The Meet and Greet Session organised by UNIMAS Global for the incoming Mobility Students of Semester 2, Session 2025/2026 was more than just a welcoming programme. It marked the beginning of new friendships, meaningful cultural exchanges, and unforgettable experiences for students arriving at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak from different parts of the world.
Students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Guangzhou Xinhua University, Huainan Union University, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Universitas Islam Negeri Palopo, Yayasan Rumah Sakit Islam Jakarta, and The University of Kitakyushu gathered together for the session as they officially began their mobility journey at UNIMAS.
The programme created a warm and welcoming environment for students to get to know one another, interact with fellow mobility participants, and learn more about campus life at UNIMAS. Although many of them came from different academic backgrounds, cultures, and countries, the session allowed everyone to connect through shared experiences as international mobility students.
Throughout the programme, students had the opportunity to engage directly with the staff members of UNIMAS Global, who introduced the support and services available throughout their stay in Sarawak. Students were also encouraged to continuously engage with the Mobility Team at UNIMAS Global should they require any assistance, guidance, or support during their mobility period at UNIMAS.
The session was attended by Mr. Thian Foong Fatt, Director of UNIMAS Global, as well as Mr. Mohd Ilham Abdullah, Head of Mobility, together with officers from the Mobility Unit. Their presence reflected UNIMAS Global’s commitment towards ensuring that international students feel welcomed, supported, and connected throughout their experience at UNIMAS.
During the session, Mr. Thian Foong Fatt personally welcomed the students and shared words of encouragement as they begin their academic and cultural experience at UNIMAS. In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the Director also spent time having a meal together with the students, allowing for informal conversations and meaningful engagement beyond the formal programme setting.
The casual interaction provided students with a valuable opportunity to build rapport with university representatives while fostering a stronger sense of belonging within the UNIMAS community. Moments like these play an important role in shaping a positive student experience, especially for international students adjusting to a new country and university environment.
Special appreciation was also extended to the international buddies involved in the programme, namely Hana from Malaysia, Della from Indonesia, and Nagima from Kyrgyzstan. Their support and guidance greatly assisted the incoming students in adapting to campus life, understanding local culture, and feeling welcomed during their first days at UNIMAS.
Beyond academics, mobility programmes provide students with opportunities to experience different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. Through interactions with local students, participation in university activities, and exploration of Sarawak’s multicultural environment, students are able to develop intercultural understanding, confidence, and lifelong friendships that extend beyond borders.
As the students begin their semester at UNIMAS, the Meet and Greet Session served as a meaningful first step in creating a memorable and enriching mobility experience. UNIMAS Global hopes that their time in Sarawak will not only contribute to their academic growth, but also leave them with valuable experiences, strong international connections, and memories that they will cherish for years to come.
By Mohd Ilham Abdullah, Head of Mobility, UNIMAS Global.
Mohd Ilham Abdullah has over five years of experience at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). He previously served as Head of International Student Affairs and is currently serving as Head of Mobility, where he supports inbound and outbound mobility programmes, international student engagement, and collaborative initiatives that strengthen UNIMAS’s global presence.