By: Ahmad Daniel Syah Ahmad Effendi

TANJONG MALIM, 13 January 2026 – International, Mobility and Advanced Education Centre (IMAC), in collaboration with UPSI Global Buddies 2025/2026 organized a Meet and Greet with International Students 2026 at Dewan Kolej Harun Aminurrashid.

The programme was organised to encourage student engagement while introducing international students to the university, its academic environment, and student support structures.

The programme was also attended by faculty deans and mobility coordinators from various faculties, which reflected strong institutional support for international student development.

International students enjoying dinner during the Meet and Greet with International Students 2026
International students enjoying dinner during the Meet and Greet with International Students 2026
International students enjoying dinner during the Meet and Greet with International Students 2026

The programme featured a welcoming address by Professor Dr. Ramlee bin Ismail, Director of International, Mobility and Advanced Education Centre (IMAC).

In his speech, he formally welcomed international students to UPSI and highlighted their role in strengthening the university’s academic and cultural community.

He explained the role of IMAC as the main centre responsible for internationalisation at UPSI, covering international student support, visa and immigration matters, mobility programmes, and international engagement initiatives.

He shared that UPSI hosts more than 1,600 international students from 36 countries, which reflects the university’s international standing.

Professor Dr. Ramlee bin Ismail delivering his welcoming address
Y. Bhg. Prof. Madya Dr. Ridzwan bin Che Rus delivering his speech
Muhammad Naveed Khan receiving the Best Commitment Award

He also introduced the UPSI Global Buddies club initiative, which supports international students through peer guidance and student-led activities.

He stated, “This programme is organised to formally welcome our international students and to ensure you feel supported, connected, and appreciated as part of the UPSI community.”

Y. Brs. Professor Madya Dr. Ridzwan bin Che Rus, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and International), also delivered a speech during the programme. In his speech, he emphasized that international students are an important part of UPSI’s academic community.

Li Meiqi receiving the Best Commitment Award
Md Zahid Hasan Sumon during their performances
Nabilah during their performances

He highlighted that students from different countries contribute diverse perspectives and experiences which enrich teaching, learning, and academic discussion.

He remarked, “Our international students play an important role in UPSI’s academic journey, and your presence strengthens respect, cooperation, and shared learning within the university.” He also encouraged students to take part actively in academic activities and university programmes throughout their studies at UPSI.

The programme also included the presentation of the Best Commitment Award. The award was presented to Muhammad Naveed Khan from Pakistan in the male category and Li Meiqi from China in the female category.

The recognition acknowledged their consistent involvement and active participation in various university programmes organised in 2025. IMAC later expressed their sincere appreciation for the students’ involvement and commitment to university activities.

In addition, the programme featured a talent show with performances by Md Zahid Hasan Sumon, Nabilah, Mai Yiming and a representative from UPSI Global Buddies, Narxena Niffanny Ning anak Jimbau. The performances reflected student creativity and supported cultural exchange among participants.

Overall, the Meet and Greet with International Students 2026 served as a formal platform to strengthen student engagement, introduce international students to UPSI, and reinforce a supportive and inclusive university environment.