January Orientation and Lunar New Year Celebration for International Students
To celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year, the Institute of International Education (IIE) at New Era University College (NEUC) hosted the "January 2024 Orientation and Lunar New Year Celebration for International Students" on Thursday, January 19, 2024. Nearly a hundred international students gathered with staff from various departments for this joyous and festive celebration.
The Vice-Chancellor of NEUC, Professor Dr. Mok Soon Chong, warmly welcomed the international students, noting that although they are far from home, they can still celebrate the New Year together and experience the rich Malaysian Chinese culture. He emphasized the diversity on campus and reassured the students that non-Chinese-speaking staff and peers are friendly and welcoming. He expressed his hope that the international students would enjoy the warm and inclusive campus atmosphere.
Additionally, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International and Corporate Development), Associate Professor Dr. Tey Shi Bin, highlighted the exceptional backgrounds of international students in areas such as art, music, painting, and calligraphy. She encouraged mutual growth through shared experiences between local and international students. International student representative Wei Yanting appreciated the university's blend of history and innovation and thanked the community for their warmth and inclusiveness.
During the Lunar New Year celebration, New Era University's campus singers from "Flying High," international students, and teachers from the IIE collaborated in a China-Malaysia music and arts exchange with impressive performances. The event also included a "Tossing" session, allowing participants to experience this unique Malaysian Chinese tradition symbolizing good fortune.
Head of International Academic Exchange Office, Assistant Professor Dr. Liew Siew Boon, introduced the courses to help new students adapt to the academic environment and encouraged active participation in academic and campus activities. Furthermore, Head of International Student Service Centre Ms. Lee Hui Wen, provided guidance on living abroad to help new students adjust to their new environment.
The IIE concluded the event with a "New Year Bingo" icebreaker game, offering small gifts to the winning team and creating cherished memories for the new students.