UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN
EDUTOURISM TESTIMONIALS                                        
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What our students say

       Hello everyone, I'm Hatsune Shimbata, a student of International Studies at Kwansei Gakuin University. This was my first time travelling abroad, and I have fallen in love with Malaysia because of this study experience. The warmth and hospitality of the Malaysian people have deeply touched me. After returning to Japan, I hope to share the generosity and kindness I received here with my friends, family, and even strangers. This experience is truly irreplaceable in my life.
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Hatsune Shimbata - Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

       Selamat Pagi! I am Moto Takezawa from Soka University in Tokyo, where I major in Intercultural Communication and Social Education. In this programme, I served as a group captain and had many opportunities to engage with people in Malaysia. Through this experience, I realised that I have become more globally minded and have gained a deep understanding of the importance of genuine cultural acceptance. I also encountered people with different religions, languages, and customs, which challenged and broadened my previous perspectives. Everything I experienced at UTAR was an invaluable educational opportunity. Thank you all for this unforgettable experience.
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Moto Takezawa - Soka University, Japan

      Hello everyone, my name is Imamoto Kotaro, a student at Soka University, currently studying English Education. Over the past two weeks in Malaysia, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the culture, sights, and people, creating wonderful memories. Thanks to the support of the UTAR students, we had an amazing time. When I return to Japan, I look forward to sharing this experience.
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Imamoto Kotaro - Soka University, Japan

      Hello, I'm Yumiko Nishimura from Soka University in Japan. This was my first time travelling overseas, and I was deeply impressed by how people from different cultural backgrounds live together in this country. My most memorable experience was the warmth and kindness of the Malaysian people, including the students at UTAR.
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Yumiko Nishimura - Soka University, Japan

      Hi!!! I'm Naoko, a student at Soka University. This short-term overseas study was an intense two-week experience that felt both long and short at the same time. Everything I encountered here was new to me, and I loved comparing the differences and similarities between Japan and Malaysia, especially experiencing the completely different perspectives on familiar things. In an environment that was vastly different from what I had researched beforehand, I was exposed to many cultures, which sparked new ideas and values in me. Nothing was taken for granted, and it truly changed how I think about things.One of the highlights was the daily Malaysian cooking experiences with the UTAR students during dinner. The dishes were all delicious, especially the abundance of fruit, which I felt was a result of the abundant sunshine in this environment. In Malaysia, I found that while people may seem cautious at first, they are incredibly kind and considerate once you get to know them. Even with my limited English, I was warmly and cheerfully accepted. This experience feels like the first step in my lifelong journey with English. I am truly grateful to the students I met here, and I'm so glad our paths crossed. Thank you for all the unforgettable experiences.
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Naoko - Soka University, Japan

    Hello, I'm Tsukino Tamai from Josai International University in Japan. I'm currently studying international communication in Japan, and this is my first experience studying English in Malaysia. Malaysia is also a new destination for me, and I've found it fascinating to observe the students at UTAR University engaging in various activities independently. It's been a joy to immerse myself in such an environment. Additionally, I've thoroughly enjoyed sampling traditional Malaysian cuisine during my time at school. My most memorable experience has been living in a culture distinct from Japan, where I've encountered kindness and warmth from the Malaysian people. This has truly enriched my experience here.
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Tsukino Tamai - Josai International University, Japan

    Hello everyone, my name is Takumi. I'm a student at Josai International University. My experience in Malaysia, particularly interacting with the people at UTAR and immersing myself in English, has been transformative. The Malaysian cuisine surpassed my expectations, and I gained valuable insights into the culture. Upon returning to Japan, I am motivated to enhance my English proficiency and further refine my communication skills.
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Takumi Hamada - Josai International University, Japan

    Malaysia being my first international training experience held a significance beyond just the training itself. It provided me with the courage and mindset to venture abroad. This initial journey outside my homeland served as a catalyst for personal growth, exposing me to new environments and cultures. Immersed in a foreign setting, I had the opportunity to reassess my self-awareness and values, deepening my understanding of diverse cultures. The photograph captured during that trip holds a special place in my heart. The breathtaking backdrop of the Twin Towers serves as a poignant reminder of the wonderful moments and shared memories with friends. The time spent with them was filled with genuine happiness and joy, marking some of the most memorable moments of my life. Each glance at these photos reignites the feelings of joy and growth experienced during that journey, preserving those cherished memories in my heart.
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Shugo Saito - Josai International University, Japan

    I am Nonoka Komaki from Josai International University in Japan. This was my first visit to Malaysia, and I found it fascinating to discover similarities in values with Japan, alongside experiencing unique foods not commonly found back home. One of my favourites was the short Malaysian noodles served at the university cafeteria. However, my most cherished memory is from Penang Island, where we indulged in shopping, sky walking, and various amusements. The warmth and kindness of UTAR teachers and students made my time in Malaysia truly enjoyable, and for that, I am deeply grateful.
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Nonoka Komaki -  Josai International University, Japan

    My name is Hiroki Endo, and I'm from Josai International University in Japan. Before coming to Malaysia, I had never travelled abroad, so I am thrilled to have Malaysia as my first destination. The classes here in Malaysia have been both challenging and surprising for me, as there are differences from what I am used to in Japan. Initially, I was worried about understanding the teachers and participating in conversations. However, with the support of my classmates and the kind teachers, I managed to overcome these challenges. During weekends, I explored various places with my classmates, including Kuala Lumpur and Penang Island. Among them, I found Penang Island particularly delightful. The natural surroundings there provided a relaxing atmosphere, especially at the beach near Starbucks and amidst the captivating street art. These memories are etched in my mind forever. I believe this experience has changed me. Before coming to Malaysia, I was very shy, but now I find myself smiling and engaging with people more comfortably. I am grateful for the wonderful memories and the opportunity to grow and transform myself. Thank you for this unforgettable experience.
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Hiroki Endo -  Josai International University, Japan

    I thoroughly enjoyed engaging in conversations with local students and savoring the diverse array of local cuisine during my time in Malaysia. However, a particularly memorable moment occurred last Friday when I fell ill with a fever. The care and kindness extended to me by my friends, UTAR’s teachers, and fellow students were truly heartwarming. Despite the discomfort, their attentive support transformed what could have been a challenging experience into something deeply meaningful. This stay has become a precious memory that I will cherish forever.
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Suzu Morimoto - University of Toyama, Japan

    I am Ryota Netsu from Toyama University in Japan. Participating in this language training programme marked my first venture abroad. Throughout my time here, I immersed myself in diverse cultural experiences, keenly observing the distinctions in topography, housing, climate, and more compared to Japan. Among the memorable activities, the boat ride during the 10th session was a highlight for me. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the staff and volunteers at UTAR for their exceptional support, from attending to my health needs to sharing daily meals and facilitating cultural immersion. Thank you immensely! My experience here has been truly unforgettable.
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Ryota Netsu - University of Toyama, Japan

    Hello everyone! My name is Momoha Oki, representing the University of Toyama in Japan. Although my stay here lasted only two weeks, it has been an incredibly enriching experience. One memorable highlight was our visit to a traditional house in Kuala Sepetang, where we immersed ourselves in Malay culture by attempting to eat lunch with our right hand—a custom quite different from our norms in Japan. Despite initial confusion, this hands-on experience provided us with a direct insight into traditional Malay culture. I am sincerely grateful for the warmth and hospitality extended to me during my time in Malaysia. Thank you for everything.
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Momoha Oki - University of Toyama, Japan

    I gained invaluable insights during this enriching two-week English and cultural study tour. One of the most profound lessons I acquired pertains to the richness of language and cultural diversity inherent in Malaysia's multiracial society. Malaysians exhibit remarkable understanding and friendliness towards each other's cultures, fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. Moreover, the fusion of diverse cultures evident in the local cuisine and beverages left a lasting impression on me. This experience has inspired me to delve deeper into the study of languages and cultures beyond mere linguistic proficiency. I am truly grateful for this eye-opening opportunity. Thank you.
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Fukutaro Tsumura - University of Toyama, Japan

    Hello everyone, my name is Sachi Suzuki from Jissen Women's University. During my time in Malaysia, I learned the importance of respecting other cultures. I discovered that Malays, Chinese, and Indians constitute the main population groups in Malaysia, each with their own distinct religions. Witnessing how each lineage lives its life while respecting one another's customs and beliefs was truly inspiring. This experience was particularly meaningful for me, as in Japan, opportunities to interact closely with other cultures are relatively rare. I was deeply touched by the warm support extended to me by UTAR's student helpers and staff. They showed great consideration in various aspects such as food, daily life, and language. As this was my first experience abroad, their kind welcome meant a lot to me. Their detailed explanations about Malaysia also sparked my love for the country. If given the chance, I would love to visit Malaysia again. Thank you.
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Sachi Suzuki - Jissen Women's University, Japan

    I am Mami Kasuya from Jissen Women's University. Initially, I lacked confidence in speaking English. However, UTAR students made sincere efforts to listen to me and engage in conversations. Moreover, UTAR teachers encouraged me with phrases like "Don't be shy" and "It's okay to make mistakes", which boosted my confidence and made me more proactive. Through this experience, I also gained insight into the significance of respecting each other's diversity. Despite my initial anxiety, I found the experience enjoyable and enriching. I am deeply grateful to the many people who supported me along the way.
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Mami Kasuya -  Jissen Women's University, Japan

    Hello, I'm Arisa from Jissen Joshi Gakuen Junior and Senior High Schools. During the English training in Malaysia, I found solace in Kampar's natural surroundings, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur. The kindness and efforts of UTAR students to understand my basic English deeply touched me. Despite language barriers, their warmth made me feel welcomed and appreciated. Malaysian cuisine, with its spicy flavours and unique spices, provided a delightful departure from Japanese food. I truly enjoyed the culinary experience. These cherished memories were made possible by the unwavering support of university professors and seniors who stood by me during moments of anxiety, as well as the assistance of UTAR staff. I am sincerely grateful to them all.
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Arisa Oyanagi -  Jissen Joshi Gakuen Junior and Senior High Schools, Japan

 Hello, my name is Hatsune Hotta. Before coming to Malaysia, I was a little nervous because it was my first time visiting. However, UTAR students were incredibly kind, which made me feel at ease. Visiting an Islamic school was a profoundly important experience for me. Witnessing their dedication and experiencing their lifestyle, so different from Japan, taught me a great deal. For instance, I realised the importance of studying diligently, as they were working harder than me .                                                  

Thank you for your hospitality. I have grown fond of Malaysia and its people. 
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Hatsune Hotta - Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

 I'm Nozomi Koike from Kwansei Gakuin University (KGU) in Japan. Through this programme, we had the opportunity to explore various places and gain extensive insights into Malaysia. We delved into its rich culture, diverse ethnicities, religions, environmental issues, educational challenges, and much more. None of this would have been possible without the invaluable assistance of UTAR students. I am deeply grateful for their tremendous support. Despite being in Malaysia for only 10 days, it has been an incredibly meaningful and enriching experience for me. Thank you for everything! I look forward to returning to Malaysia in the future.
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Nozomi Koike - Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

 I'm Sara Khan from Kwansei Gakuin University. Throughout this fieldwork, I had the opportunity to observe many aspects of Malaysian society. Despite encountering some interethnic challenges, I witnessed a genuine effort among people to foster understanding and mutual respect through shared experiences. This made me realise that multicultural coexistence is intricate, and true comprehension requires insight into the local perspective. My time in Malaysia has been transformative, and I'm grateful to have met wonderful individuals—teammates, teachers, and students—who have enriched my experience during this fieldwork.
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Sara Khan - Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

 My name is Yurika Ikeda, and I am from Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan. Embarking on this fieldwork marked my first journey abroad, so naturally, I felt a bit nervous. However, with the unwavering support from UTAR's students in various situations, I found myself enjoying each moment of the experience.

 

My primary goal was to witness the dynamics of multicultural society firsthand, and I'm thrilled to say that I achieved it. Especially on Pangkor Island, I had the privilege of witnessing different ethnic groups living harmoniously in close proximity.

 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in organising this fieldwork and to the UTAR students whose assistance and kindness have contributed immensely to my personal growth throughout this journey.


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Yurika Ikeda - Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    My name is Ruka Nakano from Kurume University in Japan. I came to Malaysia for the first time to attend the English and Cultural Study Tour Programme. I was so nervous on the first day but the UTAR teachers and students were very friendly and told me not to be shy. Thanks to them, I felt relaxed and could talk with them in English. Malaysia is a multiracial nation, so everything seemed new to me. Malaysia is blessed with nature like Pangkor Island and Mangrove Park. I was fascinated by the beautiful beach and magnificent scenery in Malaysia. Also, the food is delicious. I enjoyed eating many types of food like Chinese, Malay, Indian, and so on. Through this programme, I learned not only English but also the importance of respecting each other and the history. I met many people during my stay and saw many traditional buildings which allowed me to experience the historical heritage of Malaysia. In addition, I was able to discover different accents because there are many international people in Malaysia. It was really good to participate in this programme as I had a valuable experience. I treasure every meeting and encounter I had and would like to come back again. Thank you for the wonderful time in Malaysia.
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Ruka Nakano -  Kurume University, Japan

    My name is Momoka Kaijima and I am from Kurume University in Japan. I study English and Chinese, so Malaysia was a very good learning environment for me. Malaysia is a multiethnic country, so I was able to experience various cultures. The teachers and helpers were very kind, and even though I was nervous at first, I was able to enjoy interacting with them. It was my first time in a foreign country, so I was a little worried, but thanks to the people of UTAR, I was able to have such good memories. Thank you very much.
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Momoka Kaijima -  Kurume University, Japan

    I am Kokoro Hayashi from Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan. This study tour is my first visit to Malaysia, and I fell in love with Malaysia in the end. I realised that Malaysia is an attractive country with many beautiful places and buildings and various cultures. However, what impressed me most was the Malaysians’ hospitality. During this tour, I visited various places to learn about Malaysian culture and social issues, and wherever I went, Malaysians warmly welcomed us. In particular, the UTAR helpers were always with us and answered many of our questions. Not only that, they introduced us to recommended foods, talked and shared a lot, and spent a wonderful and precious time with us. I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to UTAR students and staff.
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Kokoro Hayashi -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    My name is Naho Yamamoto. I am from Kwansei Gakuin University (KGU) in Japan. Before I came to Malaysia, I was very nervous but UTAR students and teachers helped me to get used to stay in Malaysia. Malaysia has a lot of different situations from Japan such as circumstances of ethnic groups, economy and culture. Therefore, I had a lot of things I do not know. However, UTAR supporters always assisted me to understand and I could know about Malaysia deeply. Also, I love local Malaysian foods that they introduced to me. I am very thankful to UTAR students. They made our KGU study tour so special.
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Naho Yamamoto -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    Hello everyone. I am a student of Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan. I was in Malaysia for only ten days, but I learned many things and became a big fan of Malaysia's kind people and food. UTAR students took us to dinner almost every day and we ate many kinds of food such as Malay, Chinese and Indian. I especially love roti tissue. Moreover, we learned about environmental and educational issues, volunteer activities, culture and many things that we can practise in Japan. This is because UTAR's students and teacher supported us so much and we really appreciate them. I want to come back to Malaysia again. Thank you for everything.
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Yuki Imura -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    Hello, I am Yuma Suita from Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan. During the ten days of fieldwork in Malaysia, I visited many places and talked with many people, and I was able to learn a lot about Malaysia. I understood that multicultural coexistence is not only about talking, hanging out together, and going to the same school, but also respecting each other regardless of race or religion. UTAR students, staff, and all Malaysian people were very warm and helpful. I was very glad that there were many people who like Japan. I will never forget these awesome memories in Malaysia. Thank you for such a lovely experience.
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Yuma Suita -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    Hello everyone. My name is Kento. I’m a student from Kwansei Gakuin University in Japan. I stayed in Malaysia for ten days and learnt the Malaysian culture and life. Malaysia is a multiethnic country, so people of different races and religions are in the same nation. It was interesting to see a different country from Japan. Besides studying, I became very close to the UTAR students during my stay. UTAR students were very kind. Talking to them and spending time with them are my treasures. I want to come to Malaysia and see them again. Thank you.
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Kento Michinaka -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    Hello everyone, my name is Kota. I am a student at Kwansei Gakuin University. I was only in Malaysia for ten days, but I had the best time. I’m not good at speaking English so I was nervous. However, UTAR students and teachers were very kind and friendly. We were able to interact across language barriers and become friends quickly. They helped us in many places so I could spend a meaningful time in Malaysia. The experience there has helped me grow a lot. Therefore, I would like to come back to Malaysia again.
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Kota Matsumoto -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    My name is Yuki Kusanagi. I am a student at Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan, studying political science and sociology. Although it was my fifth time visiting Malaysia, this study tour with UTAR definitely became my best memory in Malaysia. When I previously visited Malaysia with my family, whenever I had questions about the history or culture of Malaysia, my family would not know the answer, so my questions would float in the air. However, this time, I could ask all of the questions I had about Malaysia, and I got literally paragraphs-long responses from UTAR students. As a student curious about multicultural coexistence and social inequalities, visiting places such as Batu Gajah Town, the orphanage, the Islamic school, Pangkor Island, and the Indigenous People’s Village allowed me to explore the reality of Malaysian people, which cannot be grasped simply by searching on Google. Most importantly, I was amazed by the warmheartedness and hospitality of UTAR students. They gave us their kindness by cutting tropical fruits for us after dinner, introducing us to diverse Malaysian food such as Nasi Lemak, Roti Canai, and Satay, and responding patiently to my endless curiosity. Although it was a short 10-day programme, we fostered a tight-knit friendship, and we still call and text each other frequently. I would like to say “Terima Kasih” to all UTAR students, staff, bus drivers, people who prepared our food, and every single person involved in this study tour.  
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Yuki Kusanagi -  Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan

    I am very happy to have participated in this program. On my first day in Malaysia, I was welcomed by teachers and students and started my life in Malaysia. All the food in Malaysia is very delicious, and I really looked forward to eating a variety of Malaysian dishes every day. Also, after classes were over on weekdays, we visited an orphanage and learned about traditional arts and cooking. I would like to cook Malay dishes when I go back to Japan. On my days off, I went to Pangkor Island and Ipoh and was able to buy souvenirs and spend very productive days. The students and teachers at UTAR are all very nice people and without them, my life here in Malaysia would not have been good. I would like to thank them very much. If I have a chance to come to Malaysia again, I would love to come.
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Miyajima Hayato - Soka University, Japan

    Through this programme, I’ve learnt not only about Malaysia as a multiracial country, but also to improve my English language skills. When I visited an orphanage, I regretted not being able to speak with the orphans in English. I may have a chance to meet people like them in the future. When I go back to Japan, I will definitely study English for my next study abroad programme. 
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Sagae Haruta  -   Soka University, Japan

    I respect UTAR students for being proactive in guiding me when I have a problem, and for always being nice in communicating with me. I interacted with many students who are younger than me, and I found them to be very strong in their beliefs and in pursuing their dreams. Malaysia is a multiethnic society that is tolerant of religious beliefs and easy for people to live in. I hope Japan can learn from them. I enjoyed learning about a variety of local cultures e.g. Chinese, Malay, and Indian food that I had for dinner every day.
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Kozuka Yua  -   Soka University, Japan

    I would like to share two things that I felt when I came to Malaysia to study English language. Firstly, the students are great. From the first day to the last day, UTAR students followed me around for dinner, shopping, and sightseeing on holidays. When I needed to speak in English at the store or when I didn't know where to go, they helped me quickly. Also, they were always attentive to our surroundings and cared about us all the time. I was really touched by the kindness of UTAR students. Secondly, it was fun to speak in English. I have always been bad at speaking English, so before I participated in this programme, I was worried about whether I could speak English there. However, UTAR students always treated us with smiles and talked to us despite our poor English. They tried very hard to make the conversation pleasant. The joy of communicating with people from overseas made me feel that speaking in English is very enjoyable. The past two weeks have become irreplaceable to me. 
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Misaki Ishimaru -  Jissen Women's University, Japan

    I was very worried before I participated in this programme. But my worries proved unfounded. In fact, Malaysia is a very good place to visit. It is rich in nature, the food is delicious, and above all, the students are very kind. I can't speak English well, but the students at UTAR try to communicate very well and that made me very happy. A student told me about the local food and culture. I especially liked the pandan kaya I learned during cooking activities. Other than that, I made many good memories of swimming and shopping in Pangkor Island with UTAR students. The programme to learn about Malaysia's history and culture together in English was a really meaningful experience for me. Therefore, I want to study at UTAR for a longer period of time in the future. I am really glad that I participated in this programme. 
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Hikari Yasunaga -  Jissen Women's University, Japan

    I would like to describe what I felt through this language training in Malaysia. I enjoyed communicating with UTAR students. Although I liked studying English, I had never used English for conversation, so I was worried about my ability to communicate with UTAR students. However, UTAR students were able to communicate with us by listening to our poor English or speaking to us in Japanese. At first, I sometimes felt that I could not speak what I wanted to say in English, but thanks to the teacher who told us to say something even if we made a mistake or made a mistake in the English class, I felt that I could actively ask questions to the students. I also enjoyed talking with the students every day, and I was very happy when I could communicate with them even though my English was not very good. 
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Nae Fujii -  Jissen Women's University, Japan

Hello everyone, I'm Kota from Aichi Gakuin University. I learned very importantly that cultural difference doesn't stop you from making friends. Japan doesn't have many foreign people, so I didn't have a chance to meet them. Also, I didn't know how to make friends from other countries and I was nervous. But UTAR students tell me that it doesn’t matter. UTAR students break through the wall of language, culture and skin colour. I think it is one of the good points of UTAR and it expands my horizon.
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Shindo Kota - Aichi Gakuin University, Japan

 Hello, my name is Fuyu. I’m a student from Aichi Gakuin University in Japan. I stayed in Malaysia for 16 days only but I had a wonderful time and many great experiences in Malaysia. I appreciate all of UTAR students and teachers. They helped us experience the Malaysian culture, learn many skills and took us to many places. People here were very kind. They were also very friendly, so I could communicate and get along with them easily. Hence, I want to come to Malaysia again. 
Thank you.
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Ozaki Fuyu - Aichi Gakuin University, Japan
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