We are setting the stage for prospective engineers to practice with cutting edge technology, gain comprehensive knowledge and have professional experiences in audio engineering. Together, we will elevate the industry with innovators, forward thinkers and most importantly hardworkers.
I was 12 years old when my brother, Stanley brought home a pair of loudspeakers. As the speaker cones vibrated, my whole world shifted. I discovered a new world for me to explore, and that was audio. From that, I made it my mission to share the gift of quality audio to everyone.
Since then, I have travelled all over the world, setting up for artists internationally. When I came back home to Malaysia, I realized that audio engineering here is so far behind. Here, most of the guys I have spoken to were never given the opportunity to understand the nuances of audio or experience top of the line technology. I wanted to change that.
So I came back home with a purpose. That is to improve the standards of audio engineering in Malaysia. I wanted to give back to my countrymen by sharing the knowledge I have garnered over the years and expose them to cutting edge technology. Making this the genesis of the AES Academy.
Sunil Kumar Raghupathy is a seasoned professional in the media and entertainment industry, with extensive experience in content creation, show direction, technical direction, and audio engineering. Currently, he serves as the Director of Creative Coalition Sdn Bhd and Technical Director for both the Jazz Association Singapore and Memories Entertainment.
His career spans over three decades, during which he has held significant roles such as General Manager and Executive Producer at Studio8, Media Prima Berhad, and Primeworks Studios.
Sunil has been instrumental in managing high-profile projects, including Malaysian Idol, So You Think You Can Dance Malaysia, and MTV World Stage Malaysia 2014.
He has also directed major events like the KLCC New Year’s Eve and Merdeka Countdown and the AUDI E-TROM Launch 2023. His expertise extends to virtual concert production, with notable works for Petronas and the Malaysian Football Super Liga. Additionally, Sunil has contributed to music production, working with renowned artists and orchestras, and has earned certifications in advanced audio training and YouTube audience growth.
His diverse portfolio showcases his ability to lead and innovate across various facets of media production and event management.
Dr. Hairul Hasnan is a distinguished educator and accomplished music professional, holding a doctorate degree in Music and a master’s degree in Music Production from the University of York, a prestigious institution in the UK. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics with Electronics, before he pursued his passion for music with a subsequent Bachelor’s degree in Music.
With a diverse background, Dr. Hasnan embarked on a rich career path, starting as a full-time musician at RTM, stationed in Johor Bahru. During his tenure, he actively participated in numerous recording sessions in studios and delivered captivating live performances with the RTM combo.
As a seasoned music producer, Dr. Hasnan boasts an impressive portfolio of studio recordings, including the recent release of a 10-song album for Reening Lau, generously funded by Cendana. He has also lent his production expertise to the debut EP of TitikDinginDamai titled “Belumkata”, both of which are available for streaming on various digital platforms. His proficiency lies in pop and rock music, with a specialization in drums for both recording and live performances. Presently, Dr. Hasnan is deeply involved in the Malaysian indie scene, nurturing emerging talents such as We Are Avalanche and Laras dari Rasian.
Beyond his creative endeavors, Dr. Hasnan actively engages in professional development initiatives. He has conducted numerous music production workshops, including sessions at Lembaga Kebudayaan Sabah, Radio Televisyen Malaysia, and several private companies. Additionally, he serves as the Secretary for the Audio Engineering Society (AES) Malaysia.
Dr. Hasnan’s contributions extend to scholarly pursuits as well. He authored the first Malay-language book on music production, titled “Asas Rakaman dan Produksi Muzik”, a pioneering work in the field. Furthermore, his research on Nonlinear Mixing Systems, conducted during his tenure at the University of York, was presented at prestigious events such as the AES Convention 2019 in Dublin and the Art of Recording Conference at Berklee College of Music.
Currently, Dr. Hasnan serves as a Senior Lecturer, imparting his expertise in audio engineering and music production at the esteemed University of Malaya.