On 25th May 2024, the Fairfield by Marriott Kuala Lumpur played host to a joyous reunion of 20 alumni from the SHP program batch of 2004 (Degree in Human Resource Development). The attendees, hailing from various parts of Malaysia including Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Pahang, Terengganu, and Sarawak, gathered to rekindle old friendships and create new memories. The groundwork for this momentous event began a year prior with the formation of a dedicated committee tasked with bringing the reunion to life. The committee members conducted both physical and virtual meetings to ensure every detail was meticulously planned, from finding the perfect date and venue to tracking down coursemates from the graduation list, hiring a photographer, and securing sponsors for backdrops and goodie bags.
For many of the alumni, this reunion marked the first time they had met in person in two decades. Though they had stayed connected through a WhatsApp group, not everyone from the batch was part of it. The passing of some dear friends over the years and the growth of their own families served as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the bonds forged during their university days. The reunion was a heartwarming affair, with alumni bringing along their partners and children to share in the joy of the occasion. The spirit of giving and generosity was evident throughout the event, with many alumni contributing in various ways to make the reunion a success. One thoughtful alumna sponsored a bag of toys to keep the little ones entertained, while another, who now owns a printing company, graciously sponsored the backdrop for photographs. Others showed their support by contributing an array of items for the goodie bags, including cookies, crackers, notepads, and other gifts, reflecting the strong bonds they had forged during their university days. To add an extra layer of excitement, the reunion featured a gift exchange among the alumni. The highlight of the event was a special performance by alumnus Mr. Johan, who sang “Kembali Terjalin” by Slam.
The reunion, which lasted from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, was filled with laughter, group photos, nostalgic reminiscences, and catching up on each other’s lives. As the event drew to a close, the alumni left with their hearts full, grateful for the chance to reconnect with old friends and strengthen the ties that have stood the test of time. This successful reunion not only serves as a testament to the enduring power of friendship but also highlights the essence of what it means to be a Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Human Resource Development (HRD) graduate. The alumni demonstrated their innate qualities of care and compassion, showcasing their talent for bringing people together and fostering a sense of unity. These attributes, undoubtedly honed during their time in the HRD program, have served them well in their personal and professional lives. The SHP program batch 2004 alumni look forward to many more opportunities to come together and celebrate the bonds that unite them.
