Inbound mobility sharing session prepares semester A252 students for academic and campus life at UUM
News and pictures by Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz
SINTOK, 18 January 2026: The Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), successfully organised the Up-Close and Personal: Sharing Session with Existing UUM Inbound Mobility Students, offering practical guidance and first-hand insights to incoming international students for Semester A252.
The session aimed to familiarise new inbound students with UUM’s academic system, campus facilities, cultural environment, and daily life in Malaysia, ensuring a smooth and confident transition into their exchange experience.
For Semester A252, UUM is expected to welcome 74 inbound mobility students from various countries, comprising Indonesia (28), Uzbekistan (28), Thailand (10), Brunei (3), France (3), and Finland (2).
During the session, Ms. Dhearesta Kanaya from Universitas Mercu Buana, Indonesia and Ms. Khakimova Madina Abror Kizi from Oriental University, Uzbekistan, both inbound mobility students from Semester A251 shared their candid experiences of studying and living at UUM. Their presentations covered academic expectations, cultural adaptation, and daily routines on campus.
Students were briefed on the flexible structure of class schedules, which vary according to selected subjects, enabling them to manage their time efficiently. The speakers also highlighted UUM’s extensive campus facilities, including libraries, student accommodation, sports facilities, and a wide array of clubs and societies that support both academic and personal development.
Madina described UUM’s serene setting, noting that, “UUM is located in a forested area near the Thailand border, making the campus peaceful and distinct from city universities. It is truly a unique and enriching learning environment.”
The session also addressed practical aspects of daily life, such as adapting to Malaysian cuisine, managing schedules, and embracing local customs.
“Initially, adjusting to practices like eating with hands and the different teaching styles was surprising, but these differences soon became part of the learning journey,” Madina added.
Cultural adaptation formed a key component of the discussion. The speakers shared insights on overcoming culture shock, including differences in lifestyle and university operations, where classes run from Sunday to Thursday, with weekends observed on Friday and Saturday.
Both speakers encouraged incoming students to actively engage in campus activities to maximise their international mobility experience.
“Do not limit your experience to the classroom. Join clubs, participate in events, build friendships, and stay connected. That is how you truly enjoy your time at UUM,” Dhearesta advised.
Additionally, she also reminded students of the importance of maintaining a minimum 80% attendance rate, a requirement for eligibility to sit for final examinations.
The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants sought further clarification on academics, accommodation, and cultural integration. This dialogue provided reassurance and strengthened students’ preparedness for their upcoming semester at UUM.
Through initiatives such as this, CIAC continues to reinforce UUM’s commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and globally welcoming campus environment, ensuring that all inbound mobility students are well-equipped to thrive academically and culturally at Universiti Utara Malaysia.
