A total of 65 students from two local institutions of higher learning (IPT) participated in the Adoption Programme in conjunction with the National Integration Programme of Students 2023 at Rumah Seribu in Nanga Tada, Kanowit on Thursday.

Organised by the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN) of the Ministry of National Unity, the programme will be held for five days from 3 to 7 August.

Sibu Division JPNIN Unity Officer Siti Nurfatimah Hussen said the objective of the programme was to strengthen national integration through the implementation of cultural and sports arts activities involving multi-racial participation.

She said the first-year students of IPT were 60 from Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus (UPMKB) and five from the IPG Rajang Campus.

This program provides opportunities for participants to gain new experiences while strengthening relationships and social interactions between the younger generation and the local community through mutual understanding of their mother tongue, customs and cultures of other peoples," she said.

Hence, she said, through participation in such programmes, it is hoped that it will encourage and foster the culture of volunteerism in the students.

"The new experience is expected to create individuals who love the country, caring, tolerant and cooperative in ensuring national harmony.

"Throughout this five-day, four-night programme, participants will sit down with their host families to experience the true culture, food and daily practices of the local community," he explained.

According to Siti Nurfatimah, knowledge sharing sessions such as briefings will also be held on the definition of national unity and integration in terms of dialects, customs, and culture of the local community.

The adoption ceremony was officiated by Sarawak State JPNIN Director Dirwana Azool. Also present, College Principal and Head of UPMKB Student Affairs Dr Kamil Latif.

Date of Input: 08/08/2023 | Updated: 15/08/2023 | lanz