KUALA LUMPUR, May 5 – The International Student Orientation Programme (ISOP) 2025, organised by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) International Kuala Lumpur, featured a two-day, one-night educational trip to Melaka and Southern Johor on 4 to 5 May 2025. With the participation of 37 international students and 6 accompanying staff members, the trip served as a meaningful extension of UTM’s commitment to fostering global citizenship, academic integration, and intercultural understanding from the earliest stages of the student journey.
The ISOP trip was designed not only to welcome students to Malaysia, but also to cultivate their appreciation for the country’s rich heritage, diversity, and academic landscape. As the bus departed UTM Kuala Lumpur early on Sunday morning, anticipation filled the air. For many of these students, coming from diverse nations across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa it was their first encounter with Malaysia beyond the university campus.
The first major stop was the historic city of Melaka, where students began with a relaxing and scenic experience along the Melaka River Cruise. This was followed by an educational visit to the Muzium Samudera, which allowed students to connect with Malaysia’s maritime past and explore its connections to global trade and colonial encounters. A stop at the iconic A’Famosa fortress gave further insight into the architectural legacy left by the Portuguese and later colonial powers. These locations transformed history from abstract knowledge into tangible experience, allowing students to witness first-hand the layers of Malaysia’s cultural evolution.
After a midday lunch and shopping opportunity at Dataran Pahlawan, the group made a brief roadside stop at Klebang Beach. Although students remained on the bus, the view of the coastal stretch provided a peaceful and reflective pause. This short moment allowed students to appreciate Malaysia’s natural landscapes and take photographs, offering a quiet interlude between more structured segments of the trip.
The following morning, students were given a guided campus tour of UTM Pagoh, one of UTM’s major innovation and research nodes. This segment of the trip was particularly impactful, as students explored facilities and gained awareness of the university’s research thrusts in engineering, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development.
The final day of the journey concluded with a drive-through visit to UTM Johor Bahru’s main campus, where students observed the university’s iconic landmarks, including academic buildings and student activity centres. The final stop was Johor Premium Outlets (JPO), offering a glimpse into Malaysia’s lifestyle and retail scene. This light-hearted close to the trip added balance to the academically driven itinerary, showcasing the diversity of life in Malaysia.
More than just an excursion, the ISOP trip to Melaka was a dynamic platform for experiential learning. It enhanced students’ understanding of Malaysia’s historical, academic, and social environments while helping them form early friendships and support networks. For many, the trip fostered confidence in navigating their new environment and inspired a sense of community within UTM. The initiative reflects UTM International’s core mission: to ensure that every international student feels seen, supported, and included from day one. For future ISOP events, UTM International Kuala Lumpur remains committed to creating experiences that go beyond orientation—experiences that cultivate leadership, awareness, academic ambition, and global mindsets.
Prepared by: Muhammad Irham Sauti Ishak, UTM International Kuala Lumpur