A Week of Learning, Culture, and Community Engagement

Currently, I participated in the International Summer School program, from July 27th to August 2nd, 2024, hosted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Johor Bahru. It offered me and other participants from Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) an immersive academic, cultural, and community activity week. The program was meticulously designed to provide students with a rich experience, combining learning, cultural exposure, and hands-on projects that reflect sustainable development and a global cooperation ethos.

The program began with the arrival of us (USK participants) and Staff members from the Office of International Affairs (OIA) at Kuala Lumpur Airport, followed by the check-in at Scholars Inn and the day culminated in an opening dinner ceremony at UTM’s Dewan Banquet. The event was officiated by the Director and featured a welcoming speech by the Associate Director of UTM, Prof. Dr. Norahim Ibrahim. The evening sets the tone for the week, offering us a chance to meet and interact in a formal yet warm setting.

The second day marked the commencement of academic activities at UTM’s Maker Space, where we were assigned projects. This session not only introduced participants to the academic rigor of UTM but also encouraged collaboration and innovation. The day continued with recreational activities, focusing on sustainable farming practices through the “Green Roots” experience. This blend of academic and practical learning was designed to deepen our understanding of sustainability and its global relevance.

On the third day, we embarked on a comprehensive tour of UTM’s campus, including a visit to the UTM Gallery at Perpustakaan Sultanah Zanariah. The tour aims to acquaint us with the university’s history, achievements, and contributions to research and innovation. Following the campus tour, the day continued with a cultural visit titled “Authentic Johor: A Cultural Journey.” This excursion offered us a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Johor, enhancing our appreciation of Malaysia’s diverse traditions.

Day four was dedicated to community service through the UTM-USK Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program at Kampung Sungai Danga. We engaged in an “Eco-Adventure,” focusing on sea clean-up efforts at Sungai Danga. This initiative reflects UTM’s commitment to environmental sustainability and offers us a hands-on opportunity to contribute to local conservation efforts. The day also included cultural activities with Global Buddies, wherein we experienced traditional Malaysian practices, fostering cross-cultural understanding and friendship.

As the program progressed, day five was centered on the finalization of group projects. We returned to UTM Maker Space for in-depth discussions, working together to refine our ideas and solutions. This day was crucial for fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The structured environment ensures that we focused on delivering high-quality work, supported by UTM’s academic resources, especially AI innovation and 3D printing techniques.

The penultimate day of the program saw us present our projects, showcasing the results of our collaborative efforts. The presentations are followed by a prize-giving ceremony, recognizing the creativity and innovation displayed by us. The day concluded with a closing ceremony, where certificates were awarded to all participants, marking the successful completion of the program.

On the final day, we departed for Kuala Lumpur International Airport, bringing the International Summer School Program to a close. As we bid farewell to UTM and Johor Bahru, we did not only carry academic knowledge but also a wealth of cultural experiences and new friendships, making this a truly remarkable and memorable period.

This program exemplifies UTM and USK commitment to fostering global connections, promoting sustainability, and providing an educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. I will leave not only with academic insights but also with a deeper understanding of the world and my role in shaping the future.