By Zaki Salleh
IPOH – Relations between Ipoh and Medan continue to be strengthened through the Medan–Ipoh Student Exchange Programme, which aims to foster friendship, cultural understanding and closer ties between the communities of both cities.
The programme involves 10 students from Medan, Indonesia, who are placed with host families throughout their stay in Ipoh.
The handover ceremony of the students to their host families was held at Dewan Azlan Shah here and officiated by Ipoh Mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah.
He said the programme provides students with an opportunity to learn about the local community’s lifestyle, culture, customs and family values.
According to him, the host family concept goes beyond providing accommodation, as it creates opportunities for interaction through daily activities and shared experiences.
He also expressed his appreciation to the host families who warmly welcomed the students from Medan.
The students were also encouraged to share Medan’s culture, food and unique characteristics with their respective host families.
The programme reflects the close ties between Malaysia and Indonesia, which share common historical, linguistic and cultural heritage.
Ipoh City Council (MBI) hopes the programme can be continued to strengthen friendship among the younger generation and communities of both cities.
