By: Nur Syazwina binti Suriyono

Serdang, 20 March – The KPZ–Kyutech Buddies Programme 5.0 was successfully organised by the Secretariat of Volunteerism and Internationalisation, Student Representative Council for the 2025/2026 session, Kolej Pendeta Za’ba, from 9 to 15 March 2026. The programme stands as a symbol of international friendship and cultural understanding between Malaysia and Japan.

This prestigious programme welcomed 14 mobility students along with one staff member from Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH), Japan. Its implementation was made possible through close collaboration between the Student Affairs Division, Putra International Centre (I-PUTRA), and the management of Kolej Pendeta Za’ba (KPZ). This initiative aims to foster meaningful cultural exchange while strengthening academic and diplomatic ties between the two institutions.

Throughout the one-week programme, participants were engaged in a variety of activities that enriched their experience in terms of cultural understanding, development of traditional skills, and strengthening of social interaction. Among the activities were traditional games such as batu seremban, ketupat weaving and basic handicraft skills, as well as an educational visit around Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). In addition, the experience of breaking fast in Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur provided participants with the opportunity to appreciate the richness of local cultural diversity and traditions. They also took part in cooking sessions, preparing traditional Malaysian desserts such as butir nangka and hazelnut rocher.

The highlight of the programme was the Interaction Dinner With College Principal. In her speech, the Programme Director of KPZ–Kyutech Buddies 5.0, Ms. Ilham Aini Suhaili, described the programme as a truly meaningful and valuable experience. “This programme not only showcases the uniqueness of Malaysian society, but also strengthens bonds and fosters meaningful relationships among all of us,” she said. She also expressed her highest appreciation to all members of the organising committee for their unwavering commitment and dedication.

Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), YBhg. Prof. Dr. Arifin Abdu,YBhg. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Aris Mohd Moklas expressed a similar sentiment in his closing speech. “Let this experience serve as a foundation for building bridges between nations and fostering greater understanding in our increasingly interconnected world,” he said.

Beyond fostering cross-cultural appreciation, this programme aligns with UPM’s commitment to nurturing global citizens and advancing international engagement. It is hoped that initiatives such as the KPZ–KYUTECH Buddies Programme will continue to strengthen institutional ties while inspiring students to contribute meaningfully to global collaboration and mutual understanding.

Date of Input: 13/04/2026 | Updated: 13/04/2026 | syafiqammar