Field Methods in Anthropology and International Development (ATS3248 & APG4248): Immersing in Lives, Weaving Understanding

The Field Methods in Anthropology and International Development course (ATS3248 & APG4248) offers students a valuable opportunity to combine theoretical learning with hands-on experience in qualitative and ethnographic research methods. Over 19 days in Malaysia, students participated in an intensive and interactive program based at Monash University Malaysia, working closely with unit coordinators from Australia, local academic staff from the School of Arts and Social Sciences, and the team from the South East Asia Community Observatory (SEACO) under the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

On 3 July 2025, students arrived at SEACO in Segamat, Johor, where they were warmly welcomed. They were introduced to a range of ongoing community research projects and attended basic Malay language classes. Notably, many students took the initiative to introduce themselves in Malay—a small but meaningful gesture in building authentic cultural and communicative bridges with the local community.

This course goes beyond classroom theory. It opens up real-world learning opportunities in the field. With an interdisciplinary approach, students explored various aspects of Malaysian life—including historical, social, cultural, economic, and public health dimensions.

The highlight of the field experience took place from 5 to 8 July 2025, where students engaged in focus group discussions (FGDs) with a variety of stakeholders: local communities, government agencies, and private organisations. They also visited key locations relevant to their research topics—such as mosques, places of worship, farms, livestock sites, traditional medicine practitioners, and community centres.

Each visit gave students the chance to understand community life from a closer and more human perspective—sharpening their cultural sensitivity and research skills in a dynamic, real-world environment.

As the fieldwork drew to a close, saying farewell to the Segamat community proved to be an emotional moment. The warm welcome, openness, and kindness of the local people left a deep and lasting impression.

We extend our deepest appreciation to all individuals and institutions who supported and contributed to the success of this program. The experiences, lessons, and memories created together will continue to blossom in our hearts—serving as lasting inspiration for future work in anthropology and international development.