UTAR international students begin the year with good meals and laughter

A group photo taking in the dinner

The UTAR International Students Annual Dinner for the year 2024 was meticulously organised by the Department of International Student Services (DISS) on 18 January 2024. The event successfully gathered 78 international students from both Sungai Long and Kampar Campuses.

Also present at the dinner were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) Deputy Dean (Student Development and Industrial Training) Assoc Prof Ts Dr Lee Kim Yee, Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Centre for Extension Education (CEE) Director Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lim Jee Hock, Registrar Ms Loh Siaw Yien, Faculty of Science (FSc) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Lim Tuck Meng, Sungai Long Campus Administration Director Dr Tan Kee Kong, Centre for International Student Recruitment and Education Collaboration Director Mr Lee Choy Fong, Chancellery Head Mr Lim Swea Jen, Centre for Curriculum Development and Innovation Head Dr Ngeow Yeok Meng, DISS-Kampar Head Mr Ngan Mun Wai, DISS-Sungai Long Head Mr Foo Wai Wai, Department of Scholarships and Financial Aid (DSFA) Head Ms Tan Wear Sim, Department of Soft Skills Competency (Sungai Long Campus) Head Ms Fook Oi Yee, Department of Student Affairs (Sungai Long Campus) Head Ms Loh Nyuk Leung and Ms Yim Lin Heng.

At the commencement of the event, Prof Dato’ Ewe delivered a speech, drawing upon his own experience as a student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Reflecting on the significance of international exposure, he highlighted its impact on employability, noting that students with such experiences are highly sought after globally. Prof Dato’ Ewe encouraged UTAR’s international students to delve into the Malaysian culture, emphasising the value of such exploration. Additionally, he extended a warm welcome to China students, establishing a personal connection by offering heartfelt wishes for a joyous Chinese New Year.

Prof Dato’ Ewe sharing his experience being an international student at MIT

The dinner featured a vibrant array of entertainment, encompassing lion dances, diabolo performances, singing, dancing, and an engaging lucky draw, among other diverse programmes. The eclectic mix of activities beautifully showcased the cultural richness within UTAR’s international student community, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees and creating cherished memories.