On September 9–10, 2025, six students from the Aquaculture Study Program, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), participated in an Overseas Field Practice (PKL) program at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The students — Mercia Meixi, Tirsa Ruthdita Puspita Sari, Lintang Fitrasasi Maharani, M. Arka Samsul Dzakiy, Ahmad Hasrum, and Edo Rizky Pratama Rajagukguk — joined the program with great enthusiasm, actively engaging in each agenda designed to enhance both academic and practical knowledge. The activity served as an important platform to connect scientific understanding with real-world marine and aquaculture practices in Malaysia, fostering international collaboration and learning.
The first day, September 9, 2025, began with a visit to the Port Dickson Ornamental Fish Centre, a facility renowned for its role in ornamental fish breeding and marine conservation. During the visit, the students were introduced to various ornamental fish cultivation methods, including hatchery management and water quality maintenance, followed by an informative session on sea turtle conservation efforts in the area. The group had the opportunity to observe firsthand how local conservation teams work to protect and rehabilitate turtle populations along the Malaysian coast. This visit provided valuable insights into the relationship between aquaculture practices and marine ecosystem preservation, inspiring students to reflect on the balance between economic activity and environmental sustainability.
On the following day, September 10, 2025, the group continued their exploration to Aquaria KLCC in Kuala Lumpur, one of Malaysia’s most prominent marine life attractions. The students embarked on an immersive journey through diverse aquatic exhibits showcasing freshwater and marine species from various parts of the world. Among the most memorable moments was an educational feeding session featuring alligator fish and sharks, which not only offered an exhilarating experience but also a deeper understanding of predator behavior and ecological balance in aquatic environments. The students learned how public aquariums contribute to marine education, research, and conservation awareness by engaging visitors with live demonstrations and scientific storytelling.
Throughout the two-day field program, the students demonstrated a strong commitment to learning, showing curiosity and teamwork in every activity. This international field practice successfully bridged academic theory and hands-on experience, enriching participants’ knowledge about sustainable fisheries and marine biodiversity conservation. Beyond expanding technical competencies, the program also strengthened the academic partnership between UNAIR and UKM, laying the groundwork for future collaborations in education, research, and community-based marine initiatives.
By the end of the visit, participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with Malaysia’s marine research and conservation institutions. The experience not only broadened their academic perspective but also cultivated a sense of global awareness and environmental responsibility. The program demonstrated how experiential learning across borders can nurture young professionals ready to address global marine challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable fisheries development.
