NILAI – Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) brought together students from diverse backgrounds to celebrate culture, language, and global understanding through the Mahrajan Thaqafat Alamiyyah 2024 program. The Closing Ceremony was officiated by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Sharifudin Md Shaarani. The program ran for ten days, from December 9 to 18, 2024, at the Main Hall of the Faculty of Major Language Studies (FPBU).
Organized by FPBU in collaboration with USIM ‘Alamiyyah, Nadi Thaqafah, and the International Student Association (INSAN), the program featured a variety of activities aimed at fostering cultural exchange and enhancing language proficiency.
In his speech, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Sharifudin Md Shaarani emphasized the festival’s significance as a bridge for unity and mutual respect.
“Mahrajan Thaqafat Alamiyyah 2024 is not merely a celebration of cultural diversity. It demonstrates the strength in unity and reminds us that our differences make us stronger. Through events like this, we build a global community rooted in respect, understanding, and shared humanity,” he stated.
The program included activities such as Explorace, Theatre Night, a Digital Education Innovation Competition, and an Arabic News Presentation Contest. These activities provided platforms for students to hone their skills in both Arabic and English while fostering an appreciation for different cultures.
Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Sharifudin also highlighted the pivotal role of the Arabic language in the festival, aligning with the celebration of World Arabic Language Day on December 18.
“The focus on the Arabic language in this program reflects USIM’s continuous efforts to enhance students’ proficiency in the language. Events such as the Arabic News Presentation Contest underline the critical role of Arabic as a global language,” he added.
The festival not only celebrated cultural diversity but also showcased the significant contributions of international students at USIM. Representatives from various countries enriched the university’s academic and social environment.
“Our international students bring unique histories, rich heritage, and fresh perspectives to USIM. Their presence reminds us that education is a powerful tool for exchanging ideas and embracing new ways of thinking,” said Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Sharifudin.
“The friendships and connections formed here lay the foundation for a global community that values collaboration, inclusivity, and mutual respect. These bonds will shape our world for generations to come,” he further remarked.
The Closing Ceremony marked the culmination of ten days of cultural exchange and learning, inspiring participants to continue building bridges between cultures and fostering global citizenship.
Mahrajan Thaqafat Alamiyyah 2024 has set a strong foundation for future initiatives, underscoring the importance of celebrating diversity as a cornerstone of education and community building.