VOKASI NEWS – Universitas Airlangga continues to reinforce its vision of becoming a globally engaged university by actively promoting international academic collaborations. One of its recent initiatives was the International Lecturer and Student Exchange Programme (Student Mobility Programme 2026), organized by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Melaka Branch, Alor Gajah Campus, Malaysia, from 14–20 June 2026.
The programme involved 20 students and three lecturers from the Department of Business, Faculty of Vocational Studies, Universitas Airlangga, together with participants from President University. Over the course of one week, delegates participated in academic, cultural, professional, and social activities aimed at expanding global perspectives, improving intercultural competence, and strengthening partnerships with the UiTM academic community.
Strengthening Academic Partnerships Across Borders
The programme officially began with participant registration followed by a welcoming breakfast hosted by UiTM. During the gathering, delegates were introduced to Malaysian culinary heritage through Nasi Lemak, one of the country’s signature traditional dishes, offering participants an authentic first impression of Malaysian culture.
The opening ceremony gathered university leaders, lecturers, and students from Universitas Airlangga, President University, and UiTM. Each institution presented its academic strengths, international programmes, and collaborative initiatives, creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue while exploring future academic and research partnerships.
Experiencing International Learning Environments
Academic activities formed the core of the programme through Academic Exchange Sessions and Academic Sharing & Interactive Discussions. Participants attended classes according to their respective fields of study, including Economics & Finance, Marketing & Management, Accounting, and Language & Communication.
Students experienced an engaging learning atmosphere characterized by interactive discussions, collaborative case analyses, and active classroom participation. The sessions encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and open communication, allowing participants to gain valuable insights into different teaching and learning approaches practiced in Malaysia.
Among the highlights was an intensive English learning session facilitated by Dr. Irene and Dr. Kuldip. Through interactive flash card games and spontaneous speaking activities, participants improved their English communication skills while building greater confidence in expressing ideas within an international academic setting.
Exploring University Governance and Entrepreneurship
Beyond classroom learning, participants visited several strategic facilities across the UiTM campus to gain a broader understanding of university management and innovation.
One of the destinations was the UiTM Archive, where participants learned about the institution’s comprehensive archival management system that integrates physical and digital documentation. The visit demonstrated how effective information management supports transparency, accountability, and efficient university administration.
The delegation also toured the Youth Business Incubator (YouBi), an innovation hub designed to cultivate entrepreneurial talent among students. Participants observed how UiTM provides mentorship, business incubation, and practical entrepreneurial experiences that help transform innovative ideas into sustainable ventures. The visit highlighted the important role universities play in encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation.
Appreciating Melaka’s Rich Cultural Heritage
The Student Mobility Programme also introduced participants to Malaysia’s historical and cultural richness through visits to several iconic attractions in Melaka.
Destinations included Alina Batik, Hanuris Foodhub, the Melaka Straits Mosque, A Famosa, and the lively Jonker Street. These educational excursions enabled participants to experience Malaysia’s multicultural traditions, local industries, culinary heritage, and historical significance as one of Southeast Asia’s major trading centers.
The cultural immersion deepened participants’ appreciation of heritage preservation while enhancing their understanding of regional diversity.
Embracing Cultural Differences Through Shared Experiences
Although Indonesia and Malaysia share many cultural similarities, participants encountered distinctive aspects of campus life at UiTM that enriched their international learning experience.
UiTM promotes a strong culture of discipline, punctuality, and professional appearance. Meanwhile, interactions between lecturers and students were characterized by openness, mutual respect, and active participation, creating a supportive and dynamic academic environment.
While some participants initially worried about adapting to a different environment, those concerns quickly disappeared thanks to the welcoming attitude of UiTM students. Conversations naturally blended Bahasa Indonesia and Bahasa Melayu, making communication easy and fostering meaningful friendships across national boundaries.
Building International Networks Beyond the Classroom
Outside formal academic sessions, participants joined various extracurricular activities, including campus tours, student exchange programmes, discussion forums, and recreational sports.
These activities provided opportunities for students from both countries to exchange ideas about higher education, campus culture, language, traditional cuisine, customs, and contemporary youth culture. More importantly, the programme helped establish lasting friendships and international networks that may lead to future academic collaborations and professional partnerships.
Showcasing Indonesian Culture on the International Stage
The mobility programme concluded with the Exchange Culture Performance, serving as the grand finale and symbolizing the close relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia.
During the cultural showcase, the Universitas Airlangga delegation proudly introduced Indonesia’s cultural diversity through a series of performances. The presentation opened with the patriotic song Ibu Pertiwi, followed by a demonstration of the traditional martial art Pencak Silat, and concluded with a cultural dance medley featuring Kecak Dance, Cik Cik Periuk, Sinanggar Tulo, and Ayo Mama.
Beyond entertainment, each performance reflected the spirit of unity in diversity while promoting Indonesia’s cultural heritage to an international audience. The performances received enthusiastic appreciation from the UiTM academic community and fellow programme participants.
Preparing Future Global Leaders
The Student Mobility Programme 2026 demonstrated that meaningful education extends beyond lecture halls and national boundaries. Throughout the seven-day programme, participants gained valuable academic knowledge alongside cultural, social, and professional experiences that contributed significantly to their personal and academic development.
More than simply improving academic competence and intercultural communication skills, the programme nurtured adaptability, global awareness, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding. These experiences are expected to equip Universitas Airlangga students with the competencies needed to become globally competitive graduates who are ready to contribute both nationally and internationally.
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Editor: Inviana (Tim Vokasi Branding)
