“Golek Ngelmu Sakbisane” is a Javanese philosophy that means you have to seek knowledge as far as you possibly can. As an Indonesian boy who embarked on his journey to study abroad, Malaysia is a wise choice. Today, I want to share my experiences and the lessons I learned as I navigated through the first 4 months of uni as a student at Universiti Malaya.  

I still remember the buzz I felt when I first landed in Kuala Lumpur, filled with wonder about the adventures that lay ahead. As international students, we have limited time to make the most of our educational journey, and four years can pass quickly. However, my journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Special thanks to my good friend, Christian, for letting me into many incredible experiences. I was fortunate enough to be invited to the EMGS Festival as the Indonesian representative, where I had the incredible honour of meeting Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir, the Minister of Malaysia of Higher Education. This opportunity was a testament to the vibrant student life and the recognition international students receive in Malaysia. From festivals and programmes to engaging workshops, Malaysia is brimming with activities that make university life exciting and fulfilling.  

One of the most heartwarming aspects of living in Malaysia is the kindness and warmth of its people. The diversity of its people: Malay, Chinese, Indian, and various other communities. One of the most exciting parts of my journey has been forming friendships with people from all around the world. These friendships have not only enriched my university experience but have also taught me invaluable lessons about understanding and respecting different perspectives. The festivals, traditions, and cuisines of each community showcase the beauty of coexistence. From savouring delicious street food to participating in cultural festivals, I’ve learned to appreciate the harmony of diversity. 

I was privileged to be invited to the “Be Your Own Boss” programme, where I met some of the most influential business leaders in Malaysia. I was given the incredible opportunity to work with them, and they have expressed their willingness to help me become a better version of myself. 

Studying in Malaysia has been more than just an academic pursuit; it’s been a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and growth. The lessons I’ve learned, the people I’ve met, and the opportunities I’ve had, made this experience truly transformative. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to live and study in this beautiful, diverse, and welcoming country.  I am looking forward to continuing my journey of studying in Malaysia and eagerly awaiting the next adventure that lies ahead.