Studying abroad offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal, academic, and cultural growth, allowing students to immerse themselves in a new environment that challenges their perspectives.
It is often a life-changing experience that not only broadens academic horizons but also fosters self-discovery, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for global diversity.
For many, the chance to live and learn in a foreign country serves as a stepping stone toward both professional and personal development.
Recently, the Bulletin spoke with four international students to gain deeper insights into their unique experiences and perspectives while pursuing higher education at Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) in the Sultanate.
From academic challenges to cultural adaptation, each student’s journey highlights the enriching impact of studying in Brunei and how this experience has shaped their future aspirations.
Palestinian Jehad Saleh Mohammed Mhanna arrived in Brunei in 2018 on a scholarship to pursue his Master’s degree, which he completed in 2020.
He is currently a self-funded PhD student majoring in Syariah at UNISSA.
“Brunei is an Islamic country that supports Islamic studies. The academic community here has been incredibly supportive, particularly in helping me focus on my major,” said the 30-year-old, adding that his research centres on investment of zakat funds.
“We are working towards submitting proposals to enhance and apply investment strategies for zakat funds, aiming to make the system more efficient and sustainable.”
Jehad reflected on his cultural adjustment upon arriving in Brunei, admitting to facing challenges initially with the language and cultural differences. But with the support of the local community and friends, he adapted.
“Coming from Palestine, a war-torn country, arriving in Brunei was like entering a completely different world – peaceful, quiet, and kind.
“The food was different, and I didn’t understand the language. But, with the help of many people here, I managed to adjust and embrace the differences.”
When Jehad first arrived, he barely knew English, but now he can confidently read books in English and speak Malay. “For now, I’m focused on continuing my research and improving my skills, while also providing services in the Sultanate. Brunei has become my second home.”
For Jufriadi bin Ramli Amin, a 29-year-old graduate from Aceh, Indonesia, completing his Master’s degree at the Mazhab Shafi’i Research Centre at UNISSA was a rewarding journey that spanned three years.
Initially, Jufriadi faced challenges adapting to Brunei’s culture and lifestyle. However, being from Aceh, a region with cultural and religious similarities to Brunei, helped ease the transition.
“At first, it was difficult to adapt to a new environment, but the customs and culture in Aceh are quite similar to those in Brunei, which made the experience easier over time,” he explained.
One of the key lessons Jufriadi learnt during his time in the Sultanate was the importance of perseverance and openness to new experiences. “Keep up the spirit of learning,” he advised fellow international students.
He also hopes that his peers will not only gain knowledge at UNISSA but also become fluent in Malay, which will help them integrate into the local community.
Upon returning to their home countries, Jufriadi believes they can apply the insights gained from their studies to make a positive impact in their own communities.
Like Jufriadi, Arif Deuraseh found his time at UNISSA both academically enriching and personally fulfilling. Arif, a Thailand native now residing in Malaysia, pursued his Master’s degree in Halal Science by Coursework at the Halalan Thayyiban Research Centre.
His one-year programme provided him with the expertise he sought in a field that holds deep personal significance.
Despite being a self-funded student, Arif emphasised the support and compassion he experienced in Brunei.
“Brunei is one of the most compassionate countries, always ready to help others.
“The culture is not much different from Malaysia, which made my experience here even more pleasant,” shared the 28-year-old.
Arif’s passion for halal science stems from his desire to contribute to the broader understanding of halal principles, particularly in today’s evolving world.
“The country holds a strong religious belief system, and when it comes to studying halal science, shortcuts are not encouraged. This approach is essential in a world that can sometimes become too lenient,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Arif hopes to pursue a PhD, aiming to merge his background in chemistry with his halal science expertise.
His advice to prospective students is simple but impactful, “Come to Brunei and explore what it has to offer.
“You will find a peaceful country with a strong commitment to religious integrity and academic excellence.”
Following Arif’s enriching experience, Mardhiah binti Rozalan, a 23-year-old from Singapore, is also finding her academic journey at UNISSA transformative, and noting that one of the highlights of her academic journey was learning about Brunei’s 2013 Penal Code.
Enrolled in the Fiqh Usul and Syariah programme, she is set to complete her studies with a year abroad at the University of Jordan.
“It demonstrated how a country can uphold Allah the Almighty’s law while ensuring the safety and well-being of its people,” she said, inspiring her interest in the connection between Islamic principles and Malay culture.
Supported by the Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship (BDGS), Mardhiah has pursued her academic passions without financial concerns.
“These four years have made me more confident, and UNISSA has given me opportunities to think critically and explore my potential,” she shared.
Her academic journey also included representing UNISSA in the Arabic International Debate Competition, an experience that honed her communication skills.
“Debate taught me the power of dialogue and how to share knowledge effectively,” she remarked.
For her final year project, Mardhiah explored the dynamic nature of Usul Fiqh and the application of Maqasid Syariah in today’s world.
“Understanding how Islamic principles can contribute to a nation’s progress while preserving religious integrity has been eye-opening,” she explained.
Her advice to future students: “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace new experiences – they will shape you both as a student and an individual.”
The experiences of these international students reflect more than just academic achievement – they represent a journey of growth, adaptation, and self-discovery.
The knowledge they have gained and the challenges they have overcome are the branches of wisdom they will carry back to their homelands. – Rokiah Mahmud
