Indonesian and Malaysian Universities Collaborate on International Community Service

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI), an Indonesian digital creative campus, has partnered with the University of Selangor (UNISEL) in Malaysia for an international community service initiative. This collaboration aims to broaden academics' contributions to society and foster international connections.

The community service program took place in Wisata Pereng, Cilongok District, Banyumas Regency, Central Java. UBSI was represented by three lecturers: Candra Agustina from UBSI Solo Campus, Ina Maryani from UBSI Purwokerto Campus, and Sopian Aji from UBSI Tegal Campus. Their involvement signifies UBSI's commitment to strengthening academic collaboration and fulfilling the "tridarma" (threefold duties) of higher education, which include teaching, research, and community service.

Candra Agustina highlighted the benefits of such cross-university collaborations, emphasizing the opportunity for lecturers to exchange experiences and expand their academic networks. "International community service like this is not only focused on carrying out the service activities," Agustina stated. "Equally important is the opening of space for exchanging experiences and building networks among lecturers and between universities."

Agustina also noted that the program provides lecturers with firsthand experience in applying academic knowledge to community needs. For the Accounting Information Systems program at UBSI Solo Campus, this initiative offered a chance to see how information technology can be developed to better serve societal requirements. The participation of lecturers from different UBSI campuses also facilitated the convergence of diverse experiences and perspectives in community service delivery.

The collaboration, involving higher education institutions from both Indonesia and Malaysia, also allowed participants to understand the potential of the local community in the Wisata Pereng area. Direct interaction with residents was deemed crucial for grasping local needs and development potential. Through such service programs, universities can contribute their knowledge and competencies, supporting the growth of tourism, local businesses, and community economic activities. This international engagement is part of UBSI's broader strategy to enhance the implementation of its academic duties and expand its network with foreign universities, potentially leading to further collaborations in research, publications, and other academic endeavors.

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International community service like this is not only focused on carrying out the service activities. Equally important is the opening of space for exchanging experiences and building networks among lecturers and between universities.