From August 30 to September 1, 2024, three international students joined 18 local Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) students for the Youth Sports Leadership Programme (YSLP) at Eco Forest Park, Kledang Saiong, Perak. Organized by University Sports Excellence (USE), the programme focused on developing sports management, event coordination, leadership, and volunteerism skills.

YSLP, led by UTM Kuala Lumpur, offered a variety of enriching activities including a Sports Management Workshop, Merdeka Eve Celebration, Mount Meru Hiking, a community service project at Eco Forest Park, and a visit to Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kasih Nurul Iman, an orphanage in Perak. The programme successfully brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds to build team spirit and develop leadership qualities.

On August 30, Prof. Ts. Dr. Abd Latif Saleh, Pro-Vice Chancellor (UTM Kuala Lumpur Campus), joined the students for a forum discussing the importance of core values such as Integrity, Synergy, Excellence, and Sustainability in academic and co-curricular activities. A highlight of the evening was the Merdeka Eve Celebration, where students performed patriotic-themed presentations, culminating in the traditional “Merdeka” shout led by Prof. Ts. Dr. Abd Latif at midnight. Adding an international touch, students Sadaquat and Sheriyar performed the patriotic song “Pakistan Zindabad,” while Dr. Saleem, from the Azman Hashim International Business School (AHIBS), shared his inspiring journey as a PhD candidate, motivating students to excel in both academics and extracurriculars.

On August 31, participants undertook a challenging hike up Mount Meru, led by Prof. Ts. Dr. Abd Latif Saleh and Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Aminudin Hj. Abu, Director of Student Affairs and Alumni (HEPA). The hike promoted work-life balance and celebrated Malaysia’s 67th Independence Day.

The programme concluded with a community service project at Eco Forest Park, where students and staff painted a 100-meter footpath. They also donated furniture, school supplies, daily essentials, and cash to Pertubuhan Kebajikan Kasih Nurul Iman, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to the community.

YSLP Chairperson, En. Nabil Hazwan, expressed gratitude for the support of Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Aminudin Haji Abu, highlighting that the YSLP will continue as an annual event, nurturing leadership and high-level skills in sports management among UTM students. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Higher Education’s goal of enhancing graduate employability through practical leadership experiences.

Source: UTM NewsHub