Student Activities

The Kenyalang Journey Awaits 2025 (KEJORA’25) initiative, organized by the Student Committee of Tun Dr. Ismail College (JKP KTDI), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and UNTAN, successfully strengthened regional networks through various educational, community, cultural, and technological innovation programs in Sarawak.

This program involved collaboration between three regional universities: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), and Universitas Tanjungpura (UNTAN), Pontianak, Indonesia. It brought together over 30 students, lecturers, local community members, and school students in a spirit of cross-border engagement.

Among the key highlights was the “Engineering Insights” session, a knowledge-sharing platform featuring innovations such as Geopolymer Concrete (G-Easyment) from UTM, Green Hydrogen potential from UNIMAS, and Tengkawang Oil-Based Sunscreen from UNTAN. These presentations opened avenues for academic collaboration and inspired students to explore internationally acclaimed research.

In support of industry and alumni engagement agendas, the KEJORA’25 delegation also visited Kek Lapis Warisan Sdn. Bhd., owned by UTM alumnus Dr. Hafeezi Datuk Abdullah. Through a brief sharing session and hands-on layered cake-making activity, participants gained exposure to the entrepreneurial world and the enduring relevance of local heritage in the market.

Additionally, KEJORA’25 participants engaged in a welfare visit to Rumah Kanak-Kanak Toh Puan Hajah Norkiah, fostering empathy and humanitarian values. Interactive activities, such as teaching the traditional Zapin and Dikir Barat dances by KEJORA’25 participants, brought joy to the shelter’s residents.

Meanwhile, the “Cempaka Cultural Exchange Night” served as a platform to showcase regional cultural diversity through special performances from the three universities. UTM presented the Zapin Mahpom dance and Dikir Barat, UNTAN performed a Medley, while UNIMAS showcased Sarawak ethnic fashion and the enchanting tunes of the sape. The event not only celebrated the beauty of cultural heritage but also strengthened the spirit of unity among the three kindred universities.

The “Joh Rewang Rasa Borneo” program united the three kindred cultures through culinary arts. UTM representatives introduced Laksa Johor, UNTAN brought mee sagu from West Kalimantan, and UNIMAS served ayam pansuh. This activity was more than just cooking; it became a space for sharing stories and heritage.

KEJORA’25 also strengthened ties between students and the community through Gawai Day celebrations in Kampung Mongkos. Participants not only witnessed cultural performances by the Bidayuh community, such as Tarian Buluh and Langgi Pingadap, but also experienced ngabang – the tradition of house-to-house visits during the Gawai festival.

According to the Principal of Tun Dr. Ismail College, ChM. Dr. Mohd Akmali Mokhter, KEJORA’25 successfully strengthened community bonds, fostered empathy, and opened opportunities for regional cooperation. It also reflected values of diversity and multiracial life, providing students with the opportunity to understand local cultural uniqueness, develop leadership potential, and enhance the university’s image on the international stage.