The gap between young people from the two countries was bridged in a very special way: painting a playground, cleaning streets, bringing light to residential areas, and exploring local culture. After days like these, the International Green Summer 2026 left behind more than just completed projects.
This program was organized on August 15 by Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH), in collaboration with the Consulate General of Malaysia in Ho Chi Minh City and the Malaysian Student Volunteers Foundation (Yayasan Sukarelawan Siswa – YSS).
More than 300 students and volunteers reunited after working in three local wards – Trung My Tay, Phu Loi, and Kim Long – to reflect on the marks they left during the summer.
Dr. Ly Thien Trang, Vice President of HUTECH, emphasized the significance of community experiences in the Vietnam–Malaysia exchange journey
Ms. Koh Bee Ching, Vice Consul of Education at the Consulate General of Malaysia in Ho Chi Minh City, delivered the opening remarks and congratulated volunteers from both countries
Differences in language and culture gradually faded as young people wore the same volunteer shirts, shared tasks, and focused on the real needs of local residents. The reunion at HUTECH was therefore also a chance for the three teams to look back at their results through projects, numbers, and memorable stories after many days of working together.
Volunteers spent 73.5 hours renovating the playground at Residential Area 21, creating a colorful space for nearly 2,000 visitors. They also developed “Oh My English!” learning materials for 5th graders and supported local businesses in setting up Google Business Profiles, expanding volunteer work into education and digital skills.
Volunteers at the 3 local wards reported results and shared memorable stories after many days of working together
At Phu Loi ward, Vietnamese and Malaysian youth carried out 60 projects with 386.5 volunteer hours, benefiting more than 11,500 people. Community walls were repainted, areas with trash and weeds were cleaned, and activities in education, health, and digital transformation were implemented, leaving a volunteer footprint across many aspects of local life.
At Kim Long ward, volunteers completed 64 projects with 1,237 hours of service, benefiting more than 5,600 people. Highlights included upgrading a 2km road, installing 43 solar-powered streetlights, and revitalizing the traditional Cho Ro cultural space. These efforts improved living conditions while giving Malaysian volunteers closer access to Vietnamese local life and culture.
Performances featuring Malaysian, Indian, Sabah, Sarawak, and Vietnamese styles brought the beauty of culture closer to everyone
Back at HUTECH, the connection continued through music and dance. Performances featuring Malay, Indian, Sabah, and Sarawak traditions blended with Vietnamese student showcases, bringing the beauty of both cultures to life on one stage.
Vietnamese and Malaysian Youth shared a summer filled with real-life experiences
On this occasion, HUTECH presented souvenirs to partner organizations, while YSS awarded certificates to groups and individuals who actively participated in the International Green Summer 2026 campaign. From days of contributing in local communities to the reunion at HUTECH, Vietnamese and Malaysian youth gained a summer of real experiences, building understanding and friendships that began with volunteer shirts and grew into lasting bonds.
News: Mỹ Lam
Photo: Công Định
Communication Center