CIAC, UUM Foster Global Friendships through Meet and Greet Session with Inbound Mobility Students
Photos Muhammad Iqbal Roslan
SINTOK, 8 October 2025: The Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), once again demonstrated its steadfast commitment to fostering global connections and cultural diversity through the Meet and Greet Session for inbound mobility students of Semester A251.
Held at Auditorium 1, Sultanah Bahiyah Library, the event gathered international students, university officials, and representatives from the Global Buddies Club (GBC) and International Student Society (ISS) in a warm atmosphere of camaraderie, cultural exchange, and shared excitement.
The session began with student registration students followed by the rendition of Negaraku and Biru Warna, which filled the hall with a sense of pride and unity. Participants were then treated to the screening of UUM’s corporate video and CIAC montage, offering an inspiring glimpse into the university’s achievements, dynamic campus life, and vibrant international community. Excitement and anticipation filled the air as students from around the world gathered to embark on their academic and cultural journey at UUM.
In her welcoming address, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arpah Abu Bakar, Director of CIAC, extended her heartfelt greetings to the inbound mobility students and reaffirmed UUM’s commitment to providing a nurturing, inclusive, and globally engaging learning environment. She highlighted that the presence of international students enriches UUM’s global outlook and enhances the multicultural experience on campus. Her remarks echoed UUM’s strong alignment with Malaysia’s higher education internationalisation agenda and its mission to cultivate globally competent graduates.
Adding to the warmth of the occasion, Ms. Ng Xin Ke, President of the Global Buddies Club (GBC), encouraged students to actively participate in the club’s cultural and social initiatives, designed to foster integration and lifelong friendships. Meanwhile, Ms. Delia Ananta Bilqis, President of the International Student Society (ISS), urged newcomers to seize the many opportunities available at UUM, both academically and culturally. Both student leaders also highlighted the important roles of GBC and ISS in nurturing UUM’s global community and shared the exciting line-up of activities planned for the A251 semester.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where several inbound mobility students shared their personal stories — from their decision to choose UUM as a host university to their first impressions of Malaysia’s vibrant culture and welcoming environment. The afternoon ended with a lively group photography session, capturing the cheerful smiles of students and staff alike.
For Semester A251, UUM proudly welcomes 59 inbound mobility students from Brunei, China, France, Indonesia, Japan, and Uzbekistan, each bringing their unique culture, experiences, and perspectives to enrich the UUM community.
The Meet and Greet Session not only served as a warm introduction for new international students but also reaffirmed UUM’s stature as a globally engaged university — where education, culture, and friendship flourish in harmony. – Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz
