Welcoming a Distant Friend

Welcoming a Distant Friend

The Malay Cultural Club performing the Dikir Barat for the new International students at UCSI University

Welcoming a Distant Friend

Vice President for Business Development and Student Affairs, Mr. Moses Ling having a chat with some of the new students

Welcoming a Distant Friend

Some international students got together and put up a performance for everyone

Welcoming a Distant Friend

Students watching the proceedings of the event

Welcoming a Distant Friend

Some of the new international students in a group shot

Welcoming a Distant Friend

Students signing up for the various student associations


Travelling far from home in the name of education can be a trying time for some new students, especially when they are not used to being away from the family and all that is familiar to them. Some may have travelled from a neighbouring state to study at UCSI University, while others hail from as far as Yemen, China and Mauritius. Some may experience a little culture shock and of course, homesickness may strike when one is so far away from home.

Every semester, UCSI University welcomes these international students by organising an International Welcoming Party to make them feel more at home and to introduce the Malaysian culture to them. Local students in turn, learn more about the international students’ cultures and traditions in an informal environment. The party is also a warm social gathering where everyone makes new friends.

Recently, more than 200 students attended the International Welcoming Party that was also attended by UCSI University’s Vice President of Business Development and Student Affairs, Mr. Moses Ling, together with the Director of the Student Affairs Office, Ms. Ooi Pei Boon. In his speech, Mr. Moses encouraged the students to participate in the many events and activities that the University has lined up for students throughout the year in order to experience the Malaysian culture better.

During the party, local students welcomed the international students with some local performances to give them a small taste of Malaysian culture. A Dikir Barat a traditional musical group performance originating from the state of Kelantan, was performed by a group of 15 students. It was an eye-opener for the international students. The performance introduced them to traditional instruments such as the kompang, and some traditional Malay costumes. This was followed by another traditional Malay dance.

Students were later treated to dinner where they were encouraged to mingle and get to know one another. The presidents and representatives of the various student associations, representing many countries were also present. These included student associations for Nigeria, Iraq, India, China, Yemen and Indonesia. These associations provide the crucial support system and information especially important for someone who is new to Malaysia.

The Welcoming Party was a huge success, with students being introduced to not only new friends from numerous countries, but also having the opportunity to get acquainted with staff from the Student Affairs Office.

Though tired, that night, everyone went back in high spirits and feeling very much more a part of the larger UCSI University student community.
     
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