Universiti Malaysia Sarawak recently welcomed five students and two officers from Osaka Prefectural Suito Kokusai Junior and Senior High School, Japan, for a cultural exchange programme. They were joined by representatives from Sekolah Sains Kuching Utara (SAKURA) and the Sarawak State Education Department.
The programme began with a welcoming session attended by the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, together with the Head of the Mobility Unit, Head of International Student Affairs, and UNIMAS Global staff. On behalf of UNIMAS, Mdm. Yusrina warmly greeted the Japanese delegation, while Mr. Kosei Miwata delivered remarks representing Osaka Prefectural Suito Kokusai. Mr. Mohd Ilham Abdullah, Head of the Mobility Unit, then introduced study and mobility opportunities at UNIMAS.
A highlight of the exchange was the Batik Canting Workshop at the Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts, led by Dr. Marzie Hatiff Jalil, where the Japanese students learned the artistry and symbolism behind Malaysia’s traditional batik. The visit also included a tour of the Tun Abdul Rahman Yaakub Library, a visit to the Zoology Museum, and a guided campus tour to experience UNIMAS’ learning and cultural environment.
Commenting on the programme, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Ir. Dr. Siti Noor Linda Taib, said that such initiatives not only provide meaningful cross-cultural experiences for students but also strengthen the academic and institutional ties that UNIMAS has nurtured with international partners over the years.
This programme is part of UNIMAS long-standing collaboration of 26 years with the Osaka Gas Foundation of International Cultural Exchange (OGFICE) and was also one of the key initiatives stemming from the Vice-Chancellor’s visit to Osaka in July this year.
UNIMAS extends its heartfelt appreciation to Osaka Prefectural Suito Kokusai Junior and Senior High School, Sekolah Sains Kuching Utara (SAKURA), the Sarawak State Education Department, and the participating faculties for their support in making this programme a success.
This cultural exchange reflects UNIMAS strong commitment to its internationalisation agenda, providing meaningful cross-cultural exposure while further strengthening academic and institutional ties at the global level.
