Queen Mary University of London BSc Management student Sameer Miah interned in Malaysia as part of the Global Leadership Summer Programme, gaining vital business experience whilst also expanding his global horizons.

When I first landed in Kuala Lumpur for my four-week stay, I knew I was in for an exciting mix of work, culture, and adventure. I was there as part of my university’s Global Leadership Summer Programme, and over the course of the month, Malaysia became more than just a destination — it became a place full of memories, friendships, and personal growth. 

Working with Teach For Malaysia 

Our main project revolved around working with Teach For Malaysia, an organisation dedicated to improving educational opportunities for children. My group’s task was to research and develop fresh ideas to enhance their recruitment strategies. It was an eye-opening experience — not only did we dive deep into the organisation’s mission and challenges, but we also learned the intricacies of strategic planning, teamwork, and presenting professional proposals. 

By the end of the month, we delivered a presentation showcasing our ideas, the result of countless discussions, brainstorming sessions, and a lot of coffee-fuelled late nights. It was incredibly rewarding to see how our work could potentially make a real-world impact. 

Exploring Beyond the Office 

Of course, it wasn’t all work. We made sure to experience as much of Malaysia as possible. On our second weekend, a group of us travelled to Penang. We soaked up the sun at Batu Feringghi Beach, explored the charming streets of George Town, and sampled some of Penang’s famous street food. 

The third weekend took us to Langkawi for three unforgettable days. We filled our time with adrenaline-pumping activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and island hopping, balanced out with evenings at the island’s best restaurants. There’s something magical about ending a day of adventure with your toes in the sand and a plate of fresh food in front of you. 

Kuala Lumpur Life 

Back in Kuala Lumpur, we embraced the city’s vibrant energy. We visited the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, marvelled at the architecture of the Putrajaya Pink Mosque, and ate our way through the city’s endless food options. I got to try classic Malay dishes like nasi goreng and nasi lemak, and I can honestly say the flavours of Malaysian cuisine are unforgettable. 

Evenings often turned into spontaneous food hunts, from bustling street markets to stylish rooftop spots. The city’s mix of modern skyline and cultural charm became a backdrop for countless shared laughs and deep conversations. 

The People Who Made It Special 

One of the best parts of this experience was meeting students from other universities. Over the weeks, we went from strangers to close friends — sharing meals, weekend trips, and the occasional group panic over project deadlines. The programme wasn’t just about leadership or cultural exchange; it was about building relationships that I know will last far beyond this trip. 

Looking Back 

My month in Kuala Lumpur was more than just a summer programme — it was a journey of growth, discovery, and connection. From working with an inspiring organisation to exploring beaches and bustling cities, every moment felt purposeful. Malaysia has a way of making you feel at home, even when you’re thousands of miles away. 

And as I boarded my flight home, I realised that the memories I made here — the work we accomplished, the places we visited, and the friends I met — are the kind you carry with you for a lifetime.