Kuala Lumpur, 01 July 2003 - Like a little United Nations, Sedaya International College (SIC) houses a colourful blend of cultures from around the world. Truly a global village in its entirety, Sedaya celebrated Cultural Week: Unity in Diversity, from 30 June to 3 July 2003, to honour multiculturalism and peace within our campus grounds.

The brainchild of the Student Affairs Office, which is spearheaded by Director of Student Affairs, Sylvester Lim, the Cultural Week included events like cultural performances by the various cultural-based clubs at Sedaya, a fashion parade exhibiting traditional costumes, a food fiesta where booths were set up selling culinary delights from various countries, and many other fun competitions for students and staff to participate in.

"It would or could help in better relationship among all of us if we could understand the culture each of us were raised in. Certainly one of our objectives is to help students share their culture with others while helping themselves enhance their own sense of identity - a greater appreciation for their uniqueness," said Lim.

"Other objectives include promoting harmonious living in a multi-racial multicultural society - as well as creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and fun in the College".

Of Vietnamese origins, Thuy My has to date been studying at Sedaya for 1.5 years, pursuing her degree in Business Administration under the Degree Transfer Programme. Mya, as she is known to her friends, plans to further her education to the United States. "There are so many benefits of being in an international community that I can't possibly list everything out!" she exclaimed.

"But the most important aspect that I have benefited tremendously is an opportunity to master the English language. I believe that the language will help me succeed in the international arena of business communications".

SIC's international student population comprises of students from countries such as China, India, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Indonesia, Oman, Iran, Vietnam, Kenya, Somalia, Uruguay and many more. These students make up 20% of the 3200-student population at Sedaya.

Multiculturalism is very much promoted here at SIC, and this is evident from the various cultural-based clubs here under the umbrella of the Sedaya International College Student Council.

The clubs such as the Malay Cultural Club, Vietnamese Student Society, Chinese Student Society, Indian Cultural Society and the Bangladesh Student Society are active associations that organise events throughout the semester.