9th December 2024, Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) proudly hosted “Roots & Green”, a collaborative program with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), from December 3 to December 7, 2024, in Batam. The event focused on embracing culture and sustainability, bringing together two esteemed lecturers and four students from USM’s Graduate Business School for an inspiring series of activities, including seminars and community service projects.
The program featured two seminar days at UIB, held on December 3 and December 6, with sessions led by USM lecturers—Professor Dr. Siti Nabiha binti Abdul Khalid and Dr. Noor Fareen binti Abdul Rahim—alongside UIB lecturers, including Erilia Kesumahati, S.Si., Apt., MM, Prof. Dr. Oda Ignatius Besar Hariyanto, Dr. Ferdinand Nainggolan, SE., MBA, Dr. Stivani Ayuning Suwarlan, S.T., M.T, Haeruddin, S.Kom., MMSI, Dr. Yusra Aulia Sari, S.T., M.URP, and Hendra Nugraha, S.S., M.Hum. The sessions were engaging and interactive, encouraging meaningful exchanges among participants.
Beyond the academic discussions, the event embraced the rich cultural diversity of Batam. Guests from USM explored local culinary delights, experiencing the vibrant flavors that reflect the island’s heritage. A key highlight of the program was the community service activity at Desa Wisata Kampung Tua Bakau Serip, where participants learned about mangroves and their vital role in environmental sustainability. Together, they planted mangroves as a symbol of their shared commitment to protecting the planet and fostering sustainability.
Professor Dr. Siti Nabiha binti Abdul Khalid remarked, “Programs like this are vital for building bridges between nations. Through shared experiences, we not only exchange knowledge but also create lasting connections that empower us to address global challenges, such as sustainability.”
Dr. Stivani Ayuning Suwarlan, Head of Architecture at UIB, reflected on the collaboration, “This partnership is a testament to the power of education in fostering cultural appreciation and environmental stewardship. By working together, we strengthen our collective efforts toward a sustainable future.”
The “Roots & Green” program underscored the importance of embracing culture and sustainability in fostering international collaboration. It provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas, deepen cross-cultural understanding, and take meaningful steps toward environmental stewardship. This impactful event strengthened the partnership between UIB and USM, and UIB looks forward to future collaborations that continue to promote global connectivity and shared values.
