Kampung Padang Jawa, 9 June 2024 – Final year students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam’s College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics (KPPIM) have launched an innovative initiative known as the “Smart Flood Beacon Alarm” at the Padang Jawa Community Hall in Shah Alam. This program results from a strong collaboration between the students and Kampung Padang Jawa residents, under the Service Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM) initiative. Supported by both the university and the local community, the “Smart Flood Beacon Alarm” program demonstrates a joint effort to improve education, stimulate the local economy, and foster community sustainability. This initiative showcases the practical application of academic skills and fortifies the connection between the university and the community, aiming for a safer and more resilient future together. 

Under the guidance of KKPIM UiTM senior lecturer, Ts. Dr. Surya Sumarni Binti Hussein, the program involved 24 KPPIM students and the community of Kampung Padang Jawa (Petaling). Due to the frequent flooding in Kampung Padang Jawa, the students have proactively taken the initiative to develop an innovative smart system. Recognizing the significant impact of recurring floods on the community, the team aimed to design a solution that would provide early warnings and enhance the overall flood management capabilities of the area. They aim to mitigate the risks and damages caused by floods, ensuring the safety and well-being of Kampung Padang Jawa’s residents. 

This project was developed by KPPIM students with the aim of providing early warnings of rising floodwaters and reducing the risks of injury and property damage caused by floods to village residents. The prototype warning poles are equipped with ultrasonic sensors to continuously monitor water levels expected to impact Kampung Padang Jawa. With this early warning system in place, residents of Kampung Padang Jawa will benefit as they will be alerted early to rising water levels, enabling them to take necessary actions promptly.

The program has received an overwhelmingly positive response from the residents of Kampung Padang Jawa. A resident said, “This product is indeed the best, residents can receive alerts for flood-prone areas.” The event was graced by VIPs, including Mr. Shahrulazrin Bin Roseli and Mr. Muhd Fahmi Izuddin Bin Jamaluddin, whose attendance underscored the importance and impact of the “Smart Flood Beacon Alarm” program and also sponsors for the IoT components and poles used in this project. 

This program is one of the initiatives aimed at empowering and serving the community through volunteer activities. Students are given the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically and discover how the knowledge they have acquired can improve the living standards of the local community. The activities also support the aspirations of the Fourth and Eleventh Sustainable Development Goals, which are Quality Education and Sustainable Cities and Communities. It also aligns with the government’s aspiration of Malaysia Madani.

Authors: Dayang Shazleen Fitri Binti Awang Shariee, Anis Sofiah Binti Jumri, Muhamad Hakimi Bin Hashim (Editor: Suzana Zambri, KPPIM News Team)