Journey of Growth at SIPS: Fostering Peace Through Cross-Cultural Engagement

Jay Yong, from Malaysia, embarked on his journey in Japan in 2016 as a Bekka student at Soka University, completing a year-long Japanese language program. He then pursued an undergraduate degree, specializing in cross-cultural communication at the Faculty of Letters, where courses on nonviolence and peace studies inspired his passion for peacebuilding. This eventually led him to enroll in the SIPS program.

Jay Yong’s time at SIPS was not without its challenges, particularly as his studies began during the pandemic. He was the only student from his batch residing in Japan, attending online classes while his peers navigated significant time-zone challenges. Despite these hurdles, he and his batchmates developed strong bonds, exemplifying the global solidarity central to SIPS. Transitioning to in-person learning after a year proved transformative, as the exchange of diverse perspectives deepened Jay Yong’s understanding of peace and enriched his academic journey.

Currently, Jay Yong serves as an Assistant Coordinator at the World Language Center Self-Access Center (WLC SAC) at Soka University. In this role, he oversees various programs, manages student staff, and facilitates communication between faculty and visitors. His experiences at SIPS provided him with a profound appreciation for the role of education in fostering peace. By honing his listening and communication skills through SIPS, Jay Yong now applies these tools to nurture meaningful interactions and a harmonious environment in his professional capacity.

To our current and future SIPS students, Jay Yong shared, “In light of the ongoing challenges worldwide, it’s easy to feel upset and hopeless. However, each of us has the power to effect change. Our individual efforts and contributions are like pieces of a larger puzzle. To complete this puzzle, we must continue to strive forward and never lose hope in our ability to create a better environment. First, focus on deepening your friendships with those around you. Strengthening these bonds will help create a more harmonious community. Second, believe that we all have the potential to make the world a better place. While one person’s actions may seem small, together we can create ripples of change and spread peace far and wide.”