Field visit to Desa Mentari by Summer Academy students

Summer Academy participants at Block 10 of Desa Mentari, Petaling Jaya 

Participants of the Summer Academy at UKM visited urban poor communities at Desa Mentari, Petaling Jaya on August 29, 2013 as part of the course to understand the socio-economic rights of communities living in high rise low cost flats.

A majority of the 14 students were from Europe and in particular Germany found the field visit an eye opener. They found it early to relate with the people from the flats and there was a lively discussion including Q and A session. The flat communities too were appreciative of the students visit.

Block 10 -Desa Mentari

At Block 10 of Desa Menteri, Mr Suliman Bin Sahak (Local RT community leader), Mr James (Local Indian community leader) and Mr Maran met and spoke to the summer academy visitors. In addition Datuk Vaithilingam and Dato Siva Subrmanium also met up with the summer academy participants and shared some thoughts of minority community rights.

Summer participants at Block 5 of Desa Mentari, Petaling Jaya

Block 5- Desa Mentari

At Block 5 of Desa Menteri, Mr Nathan (Local RT community leader) together with the local community welcomed the academy participants. Many of the local residents including young people  shared their experiences including their hopes and dreams. Mrs Rina Harun, the district national unity officer was present at both the gatherings.

This is the second time KITA-UKM was host to the Asia-Europe Cross-Cultural Summer Academy. The Human Rights and Asian Societies track was led by Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria from Monday August 26 till Thursday August 29, 2013.

Ms Imma Llort I Juncadella and Mr Thanakon Tiwawong were co-trainers who ran workshop sessions during the course. This program was facilitated by AFS Yayasan Antarabudaya Malaysia and the Karlshochschule International University.