By: Husna Mohd Noor
Tanjong Malim, 20 August 2025 – Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) proudly welcomed a delegation from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (USSH), Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, for the GO GLOBAL USSH #2: “Heritage Lessons – Asten Connection” programme.
The programme was initiated by USSH in collaboration with UPSI to build stronger international ties, promote cultural understanding, and give students from both universities the chance to learn from each other.
The day began with a campus tour and lunch at the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts. At their request, USSH students had their lunch on campus so they could experience student life at UPSI.
The official opening was led by Associate Professor Dr. Ridzwan Che Rus, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), together with Mr. Tran Nam, Head of the Office of Student Affairs, USSH. Both welcomed the participants and underlined the importance of international cooperation.
“This collaboration gives our students the chance to learn about different cultures and make new friends. It also shows UPSI’s strong commitment to building global partnerships,” said Associate Professor Dr. Ridzwan bin Che Rus.
The academic session featured a seminar on “Malaysian Multicultural Identity: Identity and Heritage” delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Samsudin Suhaili, Coordinator of the Centre for Malaysian Socio-Cultural Well-Being Research, Faculty of Human Sciences, UPSI.
This was followed by a hands-on workshop on macrame keychain making, conducted by Dr. Izzal Khairi Ramli, Deputy Dean (Industry and Commercialization Network), Faculty of Art, Sustainability and Creative Industry.
These activities provided students with useful insights into Malaysia’s cultural identity while also giving them the opportunity to enjoy a creative learning experience.
In the afternoon, the Cultural Connection Session brought UPSI and USSH students together through performances and activities. USSH students shared Vietnamese culture through regional presentations, group singing of “Viet Nam Oi,” and decorating traditional conical hats with UPSI students.
UPSI students, in turn, presented the traditional Inang Dance, guided by dance tutors and postgraduate students Mr. Ramles Radin Suradi and Mr. Albert Sigan Saliman. The session created a lively atmosphere and strengthened cultural appreciation between both universities.
The programme brought together 21 participants from USSH (2 academic leaders, 1 staff, and 18 students) and 19 Diploma in Music students from UPSI. It created space for students to share their culture, work together, and build lasting friendships.
The GO GLOBAL USSH #2 programme not only introduced USSH students to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage but also demonstrated UPSI’s commitment to becoming a hub for international learning and cultural exchange. The collaboration is expected to grow further and create more opportunities in the future.
The event ended with a group photo, capturing the memory of a successful day of exchange.