By: Nuraliah binti Teh Chong Pint

SERDANG, 3 September - The successful completion of the KPZ–KYUTECH Buddies Programme 4.0, held from 19 to 31 August 2025 and hosted by Kolej Pendeta Za’ba (KPZ), marked another significant milestone in fostering international friendship and cultural understanding between Malaysia and Japan.

This year’s programme welcomed 20 mobility students and was accompanied by 2 staff members from the Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH), Japan. Organised in collaboration with the Student Affairs Division, Putra International Centre (I-PUTRA), and the KPZ management team, the programme aimed to promote meaningful cultural exchange while strengthening academic and diplomatic ties between the two institutions.

Over the span of thirteen days, participants engaged in a wide range of enriching activities, including traditional Malaysian games, cultural workshops such as labu sayong painting and ketupat weaving, as well as educational visits around Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Putrajaya, and Kuala Lumpur. The students also took part in culinary sessions, where they learned to prepare traditional Malaysian desserts such as tangyuan and onde-onde, offering them a taste of the country’s diverse food culture.

During the Mareshia No Kazoku appreciation dinner, Miss Edlin Nasuha Hamidun, Programme Director of KPZ–KYUTECH Buddies 4.0, reflected on the experience. “This programme was more than just a cultural exchange. It was a journey of building connections, creating friendships, and immersing ourselves in the beautiful tapestry of Malaysian culture,” she said. She also extended her heartfelt gratitude to the organising committee for their tireless efforts and dedication in ensuring the programme’s success.

Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), YBrs. Dr. Hakiman Mansor echoed similar sentiments in his closing address. “Allow these encounters to serve as a foundation for developing international bridges and fostering understanding and empathy in an increasingly interconnected world,” he said, encouraging participants to carry their experiences forward.

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

Date of Input: 09/12/2025 | Updated: 09/12/2025 | nuriznifasihah