Scuba diving new attraction for UMP students

Pulau Perhentian, 24 July 2020 - A new experience awaits students who are interested in scuba diving activities when it was introduced as the latest activity organised by the Co-Curriculum Centre of Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP).

Recently, a total of 15 students consisting of students from uniformed bodies and UQS2171, together with four UMP staff had the opportunity to participate in the Sea Survival & Open Water Scuba Diving (SCUBA) SERIES 11 training programme organised by the Co-Curriculum Centre, Student Affairs and Alumni Department (JHEPA).

The three-day program successfully gave a positive impact on the participants, including increasing self-confidence, courage, and physical and mental endurance, especially among uniformed body trainees.

According to the Director of Co-Curriculum Centre UMP, Dr. Siti Rabiatul Aisha Idris, scuba diving is one of the extreme water sports and is gaining attention in the community.

“It is done for various purposes, including scientific, military, security, or recreation.
Through this program, participants have the opportunity to learn the basics related to scuba diving, theory, technical and practical classes, as well as written tests to qualify for an Open Water Diver licence from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).

“In addition to building mental and physical health, this program also cultivates courage and overcomes fear and becomes an added value to students when they graduate,” she said.

According to a participant from UMP Pekan, Seri Liyana Ezamzuri, she was grateful and delighted about the opportunities and experience obtained through this challenging SCUBA program.

Meanwhile, Amzar Aisar Abdullah from UMP Gambang thought this program is a valuable experience in his life as he had the opportunity to involve in extreme sports activities.

“It is not only to explore the underwater beauty but also learn to be calm,” he said.

This programme was also joined by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yuserrie Zainuddin.

According to him, the UMP Dive Centre is expected to start operating in stages by the end of this year.

“It can be used for water-based trainings such as diving, deep- and surface-water rescue activities, and water-confidence activities.

“Such programmes will continue to be annually conducted as it provides positive impact to university students and staff,” he said.

By:  Dr. Siti Rabiatul Aisha Idris and Mohamad Najib Mohamad Nor, Co-Curriculum Centre UMP

Translation by: Dr. Rozaimi Abu Samah, College of Engineering/Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology