Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) recently played host to the exhilarating Odyssey Buddies Jamboree 2024, a five-day event filled with cultural exchange, sustainability initiatives, and leadership development. Bringing together over 60 students from 13 universities across Malaysia, the program, themed “Odyssey,” symbolized the transformative journey participants embarked upon, fostering not only personal growth but also lasting global connections.
Associate Professor Dr. Norahim Ibrahim, UTM’s Associate Director of Global Education & Experience, officiated the opening ceremony with an inspiring message on the importance of inclusivity and global leadership in today’s interconnected world. “This jamboree isn’t just about learning,” he said. “It’s about nurturing leaders who will shape a future built on diversity, cooperation, and sustainability.”
Adventure in Nature: Learning Through Action
One of the event’s standout features was the Nature Bounty Quest, a hands-on activity held at UTM’s innovative Living Lab. Here, students explored the environmental advantages of Effective Microorganisms (EM) and rolled up their sleeves to create over 600 EM mudballs, which are used to reduce water pollution. This hands-on environmental initiative offered participants a meaningful way to contribute to sustainability efforts while learning the science behind it.
The adventure continued with a visit to Johor’s Tanjung Piai National Park, where students explored the lush mangroves, observed local wildlife, and participated in educational sessions on ecosystem conservation. The trip not only heightened their awareness of the natural world but also emphasized the critical role each individual plays in protecting the environment.
Discovering UTM and Its Eco-Friendly Innovations
In addition to nature-based learning, participants enjoyed a campus discovery walk at UTM Johor Bahru, where they explored the university’s cutting-edge facilities, including its sports complexes, research centers, and serene, green spaces. The walk was designed to introduce students to UTM’s sustainability efforts, encouraging them to think critically about eco-friendly initiatives and how these innovations contribute to both academic and personal growth.
Celebrating Success and Friendship
The jamboree culminated in a heartwarming closing dinner, where participants were recognized for their enthusiasm, hard work, and the friendships they forged over the five-day journey. Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Ariffin Abu Hassan, Director of UTM International, and Professor Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic & International, delivered touching speeches that acknowledged the program’s success and the strong bonds formed between students. “The Odyssey Buddies Jamboree has not only been a platform for learning but also a celebration of unity, leadership, and the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future,” said Professor Dr. Mohd Shafry. The evening was filled with performances, laughter, and a deep sense of achievement, leaving participants inspired and ready to take on future challenges. As they parted ways, it was clear that the Odyssey Buddies Jamboree had created a global network of future leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in the world.
