A cultural and academic odyssey with Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Japan

UTAR was excited to host the "Introduction and Development of Robotics" Study Tour Inbound Mobility Programme in partnership with Kanagawa Institute of Technology (KAIT) through the Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC) at Sungai Long Campus. Running from 20 February 2024 to 29 February 2024, the programme welcomed a delegation comprising one professor and 11 students from Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Japan.

This international academic exchange aimed to promote collaborative learning and deepen understanding about robotics. Throughout the programme, participants took part in various immersive activities and academic sessions, enriching their knowledge and skills in robotics development while also engaging in cultural exchange in Malaysia.

The journey commenced with a warm welcome ceremony at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, symbolising UTAR’s dedication to fostering global partnerships and academic collaboration. The opening ceremony, held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, marked the start of a productive exchange between the two institutions.

KAIT staff and students arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport

Welcome ceremony for KAIT staff and students

Campus tours and interactive sessions provided participants with valuable insights into UTAR’s academic and research facilities, enabling them to explore the university’s dynamic learning environment.

A campus tour at UTAR Sungai Long campus

The programme featured a diverse range of activities, including robotics workshops, technology demonstrations and academic lectures. Participants also engaged in hands-on projects and collaborative research initiatives, enhancing their learning experience.

Participants preparing robotics hardware setup

Cultural immersion activities like visiting historical landmarks and vibrant night markets, and engaging in cultural workshops allowed participants to delve into Malaysia's rich cultural heritage, providing insights into the country’s diverse heritage.

DSSC staff Ms Nurzanatul Amira binti Azizan teaching participants the traditional Malay dance

A group photo with Batik fabric

Furthermore, the sightseeing tour of Kuala Lumpur’s Putrajaya landmarks and the visit to Kampar offered valuable insights into Malaysia’s architectural, educational, and industrial landscape. KAIT staff and students also visited Kinta Tin Mining Museum, UTAR Kampar Campus, and UTAR Hospital in Kampar. This provided valuable insights into Malaysia’s educational and historical industrial landscape.

A tour to the Putra Mosque

A tour to the Prime Minister’s Office

A tour to the Iron Mosque

A visit to the Kinta Tin Mining Museum at Kampar

A visit to the UTAR Kampar Campus

A visit to the UTAR Hospital at Kampar

The cultural workshop at Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) in Kuala Lumpur offered participants a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage through the art of batik.

Batik workshop

KAIT staff and students were provided with a cultural immersion opportunity, which included visiting the night market at Sungai Long every Tuesday. This allowed them to experience Malaysia’s lively night markets, where people from diverse backgrounds enjoyed a variety of local delicacies and culinary delights. Interactive workshops and guided tours provided participants with insights into Malaysia’s food culture, culinary traditions, and the importance of night markets in Malaysian society.

KAIT students enjoying food at night market

The Study Tour Inbound Mobility Programme represents a significant step towards UTAR’s mission of promoting international collaboration and fostering academic excellence. By providing a platform for exchange and dialogue, UTAR aims to cultivate a global network of scholars and innovators dedicated to the advancing the field of robotics.

UTAR staff and KAIT participants at the closing ceremony

Throughout the programme, participants from KAIT were immersed in a comprehensive itinerary of interactive sessions, workshops, and industry visits, aimed at deepening their understanding of expertise in robotics and fostering cultural exchange. As the programme concluded, participants departed with newfound knowledge, connections, and a deeper appreciation for robotics research.

The notable highlight of the programme was the presentation of robotics by KAIT students, symbolising the fruitful collaboration and exchange of knowledge between the two institutions. These robots served as tangible reminders of the participants’ journey and the transformative impact of their experience.

As participants bid farewell, they left with more than just newfound knowledge; they also carried a sense of unity and a common goal to advance robotics.  UTAR remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering international cooperation and academic excellence, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and opportunities for global innovation. UTAR is unwavering in its dedication to promoting global collaboration and academic distinction, paving the way for future partnerships and avenues for worldwide innovation.