The Solar Edutourism for Japanese Students (SEJaTi) 2025 program, held from August 31st till Sept 6th, 2025 across Sarawak, officially concluded yesterday, marking a milestone in academic mobility, sustainability education, and intercultural collaboration. Jointly organised by the Faculty of Engineering (FEng), UNIMAS and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), UNIMAS, in partnership with Tokai University, Japan, the week-long initiative was designed to promote academic exchange, environmental awareness, and cultural immersion. SEJaTi 2025 is the second mobility program spearheaded by FEng and represents the first-ever collaboration between UNIMAS and Tokai University under the solar edutourism theme.
Throughout the program, participants gained hands-on exposure to renewable energy and cultural discovery in the Land of the Hornbills. From the September of 1st till 3rd, students visited the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Plant where they learned about the history of Batang Ai HEP, Sarawak’s network of power plants, and Sarawak’s first floating solar project. They also observed the control room of the Batang Ai Solar Project, gaining first-hand understanding of how clean energy systems are managed in real time. During the same period, they engaged with the community at Nanga Jela Longhouse, embracing the values of multicultural teamwork and rural development.
On September 3rd, after returning from the longhouse, the delegation was warmly welcomed at the Faculty of Engineering, UNIMAS, in a special session with Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Norazzlina bt M. Sa’don, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, where they were introduced to UNIMAS and its strengths, particularly the role and contributions of the faculty in engineering education and research. During their visit to UNIMAS, Professor Hiroyuki Fujimaki from Tokai University also got the chance to meet with Prof Ir Dr Siti Noor Linda Taib, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research & Innovation), to explore potential avenues for collaboration in research and academic exchange between the two institutions.
On September 4th, participants visited the Centre of Technical Excellence Sarawak (CENTEXS), exploring cutting-edge facilities including the IR 4.0 Lab, Green Energy Lab, and IoT Lab. A highlight was the Cascading Hydro Testbed, showcasing Sarawak’s innovation in renewable energy. The day concluded with a nature walk at Damai Beach, offering time for reflection in a scenic coastal setting. The cultural dimension of the program unfolded on 5 September with visits to the Borneo Cultural Village, India Street, Carpenter Street, and other historical and cultural landmarks in the Kuching city area, offering participants a deeper appreciation of Sarawak’s diverse traditions, heritage, and multicultural identity.
On the night of 5 September, a closing dinner was held to celebrate the successful completion of the program. The event was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof Dr Fitri Suraya Mohamad Hapni Joblie, Associate Professor Ir Dr Mohd Danial Bin Ibrahim, Program Director, Dr Norlida bt Jamil, Mdm Nur Aliah Athirah bt Hj Mohtadzar, FEng Representative, Dr Nicholas ank Gani, and Mr Christopher a/l Perumal, FSSH Representatives, together with Professor Hiroyuki Fujimaki and all participating students from Tokai University and UNIMAS. The dinner highlighted the spirit of collaboration, appreciation, and friendship that defined SEJaTi 2025.
SEJaTi 2025 brought together six Political Science students from Tokai University, led by Professor Hiroyuki Fujimaki, M.A. in International Relations. They were supported by four students from the Faculty of Engineering and four from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, UNIMAS, who acted as facilitators and cultural ambassadors throughout the program. This collaborative environment created opportunities for peer-to-peer learning, knowledge exchange, and the building of enduring academic and cultural ties.
The program’s success was made possible through the unwavering support of the Vice Chancellor of UNIMAS, YBhg Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof Dr Fitri Suraya Mohamad Hapni Joblie, whose encouragement and leadership ensured the smooth implementation of the program. Special thanks also go to Tokai University for their collaboration and commitment to international academic mobility. Deep appreciation is extended to SEJaTi 2025 Program Director, Associate Professor Ir Dr Mohd Danial Bin Ibrahim, together with the dedicated committee, faculty members, and staff, whose tireless efforts shaped the program into an enriching and memorable experience.
SEJaTi 2025 achieved its goal of bridging academic knowledge with practical sustainability awareness while nurturing intercultural understanding and friendships. By combining technical exposure, policy discussions, community engagement, and cultural immersion, the program provided a holistic learning experience that will resonate with participants long after their return to Japan. The students themselves shared heartfelt reflections that captured the spirit of the program:
“Thank you so much for all your help. It was my first time in Malaysia and I was very nervous, but with everyone’s support I was able to have a wonderful trip,” shared Yuta, Tokai University student.
“Everything was new, surprising, and beautiful. This program is the best memory in my life. If you come to Tokyo, please contact us, I want to introduce many places there,” said Keito.
“This opportunity will truly be a lifelong treasure for me. I will never forget Daniel-sensei and the students of UNIMAS,” expressed Taichi, reflecting on his journey.
“I appreciate the kindness of the Malaysian people, UNIMAS students are an example of that! I definitely want to go to Malaysia again,” added another participant.
Their testimonies highlight the lasting friendships, cultural connections, and unforgettable memories forged during SEJaTi 2025, reinforcing the value of international collaboration.
Report provided by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Mohd Danial Ibrahim