SERDANG, March 17 - A total of 70 international students from various countries such as South Korea, China, Japan, Bangladesh, Jordan, Sudan, Kazakhstan, Thailand, Germany, and France participated in the ‘A Day as a Malaysian: Buka Puasa Edition’ programme to give exposure to international students to experience the atmosphere of Ramadan in Malaysia recently.
The programme was organised by the Buddies Association, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and attended by 15 local UPM students.
The programme director, Muhammad Ammar Mohd Salleh, said the programme held for the first time by the Buddies Association, UPM, can further strengthen the relationship with international students so that they do not feel isolated while they are in the country.
"This provides a direct opportunity for international students to experience the culture and the way the Malaysian community celebrates the month of Ramadan," he said.
Among the activities carried out was visiting the Putra Mosque. This provided them with exposure to Islamic architecture in Malaysia. The mosque volunteers assisted them. They also bought Iftar food at the Putrajaya Ramadan Bazaar and broke fast at the Istana Kehakiman Putrajaya (Palace of Justice) square.
A Chinese student, Wang Yun Chong, said he was excited to follow this programme because he could better understand the culture in Malaysia.
"I am happy with this programme. I have been able to make new friends and I am also grateful to the organisers of the programme for giving me this new experience," he said.
UPM international student from France, Eva Vigilant, said she was excited by the variety of food sold at the Ramadan Bazaar.
"I didn't expect to see a wide array of food items sold at the Ramadan Bazaar. Everything looked delicious and appetising," she said while buying food and drinks at the Putrajaya Ramadan Bazaar.
Meanwhile, Muslim international students also had the opportunity to perform the Terawih Prayers at the nearby Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque, close to the fast breaking area. – UPM
