International Culture Day 2025 enlivened Universiti Brunei Darussalam’s (UBD) Start-Up Centre which was launched on Thursday.
The event was organised by Chief of Executive of International Affairs and Student Ambassador (EIASA) Amni Syazwani binti Ahmad Hanafi, alongside co-organiser Chief of Executive of Arts and Culture (EAC) Mohamad Faiz bin Haji Ariffin.
In her welcoming speech, Amni Syazwani said the two-day programme aimed to foster cultural exchange and global understanding. Amni said, “As we embark on this day of cultural exchange, let us remember that the richness of our differences is what makes us stronger, more connected, and more resilient as a global community. Together, we can create a more inclusive, harmonious, and united campus, where every culture is celebrated and every voice is heard.”
The first day featured a cultural forum themed ‘Cultural Exchange and Globalisation,’ moderated by an Indian student. The panelists, Hirusha from Sri Lanka and Abdul from Nigeria, represented international students from both undergraduate and postgraduate levels at UBD. A Country Exhibition was also held, where international students showcased the culture of their countries.
The second day featured various cultural workshops, including silat, Brunei traditional dance, and the traditional Japanese yukata. The event was also supported by the Executive of Entrepreneurship (ENTRE), Executive of Residential College Organisation (RESCO), and Executive of Logistics (ELOG).
Deputy Dean (Student Life and Development) Dr Haji Rozaiman bin Makmun was the guest of honour. The event aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reducing Inequality), by promoting education on cultural diversity and strengthening relationships among students from diverse backgrounds. – Fadhil Yunus
