Photos Harshini Thiagarajan and Nurul Alya Norazman
ALOR SETAR, 10 June 2025: Laughter echoed and pins tumbled at Aman Bowl, Aman Central, as Universiti Utara Malaysia’s Global Buddies Club (GBC) brought together a vibrant blend of inbound mobility students from the A242 semester, staff from the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), and enthusiastic GBC members for a morning filled with fun, friendly strikes, and spirited camaraderie.
The programme, aptly titled “Lucky Strikes: Roll & Rock,” was more than just a bowling event – it was a joyful celebration of cross-cultural friendship, teamwork, and the vibrant student life that Malaysia has to offer. Designed especially for inbound mobility students, the event provided a chance to explore the local entertainment scene, promote a healthy lifestyle, and foster meaningful intercultural connections – all in a relaxed, upbeat setting.
A total of 33 international students from across the globe were joined by three CIAC staff members and 13 passionate GBC programme committee members. Participants were grouped into mixed teams, where they bowled with infectious energy, bonded over shared laughter, exchanged high-fives, and delighted in the triumph of surprise strikes – or laughed off the occasional rogue gutter ball.
“We wanted the students to experience the warmth and joy of being part of a lively Malaysian community,” said Mr. Purshotharan Nair Jaya Madawan, the Programme Director. “And what better way to break the ice than a fun game of bowling?”
To heighten the excitement, attractive hampers were awarded to the top five teams, adding a friendly competitive edge to the day. Yet for many, it was not about the score — it was about forging new friendships, embracing cultural diversity, and creating memories to treasure long after the final frame had been played.
“Bowling is more than a game – it is a bridge that connects people from all walks of life,” reflected Ms. Cheow Le Xuan, Programme Secretary.
With hearts full of joy and new friendships blossoming, the event wrapped up on a high note — a shining example of how, at UUM, learning and connection flourish well beyond the classroom. – Cheow Le Xuan (UUM Global Buddies Club (GBC) Member)
