Written by Angelina Stephen, 3rd Year Student, Industrial Relations and Employment Programme
On November 27th and 28th, 2024, the final-year students of the Industrial Relations and Employment Programme (IREP) successfully organized IREP Retreat 2024. The retreat aimed to strengthen the bonds among students and lecturers of IREP besides developing close ties between 1st year students with the rest of the student communities. A total of 102 students participated in the programme, which includes first-year, second-year, and third-year students, organizing committee, and lecturers. A two-day programme was planned and coordinated with various interesting activities.
The retreat took place at the Permata Pugu Camping Site in Kampung Pugu, Lundu. On the first day, participants gathered at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, UNIMAS Kota Samarahan before departing for Kampung Pugu in Lundu which took a journey approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival, the campsite owner conducted a safety briefing and tent maintenance session. Participants are divided in their respective accommodations. They concluded the first day with a short briefing on housekeeping while, at the same time, participants settled in and enjoyed the scenic view.
Other activities include an ice-breaking activity, games and competitions, campfire and a barbeque dinner. All the activities focused on building strong relationships and camaraderie among first-year, second-year, and third-year students, irrespective of age, race, or gender.
The first evening featured an introductory session about the Industrial Relations and Employment Programme, led by Encik Awang Mashabi Awang Mohamad, a senior lecturer. During his session, he provided an in-depth overview of the program, including its courses, expectations, and objectives. His insightful guidance offered students valuable tips for success, inspiring them to make the most of their learning journey.
The second day began with an energetic Zumba session to kickstart the morning. A lively dance battle during the session brought laughter and energy to the group, setting a cheerful tone for the day. This was followed by an interactive activity where participants exchanged papers and answered “bottle questions,” a creative way to encourage classmates to get to know each other on a deeper level.
After the games, the group shifted focus to a meaningful environmental effort: cleaning the nearby beach. Students collaborated to collect and dispose of garbage, including bottles, plastics, and food waste. This hands-on activity not only beautified the area but also instilled a sense of responsibility and love for the environment among the participants.
Post-lunch, the retreat concluded with a souvenir presentation session. The Program Director of Pemukiman IREP 2024, Farawahida, presented a token of appreciation to Mr. Hafizan, the owner of Permata Pugu Campsite, as a gesture of gratitude for hosting the retreat. Souvenirs were also distributed to winners of the various activities, as well as to all participants and committee members, ensuring everyone left with a tangible memory of the event.
The group returned to UNIMAS in the evening and dispersed, carrying with them the joy and fulfillment of a well-spent retreat. Despite the exhaustion, the students cherished the meaningful experiences they shared with their friends and peers.
The organizing committee from the Industrial Relations and Employment Programme (IREP) expressed hope that the retreat would continue as an annual tradition, fostering connections and creating lasting memories for future cohorts.
The success of IREP Retreat 2024 was a testament to the dedication and hard work of both the organizing committee and the participants. The event not only served as a platform for students to bond and strengthen relationships but also highlighted key values such as teamwork, environmental stewardship, and academic growth.
Participants provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, emphasizing how the retreat helped foster a strong sense of community and belonging within IREP. The memorable experiences and lessons gained during the retreat will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on everyone involved, setting a high standard for future events.