Double Win for TAR UMT: Student and Lecturer Shine at 7th Stellar Prize Competition
They emerged victorious in a competition of over 400 submissions from 14 universities.
Published 03 Oct 2025
It was a proud achievement for Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) when both a student and his lecturer were named winners at the prestigious 7th Stellar Prize competition that aims to honour university students talented in photography, videography, design, writing and publishing.
Held at the national level and open to university students across Malaysia, the competition received over 400 submissions from 14 different universities this year. With the theme “PRISM,” entries spanned four main categories: Writing & Publishing, Design, Photography, and Videography.
Among the winners was Sean Yee Ghee Heng, a Bachelor of Creative Multimedia (Hons) student at TAR UMT, who clinched the Best Portrait Photography Award. His lecturer and advisor, Mr Tan Tay Guan, was also recognised with the Best Advisor for Photography Award, making it a double celebration for the university.
Sean’s winning photograph was inspired by a university trip to an Orang Asli village, organised by the Photography Society at TAR UMT and guided by renowned Fujifilm photographer Lim Kim Boon. Reflecting on the moment that sparked the award-winning shot, Sean shared, “As we explored the village, I noticed many curious yet shy gazes from the locals, especially the children. One little girl, in particular, stood out from the rest as her wide-eyed curiosity towards our presence was striking. I captured her portrait after obtaining consent from her family, framing her between the gaps of a wooden fence. Through this photograph, I aimed to portray the innocence and curiosity of childhood when faced with something unfamiliar, while also respecting her personal space and natural expression.”
Beyond the technical skills behind the lens, Sean highlighted how storytelling played a crucial role in his competition submission. “I submitted two photographs under the Photography category with written synopsis to express the story and meaning behind them. Initially, I found it challenging to craft a compelling narrative that would truly enhance the impact of my visuals. I sought advice from Mr Tan. With his unique artistic eye and thoughtful feedback, he helped me discover deeper layers within my work that I hadn’t noticed before. His guidance not only improved my synopsis but also gave me a newfound appreciation for my own creative process.”
Sean’s journey with photography didn’t start as a passion; it began as a job. But his experience as a member of the Photography Society at TAR UMT changed that. “Being part of the Photography Society at TAR UMT has truly enriched my university experience beyond the classroom,” he said.
“Over the years, I have actively participated in workshops and photo trips organised by the society, which have allowed me to explore various photography techniques and broaden my creative outlook. One of the most memorable experiences was serving as a committee member for Picturesque 3.0, a photography competition exclusively for TAR UMT students, in collaboration with Fujifilm. Working behind the scenes, I gained valuable insights into event planning, stakeholder engagement, and team coordination. Most importantly, I built a network with a vibrant community of photography enthusiasts who continuously inspire me to push my boundaries and experiment with new styles. It has been a platform not only for skill enhancement but also for building lasting friendships and learning through shared passion.”
Meanwhile, Mr Tan Tay Guan expressed heartfelt appreciation for the recognition he received as Best Advisor for Photography. “I’m deeply honoured to receive this recognition and I dedicate this award to every student whose passion and creativity continue to inspire me every day,” he said.
The dual win at the Stellar Prize not only showcases the talent at TAR UMT but also highlights the impact of strong mentorship and a supportive creative community. Sean’s story is a reminder of how meaningful guidance and genuine passion can turn a student into an award-winning artist.
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Amelia Ho
Always wandering, always wondering.
