LABUAN — Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is strengthening experiential learning through its Edutourism Programme, which provides students with opportunities to apply academic knowledge in real-world settings while exploring local heritage, culture and resources.
Now in its second year, the programme aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical experience, while developing students’ communication, leadership and critical-thinking skills.
Faculty of Computing and Informatics (FKI) Dean Associate Professor Ts. Dr Mohd Hanafi Ahmad Hiajzi said the initiative also enabled students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications.
He said UMS, as a Borneo-based university surrounded by rich biodiversity and cultural diversity, was committed to pioneering edutourism initiatives founded on experiential learning.
“Today, the digital world has opened up wider opportunities for edutourism.
“With AI-based technologies, learning is no longer confined by space and time.
“This is where collaboration between universities, ministries, industries and communities becomes crucial to ensuring that we produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also digitally literate,” he said.
Reach More Customers.
Promote your business with Labuan Times.
Advertise Now →
He was speaking at the opening of the 2026 Edutourism Programme at the Eureka Room, Universiti Malaysia Sabah Labuan International Campus (UMSKAL), here, today.
Also present were FKI CEO@Faculty Programme member Datuk Seri Amir Hussien and Labuan Faculty of International Finance (FKAL) Dean Associate Professor Dr Geoffrey Harvey Tanakinjal.
Dr Mohd Hanafi said the presence of Amir Hussien reflected the government’s strong support for efforts to strengthen education, technology and tourism in Malaysia.
He also congratulated all parties involved in organising the programme, particularly FKI, co-organisers, strategic partners, facilitators and participants.
He expressed hope that the initiative would pave the way for more strategic collaborations in education, tourism and digitalisation.
“May UMS, together with its strategic partners, continue to serve as a hub of knowledge and innovation that benefits the community, Sabah and Malaysia as a whole.
“I also hope the Edutourism Programme will provide meaningful experiences, spark new interests and inspire the younger generation to strive for excellence,” he added.
