As the sun dipped below the skyline of Kuching in late February 2025, casting a golden hue over the city, our students from Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) and UNIMAS gathered for one last time at The Marian Boutique Lodging House. It was the final evening of our student mobility program, a journey filled with laughter, learning, and an unbreakable bond forged through heritage, architecture, and shared experiences.
And what a night it was!
The energy at Marian’s outdoor space was a mix of excitement and nostalgia as we settled in to watch a video montage prepared by the talented UTB students. Every clip, every frame, was a heartfelt tribute to the past three days—capturing our adventures, our discoveries, and all the little moments that made this exchange so special. There were giggles, gasps, and even a few teary eyes as we relived our journey together.
But the night was far from over. We had the privilege of hearing from Ar. Ng Chee Wee of IDC Architects, the brilliant architectural firm behind The Marian Boutique Lodging House, and Datin Rosemarie Wong-Jabu, the passionate owner of the heritage boutique hotel. Their talk on adaptive reuse was nothing short of inspiring. They took us on a journey through time, sharing how The Marian was transformed from an aging convent into the stunning heritage treasure it is today. It was not just about restoring an old building—it was about breathing new life into history, about honoring the past while creating something meaningful for the present and future. The dedication and expertise of IDC Architects were evident in every carefully considered detail, seamlessly merging old-world charm with modern elegance.
As we walked through The Marian, exploring its nooks and crannies, the beauty of the space unfolded before us. The exposed brick walls whispered stories of the past, the wooden beams carried the weight of time, and every carefully curated element reflected a love for heritage and authenticity. This wasn’t just a building; it was a living narrative, a testament to the dedication of IDC Architects and the unwavering passion of Datin Rosemarie Wong-Jabu, who saw potential where others saw decay. We are deeply grateful to Datin Rosemarie for generously allowing us to use The Marian as our venue, making this event truly special. The Marian is not just a place to stay—it is an experience.
And then came the inevitable moment—the farewell. Hugs were exchanged, promises to keep in touch were made, and yes, there were tears (lots of them!). But amidst the bittersweet emotions, there was also a deep sense of gratitude—for the friendships we had built, for the knowledge we had gained, and for the memories that would stay with us forever.
This was not an ending, but a new beginning. A promise to continue this exchange, to keep the spirit of collaboration alive, and to reunite once again—this time in Brunei!
So, as we closed this chapter, there was only one way to sign off, loud and clear: IT’S A WRAPPPPPPPP!
Till next time, Brunei—we’ll see you soon!
