Kuala lumpur: 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.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, PUO stated that 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 highlighted the importance of nurturing sportsmanship and appreciation of the nation's culture and heritage as the institution's students and staff pursue progress, excellence, and global success. She emphasized that progress must not lead the younger generation to lose sight of its identity and the values of togetherness that underpin society. Dr Salmi remarked, "The drive for progress and global success should not come at the expense of these values," during her speech before flagging off participants in the Patriotic Brisk Walk.
PUO also mentioned that the Kembara Merdeka PUO 2026 programme featured a Merdeka Cycling Convoy led by its deputy director (Academic), Norman Zamri, along with the management team, students, and staff.
Meanwhile, a student from the Department of Information and Communication Technology, Nurin Mysarah Musa, shared that the programme offered more than just an enjoyable experience, providing students an opportunity to interact with the PUO management team in a relaxed setting. Participants also engaged in traditional games such as congkak, dam aji, and batu seremban, enjoyed a Merdeka poetry recital, and participated in intellectual discourse through the Telaah@PUO series.
The programme further provided an opportunity for students to strengthen their bonds and make new friends through various interactive activities. PUO emphasized that the Kembara Merdeka PUO 2026 programme highlighted the appreciation of independence as extending 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.