Surabaya – Seventeen students from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine (FPK) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) expanded their academic experience and international perspectives through the Internship @ Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) program from August 1–23, 2026. Consisting of 11 students from the Fisheries Product Technology (THP) Study Program and six students from the Aquaculture Study Program, the participants took part in a series of research activities while exploring the environment, culture, and fisheries and marine practices in Malaysia. The internship provided students with opportunities to develop research according to their respective fields while gaining hands-on experience through various activities organized by UMT as the host institution. These activities included sampling at Setiu Island, visiting the UMT hatchery, and exploring traditional markets in the surrounding area.
During the program, THP students focused on research into the use of melanin film as a packaging material for shrimp raw materials to help extend shelf life and maintain freshness. Meanwhile, Aquaculture students conducted research on genetics, phylogeography, and the utilization of natural feed in aquaculture. The different research topics allowed students to deepen their competencies while gaining exposure to research approaches within an international academic environment.
For Izuddin, a THP student participating in the internship, the opportunity to operate research instruments directly was one of the most valuable experiences during his time at UMT. “I learned many new things during this program, including hands-on practice. Usually, I conduct practical sessions on campus with the assistance of laboratory assistants, whereas here I learned to operate the instruments independently under the guidance of the facilitators,” he said.
In addition to conducting research, the students gained experience exploring the local environment and culture through various field activities. Sampling at Setiu Island, visiting the UMT hatchery, and exploring traditional markets provided insights into fisheries and marine activities in Malaysia. These experiences enriched students’ understanding that knowledge development does not only take place in classrooms and laboratories, but also through direct interaction with the environment and local communities.
Akhsan, an Aquaculture student participating in the program, said that the international experience provided him with a new perspective on learning. “Through this program, my knowledge and perspective have broadened. I realized that the world is very vast and that there are still many things I need to explore, especially through direct learning experiences such as the internship at UMT,” he said.
Over the three-week program, the activities also developed students’ adaptability, independence, cross-cultural communication skills, and understanding of research practices in an international environment. The program aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through international learning experiences, SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through research in fisheries product processing and aquaculture, and SDG 14 (Life Below Water) through enhanced understanding of aquatic resource management. The collaboration between FPK UNAIR and UMT also supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening cross-border academic partnerships.
Through the Internship @ UMT program, FPK UNAIR continues to provide opportunities for students to develop their competencies, expand their networks, and gain academic experience at the international level. These experiences are expected to equip students to face future academic and professional challenges while contributing to the development of the fisheries and marine sectors.
Author: Farrel Bhanu Mahardhika
Editor: Terry Previo Avianto
