NARATHIWAT, Feb 22—The “Adventure to Support the Community of Southern Thailand” program, led by the Student Committee of Kolej Siswa Jaya (KSJ) and the Off-Campus Student Committee of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), began with great enthusiasm in Kampung Waqaf Siku, Narathiwat.
The initiative was centered around University Social Responsibility (USR) through the “Kasih dan Prihatin” program, which aimed to enrich the local community through acts of kindness, knowledge sharing, and sustainability efforts.
Students were strategically divided into three specialized teams, each with a distinct mission. The Food Air Warriors were responsible for distributing essential food supplies to underprivileged families, ensuring that no household was left in need.
The STEM Explorers focused on engaging young learners with hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Their goal was to foster curiosity and encourage innovative thinking among the youth.
Meanwhile, the Solar Squad led a renewable energy initiative by installing solar panels. Their efforts contributed to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for the village.
The local community extended warm hospitality, welcoming participants into their homes and treating them to a delightful breakfast and a sumptuous traditional lunch. The heartwarming interactions and meaningful contributions made this initiative a remarkable start to an impactful program.
On the second day, the team focused on knowledge exchange, cultural immersion, and environmental stewardship in Songkhla. Participants visited Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS), where an engaging knowledge-sharing session took place. This session featured insightful presentations, including “The Evolution & Impact of Modern Method Construction Practices in Malaysia” by Dr. Nor Fazilah Mohd Hashim and “UTM Inbound Mobility” by Su Zalpha Mohamed, which highlighted the Edutourism initiative aimed at promoting cross-cultural learning and academic exchange. The session served as an inspiring platform for motivation and collaboration, fostering the exchange of ideas between UTM and RUTS students.
Adding further significance to the event, Sohaimi Ahmad, Consul (Administrative, Finance, Consular) at the Consulate General of Malaysia, attended to support the program, emphasizing the importance of academic and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand.
Following the session, participants embarked on a campus tour and engaged in Malaysian cultural activities. UTM students provided RUTS students with a batik painting kit, allowing them to try their hand at Malaysian batik painting. Participants also enjoyed exquisite local cuisine during afternoon tea, further enriching their cultural appreciation.
In the afternoon, the delegation proceeded to Samila Beach, where they collaborated with Trash Hero Thailand for a plogging activity. Equipped with gloves and collection bags, participants actively contributed to environmental conservation by cleaning the coastline. This initiative not only reinforced the importance of sustainability but also fostered a strong sense of collective responsibility toward nature.
The program offered a dynamic blend of insightful academic discussions, cultural appreciation, and environmental action. This journey has greatly deepened participants’ understanding of the communal spirit and natural beauty of Southern Thailand, setting the stage for even more enriching experiences in the future.