Targeting Hong Kong, UIN Jakarta’s International KKN Focuses on Education and Strengthening Da'wah

Ciputat, UIN Online News - UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has added Hong Kong as one of the destinations for its International Community Service Program (KKN). Previously, the International KKN was held in five countries, but this year it has expanded to six.

Three students have independently qualified to participate in the International KKN in Hong Kong. They are Mumtaz Raudatul Firdausyiah from the Law Studies Program in the Faculty of Sharia and Law, and Firly Annisa and Bunaiya Nawal Sawal Putri from the English Literature Program in the Faculty of Adab and Humanities.

Kaula Fahmi, M.Hum, the coordinator of UIN Jakarta’s KKN, explained that the addition of Hong Kong was initiated by Ade Rina Farida, M.Si, Head of the Community Service Center (PPM). UIN Jakarta chose Hong Kong because it allows visa-free entry for Indonesian citizens for 30 days and has support from the Special Branch of Nahdlatul Ulama (PCINU) in Hong Kong, which is ready to welcome students at any time.

"This initiative started two years ago with a collaboration between UIN and PCINU Hong Kong. Another reason for choosing Hong Kong is the frequent sending of da'wah (preachers) from Indonesia to Hong Kong," Kaula said in a WhatsApp interview on Friday (14/6/2024).

Kaula explained the stages that students go through to participate in the International KKN in Hong Kong. These include an initial selection process, document submission, interviews, and the announcement of results. Students then prepare administrative requirements such as passports and proposals to secure additional funding independently. The KKN is planned to last 25-28 days in August, aligning with the regular KKN schedule to avoid disrupting academic activities.

Additionally, Kaula mentioned that UIN Jakarta facilitates students by acting as an intermediary with institutions in Hong Kong. The recruitment process prioritizes proficiency in English for daily activities. This program is expected to provide international experience and assist Indonesian communities abroad.

"The hope is that students can bring UIN's good name to the international stage and help the Indonesian community there. This shows that UIN's dedication is not just at the national level but can extend internationally," he said.

Regarding the first International KKN in Hong Kong, Firly Annisa expressed that it will provide a unique and different experience. Moreover, the various KKN activities can help build relationships and share knowledge with friends in Hong Kong.

"While we have the opportunity to do KKN abroad, why not?" she said on Friday (14/6/2024).

Firly added that her main motivation is to gain different experiences and take advantage of the opportunity to study in Hong Kong. As a new destination for this year's International KKN, Hong Kong still has few participants, as many are not yet interested. She is eager to explore Hong Kong and attract more interest in the future.

"The process starts with filling out a form via Google Form. After submitting documents, participants go through an interview stage before the results are announced," she said.

Firly also explained that the university facilitates placement in the target country, including cooperation and coordination with relevant parties. Initial orientation has been conducted, and participants are now preparing documents such as passports and visas.

"We hope the relationship between UIN Jakarta and Hong Kong continues beyond the program duration," Firly said.

Firly mentioned that the program aims to help children and residents in terms of education. She hopes it will not only fulfill the KKN requirements but also build sustainable relationships.

"Another hope is that I can continue to grow and be useful to the community after participating in this International KKN," she concluded.

(Muhammad Naufal Waliyyuddin/Fauziah M./Raihan Lail/Faadhilati Idris)