Dr. Umar Hakim Mohd Hasri is a Senior Lecturer in Media and Communication Studies at Universiti Malaya. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Media Arts and Technology from Rochester Institute of Technology, New York, USA, and earned both his Master's and PhD in Media and Communication Studies through research at Universiti Malaya, completing his doctoral degree with the notable Graduate-On-Time (GOT) award in 2024. Dr. Umar’s research focuses on transmedia storytelling, with a particular interest in the Malaysian animation industry. His recent work explores how the BoBoiBoy and Ejen Ali franchise utilizes cross-platform storytelling to create immersive and complex narrative universes. He has published in high-impact journals indexed by both WoS and Scopus, including Media International Australia, Atlantic Journal of Communication, Communication and Research Practice, and Malaysian Journal of Communication (Jurnal Komunikasi). He has extensive teaching experience, leading courses in Multimedia Production, Screenwriting, Media and Society, Research Methodology, and Introduction to Social Sciences at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His teaching philosophy emphasizes creative exploration and critical engagement, inspiring students to produce innovative media projects. In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Umar previously worked at Universiti Malaya Press for nearly four years, serving as a Project Officer. He played a key role in several digital transformation projects, including implementing database asset management systems to handle and secure large media assets, leading digital book conversion and management initiatives, and digitalizing management processes and filings. His expertise extends to event management, media representation, and strategic communication. Dr. Umar’s current research interests center on uncovering effective strategies in communication through immersive technology, transmedia storytelling, and digital transformation. His work focuses on how these approaches can drive economic advantages in local markets and create pathways for expansion into international trade. While grounded in media and communication studies, his research aims to bridge innovative storytelling techniques with strategic digital practices, empowering media organizations to enhance their global competitiveness.

  Dr. Siaw Yan Li is an Associate Professor from the Department of Educational Psychology and Counselling, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya. She obtained her PhD in Educational Psychology and began her academic career at the Institute of Educational Leadership, Universiti Malaya, in 2016. Her expertise and research area include educational psychology, individual and family development, sexuality education, special education, and psychometric studies. Throughout her career, she has been awarded several grants and impactful publications, which have enabled her to continue her research and contribute to the academic community. She teaches a range of courses, and to date there are a total of 21 graduated postgraduate students under her supervision. These have been recognised for her engaging teaching style and commitment to student success.  Link: CV Siaw Yan-Li    

Associate Professor Dr Asrul is currently in the Department of Architecture at the Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya,  Kuala Lumpur, and has worked for the past 20 years. Has extensive teaching portfolio included, but is not limited to, teaching responsibilities, academic leadership responsibilities, the design, development, and accreditation of curriculum for both the Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Master of Architecture degrees, participation in research and scholarly activities, and involvement in teaching, learning, and qualified practise. As a result of his extensive background, he has been invited to join the non-executive council member in the board of Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM),  and has been Accreditation Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM). Dr Asrul has served as Deputy Dean of Research and Development. Additionally, he has been appointed as visiting lecturer in Universiti Islam Indonesia in the year 2018 among others and presented as keynote speakers in international conferences organised by Architectural Institutions as well as universities locally and overseas. Academic and Research Career: With a desire to delve deeper into the world of academia, Dr. Asrul pursued higher studies and obtained a Doctorate in Architecture from University of Nottingham UK. Their research work in this area garnered significant attention and acclaim, establishing in the domain on sustainabile architecture and urban habitat. Dr. Asrul's relentless pursuit of excellence extended beyond the confines of their research lab. He actively engaged with students and fellow researchers, fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity and scientific rigor. This dedication to the profession and commitment to academic excellence earned Dr Asrul the "Certificate of Excellence Services" in 2006, 2020, and 2022, and also "Excellent Service Award," 2021, signifying the profound impact he had on the academic community over the years. His academic journey is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence. Their numerous overseas engagement awards and accolades, including the "Diamond Award" British Invention Show", "Certificate of Excellence Services," "Excellent Service Award," and the "Vice Chancellor Price," exemplify their exceptional contributions to academia, research, and the promotion of sustainable development. Dr. Asrul's has sat and contribute as internal/external/chairman of over 15 thesis proposal Defence (PD), Candidature Defence (CD) and also Thesis Seminar, he had scholarly impact on the academic community and the dedication to environmental stewardship will continue to shape a brighter and more sustainable future for new generation of academia. Dr. Asrul has accomplishments and contributions have created significant impacts both locally and internationally. Earlier in May 2022, he took on the role of External Examiner for the Architectural Programme at the International University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL). This position allowed him to apply his expertise to influence the quality and direction of architectural education in one of Malaysia's prominent universities. In August 2022, Dr. Asrul achieved a significant milestone when he became the first Malaysian RU lecturer to deliver a public lecture at the University of Mongolia. His participation in ARCHASIA 2022-Ulanbatar paved the way for international academic exchange and further showcased his thought leadership in the field of architecture. Furthermore Dr. Asrul was appointed as the only Malaysian coordinator for the Indonesian Universities Architectural School Validation at Universitas Islam Indonesia. This esteemed role, entrusted to him by the Board of Architects Malaysia, in October 2022, demonstrates his knowledge and skills in architectural education. Dr. Asrul's organizational skills and academic prominence were further recognized on June 24, 2023, when he was appointed as the sole Malaysian RU Academic staff joint conference coordinator for the World Architectural Forum, scheduled to be held in 2024. The Malaysian Institute of Architects, a highly respected professional body, entrusted him with this important responsibility. His international reach, Dr. Asrul was appointed as the only Malaysian External Examiner and Guest Lecturer for the 2023-2024 academic session at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Hasanuddin in Sulawesi, Indonesia. This appointment, effective from June 26, 2023, signifies the respect and trust placed in his professional judgment and educational capabilities. Dr. Asrul's career and profound contributions to architecture and education have contribute to Universiti Malaya, his department and the nation. His commitment to fostering international collaboration and promoting excellence in architectural field and education continues to inspire his peers and the next generation of academia.