UMPSA Edutourism Programme offers learning opportunities while travelling

KUANTAN, 13 May 2024 – Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) introduced the Edutourism Programme through packages specifically designed with the objective of introducing cultural diversity, language and the beauty of interesting places, especially in Pahang Darul Makmur and Malaysia in general.

Various packages offered to students include Nature and Adventure Package: A Thrilling Adventure In Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan Pahang and Malay and Cultural Heritage.

At present, 24 international students including students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Universitas Muhammadiyah, Indonesia (UNMUHA) have attended the programme to enjoy the beauty and culture of Malaysia, especially Pahang, as well as attending lectures at UMPSA related to technology and engineering.

The UMPSA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yuserrie Zainuddin said this pilot programme was participated not only by students at the university but also open to all students of higher education institutions (HEI).

“This time, the programme was attended by international students from Egypt, Acheh, Iraq, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Bangladesh and Palestine.

“This educational tourism programme is one of the key performance indicators (KPIs) under the UMPSA Strategic Plan 2021-2025 under Thrust 6A: Student Internationalisation coordinated under the Student Affairs and Alumni Department (JHEPA) with other relevant departments.

“UMPSA, located in Pahang, is very lucky when it is blessed with highland areas with refreshing air, jungle forests with preserved flora and fauna, beaches with enchanting scenery and more,” he said.

He also said that Pahang also has other attractions such as local culture and food.

“Indirectly, this programme also introduces UMPSA to overseas students with package offerings and programmes that highlight the uniqueness and specialities of Pahang.

“In addition, these students can experience learning sessions in lecture rooms and laboratories at UMPSA.
“UMPSA always welcomes international students who are excited to explore the beauty of Pahang,” he said.

He further explained that the presence of students from all corners of the world not only enriches the UMPSA academic environment but also increases the appreciated cultural diversity.

Revira Avantika Sepriana from Universitas Muhammadiah Aceh shared her joy as well as three friends who participated in this programme.

She said there were many new experiences during the programme, even they could enjoy the beauty of the flora and fauna in Kuala Tahan.

“In addition, we had the opportunity to study and visit state-of-the-art and the latest laboratories at UMPSA,” she said.

Meanwhile, Abdelrahman Moussa, an international student from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), said that his participation in the Night Global Culture Program Edutourism activities gave him and his friends many new experiences, especially when they had the opportunity to explore Malay culture through food and eating by hand in a beautiful traditional house in Panching Selatan.

“The performance of silat and accompanied by traditional musical instruments also attracted me.

“More interestingly, participants were also taught to use drums and flutes.

“This sweet experience will definitely be shared with friends when we return to Egypt,” he said, who will continue his study at UTM.

By: Nor Salwana Mohammad Idris, Centre for Corporate Communications
Translation by: Dr.  Rozaimi  Abu  Samah, Faculty   of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology