From May 6 to May 10, 2025, 25 members of SMART – the Society of Marketing Talent from the Faculty of Economics and Business, UNIMAS – along with their advisors, Dr. Fadilah binti Siali and Associate Professor Dr. Mahani binti Abdu Shakur, participated in the SMART Bridge to Vietnam: Academic & Knowledge Program. Sponsored by Lee Ming Press and Kek Lapis MamaSu, this initiative marked a meaningful collaboration between Malaysia and Vietnam, co-organised with FPT University and RMIT University in Ho Chi Minh City. The program aimed to foster academic learning, cultural exchange, and community service among university students.
Over the five-day program, participants engaged in a range of academic activities, including Global Classroom sessions at FPT University, led by Ms. Kaci Nguyen. At RMIT University, the group was welcomed by Dr. Justin Xavier, Senior Manager of International and Project Development. A Global Classroom session at RMIT was facilitated by Dr. Emmy, a lecturer in Digital Marketing, who led insightful discussions on current trends and innovative approaches in the digital landscape. Additionally, Associate Professor Dr. Mahani binti Abdu Shakur represented UNIMAS in conducting a Global Classroom session at Swinburne University, further enriching the program and fostering international academic collaboration.
A key highlight of the trip was the community service activity at the Vocational Education Center for the Disabled and Orphaned in Ho Chi Minh City. The visit began with an opening speech by Center Manager Ms. Kim Loan, followed by a donation handover and gift exchange. The Faculty of Economics and Business presented a special token sponsored by Lee Ming Press Sdn Bhd and Sarawak’s iconic kek lapis, sponsored by Mamasu Kek Lapis. In return, the center gifted a traditional ladies’ outfit artwork. Students also took part in cultural performances, cleaning activities, and a school tour, gaining deeper insights into the center’s mission and programs. Through creative and motivational engagement, SMART members fostered connection, empathy, and shared learning with the residents – leaving a lasting impression on both sides.
In addition to the academic and community service components, participants took part in edutourism activities, exploring iconic sites in Ho Chi Minh City. Visits to Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Opera House, Malaysia Street, and the Fine Arts Museum offered students a first-hand experience of Vietnamese culture, food, art, and lifestyle. Malaysian cultural performances at Swinburne University and the Vocational Education Center introduced the local community to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage. Campus tours at both FPT University and RMIT University provided participants with valuable insights into the academic environments and facilities of these esteemed institutions.
The SMART Bridge to Vietnam program concluded on a memorable and inspiring note. Seamlessly blending academic enrichment, cultural immersion, and meaningful service, the program reflected the true spirit of international collaboration and youth empowerment.
