The gathering of the international students from Kampar and Sungai Long Campuses was graced by the presence of UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat at the get-together event organised by the Department of International Student Services (DISS) Kampar and Sungai Long on 12 October 2022 at UTAR Kampar Campus.

Prof Dato’ Ewe said, in his speech, “To date, we have more than 670 international students from 46 economies in both our Sungai Long and Kampar Campuses. On behalf of UTAR, I would like to extend our gratitude for your support and confidence in choosing UTAR as your choice to pursue your higher education. Through you, your experiences, and your testimonies, UTAR is made known to other parts of the world and this helps in our internationalisation effort. We foresee more international students coming through our exchange programmes with our MoU partners.”

He added, “Studying in Malaysia is actually a good experience because we are rich in culture; that makes Malaysia a good place to learn about many countries. I was an international student once when I pursued my master’s degree in the United States of America. I too had to adapt to living in a foreign country but it also taught me ways to overcome challenges ahead. These encounters also taught me to appreciate diversity. So, I hope this experience will help you see the beauty of diversity and offer you the opportunity to think from other perspectives. Also, consider this as a networking opportunity to get to know one another here.”

Following the speech, a lunch session was held for the attendees. It was accompanied by Dance Club and Wushu Club performances, and a lucky draw session by Prof Dato’ Ewe. Enlightening the crowd with his experience sharing was Doctor of Philosophy student MD Sozon from the Faculty of Accountancy and Management. Department of Alumni Relations and Placement Head Lim Swea Jen spoke on forming an international chapter. He was also seen sharing the benefits of the alumni community.

Also present at the event were Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Faculty of Science Dean Assoc Prof Dr Lim Tuck Meng, Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology Dean Ir Prof Dr Ng Choon Aun, Institute of Chinese Studies Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Faculty of Business and Finance Deputy Dean for Student Development and Industrial Training Yew King Tak, Division of Community and International Networking Deputy Director Dr Chen I-Chi, DISS Kampar Head Ngan Mun Wai, DISS Sungai Long Head Foo Wai Wai and staff.