation, voiced his view on creating a sustainable ecosystem, one in which innovation could thrive in harmony. “However, innovation most often takes place only when new ideas are encouraged. That simply means the ecosystem has to be urgently put in place for the change to take place. To be an innovation nation capable of competing successfully around the world, we must make this country one of the world’s most creative.” Tan Sri Lim added that “we must build the social and institutional ecosystem that produces innovative leaders at all levels - lot of them.” Taking this thought closer to the hearts and minds of the audience, the Prime Minister too stressed the pivotal role of the government in providing access to the right environment to encourage, stimulate and espouse new innovations. “Without a favourable regulatory environment, innovation cannot stoke economic growth. We have to bring innovation to the government and government into innovation.” ‘Pillar’ of unity The ‘pillar’ is a permanent reflection of the University’s support and commitment towards the 1Malaysia concept, one of many government policies that Limkokwing has played a leading role over the decades. Limkokwing University has created a number of successful campaigns that has contributed to bridging the gap between the various races in the country, building harmony and strengthening national unity. Building the nation The ‘Tak nak!’ campaign is one such advertising promotion that helped to change minds about the dangers of smoking among Malaysians, especially the younger generation. Other campaigns include the ‘Rakan Muda- Yakin boleh!’ and the international ones such as the ‘Plight of the Palestinians’ and ‘Bosnia – Beyond Words, Beyond Tears’ which are outstanding examples of causes that Limkokwing has undertaken on its own initiative. Future man

The Malaysia’ Innovation Nation convention served as a fitting tribute to introduce “The Man Who Designed The Future”, a hardcover biography on Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing, known to Malaysians and the world as the voice of creativity and innovation.

Launched by Dato’ Sri Najib, the Prime Minister said Tan Sri Lim has a unique way of touching millions of lives by simply doing what is best, even it may seem impossible to others.

“I have known Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Lim Kok Wing for many years. A creative thinker, he always responds with sincerity to assist the government to overcome many socio-economic issues. A strong supporter of ‘1Malaysia’ drive, he has always championed causes that promote national unity. I remember the cartoons he created called Guli-Guli that took humorous jibes at the common foibles of Malaysians. He did it without offending people, something that is not easy to achieve.”

Realistic visionary

The book describes Tan Sri Lim’s exciting journey, his growing up in a traditional Chinese family, his school days, his cartoon overtures, his advertising career and above all else, his transformation from an entrepreneur to a globally respected educationist that he is today.

Although Tan Sri Lim has single-handedly created a global empire, he is very much a down-to-earth person shaped as he was by an upbringing of filial values that moulded him into a practical person with a mind of his own.

For Tan Sri Lim Kok Wing, the 1Malaysia structure represents a hallmark milestone in driving home the message of creativity and innovation to all Malaysians through unity that helps to build the nation.