GSC CEO Ms Koh Mei Lee’s Inaugural Lecture Inspires the Next Generation at Taylor’s University

By Isha Suraya Rosli

[Subang Jaya] On Wednesday 4th June, GSC CEO Ms Koh Mei Lee came to Taylor’s University to deliver the first inaugural lecture in partnership with the university’s school of media and communication. She provided some insights on the film industry in her captivating guest lecture, where she shared not only her passion for the cinematic arts but also an overview of the evolution of cinema. 

A Career Rooted in Cinema

Ms Koh has been with Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) for 19 years, overseeing the growth of the company that now spans over 600 screens and 70 locations across Malaysia and Vietnam. She shared her experience and enthusiasm as she recalled memories throughout her journey and the many changes in the movie industry.

 

The Evolution of the Big Screen

Ms Koh noted that the cinema industry is “moving even faster than everyone else,” emphasising how the experience of watching movies in a theater is uniquely memorable. “You can always remember what was the last movie you watched at the cinema, am I correct? But you may not be able to remember what you last watched on the telly,” she told students.

She then went on to take the audience on a walk through the history of cinema, from the silent era and the arrival of Technicolor to the golden age of Hollywood. She also mentioned local influences that shaped the scene, such as icons like P. Ramlee and a well-known standalone cinema called the Coliseum, which opened in 1920 and still operates today.

The Coliseum Standalone Cinema.

Source: The Citymaker by Thinkcity

Adapting to Change 

The lecture continued by recalling how the introduction of VHS and DVDs in the 1990s caused many theaters to shut down, pushing the film industry to come up with new ideas. The growth of multiplexes in shopping malls marked a significant change, helping cinemas to expand again and meet the changing needs of audiences.

She told a funny story about how, back when movies were shown on film reels, projectionists would hurry to transport the reels on motorcycles between theaters to cut costs. This is very different from how we use digital projectors today.

Cinema as Lifestyle

Aside from the development of technology, Ms Koh discusses how cinema is now as much about lifestyle as it is about movies. With the integrations of IMAX, 4DX, and luxury seating, going to the movies has become a well-rounded experience. “It’s no longer about movies. It’s really very much about lifestyle,” she said.

Challenges of the Pandemic

 Ms Koh asked the audience to recall the 2020 COVID pandemic. This had a big impact on the industry as cinemas were closed for nearly two years. This caused more people to start watching movies at home on services like Netflix and Disney+. Even after cinemas reopened, they struggled because the Hollywood strikes held up new movies and changed how people prefer to watch films.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Ms Koh engaged students with questions and pop quizzes, encouraging them to think critically about the relationship between movies and society. “Movies really reflect on the belief, the values, the cultural norm where movies are made and also movies are a very powerful platform in order to shape society, you know, dispel untruth... challenge society norms and change your perception of things,” she explained.

Ms Koh Mei Lee handing out prizes to the top scorers of the pop quiz.

Ms Koh concluded by reminding students that their generation matters, “we want cinemas to be around for the next hundred, two hundred years, so the next generation matters and then we close the loop.” 

 

A Lasting Impression

Ms. Koh Mei Lee's guest lecture was not just about history. It encouraged students to take part in the changing world of cinema. As Taylor's University's School of Media and Communication connects with the industry, Ms. Koh's knowledge is set to motivate the next generation of media professionals.