01/10/2026
🌸 UTHM-SUAC 2026 "Jejak Sakura" Program Closing Ceremony & Program Highlights 🌸
The Centre for Language Studies (CLS), UTHM, was honored to welcome Mr. Tsukamoto Norihisa (Director of Japan Foundation Kuala Lumpur - JFKL) and Puan Yeoh Li Cheng (Head of Department of International Mobility and Student Experience, International Office, UTHM) for the Closing Ceremony of the "Jejak Sakura 2026" Program (held from 20 to 29 September 2026), which took place on 25 September 2026.
The ceremony commenced with a welcoming address by Associate Professor Dr. Sazuliana binti Sanif (Deputy Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, CLS). During the event, Puan Nur Diyana binti Abd Rahman (Senior Programme Officer, Japanese Language Department, JFKL) conducted an insightful sharing session on the JFKL Sponsored 6-Week Japanese Language Training Program at the JF Japanese-Language Institute, Kansai, presenting an extraordinary opportunity for UTHM students to further their studies in Japan!
✨ Key Highlights of the Program
• SUAC Collaboration & Classroom Engagement:
Following the signing of the Letter of Intent (LOI) in June this year, we welcomed Professor Sano and 9 Japanese language education interns from Shizuoka University of Art and Culture (SUAC). The interns actively assisted in Japanese language classes conducted by Puan Siti Hajar and Puan Junko Hiyama. On 25 September, they successfully organized Japanese cultural exhibition booths featuring tea ceremony, calligraphy, and origami, fostering deep cross-cultural friendships with the enthusiastic support of our UTHM Buddies.
• Batu Pahat Heritage & Cultural Guide Training Tour (26 September):
Participants visited the Dato’ Onn Gallery to learn about Malaysian history and its historical connections with Japan. They also explored historical Japanese wall inscriptions dating back to 1944 in Parit Sulong, gaining valuable insights into regional history and the history of Japanese language education.
・Reflections from a SUAC Student Participant:
"I was blessed with so many valuable experiences and wonderful encounters, making this an unforgettable memory of a lifetime. This experience has truly broadened my interests and horizons. Thank you so much!"
We extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Tsukamoto Norihisa (Director of JFKL), the executive management and commitee members of CLS, UTHM Buddy students and all participating students for their dedication and support in making this program a resounding success!