"There is a positive relationship between teaching and research," said Dr Vikneswaran Nair Sehkaran, Director of the Centre for Research & Development (R&D) at Taylor's University College.

"Staff who are actively involved and productive in research are more likely to be able to challenge students with their broader point-of-view and higher expectations. This will refine the quality of students and produce a distinctive quality of graduates, which will ultimately promote the standard of education in the country," explained Dr Vicky, who won The Outstanding Young Malaysian (TOYM) award in Academic Leadership & Accomplishment recently.

He continued to explain that research, like all forms of scholarly activities, applies systematic approaches to the development of knowledge through intellectual inquiry and scholarly communication. The dissemination of knowledge through publications and presentations, and the application of knowledge in professional practice and student learning will eventually contribute towards enhancing the overall standard of education.

"Only via research can a lecturer bring into the classroom the relevant and current scenario around the world. Lecturers who rely only on text-books will find themselves totally obsolete, especially with the current ‘Generation Y' students of today," he added.

As the Director for the Centre of R&D at Taylor's and a senior lecturer at the School of Hospitality and Tourism, Dr Vicky's aim is to propel Taylor's towards becoming a top-notch teaching and learning university via research, as reflected in its research mission. One of the most important avenues is to encourage lecturers to delve into research and publish their findings in various areas, or risk being left behind - as the saying goes, ‘publish or perish'. This is timely, considering Taylor's aspirations of becoming a full-fledged University before the end of 2010.

Dr Vicky's recent award was a result of more than ten years of dedication and passion channeled towards his research, which is very much focused on the continuity of the human race, including areas such as sustainable and responsible tourism, community-based tourism and poverty alleviation via tourism. He beat three other nominees, all top academicians and researchers from well-known public and private higher education institutions, to clinch this prestigious national award which was organized by Junior Chambers Malaysia.

"This award will certainly motivate me to continue my efforts in researching these areas. The recognition given to my work and leadership have certainly motivated me to further contribute to the nation and society through my research," said the 39-year-old who possesses a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering (Ecotourism Systems).

He claims that his passion for research was sparked-off at an early age, having always been fascinated with the way things work. "According to my parents, even before I started going to school, I was always fascinated with how my toys worked. I broke them into pieces then reassembled them back together. I was always in my own corner, experimenting with my toys. I suppose it is this inquisitive nature that has led me to doing well in research."

Living by the credo "Accomplish or do not begin" from his secondary school, High School Bukit Mertajam, Dr Vicky's perfection and passion are driving forces for his success in the research field.

"Even though it is a time-intensive field, the passion and interest to carry out research that can contribute to the improvement of society has kept me going. It is also very fulfilling to see my works published, not because of the money or recognition but for personal satisfaction."

A seasoned researcher and consultant, with more than 100 publications to his credit, Dr Vicky has also been the recipient of the Best Paper Award for Tourism Research in Malaysia's Third National Tourism Educators Conference (2004) and the Second Asia Euro Tourism, Hospitality and Gastronomy Conference (2008).

For more details on Taylor's University College contact 603-5636 2641, email admissions@taylors.edu.my.