NIBONG TEBAL, 21 January 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) strengthened its commitment to community engagement and sustainable education through the Service Learning Malaysia-University for Society (SULAM) programme involving students from Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Transkrian.

The programme was conducted on 15 January 2026 at USM Engineering Campus here.

The initiative was led by Ts. Dr. Muhamad Sharan Musa from the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, with the support of three undergraduate facilitators from the Polymer Engineering programme.

The SULAM programme focused on knowledge transfer in polymer and rubber technology through structured explanations and interactive, activity-based learning.

The activities included game-based learning sessions designed to enhance students’ understanding of rubber processing and manufacturing methods, rubber products and their applications, as well as sustainability considerations within the polymer industry.

To provide meaningful hands-on exposure, the facilitators utilised workshop and laboratory facilities, allowing participants to observe and explore real-world applications of polymer and rubber technologies.

Among the highlighted activities were introductions to rubber manufacturing processes, observation of 3D-printed rubber products, and discussions on sustainability principles such as material efficiency and circular economy practices.

A total of 50 Form 5 students, accompanied by four teachers from MRSM Transkrian, took part in the programme.

The initiative aimed to broaden students’ understanding of modern manufacturing technologies while fostering interest in polymer engineering, innovation, and sustainable technological development.

The programme also supports national STEM education aspirations and contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education); SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure); and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Through initiatives such as SULAM, USM continues to strengthen collaboration between the university and schools, while inspiring future generations to pursue careers in engineering, science, and sustainable innovation.

Text: Joeyean Loke Pui Man (3rd year student, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, USM)/Photo: Nur Raihan Anuar & Zen Zefner Zef Zalman (3rd year student, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, USM)/ Siti Faizah Abd Halim