Yogyakarta, 19 January 2026 — The Library Science Study Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta held an International Talk titled “Industrial Training in UiTM Library: Experiences, Challenges, and Motivations”. The event took place in the Munaqasyah Room of the Faculty of Adab and Cultural Sciences and presented Library Science student Salsabila Suhaimah Arrujiyyah A as the speaker, with Library Science lecturer Thoriq Tri Prabowo, Ph.D., serving as moderator. The session was attended by Library Science lecturers and students, particularly those from the international class.

Applying classroom knowledge in a real setting

The event began with an opening by master of ceremony Siva Vauziah, followed by a welcome address from a representative of the Dean of the Faculty of Adab and Cultural Sciences. The program then continued with a discussion session in which Salsabila shared her experiences during her internship or Field Practice (PPL) at the Tun Abdul Razak Library, UiTM Malaysia, which she attended for four weeks from 3 to 28 November 2025.

According to Salsabila, undertaking PPL at the Tun Abdul Razak Library provided her with valuable opportunities to apply the theories she had learned in class. She described the librarians who served as her mentors as friendly and highly supportive. The activities and tasks assigned to the interns were arranged in a structured schedule, accompanied by clear briefings.

Language challenges and the importance of English

Salsabila also recounted the challenges she faced during her internship in Malaysia, one of which was language. Although Indonesian is often regarded as closely related to Malay, she noted that language barriers are still unavoidable for Indonesians who are not accustomed to Malay. For that reason, she recommended the use of English in professional interactions. “Having basic English skills is important,” she remarked.

Even so, these language challenges did not prevent her from carrying out her tasks. The librarians always ensured that the interns understood the instructions given. “When explaining our tasks, the librarians used Malay, but they would always ask us whether we understood their language,” she explained.

Student questions on relevant courses and adaptation tips

After the discussion, the session continued with a question-and-answer segment. Library Science students enthusiastically asked about various aspects of the internship in Malaysia. One student, Alya, inquired about the courses that were most relevant and applicable during the internship, as well as tips for adapting to the new environment.

In response, Salsabila stated that the courses taught in class were very helpful for fieldwork. She mentioned, for example, the course on Information Preservation, whose theoretical foundations she had learned on campus and then practiced directly during her PPL. As for adaptation strategies, she suggested that maintaining a kind and humble attitude can make it easier to adjust to the internship environment.

Appreciation and reflections from supervisors

The event then proceeded with remarks from internship supervisor Khairunnisa Etika Sari, M.IP., a Library Science lecturer. She expressed her appreciation for the Library Science students who had successfully completed their PPL in Malaysia and were willing to share their experiences to inspire others. She also expressed the hope that the PPL program would truly serve as a foundation for developing future competencies, both in the professional world and in academic pursuits. The International Talk concluded with a documentation session and group photo.

Encouraging international field practice opportunities

This International Talk was expected not only to serve as a forum for exchanging ideas but also to raise students’ awareness of the importance of international practical experience. Through this activity, Library Science students are encouraged to prepare themselves to participate in overseas PPL programs as a way of strengthening their practical competencies before entering the job market.

The event also highlighted the need to review policies related to PPL quotas so that they are not constrained solely by efficiency considerations. Limited quotas risk hindering equal access to competency development opportunities for students. Therefore, broader and more inclusive international internship opportunities are seen as an important step in supporting the professional growth of Library Science students.

By:

Nabilah Izzati Zahirah (niz), Athallah Akmal Baihaqi (akb)