As I write this, I’m on my way to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Malaysia to take part in a short-term New Colombo Plan (NCP) funded project.

It’s an intensive 2.5 week program hosted by UKM (National University of Malaysia), where I will undertake courses on Malaysian history, culture and political and economic development. As part of this, my group and I will also visit cultural sites . We’ll also make our way to the Langkawi Research Centre to undertake some research projects.

Since we’ll be spending most of our time in and around Kuala Lumpur, it give us the opportunity to get out and explore what the city has to offer. The staff at UKM have also been extremely kind and accommodating so far as they help me with travel arrangements.

We have also been encouraged to travel outside of Kuala Lumpur to experience different parts of Malaysia on our own in addition to the project. Currently, I have Penang, Malacca and the Batu caves on my bucket list (which is sure to get bigger). I am very excited to see what this trip has in store for me. I hope to learn about a whole new culture that I have never experienced before, meet new people and make contacts in a different part of the world, and as a forensic science student; to explore the science and technology facilities that UKM provides.

All this is possible due to the funding that was generously provided by the Australian Government; made possible by New Colombo plan. I think these short term projects are an excellent opportunity to make the most of the break to gain some experience in many different areas, broaden your horizons, as well as having a great time.

Cara-Mae Shipley, Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Forensic and Analytical Science) participated in a New Colombo Plan funded trip to UKM, Malaysia during S1 2019