Medan, September 27, 2026 — The journey of the Malaysian delegation in the International Summer Course 2026 officially ended on Sunday morning. During their time in North Sumatra, the Malaysian delegation not only participated in the planned agenda but also gained diverse experiences ranging from studying academic materials, witnessing industrial processes, tasting Indonesian cuisine, getting to know Batak Toba culture, to enjoying the atmosphere of Medan city with their respective buddies.
Each experience left a different story for the participants. Some particularly remembered the trip to Samosir; others were impressed by the hospitality of the locals, some enjoyed Indonesian food, and there were those who recalled simple moments like singing together during the journey. This series of experiences demonstrated that international experiences do not always arise from formal activities. Everyday interactions, conversations, traveling, dining together, and the laughter that emerged in between the agenda also contributed to cross-cultural learning.
Amidst the atmosphere, there was a hope to be able to meet again on the next occasion. The desire of several delegates to participate again if the International Summer Course is held again shows that this program not only leaves learning experiences but also opens up relationships that they wish to maintain.
The departure took place simply. The delegates were escorted by their buddies, representatives of the lecturers, and the Chairman of the International Summer Course 2026 Committee, Dr. Sambas Ade Kesuma, S.E., M.Si., Ak., CA. There was no formal farewell ceremony that morning. However, the atmosphere of parting was still felt after the participants spent several days together in various activities. There was also no agenda for exchanging souvenirs on the day of departure. Previously, the delegates and buddies had exchanged keepsakes after completing their journey in Medan city. These souvenirs became a small part of the various memories each participant took home.
For the buddies, the presence of the Malaysian delegation also provides a unique experience. They not only play the role of companions during the activities but also become friends to share stories, help introduce the surrounding environment, and accompany the delegation in enjoying various experiences while in North Sumatra. The desire to participate in similar programs again is one of the impressions that emerged from the Malaysian delegates throughout the series of activities.
In a previous interview, Najwa, an Accountancy student from UiTM, stated that she would participate in the program again if given the opportunity. For her, the International Summer Course provides ample space to learn while enjoying new experiences. A similar sentiment was expressed by Aidil, an Accountancy student from UUM, who sees cross-country programs like this as an opportunity for participants from various countries to learn from each other, exchange knowledge, and build connections. Meanwhile, Annisya Helmi and Aliyah Fareha from UUM also view the experience as a chance to gain more international experience and connect with people from different countries.
This hope makes the return of the delegates not entirely an end. There is a possibility that the connections made through the International Summer Course 2026 could continue in the form of international experiences or other collaborations in the future.
In the end, what concludes is not the relationships that have been built, but merely their journey in North Sumatra. The delegates leave Medan carrying experiences, stories, and friendships that are hoped to bring them together again in the future.