Summer Programme 2026: A Malaysian experience

The Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC), Sungai Long Campus, hosted four students from Anhui University of Chinese Medicine for a seven-day summer programme from 5 to 11 July 2026. Themed ‘Cultural Confluence and Ecotourism Exploration: A Malaysian Experience’, the programme combined cultural exchange, heritage exploration, and academic learning.

The programme commenced with a welcome session, followed by a lecture on Nature Conservation and Ecotourism in Malaysia, by Office of International Affairs Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, where participants were introduced to Malaysia’s biodiversity, conservation efforts, and sustainable tourism practices. The day continued with a cultural sharing session on traditional dance, providing participants with an appreciation of Malaysia’s rich intangible cultural heritage.

The cultural immersion continued with a session on Malaysia’s Multi-ethnicity and Religion presented by DSSC staff Mr Low Guok Xiang, who enlightened the participants on the country’s diverse communities, religions, and cultural practices. They also took part in the hands-on Miniature Traditional Food Keychain Workshop, where they exercised their creativity and explored Malaysian traditional food through craft-making.

The students’ cultural experience was enriched when they participated in the Hard Knock Workshop at Royal Selangor and visited the Batu Malai Sri Murugan Temple at Batu Caves; Central Market; and Kuala Lumpur. The programme also included an excursion to Putrajaya, featuring a cruise experience and a visit to Putra Mosque, allowing participants to discover Malaysia’s cultural landmarks and distinctive built environment.

The final academic component consisted of practical workshops on Biomechanics of Human Gait Analysis by Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) academics Dr Chan Siow Cheng and Ms Tan Yin Qing, and 3D printing by Innovation and Commercialisation Department Head Assoc Prof Dr Kwan Ban Hoe of LKC FES. The sessions introduced participants to human movement analysis and the application of 3D printing technology in developing wearable sensors for healthcare and other applications.

The summer programme concluded with a closing ceremony and delectable lunch, where participants and organisers gathered to celebrate the completion of the week-long exchange. Each participant was presented with a certificate of participation in recognition of their involvement. Through this programme, the students gained a meaningful Malaysian experience by exploring the country’s culture, heritage, natural environment, and technological innovation, while strengthening international friendship and cultural exchange between the participating institutions.