Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS) once again held the Malaysia–Singapore Overseas Program, on January 25 to February 1, 2026. It was designed as part of Thursina IIBS strategic efforts to equip students with international insight and foster a global way of thinking that is in line with Thursina's main value, RECODING, especially the Open Minded aspect.
Ustaz Zandi Ernomo, M.Pd., as the overseas program mentor, stated that it is not just an educational trip, but the firsthand learning space to get students to see the world with broader perspective.
"We designed this overseas program to offer students an understanding of the international world. They not only see, but also observe, compare, and reflect on how education systems, learning cultures, and global values are implemented in other countries," explained Ustaz Zandi.
The series of activities began in Singapore with visits to several educational and iconic destinations. One of the main agendas was a visit to the National University of Singapore (NUS), introducing students to a world-class higher education atmosphere and opening their minds to future global academic opportunities.
From Singapore, they headed to Johor Bahru, Malaysia to attend English Immersion Class at IDRISSI International School, to hone English skills and get used to interacting in a values-based international education environment. This cross-cultural communication is crucial for developing an open, adaptive, and communicative attitude.
The agenda then carried on with a visit to the University of Malaya, one of Malaysia's oldest and most prominent universities. The participants gained a real-life understanding of international academic culture, the diversity of academic disciplines, and the importance of higher education in building the future and contributing to global development.
The students have benefitted by this international experience. One eighth-grade student, Keanu Akhsay Aurellio Denny, revealed his impressions: "There were many lessons to be learned there, from the learning methods at the schools visited, the culture of discipline, to the exciting and memorable experiences. It also cultivated my courage and English skills."
Apart from the academic aspect, the overseas program is enriched with cultural exchange and exploration. The students visited Maahad Ihya' Al-Ahmadi to learn about the Islamic education system in Malaysia, understand the role of schools in society, and compare Islamic education practices in Malaysia and Indonesia. They were complemented by the Kuala Lumpur and Melaka City Tour, enriching their understanding of Islamic history and civilization in the Southeast Asia region.
Thursina IIBS affirms its commitment to provide a holistic and balanced education, integrate academic, character, and spirituality development, as well as international mindset by the program. It is a concrete manifestation of the RECODING values, particularly Open Mindedness, in building a generation of Muslims, who are capable of thinking globally without losing their identity.
"We hope the experience will ignite enthusiasm for learning, broaden educational aspirations, and ensure that Thursina students are accustomed to think internationally and ready to contribute on the global stage," concluded Ustaz Zandi. (iz/lil)
