Forty students from Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (UniKL MIAT) gained valuable experience in international sporting event management as they served as official volunteers during Formula 1’s historic return to Malaysia after nine years.
The students, accompanied by four staff members, participated in Operasi Rakan Muda: Grand Prix F1 2026, organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) from 1 to 4 October 2026 at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.
The initiative coincided with the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, marking the return of the prestigious motorsport championship to Sepang for the first time since 2017.
Through a special volunteer allocation granted directly to UniKL MIAT, the students were given an opportunity to experience the demands of managing a major international sporting event while developing leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
The programme began with a familiarisation session and pit lane walk on 1 October, followed by three days of volunteer duties under the supervision of KBS and event representatives.
Stationed primarily at the C Stand Hill area, the UniKL MIAT volunteers assisted with visitor guidance, crowd management and event operations, helping thousands of spectators navigate the venue throughout the race weekend.
Working alongside representatives from Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), the students also encountered real-time operational challenges that required teamwork, adaptability and effective decision-making.
Leading the student contingent was Nur Azimah Maisara Md Kasa, a Semester 3 Bachelor of Aviation Management student who served as Programme Director, supported by Programme Coordinator Muhammad ‘Ariq ‘Abqari Fairul Azhar, a Semester 5 Diploma in Aeroplane Maintenance student.
Despite having limited experience in managing large crowds, Nur Azimah embraced the responsibility of coordinating her fellow volunteers while prioritising their well-being throughout the demanding event.
“We stepped up because we cared about our team, our visitors, and representing UniKL MIAT with pride. The challenges only brought us closer, and seeing everyone leave with a smile made every moment worth it,” she shared.
The initiative was coordinated through the MIAT Language and Culture Club, with guidance from Ts. Dr. Shahani Aman Shah, Deputy Dean of Student Development and Campus Lifestyle, alongside Mohd Nor Azmin Md Hashim, Assistant Manager of the Campus Lifestyle Section, and lecturers Syariza Ismail and Nur Baiti Mohd Halil.
Beyond providing international event exposure, the programme strengthened students’ confidence, resilience and ability to work with diverse stakeholders, reflecting UniKL’s emphasis on industry-oriented education and holistic student development.
Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, particularly experiential learning and practical skills development, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, the initiative creates meaningful learning opportunities beyond the classroom.
