On 15 October 2024, Mr. Isaac Lim, a Permata Dunia from the Class of 2012, returned to campus for an enriching sharing session with the university community. As a seasoned vocalist and music teacher, Mr. Isaac delivered a highly informative talk titled “How to Effectively Use and Protect Your Voice”. The session, organised by the Foundation in Business Department (FOB), provided valuable knowledge on maintaining vocal health and optimizing voice usage, a topic of immense relevance not only to performers but to anyone who relies heavily on their voice in daily life.
Mr. Isaac began by explaining the intricate process of voice production. He described how air from the lungs passes through the vocal cords located in the larynx, causing the cords to vibrate and produce sound waves. These sound waves then resonate through the mouth, nose, or head, depending on the type of sound being produced. He cautioned attendees about a common mistake: placing too much emphasis on the mouth or jaw, which can cause the epiglottis to close. This closure traps air pressure in the throat, leading to harmful friction that can strain or damage the vocal cords.
A key focus of his presentation was the importance of proper breathing techniques. Mr. Isaac emphasiesd that breathing is fundamental to maintaining a healthy voice, as it helps to open the throat and support vocal projection. However, tension in the mouth and jaw can counteract this, causing the throat to tighten and restrict airflow. He advised against overpronunciation, which can exacerbate this problem, and pointed out that vigorous movements of the mouth, jaw, tongue, or lips are unnecessary and can lead to discomfort or even injury.
The session also included practical demonstrations, where Mr. Isaac introduced a variety of breathing exercises aimed at enhancing vocal control and minimizing strain. He showed attendees how to reduce excessive mouth movement while speaking, ensuring vocal comfort and longevity. His expert tips on maintaining vocal health resonated with the audience, providing them with actionable strategies to use in both professional and personal settings.
The session was both engaging and insightful, offering attendees a deeper understanding of how to effectively use and protect their voices. Mr. Isaac’s expertise and passion for vocal health left a lasting impression, making the event an eye-opening experience for all who attended.
