News and photos by Dr. Mohd Fikri Sofi
SURABAYA, 5 December 2024: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) proudly participated in the 20th ASEAN University Network (AUN) and 9th ASEAN+3 Educational Forum and Young Speakers Contest held at Universitas Airlangga from 22nd to 27th October 2024. Two students from Islamic Business School (IBS) were nominated to represent UUM at this five-day international programme.
The UUM delegation, comprising two IBS students and a faculty member, joined peers from across the ASEAN region and its dialogue partners to engage in discussions, debates, and cultural exchanges under the theme of strengthening regional collaboration in education.
During the event, one of the UUM delegates showcased his exceptional critical thinking and public speaking skills in the Young Speakers Contest, earning commendations for his insightful contribution. Although he did not advance to the final round, he gained invaluable insights and exchanged ideas with participants from Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Discussions centred on the theme “Emancipatory Education as a Path Towards an Emancipated Future,” where participants shared their views and deliberated on pressing educational issues.
Mr. Abu Hurairah Asri, a Bachelor of Muamalat Administration student, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate. He highlighted the invaluable lessons and diverse experiences gained during the event, emphasising how the programme instilled courage and confidence in public speaking, particularly using English language as the medium of communication. He also cherished the friendships formed with students from various ASEAN universities, especially those from neighbouring Thailand.
The educational forum held on the subsequent day featured representatives from each nation debating critical issues before drafting a joint declaration on how emancipatory education impacts political, social, and economic principles. Delegates were divided into three groups to facilitate focused discussions, with faculty members guiding and evaluating their ability to achieve consensus. Although UUM did not succeed in the Young Speakers Contest, one of its delegates excelled during the forum discussions, winning the Best Group Prize and sharing a $500 reward with other eight group members.
The delegation also played pivotal role in fostering dialogues on innovative educational practices and promoting UUM’s commitment to regional integration. In preparation for the forum’s conclusion, delegates participated in focused discussions within their respective national groups to draft a consensus statement on emancipatory education in ASEAN. This statement will be presented at next year’s ASEAN meeting. Following the forum’s conclusion, delegates celebrated by taking pictures and videos together. Another delegate, Mr. Amirulhafez Abdullah, a Bachelor of Halal Management student, expressed his joy at forming new friendships and learning from exemplary leaders during the discussions.
The programme’s final day featured a tour of Universitas Airlangga, including visits to the Faculty of Medicine and research institutes specialising in illnesses such as influenza, pneumonia, and tuberculosis. The event concluded with a vibrant cultural showcase, where UUM proudly represented Malaysia’s rich heritage, strengthening bonds among the ASEAN+3 nations, including the delegates from China and Japan. UUM’s participation underscores its dedication to nurturing globally minded leaders and fostering regional collaboration within the ASEAN community.
