1)Program Information
Global Biomedical Engineering Network and Exchange in Indonesia (GBENEX) 2024 is a bilateral program aimed at fostering international collaboration between UTM as a leading technological institution and technology institutions from other countries in the field of research and development. The program was conducted physically for seven (7) days from March 3 to 9, 2024, involving ten (10) students and one (1) accompanying lecturer from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). This program is a collaboration between UTM and Andalas University (UNAND), Padang, Sumatra, and Muhammadiyah Riau University (UMRI), Pekanbaru, Riau, Sumatra, in Indonesia. The program successfully had a significant impact on the participating students as it facilitated extensive knowledge exchange by the involved university lecturers, in addition to contributions from UTM itself. The main objective of this program is to establish international collaboration between UTM and the participating universities, namely UNAND and UMRI. Furthermore, it aims to provide exposure to students about the world of science and technology implemented by foreign countries and further strengthen the networking between UTM students and students from UNAND and UMRI.
2) Graduates Attributes
This program made significant contributions to the participants' educational and cultural experiences. It provided students with the opportunity to learn about different technological and engineering practices, especially in the fields of biomaterials, mechanical engineering, and industrial engineering. The program also emphasized the importance of international collaboration, exposing students to diverse educational environments and systems, thus broadening their global perspectives. Additionally, the students developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills through interactive sessions and hands-on experiences in various laboratories and educational settings.
3) Position/Role in the Programme
Vice Director
4) Mini Report
The GBENEX 2024 program commenced on March 4, 2024, with the opening ceremony at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Muhammadiyah Riau (UMRI). The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UMRI inaugurated the event, followed by an introductory session between UTM and UMRI engineering students. The subsequent two-way sharing session provided a platform for students to delve into topics such as biomaterials, mechanical engineering, and industrial engineering. On the second day, students toured UMRI's facilities, including classrooms, libraries, computer labs, and resource centers, gaining insight into the university's support for student learning.
On March 6, 2024, the delegation traveled to Bukit Tinggi, West Sumatra, where they explored historical landmarks such as the Jam Gadang clock tower. The following day, the students visited Andalas University (UNAND) in Padang, starting with the Faculty of Medicine and its advanced medical laboratories and hospital facilities. On March 8, 2024, the program continued with a collaborative session at the Faculty of Engineering at UNAND, including speeches, a two-way sharing session on engineering topics, and visits to the electrical engineering laboratory and the Central Laboratory of UNAND.
The final day in Padang on March 9, 2024, was marked by mixed emotions as participants prepared to return to Malaysia. The students learned of a local disaster, a flood and landslide that resulted in several casualties, which added a somber tone to their departure. This experience underscored the importance of resilience and empathy in the face of challenges.
5) Self-Reflection
As the Vice Director of the GBENEX 2024 program, my role was pivotal in ensuring the seamless execution of the event and facilitating meaningful exchanges between UTM and the host universities. This position required me to develop and employ leadership, organizational, and communication skills at a high level.
My involvement in this program allowed me to refine my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities as I navigated various logistical challenges and coordinated activities between different institutions. Managing the expectations and needs of both UTM and our Indonesian counterparts required adaptability and effective communication, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
Furthermore, this experience significantly broadened my cultural perspective. Interacting with students and faculty from different backgrounds highlighted the value of diverse viewpoints and the importance of cultural sensitivity. It also reinforced the importance of international collaboration in advancing scientific and technological knowledge.
Despite the challenges, such as adapting to different educational systems and overcoming language barriers, I found the experience incredibly rewarding. It strengthened my resolve and ability to handle complex situations, and enhanced my leadership capabilities. The unfortunate natural disaster that occurred towards the end of our stay was a poignant reminder of the broader social responsibilities we hold as engineers and leaders.
In conclusion, my role as Vice Director in the GBENEX 2024 program was a profound learning experience that not only advanced my academic and professional skills but also enriched my personal growth. It underscored the importance of resilience, empathy, and effective leadership in fostering international collaboration and understanding.