My Journey at the International Summer School Program 2025 in Malaysia
From July 13 to 19, 2025, I had the remarkable opportunity to participate in the International Summer School Program (ISSP) 2025, hosted by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Johor Bahru. This year’s program was especially meaningful as it brought together students from three universities: Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), Universitas Ciputra (UC), and UTM as the host. The week-long program offered a dynamic blend of academic enrichment, cultural immersion, and community engagement, making it a truly transformative international experience.
Our journey began in Kuala Lumpur, followed by a five-hour trip to Johor Bahru, where we were welcomed with great warmth at the Opening Dinner Ceremony. The event was attended by all participants and officially inaugurated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Ariffin bin Abu Hassan, Director of UTM International.
One of the early highlights of the program was a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity at Sekolah Kebangsaan Taman Mutiara Rini, where we installed an Android TV and stand for the school. Working in mixed teams from USK and UC, we experienced firsthand the power of collaboration and cross-cultural exchange. This initiative served as a powerful reminder that community service knows no borders.
Our cultural exploration took us to the Kompleks Kraf Johor, where we were introduced to traditional musical instruments, local games, and the iconic Wau (Malaysian kites). We also engaged in hands-on craft activities like painting vases and making traditional fans, which deepened our appreciation for Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.
A major academic highlight was the hands-on workshop at UTM Makerspace, where we learned about 3D design and printing. Working in teams, we developed innovative projects from scratch—an experience that sharpened our skills in creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These are essential tools for thriving in today’s interconnected global landscape.
Our UTM campus tour offered further academic inspiration. We visited the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, including the UTM-HUIBO Digital Intelligence Lab, where we observed industrial robots in action. Other stops included the Canselori Building, Sultanah Zanariah Library, Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, Student Studio, and even a stingless bee honey farm. Each visit provided valuable insights and sparked ideas for future development initiatives back at USK.
The program culminated in group presentations, where we showcased our collaborative projects. This was followed by a prize-giving session and a heartfelt closing ceremony, during which all participants received certificates of completion—a meaningful acknowledgment of our journey together.
As we departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport, we carried home not only new academic knowledge but also treasured memories, deep friendships, and a broadened global perspective.
ISSP 2025 exemplified the shared vision of UTM, USK, and UC in fostering international collaboration, promoting sustainability, and delivering learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom. I returned to Indonesia not just as a student, but as a more open-minded, globally-aware individual—ready to contribute to a better, more connected world with purpose and confidence.
By Teuku Hanief Rayyan Abira, Accounting Student, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Syiah Kuala.
