15 UMPSA students explore culture, technology, and life of the Islamic community in Japan

ASAKUSA, JAPAN, 7 October 2024 – A total of 15 Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) students participated in various engaging activities in Japan through the Electro-Explore@Japan international mobility programme from 1 to 7 October 2024.

The programme aimed to broaden students' exposure to the culture, technology, and life of the Islamic community in the country.

It involved 11 students from the Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology (FTKEE) and four students from the Faculty of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering Technology (FTKMA).

The programme was led by Nadia Munif from the Bachelor of Industrial Electronic Automation Technology programme and accompanied by Associate Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim and Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Norashikin Mat Zain.

The students commenced their activities by participating in a cultural event in Asakusa, Japan.

They also had the opportunity to wear traditional Yukata and Kimono attire and visit historical areas renowned for their traditional architecture.

This activity aimed to expose students to foreign cultural heritage and instil a sense of respect and appreciation for the diversity of cultures around the world.

In addition to experiencing life in a traditional Japanese setting, the students were also given the opportunity to interact with the local community, providing them with a broader perspective on life in other countries.

According to Programme Director, Nadia Munif, experiences like this encourage students to be more open and interested in exploring international cultures.

“Next, UMPSA students also attended a self-improvement course at Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT), which is located on two different campuses, namely the Toyosu Campus and the Omiya Campus.

“This activity gave them the opportunity to visit the state-of-the-art research laboratories at the institution, as well as engage in scholarly discussions.

“The discussions not only touched on the field of technology and research but also fostered academic ties that have the potential to spark future collaborations between UMPSA and SIT,” she said.

In addition, UMPSA students received direct exposure to the latest technological innovations, providing them with a deeper insight into the role of research and technology in global development.

Associate Professor Dr. Shahrol Mohamad from the Toyosu Campus and Associate Professor Dr. Azham Zulkharnain from the Omiya Campus also played significant roles in conveying information and sharing their experiences in the field of technology with UMPSA students.

According to Associate Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, observing the technological developments at SIT reinforces the belief that innovation is the key to overcoming global boundaries.

“Through this experience, our students were able to witness first-hand how effective research can shape the future of technology and benefit the global community.

“As part of the activities to understand the diversity of religions and cultures, UMPSA students also had the opportunity to visit the Otsuka Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Japan.

“There, they listened to an inspiring talk by the Secretary General of Otsuka Mosque, Haroon Qureshi, who shared his life experiences as a Muslim in Japan,” he said.

He also offered the students valuable advice, particularly regarding life as Muslims in a predominantly non-Muslim country.

Additionally, the students visited the first Islamic school and kindergarten in Japan, providing them with insights into the development of Islamic education in the country.

This experience not only opened the students’ eyes to the life of the Muslim community abroad but also inspired them to better appreciate the diversity of cultures and religions that exist globally.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Norashikin Mat Zain noted that studying the diversity of religions and cultures is crucial for deepening international values and for shaping students who are integrated and empathetic – qualities essential in today’s diverse global society.

“This experience allows them to see the world from a broader perspective, fostering mutual respect and understanding between different communities.

“With the various experiences gained throughout the Electro-Explore@Japan programme, UMPSA students can utilise the knowledge and skills they have acquired in their journey to become visionary, integrated future leaders capable of addressing global challenges.

“This programme not only has a positive impact on academic and research aspects but also nurtures soft skills and an appreciation for international diversity,” she said.

By: Muhammad Aizat Azed, Student Affairs and Alumni Department

Translation by: Aminatul Nor Mohamed Said, UMPSA Career Centre (UMPSACC)