A Global Learning Experience
The Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), through its Kelab Pascasiswazah, recently embarked on an international academic and cultural engagement titled A Global Adventure 2025: Intellectour to Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU). Held from 30 July to 4 August 2025 in Medan, Indonesia, the six-day programme provided postgraduate students with an enriching platform for learning, cross-cultural exchange, and community service.
Community Engagement at Panti Asuhan Al-Marhamah
The programme began with a heartfelt visit to Panti Asuhan Al-Marhamah, a local orphanage in Medan. The UNIMAS delegation donated essential items, including clothing, stationery, baby supplies, and electric fans, as part of their community outreach initiative.
The visit also featured ice-breaking games and art therapy activities, where children were encouraged to express their creativity and aspirations. For participants, the experience was both humbling and inspiring — a reminder that compassion, empathy, and service are vital dimensions of leadership and scholarly growth.
Academic Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange
The academic segment of Intellectour took place at Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), where a joint postgraduate research colloquium brought together students from both universities. Participants presented their ongoing research, exchanged methodologies, and engaged in meaningful discussions across various fields of study.
This collaboration not only strengthened academic ties between UNIMAS and USU but also reflected both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing research excellence and regional intellectual partnerships.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Beyond academic pursuits, participants had the opportunity to showcase Malaysia’s cultural richness through a cultural performance and food exhibition. Traditional Sarawak dances and delicacies such as Laksa Sarawak and Kek Lapis Sarawak offered participants and guests an authentic taste of Sarawak’s heritage.
The celebration highlighted the role of cultural understanding in fostering friendship, respect, and global citizenship among students.
Building Skills, Friendships, and Resilience
Throughout the six days, participants demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and adaptability, managing challenges such as last-minute logistical adjustments and self-funding arrangements with professionalism and cooperation. These experiences strengthened not only their leadership and communication skills but also their sense of camaraderie and purpose.
A Journey Beyond Borders
As the delegation concluded their visit, they returned to UNIMAS with new knowledge, research insights, and cherished memories of friendship and collaboration.
Intellectour USU 2025 stands as a meaningful testament to the transformative power of higher education — where knowledge, culture, and compassion come together to inspire positive change and nurture globally minded graduates.
Contributed by Fatin Hamizah / Kelab Pascasiswazah FSKPM