Photos Nur Hayati Md Sharif
LANGKAWI, 13 October 2025: The second day of the “Explore Langkawi: Learn, Bond, Discover!” programme unfolded with an inspiring line-up of activities that seamlessly combined environmental awareness, cultural exploration, and experiential learning for Universiti Utara Malaysia’s (UUM) inbound mobility and full-time international students under the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC).
Bringing together 36 international students from Afghanistan, Brunei, China, France, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan, the programme provided a meaningful platform for students to discover the natural wonders of Langkawi while fostering cross-cultural understanding and building lasting global connections.
A major highlight of the day was the mangrove seedling planting activity at the Kubang Badak BioGeo Trail. The session began with an informative briefing by Mr. Othman Ayeb, an experienced tour guide, whose engaging explanation offered students valuable insights into Langkawi’s mangrove ecosystem and its crucial role in protecting the environment.
Joining the activity was UUM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Professor Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani, who praised the initiative as a significant step in cultivating environmental consciousness among international students while underscoring the importance of sustainability in higher education.
“This activity nurtures a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards environmental preservation for the benefit of future generations, while also complementing academic learning through hands-on, experiential engagement beyond the classroom,” said Professor Dr Mohd Azizuddin.
The mangrove planting activity was organised in collaboration with the Kedah Forestry Department, in support of the state’s mission to plant two million trees this year. Also present was CIAC Director, Dr Arpah Abu Bakar, who applauded the students’ enthusiasm and resilience despite the rainy weather.
“Our students from diverse backgrounds were genuinely excited to participate in this meaningful effort. Experiences such as these not only promote environmental education but also create cherished memories that they will carry long after their time in Malaysia,” she shared.
The day’s activities continued with a tranquil mangrove river cruise, where students marvelled at the lush greenery, serene waterways, and rich biodiversity of Langkawi’s mangrove ecosystems. The picturesque journey offered not only an opportunity for quiet reflection but also a deeper appreciation of nature’s wonders.
For many, the experience was unforgettable. “Langkawi’s landscape is so beautiful. I am so thankful to be here and enjoyed the company of all participants. Tthis will surely be an unforgettable memory for me”, shared Abdurakhmanova Munisakhon Alisher Kizi, an inbound mobility student from Tashkent International University of Financial Management and Technologies (TIFT), Uzbekistan.
The day concluded with a leisurely visit to Cenang Beach (Pantai Cenang), Langkawi’s vibrant coastal gem. Stretching over two kilometres, the beach’s powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and swaying coconut palms provided a picture-perfect backdrop for relaxation. With lively cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops dotting the shoreline, students delighted in the island’s warm, tropical charm as they rounded off their second day.
The “Explore Langkawi: Learn, Bond, Discover!” programme stands as a testament to CIAC’s commitment to enriching the international student experience through education, cultural immersion, and environmental engagement.
Through initiatives like this, CIAC continues to nurture globally minded students while advancing UUM’s vision of becoming a university of international impact—empowering learners to connect, contribute, and create change in an increasingly interconnected world. – Amierul Husniey Che Abd Rahman
