ILELAC 2026: CONNECTING CULTURES AND DEVELOPING GLOBAL LEADERS THROUGH ENGLISH

The spirit of international collaboration and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education came to life through the International Leadership and English Language Camp (iLELAC) 2026, bringing together participants and facilitators from Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste and Sudan in a week-long programme that combined English language learning, leadership development and cultural exchange.

Held from 21 to 28 September 2026, the programme was conducted at Universitas Tribhuwana Tunggadewi (UNITRI), Malang, and God Management School (GMS), Kasembon, Indonesia.

iLELAC 2026 created a space for participants to develop their English communication skills while engaging in collaborative activities and experiencing the diversity of cultures represented throughout the programme.

The programme placed particular emphasis on the practical use of English alongside leadership and intercultural learning, and through various activities, participants were encouraged to communicate, collaborate and build connections with individuals from different educational and cultural backgrounds.

A total of 27 participants and 13 facilitators from UNITRI were directly involved in the programme.

As part of the programme preparation, 15 students from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), under the guidance of Professor Dr. Muhammad Kamarul Kabilan Abdullah, a senior lecturer from the School of Educational Studies, USM, conducted a Training of Trainers (ToT) session for UNITRI facilitators.

The training equipped the facilitators with the knowledge and skills required to work together in delivering the programme activities held on 22 and 23 September 2026.

The partnership between USM and UNITRI was further strengthened through the continuation of iLELAC at GMS on 27 and 28 September 2026.

The activities involved 90 participants ranging from primary to secondary school students, providing the USM and UNITRI facilitators with an opportunity to put their training into practice while engaging students through English language and leadership-oriented activities.

Dr. Sulih Indra Dewi, S. Sos., M.A., Head of the Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) for Cooperation at UNITRI, expressed her hope that students would fully benefit from the programme and continue developing their English communication skills as they prepare for future opportunities, including in the professional world.

The founder of GMS, Heri Cahyono, meanwhile highlighted three qualities that he hopes to nurture among students, which are a strong mindset, positive personality and character, and physical strength.

According to him, these qualities can serve as an important foundation for achieving success.

He also emphasised the need for individuals to recognise their own strengths, including their ability to communicate in English, as this can provide access to wider opportunities at the international level.

Beyond language development, iLELAC 2026 served as a platform for participants to exchange knowledge, experience different cultures and establish meaningful international connections.

The programme encouraged participants to step beyond the classroom and discover their potential through communication, teamwork and leadership experiences.

The collaboration between USM, UNITRI and GMS also reflects the value of international partnerships in creating meaningful educational experiences.

By bringing together students and facilitators from different backgrounds, iLELAC provides opportunities for participants to develop greater confidence, broaden their perspectives and strengthen their motivation to pursue future opportunities.

Through this continued collaboration, iLELAC 2026 contributes to building a culture of learning that extends beyond borders, while encouraging participants to carry forward the knowledge, experiences and connections gained throughout the programme.

The initiative also aims to inspire future generations to continue developing and expanding the programme so that its impact can reach wider communities.