THAILAND, 6 March – The Adventure team Kolej Tuanku Canselor (KTC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), recently organized a cultural exchange program titled “Backpacking to Thailand: SAWADEE KAP!” at Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Phuket Campus, on March 6, 2024.The participants were warmly welcomed by PSU, Dr. Tagsina Sripracha, Assistant President for International Affairs, Phuket Campus, extended her heartfelt welcome and best wishes to all participants to 16 UTM students and the principal of KTC, Prof. Ir. Dr. Sharul Kamal bin Abdul Rahim, along with Dr. Mohamad Fadhli bin Rashid as the program’s advisor. Furthermore, Dr. Wasimon Panichpattanakul, Assistant Dean for Student Admission and International Activities, College of Computing welcomed participants and highlighted opportunities such as internships and collaborative projects, emphasizing PSU Phuket’s openness to partnerships.
This program aimed at fostering cultural exchange and learning opportunities. The Cultural Exploration Program, designed by PSU Phuket, promises a blend of enjoyment and knowledge, offering participants a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Backpacking to Thailand program took place from March 5th to March 11th, 2024, focusing on cultural exchange between UTM and PSU, aiming to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two parties.
Participants engaged in agrotourism activities at Intara Farm, which offered a blend of education and excitement. From exploring pearl production and local fishing life to kayaking through mangrove forests, guests immerse themselves in nature while learning about conservation. Creative tie-dye workshops allowed participants to experience traditional Thai art forms, fostering a deeper appreciation for local culture. These activities made it a memorable journey of eco-friendly discovery and cultural immersion.
On March 8, 2024, a beach cleaning activity was conducted around Samila Beach, where several areas were found to be inadequately maintained and littered with garbage. A total of 16 UTM students were divided into 4 groups, with each group comprising 4 students, tasked with collecting garbage according to designated areas. Equipped with gloves, trash bags, and other cleaning supplies, the students worked diligently to remove plastic waste, bottles, and other debris from the shoreline, significantly improving the cleanliness and aesthetics of the beach.
Following that, a community service initiative was carried out in the Koyo Island village, involving a lecturer from Prince of Naradhiwas University (PNU) and three individuals from the Koyo Island community, including the village head and residents.
With this, the program has been a transformative journey that enriched our academic knowledge and personal growth. The experiences and lessons learned will undoubtedly contribute to our academic pursuits and future careers, fostering a generation of students who are not only academically proficient but also culturally aware and environmentally conscious. This program has strengthened the bilateral relationship between UTM and PSU, paving the way for ongoing cooperation and mutual benefit in the years to come.