SERDANG, 12 August 2025 – The UPM-ASEAN University Network (AUN) Summer Camp 2025 commenced at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) with an official opening ceremony at the Faculty of Food Science and Technology (FSTM), bringing together 30 students from Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, Brunei Darussalam, and Malaysia, along with a special participant from Taiwan currently studying in the Philippines. Organised by PUTRA International Centre (i-PUTRA), in collaboration with FSTM, the programme runs for two weeks and is centred on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2): Zero Hunger and UPM’s National Food Security agenda.

The UPM-AUN Summer Camp 2025 aims to address pressing global challenges of hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition through education, outreach, and innovation. In line with SDG 2, it seeks to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. The programme focuses on empowering students and researchers with knowledge, skills, and practical tools to combat food insecurity while fostering cross-cultural understanding and regional cooperation. Participants will engage in workshops and seminars on sustainable food systems, nutrition, and agriculture.

A key highlight is the edutourism component under the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MoHE), where participants will embark on guided visits to UPM’s farms, research facilities, food production sites, and community projects. These visits provide hands-on experience, promote awareness of sustainable food practices, and showcase Malaysia’s initiatives in food security to an international audience. The participants will also take part in excursions to popular tourist destinations in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, offering rich opportunities for cultural exposure and immersive learning experiences.

With welcoming remarks by Associate Professor Dr. Radhiah Shukri, Deputy Dean of FSTM, and an opening address by Director of i-PUTRA Professor Dr. Alyani Ismail, the ceremony inspired participants to embrace their roles beyond that of attendees.

In her opening address, Professor Dr. Alyani Ismail welcomed the delegates and encouraged them to embrace their role beyond that of participants. 

“Dear students, throughout these two weeks, remember this: you are not only here as learners. You are ambassadors of your universities, your institutions, and your countries. The way you share your culture, ideas, and values will help others see the beauty and strength of your nation. You carry with you the hopes of building stronger ASEAN connections through friendship, understanding, and collaboration,” she said.

“I encourage you to make the most of every moment. Share your ideas. Listen to others. And leave here not only with knowledge, but with a network of friends across ASEAN.”

The opening days have set an enthusiastic tone for the programme, with students already engaging in meaningful exchanges and collaborative activities. Over the next two weeks, the UPM-AUN Summer Camp 2025 will serve as a platform for dialogue, innovation, and cross-border cooperation, equipping participants to become advocates and leaders in building sustainable and resilient food systems across the region.

Date of Input: 12/08/2025 | Updated: 13/08/2025 | nurulshabila