An enriching learning experience is more than just having lessons conducted indoors; it could be accompanied by fun outdoor activities that enhance others’ skills as well. Seizing that opportunity was the Accounting Society of UTAR Kampar, who organised a two-day team-building retreat to Tadom Hill Resort, Selangor from 26 to 27 October 2023.

The “Fun Escape with ACCA 2.0” retreat aimed to promote ACCA among participants, strengthen the bond between lecturers and students, increase participants’ interest in accounting and ACCA, enhance participants’ communication and social skills, improve leadership and teamwork, and promote the Accounting Society.

The retreat was led by Organising Chairperson Chen Chee Chung Jason, and assisted by Vice Chairperson Chin Sze Qi, Organising Secretary Alexis Kor Shiaw Lee, and committee members. It then kick-started with an opening ceremony, graced by the Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF)’s Department of Commerce and Accountancy Head Ms Sonia Johanthan, and witnessed by society advisor Mr Wong Tai Seng, along with other staff and participants.  Following was the ACCA sharing session by Mr Peter Gabriel, who enlightened the participants on the ACCA Accelerated Programme, promoted the benefits of ACCA, and encouraged participants to register with ACCA. Participants also benefitted when CCS & Co-Founder Chin Chee Seng gave a talk. He shared valuable working experience and advised participants on some directions they could consider after graduation.

Outdoor fun began with the Unity Quest: Ready to Crumble game, which aimed to enhance communication skills and teamwork and provide a platform for participants to apply the knowledge learnt, manage time, train their resilience, and task coordination. In this game, participants were divided into respective groups and were required to complete the tasks allocated at each checkpoint and collect all the puzzle pieces. The fastest group to complete the puzzle and locate the grand master was crowned the champion.

Another fun game played was the Mystery Key, which required participants to locate the hidden coins, collect sufficient coins for exchange, locate the mystery key, and find the exit room. The fastest group won the game. Meanwhile, the adventurous bamboo rafting race saw participants applying teamwork and strategies to win the race.

At the closing ceremony, Chen and Mr Wong thanked ACCA, participants, staff, committee members, and sponsors for their support in making this retreat a success.