A cheerful welcome party greets exchange students from Asia at UTAR

UTAR hosted a vibrant and heart-warming Welcome Party for the June 2025 Student Exchange Programme on 23 June 2025, bringing together over 50 exchange students from partner universities across China, Indonesia, and Taiwan. The event, held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, was a key part of UTAR’s continued efforts to foster global academic partnerships and cross-cultural understanding.

Present at the event were Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min, UTAR Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development; Mr Tian Guanghui, Vice Chairman of the Malaysia China Technology Promotion Association (MCTPA); Ms Wang Yanan, a guest lecturer from Dezhou University; Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lim Jee Hock, Director of UTAR Centre for Extension Education (CEE); and Ms Wong Shin Chet, Assistant Manager of UTAR CEE.

Prof Goi warmly welcomed the international students and praised the collaborative efforts behind the programme. “Your presence here represents the spirit of global cooperation and knowledge-sharing. This exchange programme is not just about academic learning but also a chance to explore Malaysian culture, forge new friendships, and grow through shared experiences,” he said in his speech.

The party welcomed exchange students from distinguished institutions, including Dezhou University, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (ZCMU), Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine (GXUCM), Geely University of China, University of Sanya, Warmadewa University (UNWAR), and National United University (NUU). A group of 10 UTAR students, known as UTAR Buddies, were also introduced at the event. They will serve as friendly guides and peers to support the international students throughout their stay.

Throughout the trimester, the exchange students will have the opportunity to participate in academic lectures, cultural visits, and community activities curated to provide a holistic learning experience. The programme aims not only to enrich students’ academic journeys but also to build bridges between cultures, encouraging global citizenship and intercultural empathy.

The programme also featured a buffet lunch, offering students and staff the chance to mingle and break the ice in a casual setting. It was a warm beginning to what promises to be an enriching academic and cultural experience at UTAR.

UTAR’s exchange programme not only reflects its commitment to internationalisation but also embodies the values of mutual learning and regional collaboration. The University looks forward to a fruitful trimester with its newest international cohort.