Temasek Polytechnic Singapore conducted an educational and cultural exchange visit to Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) as part of its effort to foster cross-cultural understanding and knowledge sharing. The event took place on Wednesday (May 14) at the UMSU Auditorium, Jalan Muchtar Basri No. 3, Medan, and was attended by 35 student delegates and accompanying lecturers from Temasek Polytechnic.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Agussani, MAP, represented by Vice Rector III Dr. Rudianto, M.Si, along with the leadership team from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) UMSU, including FKIP Dean Dra. Hj. Syamsuyurnita, M.Pd., Vice Dean I Dr. Hj. Dewi Kesuma Nasution, M.Hum., Vice Dean III Dr. Mandra Saragih, S.Pd., M.Hum., and Head of UMSU’s Office of International Cooperation (OIC), Rafieqah Nalar Rizky, S.Sos., M.A.
On this occasion, Zulkarnain Noor, the supervisor of the Temasek Polytechnic group, expressed his gratitude for UMSU’s warm reception. “We feel truly welcomed and appreciate the hospitality. This visit is a valuable opportunity for our students to broaden their understanding of different education systems and cultures,” he said.
Zulkarnain also highlighted the evolving role of educators amid rapid technological advancements, particularly with the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI). “Technology is evolving almost daily. In this context, educators play an increasingly vital role—not just in imparting knowledge and skills, but also in instilling human values,” he explained.
He praised the Muhammadiyah values conveyed during Vice Rector III’s presentation, noting that UMSU students actively contribute to their communities through impactful initiatives.
Quoting Pramoedya Ananta Toer, Zulkarnain emphasized, “There is no greater force to restrain the lust for power than superior knowledge in the hands of noble-minded people.”
Earlier, Vice Rector III Dr. Rudianto expressed his appreciation and pride in hosting Temasek Polytechnic at UMSU. “Welcome to UMSU. We hope you enjoy this exchange and take the opportunity to explore the unique culture of Medan and North Sumatra. We also hope you get a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region,” he said.
He introduced UMSU as a Muhammadiyah-affiliated university with international accreditation, a track record of achievements, and numerous community-impact initiatives.
Dr. Rudianto further stated that the visit marks the beginning of a closer relationship between the two institutions and emphasized the importance of understanding each other’s social context.
“Indonesia is a vast country with conditions that differ greatly from Singapore. Of course, you can’t compare a teacher’s salary in Singapore to that in Indonesia. But rest assured, Muhammadiyah continues to strive for excellence in education,” he added.
The event also featured a traditional dance performance, Cikala Pong Pong, by PGS FKIP UMSU students, a presentation on Indonesia’s education system by FKIP UMSU Vice Dean I Dr. Hj. Dewi Kesuma Nasution, M.Hum., a talk show titled “Fun Learning through Local Wisdom,” and a campus tour of UMSU’s facilities.
Meanwhile, FKIP UMSU Dean Dra. Hj. Syamsuyurnita, M.Pd., expressed her hope that the visit would mark the beginning of a long-term partnership between UMSU and Temasek Polytechnic. “We hope this visit brings mutual benefits, particularly in the exchange of knowledge, culture, and educational perspectives,” she said.
With a spirit of collaboration and unity, the visit reflects UMSU’s commitment to building international networks and strengthening its role as a globally engaged university.
