📝 Summary
A group of 40 UTM architecture students participated in an international academic and community service programme on Batam Island, Indonesia, from September 2-4, 2026. The programme aimed to strengthen academic ties and international networking between UTM and UIB, while providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. The students engaged in academic activities, knowledge sharing, and community service, including a beach cleanup and visits to notable architectural and natural sites.
BATAM, Sept 2 – A group of 40 first-year UTM architecture students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Architecture (Honours) programme participated in an international academic and community service programme on Batam Island, Indonesia, from 2 to 4 September 2026. The programme was conducted under the Outreach Programme (SBEA1923), offered during the July to September 2026 short semester, in collaboration with the Department of Architecture, Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB).
Accompanied by Ts. Dr. Muhammad Faizal Abdul Rani and Dr. Azalillah Ramdani Musa, the students took part in academic activities, knowledge sharing, cross-cultural interactions and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives with the local community.
The programme provided an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills gained through architectural studio studies to real-world settings, while developing teamwork, intercultural communication, leadership, creativity and problem-solving skills.
It also aimed to strengthen academic ties and international networking between UTM and UIB, with potential for future mobility programmes, academic activities, research and community service.
The programme began with the group travelling by ferry from Stulang Laut Ferry Terminal to Batam Center International Ferry Terminal. Upon arrival, they proceeded to UIB and were welcomed by Dr. Stivani Ayuning Suwarlan and Theodesia Pratiwi.
The “UIB x UTM International Architecture Talk 2026” featured a Student Mini Symposium, where architecture students from both universities presented their work.
UTM student presenters were Ching Hui Li, Muhammad Izzat Sapni, Ikhwan Abdul Shatar, Khalidah Irdina Khalid, Kee Yan Qi Alicia and Ivalyn Ng Rui-Min. Ts. Dr. Muhammad Faizal Abdul Rani and Dr. Azalillah Ramdani Musa also delivered an inaugural lecture to UIB architecture students.
The delegation toured the UIB campus, including its library, architecture studios and new chancellery building.
On the second day, the students visited Pura Agung Amerta Bhuana Batam, Tanjak Mosque and Panbil Nature Reserve (Eco Edu Park) to explore notable architectural and natural sites.
They also joined a CSR beach cleanup at Nongsa Beach with members of the local community, including Bapak Robby.
The final day included visits to Raja Hamidah Grand Mosque and Nagoya Hill before the group returned to Johor Bahru via Batam Center International Ferry Terminal.
The three-day programme provided students with exposure to architectural environments beyond Malaysia, opportunities to exchange knowledge with UIB counterparts and direct involvement in community service. The experience also gave students insight into organising and managing an international visit programme. The collaboration is expected to encourage further academic and community initiatives between UTM and UIB.
