Talk Less, Communicate More

We conducted a very special Coffee Talk session with a renowned figure in the field of communication – Prof Dato’ Sri Dr Syed Arabi Idid from International Islamic University Malaysia – last January.

With the theme “Debunking Myths About Communication”, we discussed the evolving landscape of communication and the importance of effective communication skills in today’s world. His passion for the subject was palpable, and as he spoke, we couldn’t help but feel inspired by his insights and experiences.

Prof Syed Arabi began our conversation by highlighting how our world increasingly relies on various communication channels.  “Every day, we see new platforms emerging, and the way we communicate is constantly evolving.”

Today, it’s crucial to communicate effectively, clearly, and concisely, whether in personal or professional settings as well as in the global village.

We both believe that communication isn’t just about exchanging information. Rather, it’s about understanding the context, the audience, and the purpose behind the message.

During the talk, we discussed the need for communication programmes to help students develop managerial skills. According to Prof Syed Arabi, “it’s not just about how to communicate but also understanding what to communicate and why it matters.”

One common misconception about communication studies is that they cover only public speaking and soft skills. This is a myth, as Prof Syed Arabi explained: “Communication covers a wide array of areas including public relations, journalism, digital media, media studies, and political communication. This variety allows individuals to explore different paths that align with their interests and career goals.”

At OUM, we have a programme to provide a comprehensive understanding of communication – Master of Corporate Communication (MCC). It teaches strategic planning, media analysis, digital content creation, and intercultural communication.

For instance, in digital content creation, students learn how to produce engaging social media campaigns, while in intercultural communication, they study how to navigate and communicate effectively in a globalised world.

Globalisation has made the world seem smaller, as everything we do and say can quickly spread globally.

With thousands of cultures in existence, it’s crucial to be mindful when interacting with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Let me share a simple example. My husband and I were travelling to Kelantan to visit his family during a Chinese New Year holiday a long time ago. As we passed through a toll booth, I noticed a banner wishing “Gong Xi Fa Cai!” on a black background.

Do you know the significance of the colour black in Chinese culture? It represents darkness, destruction and misfortune and is worn for mourning and funerals. The fact that black was used for a Chinese festival banner highlighted a lack of communication. It isn’t just about talking, it’s about everything around us!

You can learn about the basics of communication through our Bachelor of Communication with Honours, which is also under the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Both this bachelor’s degree and the MCC are flexible and fully online. They’re available nationwide, and we have even started offering the MCC internationally.

These programmes will clear up any doubts or misconceptions you might have about communication studies. Our goal is to show that communication expertise is crucial in today’s connected world.

Good communication can enhance managerial capabilities, foster better teamwork, and lead to more successful outcomes in various professional settings.

Understanding the depth and breadth of communication can help us handle modern interactions with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re pursuing a degree or just looking to improve your skills, the field of communication offers endless opportunities for growth.

The MCC isn’t just about learning how to communicate; it’s about understanding the nuances and complexities of communication to make a meaningful impact in today’s world.

If you’re interested in the MCC, please visit https://www.oum.edu.my/all-programmes/postgraduate-programme/master-of-corporate-communication/