On January 11, 2025, the Club of Civil Engineering Students (CoCEUS) at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) successfully organized CoCEUS: Connect, a rejuvenating and meaningful program held at Paradise Beach in Trombol, Kuching, Sarawak. The event brought together 23 committee members for a day of relaxation, teamwork, and reflection, offering a refreshing escape from academic pressures while fostering camaraderie and mental well-being. The day began with participants gathering at the Faculty of Engineering lobby before departing for Paradise Beach. Upon arrival, the group enthusiastically set up the barbecue area, showcasing their collaborative spirit. However, an unexpected challenge arose when lighting the fire for the barbecue. Undeterred, the team worked together to collect firewood from the nearby area, turning the task into an impromptu bonding activity.

While waiting for the fire to ignite, the group shifted gears to conduct a beach-cleaning activity. Combing the shore and collecting litter, the participants demonstrated their shared responsibility toward environmental preservation, further strengthening their teamwork and connection to nature.

The program also included a lively soccer match on the beach, replacing the originally planned volleyball game. The friendly competition was filled with laughter and energy, creating unforgettable memories against the picturesque backdrop of Paradise Beach. A key highlight of the day was the reflection session, where participants discussed CoCEUS’s past achievements and upcoming activities. This meaningful dialogue allowed the committee to align their goals, celebrate successes, and strategize for future initiatives, fostering a sense of purpose and unity. Lunch was a rewarding experience as the group enjoyed the barbecue they had prepared together. The meal was a testament to their perseverance and teamwork, with shared conversations deepening their bonds.

As the event concluded, the team ensured the beach was left spotless, preserving its natural beauty. A closing session allowed participants to express their gratitude and reflect on the day’s impact, capturing the essence of the program through photographs and heartfelt exchanges. Led by Program Director Muhammad Alhakim Bin Norizan and operating on a modest budget of RM 371, CoCEUS: Connect exemplified collaboration, adaptability, and shared purpose. By the end of the day, participants returned to UNIMAS with renewed energy, strengthened relationships, and a heightened sense of readiness to tackle academic challenges with confidence and optimism. CoCEUS: Connect not only provided a refreshing escape but also reinforced the values of teamwork, environmental stewardship, and forward-thinking reflection, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.

Prepared by Nor Azalina Rosli and CoCEUS 2024.2025, UNIMAS