From Classrooms to Communities: UTM Language Academy Leads with Purpose

Nur'ain Balqis Haladin

JOHOR BAHRU, May 25 — For the past 15 years, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s (UTM) Language Academy has led the way in community engagement, extending its impact far beyond the classroom to uplift underserved and marginalized communities across Malaysia. This enduring commitment was proudly celebrated at the Festival of Languages and Cultures (FLC), where 12 of the Academy’s flagship community outreach projects were showcased. The exhibition formed a key part of the festival’s opening ceremony, graced by Her Highness Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor, Pro-Chancellor of UTM.

The showcased projects reflected the Academy’s inclusive and innovative approach — from supporting neurodivergent individuals and empowering B40 students, to revitalizing indigenous education through culturally responsive, creative teaching methods.

Among the featured initiatives was Educational Outreach to Downtown and Indigenous Kids, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Aireen Ibrahim, Dr. Norhanim Abdul Samat, Dr. Kew Si Na, and Ghazali Bunari. Conducted in collaboration with Sekola Baroka and Buku Jalanan Chow Kit, the initiative provided educational resources and volunteer training for alternative learning centres, playing a vital role during the Movement Control Order (MCO) to keep learning accessible for vulnerable children.

Our student representative presenting Tuanku Canselor English Language Club Activities

Equally impactful was Drama as a Bridge, led by Dr. Norhanim Abdul Samat and her team, which brought drama-based learning to Orang Asli children. Through storytelling, expressive movement, and interactive performances, the programme helped build confidence, creativity, and communication skills — particularly for children facing linguistic and social barriers.

Complementing these was the Computer-Assisted Instruction for MUET (CAI-MUET) CEFR project, an initiative by the MyLine team led by Dr. Hema Rosheny Mustafa. This project aimed to support underprivileged and rural students in preparing for the Malaysian University English Test (MUET) through a curriculum aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). By delivering structured modules, applying motivational strategies, and offering targeted language support, the programme significantly enhanced students’ English proficiency, academic confidence, and overall readiness for higher education.

Dr. Ungku Khairunnisa presenting her project to Yang Amat Mulia Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor

Another notable initiative was the Neurodiversity Awareness Project, led by Dr. Aida A. Rahman, which aimed to cultivate inclusive mindsets within schools and communities. Through engaging workshops, awareness campaigns, and storytelling sessions, the project shed light on neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. By promoting understanding and empathy, the initiative played a vital role in reducing stigma and advocating for more inclusive and supportive educational environments.

Some of the posters highlighting Language Academy’s Impactful Projects

Toys for Friends (TFF), spearheaded by Dr. Nurhidayah Mohd Sharif was an initiative conducted in partnership with IDRISSI International School (a privileged primary school) and Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Sungai Boh (an underprivileged primary school) , fostered empathy and cultural connection by encouraging students to exchange gifts and letters, all while engaging in enriching language activities.

Dr. Nur’ain Balqis presented Adam’s Seagrass Adventure! book to Yang Amat Mulia Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor

A standout example of long-term commitment was the Foster School Project, led by Dr. Nurain Balqis Haladin. Now in its second year, the initiative connects SK Sungai Boh and SK Tiram Duku through the Foster Schools Programme, designed to improve English proficiency among students from B40 communities. Through this programme, students authored and published their own English storybooks, featured in the Under the Sea Tales collection — a powerful blend of literacy, creativity, and empowerment. The programme was inspired by Adam’s Seagrass Adventure, a collaborative effort between UTM lecturers and Kelab Alami Mukim Tanjung Kupang, made possible through the support of the Iskandar Puteri Low Carbon Grant. It beautifully merges language, environmental science, and community outreach.

Together, these projects embody the Language Academy’s unwavering dedication to educational equity, social inclusion, and the transformative power of language. With royal recognition and public celebration, the Festival of Languages and Cultures stands as a testament to UTM’s mission of creating meaningful, community-driven change — one voice, one story, and one project at a time.

Written by Dr. Nur’ain Balqis & Dr Ungku Khairunnisa