Bandung- Third-year students from the Marketing (Financial Services) Programme, Faculty of Economics and Muamalat, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) has participated in the Global Islamic Students Outreach (GISO) programme in Bandung, Indonesia (from 12 to 18 May 2025). This global platform aimed to enhance students’ international experience through community service, academic, cultural, and religious activities abroad. The initiative aligns with USIM’s aspiration to produce glocal graduates who are not only excellent locally but also competitive internationally. GISO also serves as a training ground to develop leadership skills and character through project management, community engagement, and international representation.
Over the course of seven days, the teams engaged in meaningful knowledge exchange and impactful community service, following thorough preparation for each event. One highlight was their visit to Panti Asuhan Alfitra, where they organized a creative simulation of a night market for the orphans using the Arabic language. They also donated traditional Malaysian clothing and garments, and fostered a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere through engaging games and activities.
Apart from that, the delegacy also collaborating with Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnes (FEB) Universitas Islam Bandung (UNISBA) by joining MoU among student club and “Traditional Art Showcase”. USIM presented three performances: the traditional Ayam Didik dance, a silat demonstration, and a poetic pantun exchange symbolizing friendship. In return, UNISBA delivered a stunning traditional dance performance while introducing traditional Sundanese musical instruments. This cultural exchange strengthened mutual respect and appreciation between the two institutions. “Muamalat Interactive Game (MIG)” also conducted to simulating real-life Islamic commercial transactions with FEB student.
A guess lecture session by speakers, Dr. Raihan (USIM) and Dr. Nurfahmiyati (UNISBA) led a session of “International Knowledge Sharing”, featuring insightful presentations. Topics included “Ilmu Padi”, which emphasizes the philosophy of humility in knowledge-seeking. Dr. Raihan also presented a session titled “Islamic Financing to Support SMEs: The Malaysian Cases”, highlighting the vital role of Islamic finance in empowering small and medium-sized enterprises in Malaysia. The sharing stimulated wider discussions on entrepreneurial opportunities and challenges within the regional Islamic economic framework.
Lastly, the delegates visited the iconic and viral Masjid Raya Al-Jabbar in Bandung. A highlight of the visit was the opportunity to explore the Rasulullah Museum located within the mosque complex. The exhibition was filled with artifacts and stories chronicling the life and struggles of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), offering profound emotional and spiritual reflection. Every step through the museum deepened our understanding of his exemplary character and leadership.
To conclude the visit, we carried out a “Community Engagement” activity by interacting with local mosque visitors, introducing ourselves as Malaysian students and sharing about our country. The positive response from the locals affirmed the strength of Muslim brotherhood across borders, and many expressed interest in learning more about Malaysian culture and education.
Prepared by: Siti Ilya Fahdafina Binti Rosmadi