BINTULU: The iRandau 2025 Conference, organised by Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus (UPMKB), returns for its third edition with a unique approach, as it is set to take place at a longhouse in Kampung Lebu’ Kulit, Sungai Asap in Belaga, from July 2-4.
Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus Director, Professor Dr Shahrul Razid Sarbini, stated that the three-day programme will be more than just a conference.
It promises a compelling field experience involving participation from academics, both local and international university students, and the longhouse community itself.
“iRandau brings the concept of ‘randau’, a relaxed yet meaningful form of communication long practised by ethnic communities in Sarawak.
“Unlike conventional conferences held in air-conditioned halls, iRandau brings knowledge directly to the cultural roots. The longhouse becomes the main platform where knowledge is shared and passed down in an atmosphere of respect and openness,” he added.
He made these remarks during the Soft Launching Ceremony of iRandau 2025 held at UPMKB today.
Shahrul further emphasised the continued development of iRandau since its first edition proved that a community and knowledge-based approach is now recognised as an effective method in facing global challenges.
He also explained that today’s soft launch aimed at introducing the conference theme, the official visual identity of the programme, the activity plan throughout the conference, as well as announcing open registration for strategic partners both locally and internationally.
The iRandau kit, which was presented during the soft launching, was one of the unique features, apart from the various interesting activities for participants during the event.
The theme of iRandau 2025, ‘Bridging Gaps, Fostering Sustainability’, was chosen to reflect efforts to bridge knowledge and cultural gaps while strengthening cross-sector collaboration for shared sustainability.
“Through this approach, we are not only bringing academia closer to the community but also making the longhouse a symbol of unity in knowledge, heritage and the future,” he added.
Meanwhile, chairperson of iRandau 2025, Dr Nurul Hidayu Mat Jusoh, mentioned that exciting elements of the iRandau 2025 include the 3-minute sharing session, randau sessions with the community, cultural and heritage demonstrations by the Orang Ulu, STEM activities for students, traditional sports, and participant involvement in the villagers’ daily routines.
The conference also receives strong support from the Universitas Borneo Consortium, Pusat Belia Antarabangsa, Faculty of Human Ecology and Faculty of Educational Studies at UPM, Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS), and Sarawak Information Department.
Also present at the launching were Dean of the Humanities, Management and Science Faculty UPMKB, Associate Professor Ts. Dr Wong Tze Jin, Deputy Dean (Academic and Student Affairs) Dr Juniza Mohd Saad, Deputy Dean (Research, Funding, and Postgraduate) Dr Shairilizwan Taasim, and Head of the Department of Social Science and Management Dr Yasmin Yaccob.
Those interested in participating in iRandau 2025 can register via the official website at irandau2026.upm.edu.my. The registration deadline is on 31 May 2025.
