English Language with Commerce Programme, 3rd Year Student

Knowing that I would have the opportunity to participate in the English Language Immersion Camp Japan was the best decision I’ve ever made. Our camp, which lasted ten days, included students from Fukuyama City University and employees from Fukuyama Transporting Global. They joined to improve their English skills and explore Malaysia’s culture and attractions.

On the arrival day, August 18th, 2024, my fellow facilitators—known as 'Buddies'—and I waited eagerly at KLIA2, holding welcoming banners in our hands. I felt nervous at first since it was my first encounter with them—and with foreigners from so far away. However, as we escorted them to their accommodation at Mesamall, one of the students, Kimika-san, started a conversation with me. Her friendly approach gave me the confidence to interact with the other Fukuyama students and workers. It turned out that there was nothing to be nervous about—they were all incredibly warm and kind.

On the second day, the participants attended English classes each morning, and in the evening, we buddies organised activities for them, including traditional games. We introduced them to futsal kain batik, congkak, capteh, and the long pole game, giving them a taste of our local culture. I was pleasantly surprised to see how skilled they were at playing capteh, and it was clear they were enjoying themselves immensely. Through this experience, I learned that while Japanese participants tend to enjoy playing in a quieter, more focused way, Malaysians love to cheer and create a lively atmosphere. This subtle difference offered me a new perspective on our respective lifestyles.

On the 4th day, we went on a field trip to an amazing place called Butik Roti Maria. Despite living in Nilai for almost three years, it was my first time visiting this charming spot. The owner welcomed us warmly with butterfly pea tea as a welcome drink, which was absolutely delicious. It wasn’t too sweet, so the students enjoyed it as well.  She also taught us how to make kue koci and even gave us the chance to try making it ourselves. It was a fun and hands-on experience! Afterward, we relaxed by dipping our feet in the river and enjoying the hot and soft cooked kue koci.  Before heading home, the owner treated us to a variety of local fruits picked straight from the trees. The students got to taste jackfruit, rambutan, local bananas, and of course, the king of fruits—durian! It was a memorable trip filled with learning, fun, and delicious treats.

My most exciting experience with them was when we spent an entire day together, from morning until midnight, doing activities outside of our schedule. We played bowling and cheered enthusiastically during their turns to lighten the mood. At first, they were a bit concerned about our noise disturbing others, but we reassured them, saying, “It’s fine, this is Malaysia!” After that, they started cheering along with us too.