Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) recently welcomed students and teachers from Utsunomiya Chuo High School, Japan, for a meaningful Edu-Tourism Programme that combined cultural learning, environmental awareness and student engagement. The programme, organised through a collaboration between UNIMAS Global and the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation (IBEC), provided participants with an immersive opportunity to experience Sarawak’s rich culture, vibrant campus life and the unique environmental heritage of Borneo.
The visit began with a warm welcoming session at the INSPIRE Room, Faculty of Resource Science and Technology (FRST). During the session, the visiting students were introduced to UNIMAS and its role as a leading institution in the region. The briefing highlighted the university’s history, its diverse multicultural environment and the distinctive heritage of Sarawak and Borneo, offering the students a deeper understanding of the academic and cultural landscape they were about to explore.
To create a memorable start to the programme, the students were presented with a special UNIMAS welcoming gift in the form of an animal keychain blind box, featuring animals such as frogs, turtles and snakes. The moment quickly turned into a lively and joyful experience as the students excitedly opened their boxes to discover which animal keychain they had received. The simple gesture helped break the ice and encouraged interaction among the participants, setting a positive tone for the day.
The programme continued with the Colours of Malaysia session conducted by the UNIMAS Global team. Facilitated by Ms Wan Ivy, with the assistance of interns Bella and Tracey, the session introduced the visiting students to Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity through engaging and interactive activities. Through this experience, the students were able to learn about the traditions, customs and multicultural harmony that define Malaysian society while also sharing their own perspectives and experiences.
A highlight of the programme was the cultural cooking activity organised by the IBEC team, where students had the opportunity to prepare traditional Malaysian desserts such as Bubur Kacang and Bubur Cha Cha. The hands-on activity allowed participants to explore Malaysian flavours while learning about the cultural significance of local cuisine. Working together in a relaxed environment encouraged collaboration and created moments of laughter and discovery, making the cultural exchange both authentic and memorable.
The visiting students were also taken on a campus tour, giving them the chance to explore the scenic UNIMAS campus and observe daily student life. The experience offered valuable insights into the university’s learning environment and highlighted how academic life in Sarawak integrates education, community engagement and sustainability.
The programme concluded with a visit to the IBEC Suite at the InnoTech Hub UNIMAS, where the students were introduced to IBEC’s initiatives in biodiversity conservation and environmental research in Borneo. Through this session, the participants gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of protecting the region’s unique ecosystems and wildlife, reinforcing the global relevance of conservation efforts in Borneo.
Beyond the educational activities, the programme created meaningful opportunities for cross-cultural interaction and friendship. Through conversations, shared experiences and collaborative activities, Malaysian facilitators and Japanese students were able to connect on a personal level, strengthening mutual understanding and respect across cultures.
Such initiatives highlight the broader impact of international mobility and edu-tourism programmes. By bringing together young people from different parts of the world, these engagements nurture global awareness, encourage cultural appreciation and inspire a sense of shared responsibility for environmental sustainability. Experiences like these contribute to the development of globally minded individuals who value diversity, cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
UNIMAS extends its sincere appreciation to Utsunomiya Chuo High School for their visit and enthusiasm throughout the programme. Special thanks are also extended to Professor Dr Mohd Azlan Jayasilan for his insightful sharing, the IBEC team for organising the cultural engagement activities, and Ms Wan Ivy, together with interns Bella and Tracey, for facilitating the Colours of Malaysia session.
The journey continues as the visiting students look forward to another exciting experience with a visit to the Matang Wildlife Centre, where they will explore Sarawak’s remarkable biodiversity and learn more about wildlife conservation efforts in Borneo.
Through initiatives like this, UNIMAS continues to strengthen its role as a platform for international collaboration, cultural exchange and global learning, while contributing to a future built on understanding, sustainability and peaceful cooperation.
For more information about international mobility programmes at UNIMAS, please contact mobility_official@unimas.my.
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