PPIK USM STRENGTHENS INTERNATIONALISATION THROUGH MOBILITY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME IN KAMPUNG PERLIS
The School of Humanities (PPIK), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently strengthened its internationalisation agenda through the International Mobility Programme 2026: Jalinan Kasih MADANI and Global CSR Initiative, held over eight days in Kampung Perlis, Balik Pulau.
The programme was organised in collaboration with the Faculty of Da'wah and Communication, UIN Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh, Indonesia, and the Kampung Perlis community, bringing together students from Malaysia and Indonesia for an immersive learning experience based on the Service-Learning Malaysia-University for Society (SULAM) approach.
Participants stayed with host families, engaged in community activities, and gained first-hand exposure to rural life while applying their academic knowledge beyond the classroom.
Dean of the School of Humanities, Associate Professor Dr. Jasni Sulong, said the programme reflects USM's commitment to experiential learning, community empowerment, and international collaboration.
He noted that the initiative enabled students to develop leadership, teamwork, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding while contributing meaningfully to the local community.
One of the programme highlights was the Alpha Industries-USM-Kampung Perlis Community Engagement Programme, which brought together villagers, industry representatives, and students through a range of community-based activities.
Participants worked together in a village clean-up initiative and took part in the traditional preparation of Bubur Asyura, strengthening ties between higher education institutions, industry partners, and the local community.
The programme also fostered meaningful connections among participants from different cultural and national backgrounds, reflecting the values of volunteerism, inclusivity, and community spirit.
To complement the community activities, a Sakinah Family Forum was organised, featuring representatives from Alpha Industries and USM academics as invited panellists.
The forum highlighted the importance of strong family institutions in building resilient and harmonious communities in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI.
Dr. Jasni added that initiatives of this nature help nurture socially responsible and globally minded graduates while strengthening regional partnerships and community engagement.
The programme also reinforced collaboration between USM and UIN Ar-Raniry, in line with the aspirations of USM APEX and Malaysia MADANI to promote inclusive and sustainable community development.