From the 15th to the 20th of October 2023, PUTRA International Centre (i-PUTRA) embarked on a pioneering venture by organizing their first-ever large-scale event, the International Exploration Festival (InterXFest). This monumental festival spanned four exhilarating days, drawing nearly 1500 enthusiastic participants from diverse backgrounds

The festival's central objective was to bridge the gap between international students and local students, fostering a sense of community and global awareness, while simultaneously bringing the international experience right to the heart of UPM – an initiative termed "Internationalization @ Home." InterXFest was a carefully curated blend of public and private events, creating a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and meaningful interactions.

The festivities commenced with the International Fun Day on October 15, 2023, a day filled with diverse activities and spirited competitions. Indoors, the cultural exhibition showcased the rich tapestry of UPM's international community, while traditional Malay games, cooking competitions, singing contests, and a fashion show highlighted the global spectrum of talents. Outdoor enthusiasts could participate in target shooting, experience archery, embark on horseback riding adventures, and tackle inflatable bouncy challenges.

Day two, October 16, brought the International Forum and Sharing Session to life. Distinguished panels from the Centre of Industrial Relations (CiRNET), School of Graduate Studies (SGS), Research Management Centre (RMC), and the English Language School (ELS) engaged in a thought-provoking discussion on internationalization. Moderated by Assoc Prof Dr Syazwani Idrus, this forum offered invaluable insights into the academic dimensions of global education. Additionally, the event featured sharing sessions by Outbound Alumni and Current Inbound Mobility Students, providing real-life perspectives on the international student experience. The day concluded with a lively game session organized by the UPM Buddies Association, fostering camaraderie and fun.

One of the festival's private events was the Meet and Greet with International Students (MaGNET) 2023, held on October 19 and co-organized by the Internationalization of Higher Education Division (IHED), Ministry of Higher Education. This gathering brought together representatives from both public and private universities, along with ambassadors from 20 different countries. The event provided a platform for meaningful networking and the exchange of ideas, strengthening Malaysia's position in the global education landscape.

The grand finale, the Global Gathering and Appreciatory Day on October 20, served as a medium for bringing UPM's international staff closer to the top management and as a means to express appreciation to university entities and individuals who have supported UPM's internationalization efforts. The day was not only a celebration but also a recognition of outstanding contributions. Several awards were presented to entities that excelled in various categories, recognizing their dedication to UPM's internationalization goals.

InterXFest concluded on a high note, leaving a profound impact on UPM's international and local communities alike. It not only celebrated the rich tapestry of cultures that make up UPM but also underscored the university's commitment to fostering global awareness and understanding. As the festival ended, it opened the door to future opportunities for cross-cultural learning and collaboration, reinforcing UPM's status as a hub for global education.

Date of Input: 31/10/2023 | Updated: 31/10/2023 | sh_najiyah