By: Ahmad Daniel Syah Ahmad Effendi
Tanjong Malim, 1 August 2025 – Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI), through the International Mobility and Advanced Education Centre (IMAC), recently bid farewell to Doris Thach, an international exchange student from Austria who spent a semester at UPSI under the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP).
Arriving in March and completing her programme in July 2025, Doris quickly became an active member of the UPSI community, participating in academic courses, cultural events, and volunteer programmes with enthusiasm and warmth.
Throughout her five-month stay, Doris embraced every opportunity to experience Malaysian life, both inside and outside the classroom.
She joined local cultural programmes, explored historical and heritage sites across Malaysia, volunteered alongside UPSI students in community outreach projects, and formed close bonds with peers from diverse backgrounds. Her involvement truly reflected the spirit of global learning and cultural exchange that UPSI envisions.
On her final day, Doris was honoured with a personal meeting with Associate Professor Dr. Ridzwan bin Che Rus, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International).
Dr. Ridzwan warmly thanked Doris for her contributions and expressed how much her presence had meant to the university community.
He reminded her that she would always be part of the UPSI family and added that she was more than welcome to return to Malaysia in the future.
“We hope you had a great time here, and don’t forget to come back to UPSI whenever you get the chance. Malaysia will always be happy to welcome you again,” he said.
Professor Dr. Ramlee bin Ismail, Director of the International Mobility and Advanced Education Centre (IMAC), also praised Doris’s positive engagement throughout the semester.
He highlighted that her journey represented the kind of impactful, student-centred learning experience that UPSI aims to offer all its international students.
“We’re glad to have hosted Doris at UPSI. Her energy and openness truly enriched our campus environment. We hope to continue attracting passionate students like her from all over the world.”
For Doris, the farewell was bittersweet. Looking back on her months at UPSI, she reflected on the friendships made, lessons learned, and memories created.
“I’m really glad I came to UPSI,” she said. “It has been such an unforgettable experience. I’ve learned so much, met amazing people, and felt truly welcomed here. I’m honestly sad to leave. UPSI will always have a special place in my heart.”
As her exchange journey comes to a close, Doris carries with her not only academic knowledge but also a deeper appreciation of Malaysian culture and a heartfelt connection to a community that welcomed her with open arms.
UPSI remains committed to welcoming more international students in the future, hoping each brings their own stories, perspectives, and experiences to enrich the university’s growing global family.