Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading institution of higher learning in niche areas, particularly in marine science and aquatic resources. This commitment is evident through the active involvement and outstanding achievements of UMT students in various international programmes themed around marine and environmental issues. The recognition received by these UMT students not only proves the effectiveness of the university’s academic ecosystem, but also highlights UMT’s role in producing globally competitive graduates in its areas of expertise.

Students from the Faculty of Science and Marine Environment (FSSM), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) continue to bring pride to the university through various outstanding achievements at the international level, particularly in marine science and aquatic resources. These achievements not only reflect the academic excellence and competence of the students, but also prove the effectiveness of the educational approach adopted by the university in producing globally competitive graduates.

Among the proudest moments was the appointment of a student as Malaysia’s representative to the Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit & Conference 2024 organised by the Sustainable Ocean Alliance (SOA) in Greece. This prestigious programme brought together young leaders from around the world to discuss innovative solutions for ocean conservation. This participation demonstrates UMT students’ ability to compete in addressing complex and critical ocean sustainability issues.

In addition, another student was selected as a Sounds of the Ocean 2024 Ambassador, an immersive experience recognised as an official UN Ocean Decade Activity. This involvement not only elevates the profile of the student and the university, but also shows that marine education implemented at UMT is capable of producing influential young leaders who advocate ocean and human health.

Even more impressive, a student was entrusted to serve as the Director of the Blue School Malaysia Programme, which received funding amounting to RM35,000 from The Habitat Foundation and RM2,000 from Young University for the Future of Europe (YUFE). This project strengthens the role of students in raising public awareness on the importance of marine and environmental sustainability, at the same time expanding international collaborative networks in the marine field.

UMT students are also active in international mobility programmes through their participation in the Student Exchange Programme: RCEP Marine Culture International Programme and the SHOU Global Summer School organised by Shanghai Ocean University, China. These programmes provide opportunities to broaden knowledge in marine culture and ocean science, while building academic networks with students from RCEP countries and beyond. This participation has also been recorded as one of the student mobility achievements in niche areas, in line with the university’s efforts to strengthen students’ global engagement.

All these achievements reflect the strength and effectiveness of UMT’s educational approach, which focuses on holistic student development, the inculcation of leadership values, and global responsibility. The active participation of students in niche areas that form the core strengths of the university not only enhances UMT’s visibility internationally, but also shapes a generation of future graduates ready to lead change in marine science and aquatic resources.