Labuan: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is embracing digital edutourism as a key initiative, one that goes beyond classroom walls, by combining academic learning with technology and real-world exploration, while cultivating soft skills, creativity, and innovation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative integrates Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI), giving students interactive opportunities to explore historical sites, science centres, and cultural heritage virtually.
Labuan Member of Parliament Datuk Dr Suhaili Abd Rahman, who officiated the ICT-Edutourism: Educonnect Beyond Borders - Borneo Edition programme at the UMS Labuan International Campus (UMSKAL) today, said such efforts allow students to connect academic knowledge with real-world experiences and nurture interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
UMS vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor echoed the sentiment, stressing that edutourism is not just an activity outside the classroom but a bridge between academic knowledge and real-world experience. He highlighted that the programme enables students to link theory with practice, appreciate heritage and local treasures, and enhance their talents in communication, leadership, and critical thinking.
As a Borneo-based university rich in biodiversity and cultural diversity, UMS has long pioneered edutourism through experiential learning. Dr Kasim noted that with digital tools such as VR, AR, and AI, students are no longer limited by time or place and can virtually examine the marine ecosystem in Labuan or explore Sabah's ethnic cultures through interactive applications.
Meanwhile, Dean of UMSKAL Faculty of Computing and Informatics (FKI), Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Hanafi Ahmad Hijazi, emphasised edutourism as an important platform to connect education, technology, and the community. He stated that through this programme, FKI offers digital expertise, academic support, and opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in real contexts, enriching student learning and adding value to society.
The dean also extended gratitude to Universiti Esa Unggul, Indonesia, for co-hosting the regional initiative, Exness Investment Bank Limited (EIBL) for their support, and the Ministry of Digital Malaysia for its trust and guidance. Participants from Indonesia, Sarawak, and Brunei attended the programme, reflecting a strong regional commitment to advancing education, tourism, and digital technology.
Dr Hanafi expressed hope that the programme would pave the way for deeper partnerships between faculties, ministries, industries, and communities, expressing confidence that Malaysia can become a leader in digital edutourism in the region.