Jay Yee's work "It's Not Fine!" highlights the plight suffered by victims of domestic violence in Malaysia.
Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Graphic Design student Eng Jay Yee's final year project became the highlight of her TAR UC experience after it was conferred the Bronze Award (Public Service Announcement category) at the China-ASEAN University Students’ Charity Design & Creativity Competition 2020.
The competition, that just announced its list of winners in June 2021, gathered thousands of submissions from across the globe, making Jay Yee's work one of the very few impactful creative works to have caught the eyes and attention of the judges.
Jay Yee's expressive artwork titled "It's Not Fine!" highlights the plight suffered by victims of domestic violence in Malaysia that has been on the rise since the Covid-19 pandemic has forced many to stay in their homes.
"I was inspired by an interview video from the Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) with survivors of domestic violence in Malaysia, and wanted my artwork to help these victims approach the community for assistance. I also wanted my work to sympathise with the victims and let them know they are not alone in this, as well as create awareness in our society regarding the seriousness of domestic violence in Malaysia," explained Jay Yee.
"When my supervisor Ms Ooi Siew Fong told me about the achievement, I can't express how much that meant to me. On top of being my final year project, the win is proof of my effort, research and work I have put in. This feeling is the best reward for me!" Jay Yee exclaimed.
Siew Fong, a lecturer from the Faculty of Communication and Creative Industries (FCCI), did not walk away empty-handed as she was named the Outstanding Instructor Award for guiding Jay Yee to success.
"I was surprised to be listed in the Outstanding Instructor Award, because I feel credit should be given to Jay Yee. Despite the time constraints due to her internship commitments and having to design her final year project to suit the competition regulations, she managed all that and even won an award. I'm happy and proud of her achievement," said Siew Fong.
On her lecturer's contribution, Jay Yee added: "Ms Ooi played an important role in my creative process. She guided me, gave a lot of awesome advice that really played to my art style and strengths that helped me break my limits."
"I also believe that the solid academic foundation I've obtained in TAR UC has helped to prepare me for such competitive challenges, as I am able to apply those knowledge well and adapt myself smoothly at every turn," she added.
Jay Yee credits TAR UC's solid academic foundation and undivided support from her lecturer for her success at the China-ASEAN University Students’ Charity Design & Creativity Competition.
