By Amalul Asyraf Rosli, Sports and Recreation Centre
As part of the efforts to advance holistic youth development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) recently organized an experiential expedition called Kayak Merdeka UMT 2026: The Merdeka Voyage – Conquering the Blue to Bidong.
Held from 20 to 22 August in conjunction with Malaysia’s 69th Independence Day and UMT’s 25th anniversary, the three-day, two-night expedition featured a challenging 22-kilometre kayaking journey from UMT Beach to Pasir Tenggara Beach, Pulau Bidong.
Conceived as a platform for developing character and leadership beyond the classroom, the demanding maritime journey required participants to demonstrate discipline, teamwork, communication, strategic planning, and collective decision-making while navigating a challenging natural environment.
UMT Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Professor Dr. Mohd Izani Mohd Zain, described the initiative as a creative approach to transforming the meaning of independence into a lived experience.
“Independence is not merely a historical event that we commemorate every year, but it is a value that must be understood and translated into action,” he said. “Through this expedition, participants were challenged physically while learning the importance of leadership, cooperation, discipline and courage in confronting adversity.”
He emphasised that holistic student development must extend beyond academic achievement, incorporating resilience, leadership and essential human skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex future.
“We want our students and young people not only to excel academically, but also to possess resilience, leadership qualities, interpersonal skills and a strong sense of responsibility towards society and the nation,” he added.
The expedition involved 69 participants, comprising students from local higher education institutions, international students, higher education staff, UMT alumni and members of the community.
According to Professor Mohd Izani, the choice of Pulau Bidong as the expedition’s destination further strengthened the programme’s educational significance.
“As a university with a distinctive identity in marine and ocean-related disciplines, UMT used the expedition to deepen participants’ appreciation of the marine environment and highlight the importance of conserving the nation’s natural heritage,” he said.
Strategic collaboration with Molek FM Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia, Discovery Terengganu and Yayasan Perkasa Siswa further expanded the programme’s reach. The special participation of Molek FM presenter Mat Dan generated significant public engagement and helped promote the initiative across the country.
As UMT marks its 25th anniversary, Kayak Merdeka 2026 reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing a generation that is resilient, responsible and connected to both the nation and the marine environment, said Professor Mohd Izani.
