International Collaboration Milestone Through Co-Hosting International Conference
on Academic Studies and Student Exchange at Tunku Abdul Rahman University, Malaysia
In conjunction with the co-hosting of the International Conference in Malaysia, the short-term exchange program has marked a significant milestone in the international collaboration efforts of the School of Economics (Can Tho University) with other major universities in the region. It also opened up a valuable opportunity for the delegation of students from the School of Economics CSE, allowing them to engage and gain deeper insights into Malaysia’s culture, education, and economy.
This exchange program aims to provide opportunities for students from different countries to interact, learn, and experience new cultures. Students are also afforded numerous chances to enhance their specialized knowledge and develop soft skills through practical activities and academic workshop sessions. Simultaneously, the exchange program strengthens the friendship and collaboration between the School of Economics CSE (Vietnam) and TAR UMT University (Malaysia). A memorable journey occurred from August 7th, 2023, to August 13th, 2023, with TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY OF MANAGEMENT AND TECHNOLOGY. As integral program members, the delegation leaders consisted of Ms. Duong Que Nhu – Lecturer from the Department of Tourism and Travel Service Management, and Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy Ngan – Lecturer from the Department of Economics at CSE. They were accompanied by 17 students from various majors who met the strict selection criteria based on their academic performance and English proficiency.
CSE students at TAR UMT University
Setting it apart from other exchange programs, this journey stood out as the School of Economics CSE had the privilege of co-hosting the TAR UMT International Researcher and Student Conference 2023 under the theme “Sustainability in the New Economy”. The conference occurred from August 10th to 11th, 2023, in Malaysia. The delegation from the School of Economics, including Associate Professor Dr. Le Khuong Ninh – Rector, Associate Professor Dr. Phan Anh Tu – Vice Rector, and faculty members who lead the departments within CSE, attended the conference as co-hosts. Their roles encompassed chairing discussion sessions, participating in peer review of scientific papers, and delivering research presentations at the conference. Accompanying the esteemed faculty were 17 outstanding CSE students currently engaged in a student exchange program in Malaysia. These students also acquired diverse insights into sustainable development in the new economy from the conference's speakers.
CSE lecturers and students at the conference
After the conference concluded, the CSE delegation, comprising faculty members and 17 students, was invited by TAR UMT University to attend the Gala Dinner. In the presence of all attendees, the conference chairman, Prof. Dr. Lee Sze Wei, awarded participation certificates to partners who had chaired conference sessions. This significant milestone commemorates the enhancement and expansion of CSE's international academic network with its international collaborative partners.
CSE Rector and partners receiving certificates as Chairs of the discussion sessions at the conference
Nothing can compare to the firsthand experience of immersing oneself in a new language and culture. The cultural and language workshops awakened curiosity in each student. They eagerly engaged in vibrant lessons, gaining a deeper understanding of how language and culture intertwine. The students also learned about the Malaysian people's core values, customs, and traditions. The diversity in religion, language, and customs within Malaysian culture resembles the array of colors on a vibrant painting. The students were incredibly enthusiastic to explore each facet of this diversity through the workshop sessions.
CSE students attending the workshops
The workshops at the local university not only enable students to acquire new knowledge but also provide them with a better understanding of Malaysia's culture and education system. Students engaged in lively discussions with local students, sharing their knowledge and perspectives. This represents a valuable opportunity for exchanging ideas, learning, and exploring the differences in thinking and learning approaches between students from the two universities.
CSE students alongside TAR UMT University students
The journey doesn't merely limit itself to academics; students also have the chance to gain practical experience through visits to Malaysia's famous tourist destinations.
The first stop on the itinerary was Chinatown, also known as Petaling Street. Upon arriving at Chinatown, students were impressed by the buildings that exude a strong sense of classical Chinese architecture, blended with modern structures, creating a unique picture of the past and the future. Here, they could shop and explore local items, ranging from traditional cuisine to fashion and jewelry. Moreover, the group tried signature dishes like Hokkien Mee and Hokkien Fried Rice at a renowned restaurant in Chinatown.
Cuisines served by the partner university
Next, the students visited Central Market, a truly unique and captivating destination in Malaysia. This is more than a renowned tourist spot and a vibrant cultural museum. Situated at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Central Market seamlessly blends traditional culture with modernity. As they entered Central Market, everyone was immediately captivated by its artistic ambiance and lively atmosphere. They immersed themselves in a world full of vibrant folk art, paintings, handicrafts, and jewelry.
CSE students at Central Market
Another location where students had an enjoyable experience with nature, agriculture, and closer interaction with animals was Farm Fresh UPM. Farm Fresh UPM is a farm designed like a rural village, where you can relish the open space and cool breeze and experience the refreshing atmosphere of the countryside. The opportunity to interact directly with various farm animals, from dairy cows to goats, sheep, and horses, is particularly unique here. This indeed offered a chance to experience the nurturing and care of animals, gaining a better understanding of how they impact our agriculture and food. Students could also taste the cool gelato ice cream and milk tea, both made with milk produced on the farm.
CSE students at Farm Fresh UPM
It would be an omission if the students did not get a chance to learn about the host country's culture. Therefore, the delegation proceeded to the Malaysia Tourism Centre (MATIC). MATIC serves as an information hub for tourism and a unique space to explore Malaysia's culture and traditions. Inside MATIC's pristine white building, students got to know more about Malaysia's key tourist spots, watched distinctive cultural dances of various ethnic groups (including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other minority groups), and received further insights into the unique cultural facets of Malaysia's different ethnicities during significant festivals such as harvest celebrations, victory commemorations, and more.
CSE students at MATIC
Malaysian traditional costumes and dances
CSE students and the performers
Leaving MATIC, students continued to visit Batu Caves, a wonder sculpted by nature and a place of Hindu religious worship. As you step into Batu Caves, you'll be greeted by the world's tallest Hindu deity statue - the Murugan statue. Crafted from steel, concrete and standing approximately 42.7 meters tall, the statue depicts Lord Murugan, a Hindu deity associated with war and protection. This evokes a sense of reverence and respect right after reaching the destination.
Batu Caves comprise an impressive system of limestone caves. To access these caves, you need to go up a long staircase with over 270 steps, offering breathtaking and captivating views. Within these caves lie shrines and ancient Hindu deity statues, creating a space of worship and sanctity.
CSE students at Batu Caves
The journey did not stop there; students also got to experience the culinary delights of the Connaught Night Market, one of Malaysia's largest and most renowned night markets, spanning 2km. Each evening, Cheras Connaught Road transforms into a unique marketplace with many stalls and booths offering everything from delicious street food to fashion items, jewelry, household goods, etc. Connaught Night Market isn't just a place for shopping and tasting food; it's also a part of the local lifestyle and culture. Here, you'll feel Kuala Lumpur's nightlife's vibrancy, excitement, and dynamism.
Image of the street and food at Connaught Night Market
Finally, students also got the chance to visit the Royal Selangor factory. Established in 1885 in Kuala Lumpur, Royal Selangor has become a globally renowned brand specializing in producing and designing tin, pewter, and silver products. Upon entering the Royal Selangor factory, students were taken on a journey through history to learn about creating handmade products. The informative guide shared with students about the crafting process and the unique method that Royal Selangor has used for over a century. Furthermore, students also had the opportunity to witness firsthand the manual crafting process of the products at Royal Selangor, including items like tableware, decorations, paintings, and more.
CSE students at Royal Selangor
Wrapping up the 7-day journey in Malaysia, the short-term exchange program combined with co-hosting the International conference is a memorable experience for CSE and its students. Students gained new knowledge and skills and experienced the richness and diversity of life and culture in another country. We believe that this trip and the lessons learned will contribute positively to the future of each delegation member.
CSE students at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on 13 August 2023
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