Photos by Muhammad Iqbal Roslan
SINTOK, 13 January 2026 – Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), through the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), hosted a warm and memorable farewell ceremony in honour of 59 A251 inbound mobility students at Manager’s Coffee. The CIAC Farewell Ceremony for A251 Inbound Mobility Students marked the culmination of a transformative academic semester for participants from Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Brunei, France, and Japan.
Throughout their time at UUM, these students not only pursued academic excellence but also enriched the campus community by contributing to its cultural diversity and global outlook. Their presence fostered meaningful cross-cultural engagement, friendships, and shared learning experiences that transcended geographical boundaries.
In her welcoming address, CIAC Deputy Director, Associate Professor Ts. Dr Norliza Katuk, emphasised the lasting impact of international academic exchange. She commended the students for their adaptability, resilience, and personal growth, noting that their contributions had significantly enhanced the University’s academic and cultural environment.
“Your time at UUM has not only shaped your academic journey, but has also infused our campus with a truly global spirit. As you return home, remember that you are no longer just visitors—you are lifelong ambassadors of UUM. We look forward to welcoming more of your juniors and peers to participate in our exchange programmes in the future,” she said.
Adding a personal touch to the ceremony, two student representatives—Azkia Salwa Sayyidati from Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Indonesia, and Abdurakhimov Ilyosbek Sherali Ugli from Tashkent International University of Financial Management and Technologies (TIFT), Uzbekistan—shared reflections on their UUM experience.
Salwa described her exchange as profoundly meaningful.
“I have created many beautiful memories at UUM and built lasting friendships during my stay. I truly wish I could remain longer, but my mother is waiting for me back home,” she shared warmly.
She also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the UUM Global Buddies Club (GBC) and the UUM International Student Society (ISS) for their unwavering support and companionship throughout her time in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Ilyosbek praised the CIAC team for their dedication and hospitality in ensuring a seamless academic and cultural transition for him and his fellow TIFT students. Reflecting on his growth, he remarked, “This exchange strengthened my independence, problem-solving, planning, and adaptability. Studying at UUM not only broadened my academic knowledge, but also my enhanced my sense of responsibility and self-confidence.”
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of completion certificates, recognising the academic achievements and global engagement of all 59 inbound students who embraced the opportunity to learn, adapt, and thrive in an international setting.
The event was further enlivened by a special musical performance by Jovito Francisco Fernando Maia De Araujo from Universitas Mercu Buana, Indonesia. As a token of appreciation, he delivered two heartfelt songs, reflecting the diverse talents and vibrant spirit that inbound mobility students bring to campus life.
The ceremony concluded with a networking lunch and a group photography session, where students and staff exchanged laughter, hugs, and words of gratitude. Though returning to their respective home countries, the friendships and shared academic journey at UUM are expected to endure well beyond this semester.
Looking ahead, CIAC remains steadfast in strengthening UUM’s standing as a premier hub for international mobility and academic collaboration. It is hoped that the A251 cohort will carry forward the knowledge, intercultural competencies, and leadership values gained at UUM, while embodying the University’s guiding principles—Knowledge, Virtue, Service. – Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz
