Three Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) students – Wan Syiffawiaam Alyaa’a Farhah binti Zulkiflee, Fatin Nadiah binti Morshidi, and Chong Lu Wee – recently shared their enriching experiences with the Bulletin following a study visit to China.
From team-building exercises to exploring cutting-edge research, each of them brought back insights that shed light on the possibilities of innovation and collaboration.
BUILDING BONDS
Wan Syiffawiaam recounted the memorable team-building activities held at the picturesque Green Mango Camp, largely owned by Beibu. She highlighted how the camp’s scenic backdrop created the perfect environment for bonding with fellow participants. “The carefully designed mini-games really helped break the ice and brought us together. By the end of the first day, what started as a group of strangers turned into a cohesive team,” she shared.
The interactive activities encouraged the group to step out of their comfort zones, creating an atmosphere where connections naturally flourished.
Wan Syiffawiaam noted, “The fun and relaxed setting made it easier for us to interact with the Muara Port Company Sdn Bhd (MPC) team. By the end of the day, we were no longer just individuals but a unified team, ready to face new challenges together.”
Meanwhile, Fatin Nadiah had a different focus during her time at the Yinhai Group Research Centre and the School of Food Engineering at Beibu Gulf University (BGU).
She was particularly intrigued by their efforts to develop halal food standards in collaboration with the university.
“During our visit, we gained insights into their joint research and development initiatives with the School of Food Engineering. They introduced us to their halal food research and their pursuit of a certifying body for Halal certification,” she explained.
A dedicated committee has been set up to ensure that halal operating procedures are met, ensuring the quality of ingredients used in production. This effort is driven by the region’s growing demand for halal food products.
“They are keen on working with experts from other Islamic countries to regulate the certification process,” Fatin Nadiah noted, emphasising the potential for collaboration in the halal food industry.
Chong Lu Wee’s visit to the 80 MWp solar farm left a lasting impression, showcasing the efficiency and innovation in renewable energy solutions. “The solar farm was constructed in just eight months, a testament to their engineering processes,” he remarked.
Despite the challenges posed by strong regional winds, which limit the tilting of solar panels to optimise sunlight, the farm’s efficiency remains noteworthy.
The guaranteed 80 per cent efficiency of the solar panels over their 25-year lifespan ensures both sustainability and consistent energy output.
Chong was particularly impressed by the collaboration between the solar farm and Xinrun Aquaculture Company, where a fish farm operates beneath the photovoltaic (PV) panels.
This dual-use model combines aquaculture with solar energy production, making optimal use of land while promoting both environmental and economic sustainability.
“In Brunei, where the weather is more stable, this technology could be adapted for local conditions. The solar-aquaculture model would benefit Brunei by promoting sustainable farming practices while boosting renewable energy capacity,” he suggested.
Incorporating these technologies also requires long-term policy frameworks, similar to China’s strategy, which ensures continued investment and innovation.
He added that with clear incentives, Brunei can attract foreign investors and industry leaders interested in sustainable energy projects, further strengthening the nation’s economic diversification efforts.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
The students’ five-day research visit to Guangxi, China, marked a significant step forward in the partnership between MPC and UBDSchool of Business and Economics (UBD SBE).
Aimed at advancing education and bolstering industry-academia ties, the collaboration provided a unique opportunity for experiential learning and hands-on exposure to real-world business practices.
MPC, a joint venture between the Government of Brunei Darussalam and Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group C Ltd, plays a vital role in regional port management and development.
Meanwhile, UBD SBE is dedicated to shaping future leaders through quality education. Their joint effort with MPC focuses on creating practical learning experiences and building pathways for future research, training, and industrial partnerships.
Led by MPC’s Chief Executive Officer Wei Jinfeng, the delegation included 16 MPC staff and eight postgraduate students from UBD SBE’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme. The academic team was spearheaded by Deputy Deans Dr Wardah Azimah binti Haji Sumardi for Academic and Student Affairs and Dr Thuraya Farhana Said for Engagement and Partnerships.
From October 9 to 13, the students engaged in enriching activities that expanded their knowledge and industry understanding.
The visit aligns with the key goals of UBD SBE’s MBA programme, which emphasises equipping students with leadership skills and bridging the gap between classroom learning and industry practices.
The delegation explored a variety of sites, gaining valuable insights into international port operations, cutting-edge manufacturing processes, and research initiatives.
Highlights of their trip included visits to the Guangxi International Automated Port, the 80MWp Fish-Light Complementary Photovoltaic Power Generation Project, and notable academic institutions like Guangxi University and BGU. These experiences offered a deeper understanding of logistics, technology, and best practices in port management.
Reflecting on the visit, Wei Jinfeng emphasised its role in nurturing high-quality human capital, which he described as essential for Brunei’s economic progress and achieving the goals of Brunei Vision 2035.
He highlighted Guangxi’s strategic importance as a fast-growing centre for international trade and logistics, making it an ideal learning ground for the delegation.
“This visit builds on our past successes with UBD SBE, showcasing our shared commitment to innovation and growth. It sets the stage for future collaborations in research, training, and industry engagement,” Wei Jinfeng noted, underlining the mutual benefits of this ongoing partnership. – Lyna Mohammad
