Empowering the Next Generation with Sustainable Knowledge through SULAM EcoUnity

The Service-Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM) programme is a meticulously planned teaching and learning activity for semester six students as part of the Leadership and Professional Ethics for Engineers course (CPE680) which co-supervised by Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Zulkifli Abd Rashid and Ir. Syafiza Abd Hashib. The program designed by integrating Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) , an interdisciplinary approach that combines the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

With full enthusiasm and commitment, a group of 25 students and co-facilitated by Dr. Noorsuhana Mohd Yusof and Dr. Siti Fatma Abd Karim from School of Chemical Engineering of UiTM Shah Alam, accomplished a successful SULAM program entitled, EcoUnity : Science towards Environment Sustainability, at SMK Shah Alam on 5th June 2024. An impressive and highly engaged participation of 122 of form four students was involved in this event, actively taking part in various activities designed to foster a deeper understanding of environmental sustainability and the importance of scientific approaches to addressing ecological challenges.

At the opening ceremony, Tuan Saripah Nor Riha Tuan Jaafar, the administrative senior assistant of SMK Shah Alam, highlighted that our event’s initiative to promote environmental sustainability is greatly appreciated. This is because it aligns with the school’s aspirations to produce individuals who are responsible for society and the environment, in addition to being academically excellent and attentive to current issues.

Ainin Sofiya Mohamad, Program Director shared her insights regarding this programme, “We are delighted to celebrate the success of this event as all the activities that has been earnestly planned have come into reality. The enthusiastic participation from the students and the dedication of our organizing team have truly made EcoUnity: Science Towards Environmental Sustainability a memorable and an impactful event.”

In an interview with one of the participants, the student mentioned the importance of practicing 3R, especially recycling as it can help in terms of economics because it is more sustainable. Furthermore, the students were able to have fun throughout the event as they had the chance to unleash their creativity by transforming recycled materials into innovative products and most importantly they managed to grasp the main goals that were aimed to convey important information on environmental sustainability.

At the end of the event, both the organizers and the students believe that this effort can inspire communities to embrace sustainable lifestyles and act as a starting point for future environmental sustainability programs.

By : Ir. Syafiza Abd Hashib