Visionary Outreach by Young Academics for Global Enrichment & Sustainability (VOYAGES) is an international edutourism mobility initiative led by the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). Designed to foster intellectual growth, academic collaboration, and cultural exchange, the programme reflects the Faculty’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful global engagement.
The first VOYAGES initiative was held from 15 to 26 September 2025, bringing together twenty selected FCSHD students representing four academic programmes within the Faculty. Participants were chosen through a competitive interview process based on merit, leadership qualities, and academic excellence. Preparations began earlier in the year, strengthening institutional relationships and ensuring the programme’s comprehensive scope.
The mobility programme spanned Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia (via virtual platforms), and was conducted in collaboration with delegates from University of Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) and Universitas Duta Bangsa. VOYAGES integrated key components of global mobility, including knowledge transfer and sharing, organisational benchmarking, cultural exchange, global classroom engagement, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
As part of their preparation, FCSHD students developed workshops that highlighted Sarawak’s cultural heritage and entrepreneurial initiatives. These included demonstrations on preparing the traditional dish ‘umai’, sharing small-scale business ideas such as homemade soap production, and performing cultural presentations that reflected the diversity of Sarawak’s ethnic communities.
The Malaysian segment began in Johor with a visit to Galeri Sejarah Johor, where students deepened their understanding of Malaysia’s historical and socio-cultural foundations. The delegation then visited Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIA) for academic sharing sessions and leadership discussions. At UKM, the group met with the Head Registrar for benchmarking purposes, while at UIA they engaged with the Rector on institutional leadership and development.
Collaboration with University of Kuala Lumpur continued through a CSR activity at Bukit Jelutong Eco Park, emphasising sustainability and environmental awareness.
The international component included a visit to the National University of Singapore (NUS), where students conducted a cultural exchange workshop featuring ‘umai’ and experienced a collaborative academic environment. The delegation then travelled to Prince of Songkhla University in Thailand for academic dialogue centred on human development and cross-cultural understanding.
A highlight of the Thailand segment was a visit to the Consulate General of Malaysia in Songkhla, where students presented a cultural performance representing Malaysia’s heritage. The Consulate commended the initiative for strengthening regional ties and promoting Malaysian student diplomacy.
Throughout the programme, participants attended workshops on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leadership, and global citizenship to enhance their readiness for international engagement. The initiative concluded on 26 September 2025 with a closing ceremony hosted at University of Kuala Lumpur.
Reflecting on the experience, Programme Advisor Mr Mohd Hafizan bin Hashim, representing the Dean’s Office, remarked:
“VOYAGES was more than just an academic trip. It was a bridge connecting students, cultures, and institutions. We not only gained knowledge but also built lifelong connections that transcend borders.”
VOYAGES 2025 established a strong foundation for future international collaborations and reinforced FCSHD’s commitment to producing graduates who demonstrate academic capability, cultural awareness, and leadership across borders.