23 May 2024 – 26 final year students from the Department of Tourism at the Faculty of Hotel and Tourism Management, Puncak Alam Campus embarked on an unforgettable journey to Yogyakarta, Indonesia. They immersed themselves in the heart of Sustainable Tourism Management, a pivotal course requirement.
This course is also registered as a SULAM course, and this time the students successfully conducted the Service-Learning Malaysia – University for Society initiative in a foreign land, albeit one with a friendlier culture. The main event was a sharing session and dialogue with the community at Kampung Wisata Rejowinangun, focusing on the challenges and strategies in managing Agrotourism and preserving the traditional art of Kerajinan Blangkon. This immersive experience provided students with a deeper understanding of cross-cultural community engagement and sustainable tourism development, enhancing their academic and practical skills in real-world contexts.
Throughout their stay, the students also had a chance to explore the vibrant culture and eco-conscious practices of Yogyakarta. Their itinerary was rich with immersive visits to Desa Kasongan (firsthand experience in handicraft making), the enchanting experiencing the green initiatives at Muzium Ullen Sentalu, and appreciating the historical and architectural significance of the majestic Taman Sari Water Castle. This experience transcended mere sightseeing; it offered tourism students a valuable opportunity to delve into and critically evaluate sustainable tourism practices firsthand, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application in a real-world setting.