SEOUL, Nov 29 – The vibrant city of Seoul set the stage for an extraordinary intercultural journey as ASUNA 3.0: Annyeong Korea!, organized by the Student Committee (JKM) of Kolej Tuanku Canselor (KTC), unfolded from 22nd to 29th November 2024. As the first-ever KTC program to South Korea, ASUNA 3.0: Annyeong Korea! pioneered a new chapter in the institution’s international initiatives, paving the way for future ventures into the country. The program, conceptualized around ‘extracurricular’ learning beyond the classroom, focused on interactive educational activities and knowledge transfer to provide participants with a holistic learning experience.
This remarkable program brought together student leaders from Malaysia and South Korea to foster collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and ignite innovative ideas in student development activities. In order to achieve various aspects of learning, ASUNA 3.0 provided exposure for Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) students and prospective engineers regarding advancements in universities and infrastructure, technology and industry sustainability, as well as cultural, historical, social, and heritage aspects in South Korea. This initiative was further strengthened by the collaboration with universities, industries, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and communities at the international level ensuring a holistic and impactful learning experience for all participants. Seventeen UTM students from various faculties, along with the program advisor and the principal of KTC, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Sharul Kamal Abdul Rahim, actively participated in this impactful program.
One of the key learning aspects of ASUNA 3.0: Annyeong Korea! is to learn about the society and community in South Korea. On November 26th, a community visit was conducted to the Korea Muslim Federation (KMF) in Itaewon, where participants learned about the resilience and social conditions of the Muslim minority in South Korea. Jang Huseyin, Deputy Director of one of the KMF departments, introduced the group to the Seoul Central Mosque, which was built in 1970, further adding on insights into the historical and contemporary dynamics of Islam in Korea. A lively discussion explored the social and cultural integration of Muslims, enriching participants’ understanding of minority community challenges and fostering empathy and tolerance.
Furthermore, ASUNA 3.0 delegation visited the 20th Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF) 2024 on 27th of November at the COEX Convention Center as part of the ASUNA 3.0: Annyeong Korea! program. The visit aimed to expose students to South Korea’s technological advancements while fostering a culture of innovation. Featuring over 550 inventors and startups from 32 countries, the event showcased cutting-edge solutions in fields like artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, and smart technologies. Students explored groundbreaking inventions, engaged with industry leaders, and gained valuable insights into the commercialization of innovative ideas, connecting academic knowledge with real-world applications. This transformative experience not only broadened their understanding of global market dynamics but also inspired them to pursue impactful research and solutions, reinforcing UTM’s commitment to producing globally competent graduates and fostering innovation.
On November 28th, expanding the learning experience, the delegation visited the Malaysian Embassy in Korea for a learning session on the diplomatic aspects of Malaysia-Korea international relation and the importance of international collaboration. Hosted by embassy representatives and members of the Malaysian Students’ Association in Korea (PPMK), the day highlighted the embassy’s role in fostering bilateral relations and supporting Malaysian citizens abroad. The Embassy’s importance in ensuring the welfare of Malaysian students in Korea is particularly highlighted. Besides that, students gained valuable insights into diplomatic efforts, strategic cooperation, and community outreach programs, leaving them inspired to contribute to global unity and national pride.
Besides that, on the same day, the program culminated with an enriching day at the University of Seoul (UOS), emphasizing knowledge exchange, academic innovation and cultural exchange. This activity was meant to cover the exposure towards academic aspects of the ASUNA 3.0 learning experience. Collaborative activities included a knowledge-sharing session on student development activities by the director of ASUNA 3.0, Yahya Mujahid and President of Seoul Global Ambassador, Hyunjin Kim proving universities’ commitment in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), traditional games that celebrated the rich heritage of both nations, and a campus experience showcasing South Korea’s advancements in education and infrastructures. These experiences forged meaningful connections between UTM and UOS students, with unforgettable memories, demonstrating the transformative power of intercultural engagement.
The ASUNA 3.0 program offered UTM students an enriching educational experience by exploring South Korea’s cultural heritage and historical resilience. Visits to renowned sites such as the National Museum of Korea, Seoul Museum of History, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Hanok Culture Village provided deep insights into Korea’s history, including its remarkable recovery from the 1997 economic recession to becoming a global leader in technology and innovation. When asked about the key factors in the transformation, a museum tour guide emphasized, “It is through education. Hard life conditions made Koreans focus on education to improve their quality of life.” By engaging with South Korea’s cultural and historical narratives, students gained valuable perspectives on resilience and progress, offering lessons in fostering mutual tolerance and building harmonious international relationships.
The ASUNA 3.0: Annyeong Korea! program concluded with remarkable success, leaving participants enriched with knowledge, cultural insights, and meaningful international connections. Through diverse activities, from exploring South Korea’s technological advancements and diplomatic relations to understanding its historical resilience and cultural heritage, the program delivered a holistic and impactful learning experience.
Heartfelt thanks to all ASUNA 3.0 crew members, program advisor and KTC principal, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Sharul Kamal Abdul Rahim for their tireless effort and commitment. These achievements were made possible by the collaborative efforts of the KMF, UOS, Embassy of Malaysia in Korea (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), PPMK, Student Activity and Development Division (BAPP), and Student Representative Council (MPP). The unwavering support from UTM International, as well as sponsors including Aspansuri Corporation Sdn. Bhd., High Performance Computer Solution, Department of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) (JTNCPI), Produk Optima Sdn. Bhd. (Adabi), and Korea Tourism Organization, played a crucial role in ensuring the program’s success. This initiative not only deepened participants’ understanding of global challenges but also strengthened ties between Malaysia and South Korea, fostering unity, progress, and mutual respect on an international scale.
