By Yeoh Li Cheng and Hiyama Junko

BATU PAHAT, 10 Sept 2023 – A captivating cultural exchange session featuring Japanese students was enthusiastically hosted at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM).

This event was meticulously organized by the International Culture and Language Club UTHM, in collaboration with the Centre for Language Studies, the Faculty of Civil Engineering, and the International Office, UTHM.

The event attracted the participation of 45 students hailing from Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Yemen, and Bangladesh, who eagerly engaged in a variety of cultural and traditional exchange activities.

This diverse group of participants seized the opportunity to don traditional attire, including Japanese Yukata, Malay Baju Kurung, Baju Melayu, Indian traditional clothing, and Yemeni traditional attire.

An especially intriguing moment unfolded when participants donned traditional clothing representing different countries.

The program showcased traditional Malaysian games, such as Congkak and Batu Seremban, alongside traditional Japanese games like Kendama, providing a delightful blend of cultural experiences.

Participants immersed themselves in the world of Japanese art through Japanese calligraphy.

They also had the unique opportunity to craft and send postcards adorned with their own artistic creations and stamps.

This activity not only served as a mean of artistic expression but also as a beautiful way to connect with individuals across the globe, fostering cultural understanding and global camaraderie.

One of the committee members, Yuvenraj Ganesan, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, declaring sending postcards is an amazing experience because it’s a beautiful way to connect with people worldwide.

“Today, I had the privilege to create and send a postcard that carries a piece of my culture and personality to someone far away.

“It’s a small gesture with a profound impact, reminding us that despite our differences, we’re all part of a global community.

“This event has opened my eyes to the beauty of cultural exchange, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it,” said Yuvenrai.

The day culminated with a montage capturing the cherished memories forged throughout the event.

After a day replete with cultural exchange and meaningful interactions, participants returned home enriched by their experiences, possessing a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, and having formed lasting bonds of friendship with peers from diverse backgrounds.