Can newspapers survive in the digital world? Award-winning Polish designer Jacek Utko employed his skills as a graphic designer and art director to transform lethargic newspaper layouts and revived the failing print media industry in Eastern Europe. Utko will give print media owners a chance to listen to his story on 29 June as part of the Audit Bureau of Circulations' Talk & Toast' series at Eastin Hotel. "Jacek has proven conclusively that good art design combined with compelling content and a solid marketing strategy is the recipe for the long-term survival of newspapers," says Chan Sheow-Vern, ABC Malaysia President.

The much-in-demand Utko has given talks all over the world and inspired leading newspapers to make a change with imagination, inspiration - and a determination to succeed.

Utko has amassed more than 40 awards in various design competitions, including the World's Best Designed Newspaper, awarded by the Society for News Design, for Poland's Puls Biznesu and Estonia's Aripaev.

Utko believes that redesign is about changing the product completely. "Redesign can be a vehicle for total change. lt can activate all of the company's departments. We call it inner branding. The principles applied can practically be applied to everyone in the communications industry including the digital platforms." The session will also include a briefing on ABC's revised rules by Margaret Au Yong and a presentation on the difference between readership and circulation by the Malaysian Media Specialists Association.

The fee for Utko's inspiring talk is RM299 each and RM350 for non-industry guests. A 5% discount is extended to companies with a minimum representation of five guests and 10% discount for over 10 guests. 4As members who participate in the seminar will be awarded Boomerang 30 points.

Closing date for registration is 5:00pm on 25 June. lnterested parties are encouraged to make their reservations now by logging on to www.abcm.org.mv. For enquiries, please contact Kala Kovan at (603) 7560-8535, or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .