KEDAH – Students are the mainstay in the world of education, not only serving as agents of change but also as future leaders in shaping and advocating wise views to address issues in Malaysia’s multicultural society. Through participation in community activities, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) actively engages by organizing the “USIM Fieldwork” Program involving students and Kampung Telok Community in Jitra, Kedah, which took place from 19th to 21st January 2024.
The program, organized by the Institute of Islamic Sciences (ISI) USIM with 30 students from the 3rd year of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FPSK) and the Faculty of Quranic and Sunnah Studies (FPQS), is an initiative involving various activities to empower and engage the local community such as health screenings, exhibitions, visits to the elderly, and community sports.
Mr. Ahmad Yussof Zainal Abidin, the program coordinator, stated that this program is a collaboration between USIM and Government Agencies in Kedah, including the Kedah State Development Office (ICU), Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) Kedah, Department of Statistics Kedah, Kedah State Religious Affairs Office, Andalusia Tourism Company, Kubang Pasu District Health Office, Kedah Zakat Board, and several other involved parties.
“This program is expected to strengthen the relationship between students and the local community. Moreover, it is not just about joint management with the community, staying with foster families, and communal work, but students are encouraged to wisely utilize the opportunities provided, including through sharing sessions with community leaders who have experience in addressing issues commonly faced by the community. These expressions and sharing are considered as important channels to obtain the necessary insights and suggestions from students.”
He further stated that in the effort to integrate students into society, mastering knowledge in various fields is considered the most important aspect. Students can bring about positive changes in society by presenting realistic ideas and opinions, thereby bringing communities closer to students.
This program encompasses various interesting activities such as Government Agency Exhibitions, Chronic Patient Consultation Programs at selected elderly homes, USIM Foster Families Program, Community Sports Day, and Children’s Colouring Contest. The most anticipated program is the Ubi Telampong Rewang Program, where the Kampung Telok community and students collaborate in preparing traditional dishes.
Translated by: Adika Hakmi