IMPRESS Marathon 1.0 in Perak: A Fusion of Learning, Cultural Enrichment, and Community Service

From 17 to 19 May 2024, a diverse group of 28 students, including 18 committee members and ten selected first-year students from the Faculty of Industrial Management (FIM), Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) embarked on the inaugural IMPRESS Marathon 1.0 in Perak. 

This initiative, originally known as the PMSB Marathon, has significantly evolved over the years. It now extends beyond its initial focus on team development and information sharing within FIM to incorporate community service, cultural enrichment, and collaborative initiatives. The meticulous planning and organisation of this event were spearheaded by Ainul Sofia Saiful Aziz, President of IMPRESS, and her dedicated team.
Leadership and Collaboration

Ainul's collaboration with the President of the Business Management Student Society (BMSS) was pivotal to the success of this programme. This partnership facilitated a benchmarking visit to Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), where the students engaged with BMSS in various team-building exercises. These activities were designed to strengthen interpersonal relationships, enhance teamwork skills, and provide clear performance criteria for evaluating team success. This benchmarking visit not only boosted the students' confidence but also validated their hard work, inspiring them to aim for even greater achievements in the future.

Historical and Cultural Exploration
The students also visited Tanjung Tualang Tin Dredge No. 5, famously known as Kapal Korek Tanjung Tualang. This historical site offered invaluable insights into the tin industry's rise and fall, captivating the students with its rich history and significant impact on the local community. The visit to this last remaining tin dredge served as a poignant reminder of Malaysia's industrial heritage and the socio-economic transformations over the years. Further cultural enrichment was provided by a visit to Galeri Rumah Lat, where students immersed themselves in the art and memorabilia of Malaysia’s renowned cartoonist, Lat. This experience highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostered a deeper appreciation for local artistry and history among the students.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
An evening visit to Rumah Seri Kenangan, a home for the elderly, was particularly moving. The students listened to the residents' stories, which left a lasting impression on them. This interaction underscored the importance of empathy, respect, and social responsibility in building a compassionate society. The following morning, the group participated in a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity, cleaning Pantai Telok Senangin in collaboration with Majlis Pembandaran Manjung (MPM). Ainul's efforts in facilitating communication with MPM were crucial in this endeavour. Despite the physical exertion, the experience was deeply rewarding and aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 14: Life Below Water, emphasising the need for environmental conservation and sustainable practices.

Holistic Development and Future Implications
In conclusion, the IMPRESS Marathon 1.0 in Perak exemplifies the transformative power of experiential learning. It highlights the university's dedication to fostering holistic development and preparing students to become well-rounded, responsible, and globally conscious individuals. Through such initiatives, UMPSA continues to pave the way for its students to excel academically, professionally, and personally, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute positively to society and the world at large. We hope that other clubs and societies will be inspired by this model and carry out similar holistic programmes that shape students into better individuals, ready to face the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and integrity.

This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of UMPSA.