International Affairs led by Dr Lamun Kayurin, Assistant to President and Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam successfully co-organized RUTS and UiTM International Collaboration Camp 2025 (Student Union Camp) under the theme βUnity in Diversity: Empowering Future ASEAN Leadersβduring 18th August 2025 β 22nd August 2025 at Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya with a total of 85 participants. Representing RUTS were lecturers, members of the student union, student council, and student organizations from all campuses, while UiTM was represented by 33 participants, including 6 staff members and 27 students. This program was designed as a collaborative platform to foster student leadership, intercultural competence, and cross-border cooperation between student unions of both institutions.
The five-day camp will bring together student union leaders, academic staff, and guest speakers from both institutions. Activities include leadership workshops, cultural exchange, SDG innovation labs, community service projects, and cultural tours in Songkhla. Key highlights feature student-led sustainable development initiatives, leadership showcases, and a farewell cultural night celebrating ASEAN diversity.
Expected outcomes include the drafting of a Joint Action Plan for student union collaboration, mini-project proposals aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthened institutional partnerships. This initiative reflects the commitment of RUTS and UiTM to nurturing globally minded, socially responsible youth leaders in line with ASEAN Vision 2025.
On 18 August 2025, student representatives from Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS) welcomed the delegation from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Shah Alam upon their arrival at the Padang Besar border. The RUTS team assisted UiTM students and staff with travel arrangements, guided them through local procedures, and ensured a smooth transfer to their accommodation at Lake Inn Hotel in Songkhla Old Town. This warm reception not only provided practical support but also reflected the commitment of RUTS to fostering friendship and cross-cultural understanding from the very first day of the camp. The welcoming activity marked the official start of the RUTS & UiTM International Collaboration Student Union Camp 2025, setting a positive tone for the days ahead. With both Thai and Malaysian students meeting for the first time, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation, embodying the campβs theme of βUnity in Diversity: Empowering Future ASEAN Leaders.β
On 19 August 2025, the RUTS & UiTM International Collaboration Student Union Camp 2025 officially began with meaningful cultural and community-based activities. The day commenced with a Local Engagement session at the Tha Hin Community, led by Mrs. Poonsup Chukeaw, the community leader. This activity provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with local residents, gaining insights into cultural traditions and sustainable practices while fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the universities and the community. Participants also enjoyed hands-on learning experiences such as making herbal soap, preparing traditional Thai desserts from toddy palm, and practicing rice weaving, allowing them to acquire practical skills while appreciating local wisdom as well as explored the unique βNod-Na-Leβ lifestyle of the Sathing Phra Peninsula, which reflects the close connection between people and their natural surroundings. The dayβs activities offered students not only a deeper appreciation of cultural heritage but also practical lessons in sustainability, resilience, and community leadership, perfectly aligning with the campβs theme
On 20 August 2025, the RUTS & UiTM International Collaboration Student Union Camp 2025 highlighted the theme βYouths for a Sustainable Futureβ through a series of academic workshops, keynote talks, and interactive sessions. The program began with insightful keynote addresses from RUTS experts on the role of student unions in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the application of the Business Model Canvas
Following the talks, students participated in a Design Thinking workshop facilitated by Dr. Lamun Kayurin, Asst. Prof. Arthit Sutjasen, and Mr. Phusana Polsongkram, where they worked in groups to develop project ideas aligned with the SDGs. These sessions encouraged participants to integrate creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking in addressing real-world challenges. The day concluded with BMC project pitching presentations, where students demonstrated their leadership and communication skills by articulating innovative solutions for sustainable development.
Beyond the academic program, students engaged in team sports at Chalatat Beach, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and cross-cultural bonding. This balance of intellectual challenge and physical activity not only strengthened teamwork but also embodied the campβs vision of empowering youth leaders who are resilient, collaborative, and future-oriented.
On 21 August 2025, the RUTS & UiTM International Collaboration Student Union Camp 2025 marked a significant highlight with its Opening Ceremony, held under the theme βVoice, Vision & Values.β The ceremony was graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Haji Mohd Sazili Shahibi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Students Affairs) of UiTM, and Dr. Firdaus Mohamad, Chairman of the Principal Council, whose participation emphasized the strong collaboration between the two institutions. Prof. Dr. Haji Mohd Sazili also delivered an engaging session on βInstitutional Brilliance Through Student-Centric Leadership: A Malaysian Model,β inspiring students with practical insights into effective leadership.
The afternoon program featured a series of Student Leadership Showcases, including a campus tour and interactive storytelling activities in Songkhla Old Town. Students visited key cultural landmarks such as the Red Rice Mill Hub Ho Hin Heritage site, engaged in guided storytelling walks, and took part in a Quick Sketch activity, where they creatively captured the essence of Songkhlaβs historical and cultural identity. These activities not only deepened studentsβ understanding of local heritage but also allowed them to reflect on leadership through the lens of cultural preservation and community values. The day concluded with a vibrant Farewell Dinner, featuring cultural performances and the Prize Pitching Competition, where students presented their innovative SDG-focused projects developed during the camp. The evening was filled with cultural exchange, celebration, and recognition of the participantsβ hard work, symbolizing both the conclusion of the campβs academic program and the strengthening of cross-cultural friendships.
On 22 August 2025, the RUTS & UiTM International Collaboration Student Union Camp 2025 came to a meaningful conclusion with a day of reflection and celebration. The program began with a Student Sharing Session, where participants exchanged their experiences, insights, and lessons learned from five days of leadership workshops, cultural exchange, and community engagement. This session allowed students to express how the camp had enriched their perspectives on cross-cultural collaboration and inspired them to take on future leadership roles within the ASEAN context.
Following the reflections, a Certificate and Souvenir Presentation Ceremony was held to recognize the dedication and active participation of both RUTS and UiTM students. Certificates of participation were presented to all participants, while souvenirs served as memorable tokens symbolizing the friendship, unity, and collaboration forged during the camp.
The event culminated with the Closing Ceremony, marking the official end of the camp. University representatives from RUTS and UiTM congratulated the participants and reaffirmed their institutionsβ shared commitment to empowering youth leaders who are resilient, innovative, and globally minded. The ceremony not only celebrated the success of the program but also highlighted the vision of sustaining long-term cooperation between the two universities.
