PERTH, July 12 – Five outstanding postgraduate students from the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) — Siti Sarah Sofia Mustapha, Nur Hidayah Musa, Siow Yuet Mei, Liyana Hayatun Syamila Ramlee, and Rafizah Zahri — proudly represented Malaysia at the prestigious Asia Oceania Five Universities Alliance (AOFUA) Camp 2025, held from 6 to 12 July 2025 in Perth, Australia. The week-long programme was graciously hosted by Edith Cowan University (ECU).
AOFUA Camp serves as a unique platform that fosters multicultural collaboration, leadership development, and sustainable innovation among students from its five member institutions: ECU (Australia), Tokyo City University (TCU)(Japan), De La Salle University (DLSU) (Philippines), Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology (SIIT)(Thailand), and MJIIT, UTM (Malaysia). MJIIT’s participation strongly aligns with UTM’s internationalisation agenda and MJIIT’s mission to nurture globally competitive graduates equipped with the skills and mindset to succeed in an interconnected world.
Throughout the immersive one-week programme, participants engaged in dynamic workshops and experiential learning sessions focused on key global themes, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leadership in diversity, gender equity, design thinking, AI ethics, and Aboriginal culture. The enriching blend of academic discourse and cross-cultural engagement offered participants a transformative learning experience.
Beyond the academic sessions, students explored the vibrant city of Perth, including visits to Kings Park, Caversham Wildlife Park, and the Parliament House of Western Australia. The Parliament visit proved especially meaningful, as participants gained insights into Australia’s democratic system and governance structures. They also learned about Edith Cowan, the university’s namesake and a trailblazing figure in Australian history — the first woman elected to an Australian parliament. This visit underscored the critical role of governance in achieving sustainable development and inspired students to consider the impact of policy in shaping inclusive societies.
MJIIT, UTM is deeply appreciated for sponsoring this life-changing opportunity, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing students through impactful global exposure and meaningful cross-border engagement.
The delegation was also honoured by the presence of Prof. Ts. Dr. Ali Selamat, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs & Alumni); Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Nurulakmar Abu Husain, Dean of MJIIT; and Ts. Dr. Nor Ruwaida Jamian, International Liaison Coordinator, who shared valuable perspectives on student mobility and global engagement initiatives at MJIIT.
The students return home inspired, empowered, and grateful — carrying with them new knowledge, lasting friendships, and a renewed determination to contribute as future global leaders. This experience stands as a testament to UTM’s continued efforts to “bring the world to UTM and UTM to the world.”
