UNAIR NEWS Six aquaculture students from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK), (UNAIR), expanded their global perspectives through the International Internship Program (IIP) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The two-week program, which concluded on Sunday (Sept. 14, 2025), featured Tirsa Ruthdita Puspita Sari, Lintang Fitrasasi Maharani, and Mercia Meixi as the first team, and M. Arka Samsul Dzaky, Ahmad Hasrum, and Edo Rizky Pratama Rajagukguk as the second.
Cross-university learning opportunities
The IIP centered on the theme Marine Bacteria, Microalgae, and Fish DNA. 淭his internship at UKM was truly an opportunity to gain new knowledge and experiences I had never encountered before, said Sari.
To prepare, UKM provided preliminary study materials to ensure students were ready for the program. 淭he requirements were fairly straightforward. UKM supplied tentative materials, and since this year檚 quota was more open, there was no strict selection process, Sari explained.
The program combined laboratory work with field practices. 淲e had the chance to work intensively in labs with advanced equipment, where each of us engaged in hands-on activities, Sari added. Faculty and researchers also guided field practicums, including marine biota exploration.
Participants faced several challenges along the way. 淲e were expected to use public transportation, so discipline, professionalism, and strong time management were essential, said Maharani. Another challenge was language. 淪ome people we met spoke little English and only Malay, but we managed to adapt using non-verbal communication, she noted.
Unforgettable moments
Among the most memorable activities was the Intertidal Nightwalk. 淓xploring marine life at night using only a flashlight was an unforgettable experience, Maharani recalled.
Beyond academics, the students also observed cultural differences. 淯nlike Indonesia, Malaysia does not have distinctive regional cuisines. Regardless of the dish攚hether satay or nuggets without rice攊t檚 simply called a meal, Hasrum explained. He also noted traffic customs, where drivers use horns only in cases of severe congestion.
The students expressed hope to pursue graduate studies at UKM and encouraged others to embrace similar opportunities. 淒on檛 stay stuck in your comfort zone攑ush yourself to explore new experiences. The challenges are worth it, and the results will exceed your expectations. Learn from alumni, and don檛 be afraid to write your own story, Hasrum concluded.
Author: Bethari Sri Indrajayanti
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
