On August 6, 2023, the Environmental & Occupational Safety & Health (EOSH) Secretariat at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) embarked on a two-week international program hosted by the Universitas Indonesia (UI). This program brought together a group of 59 students, consisting of both first and second-year students from the Occupational and Environmental Health (EOH) program of USM, as well as participants from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), Inje University of Korea, and the Universitas Indonesia.

The primary goal of this program was to provide all participants with a comprehensive global perspective and to promote the development of strong international relationships among the four participating institutions. The program offered a diverse array of benefits, including opportunities for academic growth, cultural exchange, and the chance to establish valuable international connections. Through these enriching experiences, the initiative aimed to strengthen the bonds between the universities and create lasting connections among the participants.

During the program, various activities took place, including, a series of lectures pertaining to industrial hygiene and ergonomics, a sharing session on Indonesia’s perspective of OSH in tourism, a cultural exchange session and an industrial visit to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia.

The students gained valuable insights on OSH in tourism from Prof. Dr. Fatma Lestari, advisor of this Program from the Universitas Indonesia, equipping them with skills to enhance safety in Indonesia's diverse tourism industry.

The participants were brought to visit Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia, gaining real-world insights into automotive production, including a visit to the Safety Training Centre to learn about Hyundai's safety protocols.

During the cultural exchange session, the program highlighted the vibrant traditions of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Korea, featuring their unique attire, dances, music, and culinary delights. The USM delegation was accompanied by their lecturers, Dr. Faridah Naim and Mr. Mohd Nasrom Mohd Nawi, who are both from the Occupational and Environmental Health (EOH) Programme.

The UI CREATES 2023 program proved to be a resounding success for both the organizers and participants alike. It served as a powerful demonstration of the positive outcomes that arise from collaboration, cultural exchange, and the shared pursuit of knowledge transcending geographical boundaries. The participants were filled with enthusiasm and expressed their eagerness for the possibility of future programs of a similar nature.