Beginning on the 28th of September 2024, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) welcomed a fresh wave of students excited to start their academic careers with the annual Minggu Apresiasi Watan (MAW). MAW ran until 2nd of October 2024 and was intended to help incoming students get acclimated to university life by introducing them to UKM’s resources, academic environment, and traditions. To foster a sense of community and belonging among both students and professors, this year’s program featured educational conferences, cultural events, and entertaining activities.
The orientation started when students arrived at the UKM campus in Kuala Lumpur, where they were assisted by supportive staff members as they registered and got settled. Students from Johor, Kelantan, and Sarawak, among other parts of Malaysia, gathered and began interacting with one another. PC (Pemudah Cara) from Kolej Tun Syed Nasir (KTSN) planned an icebreaker for them to participate in during the evening. As students got to know their new campus surroundings, these team-based activities that included a variety of station games fostered connections and collaboration. A dedicated PC led each station, establishing a friendly beginning to the week.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, YBhg. Prof. Madya Dr. Mohd Suzeren Md Jamil, gave an inspiring address at DECTAR to kick off the next day, which was its official opening ceremony of MAW. The opening ceremony set an upbeat spirit by introducing the students to UKM’s mission and values, and embracing their new journey. After that, the interactive session, “In Person with Doc Zamri: Tips and Tricks for Freshies”, provided students with valuable insights and advice to guide them throughout their time at UKM. Dr. Zamri encouraged students to be mindful of their surroundings and to learn from the wisdom of experienced individuals. These insights serve as a foundation for students to navigate university life effectively. In summary, this day highlighted UKM’s commitment to building an enjoyable academic and social atmosphere for new students, allowing them to feel like members of the university’s extended family.
The third day focused on familiarising students with their respective faculties at the UKM KL campus. This day was filled with activities tailored to each faculty by offering students a chance to tour the campus, explore laboratories, and meet faculty members who will play key roles in their academic development. The faculty’s vision, academic standards, and potential for all pharmacy students are highlighted in the welcome address given by Prof. Dr. Mohd bin Makmor Bakry, Dean of the Faculty Pharmacy. Besides, an invitation to attend “Malam Wira Watan” at KTSN, highlighted UKM’s uniformed student groups, including SISPA, SUKSIS and PALAPES, concluded the day. As they thought about joining these clubs in the future, this workshop gave the students a chance to learn about the importance of community service, leadership, and patriotism.
The students’ journey continued at UKM’s main campus in Bangi with “Megafit Batik”, a vibrant aerobics session where participants donned traditional batik attire. This event set a Malaysia Book of Records achievement for the largest aerobics session featuring participants in batik. This lively event blended fitness with cultural pride, reflecting UKM’s commitment to wellness and Malaysian heritage. Through these activities, students were encouraged to embrace a balanced, healthy lifestyle while celebrating unity and tradition in a colorful and memorable way.
Student delegate, Nor Afiq Nazran, conducted an impressive pledge reading at Dewan Canselor Tun Abdul Razak (DECTAR) to cap off the last day of MAW. This solemn occasion reinforced UKM’s commitment to both academic success and individual development. The day concluded with “Raikan Warisan Watan Gemilang”, a vibrant cultural celebration honoring Malaysia’s rich heritage. The air was filled with traditional dancing, music, and performances, which made UKM students feel proud of their country and excited about the future.
Written by: Gordon Loi Ming Kai
