KUCHING – A group of 16 students from Kanda University of International Studies (KUIS), Japan recently embarked on a transformative 10-day international immersion program at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus from 25 June to 5 July 2023.
In an increasingly interconnected world, fostering cross-cultural understanding and preserving our planet’s biodiversity are critical priorities. The study tour aimed to immerse the students in the fascinating realm of preserving and harnessing biodiversity and culture.
Through a combination of seminars, hands-on activities and enlightening visits to landmarks such as the Borneo Cultures Museum, Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and the Tun Jugah Foundation, the participants gained invaluable insights that shaped their understanding of the environment and the significance of cultural heritage.
The study tour kicked off with a series of engaging in-class seminars, where experts from Swinburne Sarawak shared their knowledge on the preservation of biodiversity and the importance of cultural heritage.
The students delved into various topics, including the delicate balance between economic development and environmental sustainability, the role of indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts and the impact of globalisation on local cultures. These thought-provoking discussions laid the foundation for the students’ exploration of biodiversity and culture throughout the tour.
Additionally, the students were exposed to traditional practices and craftsmanship, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage. They participated in workshops on traditional arts, such as batik painting, and witnessed the intricate process of creating cultural artifacts. By actively engaging in these activities, the students gained a profound respect for the cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations and the need to protect them from disappearing.
The KUIS students visit the Tun Jugah Foundation to learn about beadwork and weaving.
Complementing the in-class seminars and hands-on activities, the students embarked on study visits to local museums, which provided a comprehensive understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the region. The museums showcased a wealth of exhibits, ranging from archaeological artifacts to indigenous art. The students had the opportunity to learn about the traditional lifestyles, rituals and beliefs of the local communities.
These visits helped the students connect the dots between biodiversity and culture, emphasising the intrinsic link between environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
Swinburne Sarawak’s international immersion program served as an exemplary model for how educational institutions can collaborate across borders to cultivate environmental consciousness and foster cultural appreciation.
The 10-day program was a transformative experience for the 16 students from KUIS. The trip not only broadened their perspectives but also deepened their understanding of the intricate relationship between biodiversity and culture while instilling a sense of responsibility towards safeguarding both.
Hitoshi, a student from KUIS, creates his own batik piece during one of the in-class activities at Swinburne Sarawak.
The immersive nature of the study tour allowed the KUIS students to see first-hand the challenges and opportunities in preserving biodiversity and cultural heritage. This experience will undoubtedly shape the students’ academic and personal journeys, encouraging them to be advocates for sustainable practices and cultural preservation.
Armed with newfound knowledge and a profound appreciation for the delicate balance between nature and heritage, these students are poised to become catalysts for positive change in their respective communities and beyond.
For more information on Swinburne Sarawak, visit its website (www.swinburne.edu.my), Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram page (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter page (@Swinburne_Swk) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).