Written by Dr Nor Hanim Awang @ Mohd Noor
BAU, SARAWAK – In a vibrant display of unity and physical grit, the UNIMAS Social Work Club (SWAS) successfully executed its annual flagship program, Beyond Summit: At Bung Bratak, on 4 April 2026. The hiking expedition, which drew scores of participants from across the programme from Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), aimed to bridge the gap between various academic disciplines through outdoor endurance and shared heritage.
A Mission of Resilience and Unity
The program was established as a strategic initiative to foster self-resilience among students which is a trait deemed essential for those entering the demanding fields of social services and governance. Beyond the physical challenge, the climb was designed to increase cardiovascular endurance and provide a much-needed mental reprieve from the rigors of the academic semester.
“This initiative is about more than just reaching the peak,” noted a representative from the SWAS committee. “It is about building a support network that extends beyond our specific programs. By fostering closer relationships today, we are preparing these students for the collaborative nature of their future careers.”
Strengthening Inter-Programme Bonds
The expedition was led by Dr Nor Hanim Awang @ Mohd Noor, a Social Work Programme, Coordinator who served as the accompanying mentor. Her presence underscored the faculty’s support for holistic student development, blending academic guidance with real-world social interaction.
The event saw a diverse turnout of 83 students, showcasing a significant cross-section of the faculty’s talent. The participation breakdown included:
- 33 students from the Social Work Programme.
- 10 students each from the Industrial and Employment Relations, International Relations, Anthropology and Sociology and Politics and Government Programme.
This diverse assembly transformed the trail into a moving forum for interdisciplinary exchange, as future social workers trekked alongside aspiring diplomats and policymakers.
Conquering the Trail
The choice of Bung Bratak provided a culturally rich backdrop for the event. As students navigated the steep terrain, the shared experience served as a powerful tool for social cohesion. “The Beyond Summit” theme resonated as participants encouraged one another to push past physical fatigue, culminating in a collective sense of achievement at the top.
As the SWAS Social Work Club continues to prioritize initiatives that balance physical health with emotional intelligence, the success of the 2026 hike sets a high benchmark for future student-led programs. By the time the descent was completed, it was clear that the bonds formed on the trail had successfully bridged the gap between the various programmes of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.
FSSH – A Partner for Social Change