Ten selected students from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Cyberjaya recently completed a knowledge exchange trip to Bangkok, organised in collaboration with the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) Malaysia and ISPE Thailand. This initiative aimed to deepen students' understanding of the pharmaceutical sector and foster international collaboration.
The journey began on 5 September 2024, when the students departed for Kuala Lumpur International Airport, filled with excitement. After a smooth two-hour flight, they arrived at Don Mueang International Airport and checked into their hotel in Nana. Despite the long day, they enjoyed a late-night snack at a nearby 7-Eleven, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.ple stay healthy from the start, making prevention the norm, not the exception,” she declared.
On Day 2, the group explored medical innovation and pharmaceutical excellence. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, they went to King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital (KCMH) via public transport. Although the journey was challenging, involving several transfers and navigating busy crowds, the students arrived safely. They were welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere and divided into groups to engage with ISPE Thailand representatives. One group attended an insightful talk on Thailand's pharmaceutical innovations, while the other visited the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, which produces anti-venom serum for snake-bite victims. This experience highlighted Thailand's commitment to public health and safety.
The primary goals of Day 2 included fostering knowledge exchange and cultural understanding and creating networking opportunities with representatives from ISPE Thailand and various Malaysian universities. The students also connected with peers from other ISPE Malaysia Student Chapters.
On Day 3, they visited the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Chulalongkorn University, participating in interactive forums encouraging exchanging ideas among industry professionals, lecturers, and students. The day featured engaging team-building activities that facilitated camaraderie. They enjoyed a delightful dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River in the evening, soaking in Bangkok's vibrant atmosphere.
The final day was dedicated to cultural exploration. Despite the gloomy weather, the group visited the iconic Wat Arun, marvelling at its architectural beauty. They then ventured to Chatuchak Market, a sprawling maze of shops where they immersed themselves in local culture and picked up souvenirs.
The fourth-year pharmacy student Farah Shazwani Binti Yahya stated, "The visit to King Chulalongkorn Hospital was fascinating, showcasing a mix of medical innovation and pharmaceutical excellence. The project to build a centre for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products offers groundbreaking disease treatment opportunities." She emphasised how the experience enhanced her understanding of specialised therapies, positioning her for future roles in pharmaceutical development.
Dr Najwa Mohamad, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy, remarked, "This trip aligns closely with our curriculum, particularly the focus on Good Industrial Practice in the third year. It enhances students' knowledge of current technologies and evolving practices in the pharmaceutical industry, supporting their educational and professional development." She added that establishing international relationships with ISPE Thailand is essential for fostering academic collaboration, ultimately enhancing the University of Cyberjaya's global reputation.
Another lecturer, Fashli Syafiq Abd Razak, emphasised the importance of future collaborations with ISPE: "Working with ISPE allows our students to engage with a global network and industry leaders, broadening their perspectives and fostering valuable connections." He noted that cultural exchange is vital in pharmaceutical education, preparing students to tackle challenges from a broader perspective.
The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) is a global non-profit association dedicated to advancing the pharmaceutical industry by providing professionals with education, training, and networking opportunities. Focusing on fostering innovation and best practices, ISPE plays a vital role in connecting industry leaders and emerging professionals alike. In summary, this trip was a valuable educational experience and an opportunity for personal growth and cultural immersion. It paved the way for future collaborations and enhanced the students' understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape
