On September 6, 2025, six students from the Aquaculture Study Program, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK), Universitas Airlangga (Unair), together with lecturers and students from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), carried out a field exploration and study visit to Pulau Besar, located in Mersing, Malaysia. This activity was part of Unair’s International Field Work Practice (PKL) program and aimed to broaden students’ perspectives on marine ecotourism potential and environmental conservation in maritime regions. During the visit, the participants explored various attractions around the island — from eco-houses and white sandy beaches to several marine conservation sites, which serve as the island’s main highlights. Throughout the trip, students not only admired the island’s natural beauty but also gained deeper insight into ecosystem sustainability and community-based environmental practices maintained by the local residents.
A significant part of the exploration was the visit to Rumah Eko (Eco House) — an educational site built to introduce environmentally friendly concepts to tourists, researchers, and students. At the Eco House, the students received direct explanations about environmental conservation efforts, including waste management for both organic and inorganic materials, the use of alternative energy sources such as solar power, and simple methods to support sustainable living. The Eco House also showcased innovative applications of recycled materials in daily life — from bamboo furniture and repurposed glass bottles to energy-efficient architectural designs. Moreover, students participated in several hands-on activities, such as waste recycling simulations, compost processing, and interactive discussions about various plant species grown in the Eco House’s garden. These learning-by-doing experiences provided the students with not just theoretical knowledge but also meaningful practical insights that left a lasting impression.
This visit to Pulau Besar represented more than just an academic excursion — it became an avenue for cultural exchange and international collaboration between Unair and UKM. For the six FPK Unair students, the journey was an invaluable opportunity to enhance their understanding of sustainable marine management while experiencing firsthand how education, tourism, and environmental awareness can coexist harmoniously. The interaction with UKM students and local communities further strengthened cross-border cooperation in education, research, and environmental stewardship. Through this activity, students are expected to return home as agents of change, capable of applying sustainability values in their academic pursuits and community initiatives.
Overall, the Pulau Besar exploration successfully embodied the essence of Unair’s international learning vision — combining academic enrichment with real-world application. The trip not only deepened students’ appreciation for marine biodiversity and ecotourism but also inspired a stronger commitment to protecting the environment through innovative and collaborative approaches.
