Diversity of Culture @ The International Week 2008


Skudai, 27th March 2008: The International Postgraduate Students Society (IPSS) in collaboration with The Students Representative Council (MPM) of UTM organized the International Week 2008 at the Dataran Agora; a program specially designed to promote ethnic and cultural diversity.

Graciously officiated by Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Mohd. Zulkifli bin Tan Sri Mohd. Ghazali, Vice-Chancellor of UTM yesterday at the Dewan Sultan Iskandar, the merry opening ceremony is filled with exhilarating performances from 19 participating countries. Also present were Prof. Ir. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and international), Prof. Dr. Alias Mohd Yusuf, Dean of International Affairs, International Academias, Deans and other distinguished guests.

The performances featured among others were dramatization of Iraq wedding ceremony, “Poco-Poco” dance by students from Indonesia, Arabic Sword dance by students from Saudi Arabia, musical performances from Malaysia Kazakhstan and China, and international fashion show.

Impressed with the first-of-its kind programme, Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Mohd. Zulkifli in his opening speech said it is timely to have all the international community along with the local students to organize such programme that promotes integration among students of various backgrounds and culture, which also serves to foster better understanding about different cultural experiences.

In line with UTM’s aspiration in moving towards internationalization, he said, “UTM is doing its best to ensure that the needs and expectations of international students are met and this has been translated into providing better services and world class academic programmes”, adding that the management is also trying hard to ensure a pleasant and memorable stay among the internationals here.

He complimented the committee members for putting their heart and soul to the success of the programme, thus hoped that future similar events will be better in terms of participation and activities.

The culmination of the ceremony is the presentation of award by Tan Sri Prof. Dr. Mohd. Zulkifli to winners of the most creative booths. Syria won the first place, followed by Iran, the second most creative booth winner and Libya, taking the third place.

Apart from the entertainment and bazaar that exhibits merchandise and souvenirs from over 19 countries, namely Cameroon, China, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Somalia and Yemen, the 4-day programme that starts on the 26th and ends on 20th March also includes sports carnival among the participants.

The response has been overwhelming from all students and participants that not only they benefit the knowledge on various cultural practices and tradition, but also helps them to establish new friendships and strengthen inter-cultural relations with those of different origin.

 

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