Kuala Nerus—Students’ achievement today is a result of the sacrifice by the parents who have nurtured them, the devotion by the teachers who have taught them without asking for something in return, and the initiative by the government who had provided educational opportunities. Now it is time for the students to be resolute and earnest in their quest to obtain the graduation scrolls.

UMT’s student orientation programme Minggu Jalinan Mesra, taking place 3-5 September, provided the opportunity for the new students to get to know UMT better and learn about its uniqueness as a university that focuses on marine science and aquatic resources.

Students must know how to adapt to campus life during their studies at UMT, said Professor Dato’ Dr Nor Aieni Mokhtar, UMT Vice Chancellor, who was met after the 2019/2020 Session New Student Oath Taking Ceremony yesterday.

“Campus life requires the students to be independent, open-minded, and willing to socialize with other students. They not only have the opportunity to make friends with those from Malaysia but from other countries as well,” said Professor Nor Aieni.    

She also said that the learning system at universities is different from the one at schools. Thus, students must adapt quickly to the new environment.

Commenting further, she said that UMT cares about the welfare of the students, including the provision of accommodation and basic amenities. UMT also takes the initiative to ensure that less well-off students receive help to lighten their burden.  

Among the initiatives taken are Projek Gerobok Rezeki (Cupboard of Keeps Project) and AOK Project (Act of Kindness Project), two small projects with big impact which give away free food and items to the needy students. The projects operate on donations from staff and the public.   

UMT has also established several funds for helping the needy students, one of which is the Student Welfare, Zakat and Wakaf Fund. Students facing financial problems can talk to the officers at the Islamic Centre, Student Affairs Division, and UMT lecturers. 

Professor Nor Aieni urged the students to always focus on their studies, prepare well, and have the intention to study hard starting from the first semester. 

Apart from academic activities, many other programmes related to character building are always planned and organized for students. Students should always be in contact with their schools and have good relationship with their programme chairs and mentors. Good relationship with senior students, student clubs, and residential colleges is also important.    

The Student Affairs and Alumni Division also organizes programmes to help students improve their confidence and acquire some of the important soft skills. Many UMT students have achieved success as a result of participating in these academic and personality development activities.

In addition, UMT students get to experience something unique. They will register for the Sea Survival and Heritage Appreciation Programme, one of UMT’s flagship programme, at Bidong Island. They will be participating in various activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the Vietnamese refugee camp.

A total of 1879 new students took the oath on 4 September at Sultan Mizan Hall, officially making them part of UMT’s big family.   

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Corporate Communication Centre