Cover Rising starlet Scarlett Lau Wen Yi turns her lifelong passion for performance into a promising career through Taylor’s University
Rising starlet Scarlett Lau Wen Yi turns her lifelong passion for performance into a promising career through Taylor’s University
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With renowned mentors, strong industry partnerships, and hands-on training, the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme is nurturing a new generation of Malaysian performers. It provides direct pathways for students to thrive in a highly competitive industry
Helmed by Programme Director Raziman bin Sarbini, an accomplished dancer and choreographer trained at the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) and New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, the programme blends theory, technique, and creativity to prepare students for the professional stage.
“The programme is designed to challenge and inspire by equipping students with both theoretical grounding and practical skills, ensuring they graduate as well-rounded, industry-ready professionals.” Raziman explains.
The institution’s pioneering partnership with The Actors Studio (TAS) through TUTAS established Malaysia’s first performing arts conservatory degree, merging academic excellence with professional artistry.
Above Raziman bin Sarbini, Programme Director of Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours), Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University (Photo: Taylor's University)
Raziman bin Sarbini, Programme Director of Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours), Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University (Photo: Taylor's University)
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Through collaborations with TAS, ASK Dance Company, and Young Choral Academy, students gain direct access to industry icons and real-world experience. They also participate in workshops and masterclasses led by Adjunct Professors and industry veterans, including Siti Saleha binti Mohd Baharum, Datin Hajah Marlia binti Musa, Dato’ Dr Haji Mohamad Nasir bin Mohamed Sam, Maria Sascha Khan, and Professor Dr Joseph Gonzales, who bring diverse professional insights and mentorship to the classroom.
Read more: Taylor’s University: Laying the groundwork for graduates to build Malaysia’s future infrastructure
These newly appointed Adjunct Professors mark an exciting new chapter for the programme, reinforcing Taylor’s University’s commitment to introducing fresh industry perspectives and strengthening academic–industry connections that prepare students for the global stage.
“These collaborations give students professional exposure and platforms to perform, create, and engage in productions under professional guidance. They also help students build valuable industry networks while still pursuing their studies,” adds Raziman.
Above Lau (second row, third from left) with the full cast of Astro’s ‘Step Dave’ (Photo: Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad & Taylor's University)
Lau (second row, third from left) with the full cast of Astro’s ‘Step Dave’ (Photo: Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad & Taylor's University)
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From student to screen: Scarlett Lau’s journey
Now in her final year, Scarlett Lau Wen Yi has already landed a coveted role in Astro’s drama Step Dave.
“It has always been my dream to connect with people through arts, and acting is a beautiful form of it,” she shares. “When I began exploring degree programmes, particularly those with strong international recognition in the field of acting, Taylor's University stood out as the ideal choice, even more so with its conservatory-style learning.”
See also: Taylor’s University introduces Malaysia’s first Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Lau enrolled in the Performance (Theatre) track, one of the programme’s three specialisations alongside Music (Vocal Studies) and Dance (Traditional and Contemporary). “I have learned not just acting and stagecraft but also technical theatre and backstage work, which I now see as an essential and invaluable aspect of the performing arts,” she adds.
In Step Dave, Lau plays Ting Ting, a 17-year-old navigating family tension and self-discovery. “Balancing theatre-based techniques with the fast-paced demands of television pushed me to grow as a performer,” she shares.
Above Lau portrays Ting Ting, a key character in Astro’s drama ‘Step Dave’ (Photo: Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad & Taylor's University)
Lau portrays Ting Ting, a key character in Astro’s drama ‘Step Dave’ (Photo: Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad & Taylor's University)
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Her international exposure, including classes with UK-based lecturer Edward McGurn, broadened her outlook and fuelled her ambition to perform globally. She also credits her movement mentor Tung Jit Yang, whose production Sisyphus No. 9 inspired her to pursue bold, physical storytelling.
“There is a unique intensity that I see in his teachings and creative works which resonates deeply with me,” she notes. “Watching his production was an eye-opening experience, and I hope one day to be part of a piece of that calibre.”
Above Lau performing on stage as part of her Production Practicum final-year project, 'Oh Blue, I Love You Too' (Photo: Taylor's University)
Lau performing on stage as part of her Production Practicum final-year project, 'Oh Blue, I Love You Too' (Photo: Taylor's University)
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Performing with purpose
Looking ahead, Raziman aims to expand global partnerships and strengthen collaborations with leading creative organisations to keep training relevant and globally connected.
He emphasises the dedication to building both skill and character. “We are committed to nurturing graduates who are not only talented performers, but also adaptable, entrepreneurial, and socially conscious, ready to shape the future of the performing arts industry.” he says.
Students may also transfer to partner universities such as the University of Leeds, Middlesex University London, Deakin University, or the University of Melbourne after Year 1 or 2, gaining international cultural and artistic perspectives.
Ranked among the world’s top 150 universities for Arts & Humanities based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, Taylor’s University stands as a compelling choice for aspiring performers in Southeast Asia.
Ready to take centre stage? Experience the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) first-hand at Taylor’s Open Day on December 6–7 and 13–14.
Click here for more details.
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