Long service award for TAR University College employees

Employees with commitment and dedication are central to any successful business and it is no different for higher education institutions. On 12 March 2015, TAR University College held a Long Service Award Ceremony to honour 94 members of staff who have dedicated at least 15 years of invaluable service to the University College.

During the ceremony, the recipients of the award were presented with a token of appreciation and a certificate from Dato’ Sri Liow Tiong Lai, Chairman of the Board of Governors, TAR University College and Minister of Transport; and Datuk Dr Tan Chik Heok, President of TAR University College.

Among the well-deserving recipients was Ms Kho Sok Kee, who has served TAR University College for 26 years. Currently, Kho holds the position of Vice President, Collaboration, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Kho was previously head of the School of Business Studies and is proud to have been with TAR University College since 1988.

Ms Kho - 4th from left

“I feel a sense of great pride and satisfaction to be able to serve as an employee in one organisation for such long period. Looking back, I have worked with and met such inspiring and purposeful people along the way, both young and old. They have truly enriched my life,” said Kho.

Kho said that one of the reasons she stayed with TAR University College all these years was that the goals, objectives and philosophy of the college was very much aligned with her own personal goals and values.

“When one’s values are in sync with the organisational value system, time just slips by and you don’t even realise that 26 years has passed. Because of this, I am passionate about what I do here at TAR UC. It is always about adding value to our staff, students and our stakeholders. The system is so supportive that truly, it is passion that drives me and gives me the will and the determination to work long and hard here at TAR UC. I don’t feel it’s been 26 years!” she added.

Ms Kho - 1st from right

When asked if she had any advice for employers on how to retain long-serving staff, Kho said that employees experience a low sense of job security these days as businesses are driven by performance and their bottom line.

“At educational institutions like ours, it is always about numbers. I think job security to the staff is key here. There must be a great sense of team spirit to drive everyone to work together and achieve the desired outcome together. Team spirit and togetherness give the employees a sense of belonging and belief in the organisation they work for.

“Talent retention can be achieved by creating a desirable work environment and developing the staff to their highest potential. It is important for employees to develop with the growth of the organisation. The staff also needs to be patient and not only look at short term rewards but at the overall organisation ecosystem’s plans to nurture and develop them in their career and personal life through the years,” said Kho.