The Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology (ICAMB), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), recently hosted the 2025 Summer School from 24 to 28 June 2025. The program welcomed 11 participants from the University of Newcastle, Australia, led by Dr. Josephine Vaughan from the School of Architecture & Built Environment.

The Summer School focused on two exciting themes:

• Tropical Herbs & Sustainable Living – introducing traditional Malay practices that promote health and harmony with nature.
• Traditional Malay & Local House Architecture– exploring the wisdom behind traditional homes built with local materials and adapted to the tropical climate.

Participants visited key sites across Terengganu such as Bukit Kor Herb Garden, the Terengganu State Museum, Terengganu Cultural Village, and Redang Island. These visits gave a first-hand experience of local culture, nature, and sustainable living practices.

Before arriving in Malaysia, participants attended online sessions featuring guest speakers: Prof. Dr. Fadzilah @ Adibah Abdul Majid, Dr. Zaleha Mohamad, Dr. Isma Rosila Ismail (all from UMT), and Ar. Nasharuddin Abdul Majid (Punca Cipta). These experts also accompanied the participants during the physical visits to provide further context and guidance.

The group also had the opportunity to explore UMT’s research facilities such as ICAMB, the AKUATROP Hatchery, and the INOS Gallery. These visits provided a closer look into the research ecosystem at UMT, bridging science with culture and community.

Importantly, the program also created valuable opportunities for postgraduate students from ICAMB to engage directly with participants from the University of Newcastle. This academic and cultural exchange encouraged meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and networking between future researchers from both institutions.

This international program strengthened academic collaboration while promoting Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and sustainable lifestyle to the world