Member's Voice

FY 2025
  • Abdullah, Zakia Mahbub
    Current Affiliation :
    Sinar Mas Land
    Country/Region :
    Indonesia
    Name : Abdullah, Zakia Mahbub

Participating in the Sakura Science Program (SSP) in 2019 was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The program offered the incredible opportunity to visit Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, Japan, and take part in the International Hackathon for Training Next Generation Engineers. During this time, I witnessed robotics in action, from innovative robots assembling cars to advanced automation in train systems and other industrial applications. Visits to hubs such as Yaskawa Innovation Center, Toyota Production Engineering (TPEC), Monorail Kikugaoka Base, and NIT Kitakyushu College provided first-hand insight into how innovation translates into real-world solutions.

Beyond technology, the program connected me with talented students from Japan, Singapore, Korea, Hong Kong, and Indonesia, fostering friendships and networks that continue to inspire. This experience strengthened my passion for robotics, IoT, and mobility, and reinforced my desire to contribute to technological innovation and international collaboration.

After SSP, my goal is to further my studies abroad, pursuing a master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence or Robotics, while working on projects that integrate technology with real-world solutions to benefit society, particularly in Indonesia. I aim to develop innovations in robotics and AI applications that can improve mobility, accessibility, and quality of life.

Since returning, I have actively participated in Sakura Science alumni events in Indonesia, which provide opportunities to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and celebrate the ongoing Japan–Indonesia collaboration.

Overall, the SSP program has been a defining milestone in my personal and professional growth, expanding technical knowledge, building international networks, and inspiring the pursuit of goals with confidence, purpose, and a commitment to using technology for societal impact.