Learning journey into the Middle East

By Hazel Koh

Year 3, Life Sciences major


A tribal dinner at the heritage village in Dammam


At Museum of Islamic Arts in Doha, Qatar

The Middle East is a region that is rich in culture, history and economic viability. It colours imaginations, inspires the make-believe and presents untapped opportunities within its rapidly diversifying economies. There is also much to be learnt about this region as it continues to negotiate the balance between modernisation and tradition in today's globalised world.

Thus, upon learning about the NUS Study Trip for Engagement and Enrichment (STEER) 2012 Middle East programme to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, I knew I had to apply for it - both for its enrichment value and also to explore and understand this "regional enigma". This was a decision reaffirmed by the inclusiveness, foresight and objectives of the STEER programme, which I believe has profoundly impacted me. I was encouraged to explore and personally experience the academic theme of sustainable development and future green technologies through joint projects, educational seminars, corporate visits and tours to novel eco-cities and economic ventures. I also learned to cultivate an understanding and appreciation of Arab culture and society through the immersive programmes.

In particular, through my visits to the numerous souqs (markets) in the Middle East, I was greatly impressed by the interplay of economic sustainability and cultural heritage. Through the preservation of cultures and traditions, opportunities for cultural tourism were tapped into, further boosting the Middle Eastern economies' which are based predominantly on hydrocarbons.

On a personal front, the fun-filled memories that I have from uncovering "hidden gems" such as the quirky Al Markhiya gallery among the many interesting corners of the souqs are "priceless souvenirs" that I hold dear.

Additionally, through my visit to the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum in Doha, I was most honoured to have the rare opportunity of meeting His Excellency Sheikh Faisal himself and learning about Middle Eastern and Islamic history and culture within the context of the Qatari national heritage and cultural identity. It was eye-opening to learn about the centrality of cultural identity, history and the Islamic faith in Qatar's national development. I also gained a deeper understanding of national development models and the interdependence between society, culture and politics.

Therefore, while my trip to the Middle East formally ended on the 23 December 2012, I believe that my STEER experience has enriched me in many ways. The friendships, knowledge, feedback and experience that I have gained from STEER were invaluable to my personal development. The global exposure and independent learning experiences broadened my horizons and taught me to , explore new opportunities with an open mind and be more adaptable - traits that are especially vital in this era's dynamic and fast evolving social and geopolitical landscape.

21 February 2013