2,400 Ungku Omar Polytechnic Students, Staff Join Kembara Merdeka Programme

IPOH, Sept 12 (Bernama) -- About 2,400 students and staff of Ungku Omar Polytechnic (PUO) came together in the spirit of patriotism for the Kembara Merdeka PUO 2026 programme here today, ahead of Malaysia Day on Sept 16.

In a statement, PUO said the programme, themed “Melangkah Teguh, Menyemai Warisan Bangsa”, featured a range of fitness, sports, educational, cultural and welfare activities aimed at deepening appreciation of the National Month among its students and staff.

PUO director Dr Salmi Che Meh said sportsmanship and appreciation of the nation’s culture and heritage must continue to be nurtured as the institution’s students and staff pursue progress, excellence and global success.

She said progress must not lead the younger generation to lose sight of its identity and the values of togetherness that underpin society.

“The drive for progress and global success should not come at the expense of these values,” she said in her speech before flagging off participants in the Patriotic Brisk Walk.

PUO said the Kembara Merdeka PUO 2026 programme also featured a Merdeka Cycling Convoy led by its deputy director (Academic), Norman Zamri, together with the management team, students and staff.

Meanwhile, Nurin Mysarah Musa, a student from the Department of Information and Communication Technology, said the programme offered more than just an enjoyable experience, giving students an opportunity to interact with the PUO management team in a relaxed setting.

In addition to the Patriotic Brisk Walk and cycling convoy, participants also took part in traditional games such as congkak, dam aji and batu seremban, while enjoying a Merdeka poetry recital and engaging in intellectual discourse through the Telaah@PUO series.

The programme also provided an opportunity for students to strengthen their bonds and make new friends through various interactive activities.

PUO said the Kembara Merdeka PUO 2026 programme highlighted that appreciation of independence extends beyond waving the Jalur Gemilang to include healthy living, sportsmanship, sharing with others, the pursuit of knowledge, and preserving the nation’s culture and heritage.

--BERNAMA