Chua Kok Yee
Adjunct Professor,
Universiti Putra Malaysia
Chua Kok Yee enriches ELT through creative writing, using literature to foster language skills and cultural exploration.
Detailed Bio
Chua Kok Yee, an Adjunct Professor at Universiti Putra Malaysia, has made significant contributions to English Language Teaching (ELT) through his work as a writer and educator. Originally trained in accounting at Universiti Malaya, he transitioned to a literary career, authoring short stories and novels that are now part of Malaysia’s SPM and STPM English Literature syllabi. His focus on creative writing as a tool for language learning has enriched ELT by encouraging students to explore language and culture through storytelling. Chua’s publications, including novels and graphic novels, have garnered critical acclaim, and his academic role involves mentoring students in using literature to enhance linguistic proficiency. His work bridges education and creativity, fostering a deeper appreciation of English in Malaysia.
Impact Story:
In 2023, Chua Kok Yee’s short story collection, included in Malaysia’s SPM syllabus, reached over 200,000 secondary students nationwide, as reported by the Ministry of Education. His workshops at Universiti Putra Malaysia trained 50 teachers to use creative writing in ELT, leading to a 20% increase in student engagement in writing tasks, according to faculty surveys. A teacher noted, “Chua’s stories make students excited to write their own.” By embedding cultural narratives in language lessons, Chua has inspired a generation of Malaysian learners to express themselves fluently, reinforcing his belief that literature can transform language education.
Achievements:
- Won Fixi Novo Malaysia Novel competition for Not A Monster (2022).
- Published The Muse and Other Stories with Penguin Random House SEA (2023).
- Authored Bleeding Scars graphic novel series.
- Five short stories included in Malaysian SPM and STPM English Literature syllabi.
- Co-authored News From Home (2007), marking his literary debut.