From 7-9 September 2024, the Office of Corporate Communications and International Affairs at PSU Pattani organized the "Conversation in Workplace" exchange program at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Bachok Campus, Malaysia. This program provided an excellent opportunity for students and staff to enhance their English communication skills, improve teamwork, and adapt to new environments. Led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Warapark Maitreephun, Assistant President for Research and Social Mission at Pattani Campus, and Ms. Varunya Temrat, Assistant to the President for Student Affairs and Alumni Affairs, the delegation of 63 students and staff benefited from this enriching cross-cultural learning experience.
Dr. Warapark emphasized that this initiative is a significant step for PSU Pattani Campus in preparing students and staff for global work and life environments. The program involved 50 students who participated in an immersive English language exchange experience at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. Over the course of the three-day program, students had the opportunity to enhance both their language and cultural skills. They engaged in traditional activities such as local sports, batik-making, and learning about community products at the Villagers' Festival, providing a rich insight into Malaysian life.
A highlight of the program was the “Professional Self Introduction” and “English Grammar for Workplace Communication” workshops, conducted by faculty members from the Faculty of Language Studies and Human Development at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. These workshops allowed students to practice English in a professional context. Additionally, the students visited the Istana Jahar Museum and participated in the Carnival of Research and Innovation, which broadened their understanding of Malaysia's history, culture, and innovative contributions.
Mr. Muslim Jehda, a freshman from the Faculty of Political Science, shared his thoughts on participating in the exchange program. He expressed how the experience exceeded his expectations, especially in terms of cross-cultural communication. He said, “This exchange experience made me realize that meeting foreign friends is not as intimidating as I thought. At first, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to talk to foreigners, but after participating in various activities, we could communicate easily. If I get the chance again, I’d love to go and gain more experiences.” His reflection highlights how the program not only improved his English skills but also helped him build confidence in engaging with people from different cultures.
Mr. Muhammadzarif Lateh, a senior student from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, shared his reflections on the exchange program, highlighting the valuable lessons he learned about adapting to diverse cultures. He mentioned, “This experience taught me so much about understanding people and living abroad. It was an eye-opening opportunity that emphasized the importance of embracing new cultures. In a global society, this adaptability is crucial for personal growth and success.” His perspective underscores how the program not only enhanced his language skills but also deepened his understanding of the world and the significance of cross-cultural experiences.
Ms. Yuparat Chaiyasit, a sophomore nursing student from the Pattani campus, shared her enthusiasm about the program, saying, “I am happy and enjoy participating in this program. I learned to adapt to different cultures, such as trying foods different from those at home, understanding diverse dressing styles, and using English in real-life situations. Moving forward, I plan to improve myself and become more proficient in English.” Her reflection illustrates how the program not only broadened her cultural awareness but also sparked a commitment to self-improvement and language development, showcasing the positive impact the exchange had on participants' personal growth and future aspirations.
