USM PENANG, 28 February 2025 – The Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has taken a leading role in a large-scale marine conservation effort with the recent release of 10,000 tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) off the coast of Pulau Betong, Penang.

As a key scientific partner in the Penang South Island (PSI) Ecology Offset Masterplan (PEOM), CEMACS plays a crucial role in ensuring that restocking efforts align with ecological best practices and sustainability goals.

Director of CEMACS, Professor Dato’ Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, emphasised that the initiative is guided by strict scientific criteria to safeguard marine biodiversity.

"Only native species with high survival rates in Penang’s waters are introduced to prevent disruption to the existing ecosystem," she explained.

She added that continuous monitoring and genetic studies would be conducted to track the movement and migratory patterns of the released marine life, ensuring long-term success.

The initiative, which marks a significant milestone in marine conservation, is a collaborative effort between the Penang government, Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd., and various government agencies.

Chief Executive Officer of Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (PICSB), Datuk Seri Farizan Darus, highlighted the importance of the restocking programme in supporting PEOM’s broader conservation agenda.

"Beyond reaffirming our commitment to sustainable fisheries, this project serves as a pilot study to assess the impact of fish and shrimp restocking in Penang’s southern waters," he said.

Farizan also acknowledged the contributions of the late Professor Dato’ Dr. Zulfigar Yasin, whose research laid the foundation for PEOM’s ecological framework before his passing on 3 February this year.

"Although he is no longer with us, we are dedicated to continuing his vision by turning research into meaningful conservation actions," he added.

The programme will continue with the release of an additional 42,000 tiger prawns and 25,000 seabass (Lates calcarifer) in phases over the next five months near Pulau Betong and Pulau Kendi.

Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee Chairman, Fahmi Zainol, reiterated the state's commitment to ensuring the sustainability of fishery resources.

"A healthy marine ecosystem translates to better livelihoods for coastal fishermen, and we anticipate that this initiative will bring lasting benefits to the community," he stated.

The event saw participation from key officials, including representatives from Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd., the Deputy Chief Minister I’s office, and multiple governmental and environmental agencies.

Source: BULETIN MUTIARA, 26 February 2025 - Story by Christopher Tan/Pix courtesy of Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd./Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail

USM PULAU PINANG, 21 January 2025 – The Student Development Centre (PPP) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (BHEPA), through the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Sector, recently held the launch ceremony of the University Community Social Enterprise Project – EmpowerMom Creation at The Bricks, Siswaniaga@USM.

EmpowerMom Creation is a social entrepreneurship company comprised of students who have completed entrepreneurship training at The Bricks.

This project targets single mothers from the B40 group to be assisted through periodic knowledge transfer sessions, and provides a platform to enable this target group to generate income from home.

The launch ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat, representing the USM Vice-Chancellor.

In her speech, Narimah expressed her appreciation and congratulations on the success of EmpowerMom Creation in obtaining a Start-up Fund worth RM20,000 from the Ministry of Higher Education to carry out the social entrepreneurship project.

"I would also like to congratulate EmpowerMom Creation on their success and dedication in providing regular training to single mothers in the Batu Uban area.

"Despite a very tight academic schedule, the members of EmpowerMom remain committed to ensuring the success of this project," she added.

She further remarked, “the University leadership and I firmly support and promote initiatives like this, as they significantly contribute to the development of USM students and the betterment of the single mother community in Batu Uban.”

Meanwhile, Koh Kean Hoe, the Project Director of EmpowerMom Creation, also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the USM leadership for providing opportunities, facilities, and workforce assistance throughout this project.

He also thanked the Member of Penang State Legislative Assembly for Batu Uban, YB Kumaresan Aramugam, for his assistance in finding participants for the classes that have been running since September 2024.

"In line with SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), this programme is expected to help low-income single mothers generate income and subsequently help other single mothers through continuous knowledge transfer," he added.

Besides Kumaresan, also present at the ceremony were Senior Deputy Registrar of BHEPA, Shukeri A. Rahman; Head of the PPP Entrepreneurship and Innovation Sector, Hajar Zituakmar Mohd Fauzi; and Assistant Registrar of BHEPA, Ahmad Heidey Iskandar Mohd Rayhan.

**EmpowerMom Creation is committed to empowering B40 mothers through specialized workshops and entrepreneurial support, fostering economic independence and personal growth. Its vision is to uplift B40 mothers by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to generate sustainable income and build thriving communities.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Muhamad Faris Darwisy Muhamad Rafiq

PENANG, 10 June 2024 – The School of Communication at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently organised a student-led Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project titled "Hope for The Homeless Project” at the Pusat Transit Gelandangan (PTG) in George Town, Penang.

The project is one of the assessments for YBP230 CSR course under the supervision of Professor Dr. Jamilah Ahmad and Dr. Suriati Saad, and is aimed to enhance the well-being of PTG's homeless population by providing essential food and hygiene resources.

Additionally, it sought to promote self-sustainability among PTG residents through urban farming initiatives and to establish partnerships with local communities and businesses.

According to Suriati, "Based on our previous research on teaching CSR courses at university students, engaging the students with industry and community is a fundamental element to ensure students gain an overall understanding of the course. This is what we are trying to incorporate in this course." 

“Our students have also developed a website for PTG to increase awareness of the services provided by PTG and to enable others such as corporate organisations, NGOs and general public to contribute to PTG,” she said, referring to the newly developed website to raise awareness about Pusat Transit Gelandangan that includes a donation form and contact details for the centre.

Assistant Operation Manager of PTG, Mohamad Nazrin Dolmat, warmly welcomed the USM students to the centre.

Nazrin stressed that homelessness is a growing problem in Malaysia, with more people forced to stay in shelters and struggle for food and survival. He expressed a particular need for food, especially meat, as it is rarely available to the homeless.

“We are thankful and grateful to have the students helped clean the shelters and set up hydroponic racks for fresh produce within the PTG area.

“This hydroponic initiative ensures that the centre has fresh produce to feed the residents, promoting health, wellness, and self-sufficiency. Additionally, the centre can sell the fresh produce to earn income,” he said.

Meanwhile, USM Pusat Sejahtera dentist, Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, provided dental care education to the homeless individuals, emphasising the importance of dental hygiene. He demonstrated the proper method to brush teeth and gums and answered questions from the audience.

“Thank you to USM for their presence. This is not the first time a university has visited, but it is the first time there has been a hydroponic programme. Thanks to USM for coming and raising awareness about homelessness,” said Nazrin at the end of the programme.

Suriati summed up by saying, “Homelessness impacts the entire community. We must unite to tackle this challenge and help those who are struggling to find a better life.”

For the record, USM students curated sponsors and organised fundraising activities to collect food and money for essential items for the homeless including toothpaste, sanitary pads, biscuits, towels, and shampoo. These items were distributed, helping the homeless meet some of their basic needs and improving their well-being.

Source text & photo: Dr. Suriati Saad, School of Communication, USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe

USM PENANG, 28 March 2024 – Throughout the entire holy month of Ramadan, the USM Pusat Islam (Islamic Centre) offered meals for ‘iftar’ (breaking of fast) every day to its campus community (students, staff and their families), as well as the surrounding communities in all three campuses and at the Advanced Medical & Dental Institute (IPPT) in Bertam.

This is a 40-year-old tradition practiced by USM's Pusat Islam, and at the USM Main Campus, around 2,000 to 2,500 people can be seen breaking their fast at the Al Malik Khalid Mosque compound since the first day of Ramadan.

USM Ramadan activities committee chairman cum the Deputy Director of Pusat Islam, Ustaz Zayd Zahari said that the programme is aimed at strengthening ukhuwah (brotherhood bond) among the campus community and with the local residents, including the non-Muslims.

“We have more than 300 volunteers comprising of the campus community and the general public, working together in the spirit of 'gotong-royong' and togetherness according to the daily duty roster, to prepare the iftar meals.

"Our workforce is divided into three teams, which is the team for preparing iftar ingredients, the preparation of raw materials such as the washing of chicken and meat (including cooking), and the team for serving food at the mosque.

"All preparation work starts as early as 10.00 am every day because we prepare food in large quantities," he added.

“One unique feature that has been in practice for many years is the non-Muslim students also volunteered and helped in preparing and packing the food for iftar.

"This is to give opportunities to non-Muslim students to experience the preparing of iftar meals, as well as to strengthen relationships with one another,” he said.

Meanwhile, on the preparation of the menu, Zayd said it was determined by a special committee made up of USM's own staff.

"The menus that are served up are different every day. Among the menu items that have been served are tomato rice, nasi hujan panas, nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, chicken kurma, and meat curry.

“Alhamdulillah, all the food cooked for the day will be fully distributed so that there will be no wastage," he said.

Zayd said further, those wanting to enjoy the food for breaking of fast can either break fast communally at the mosque or to take home the prepared food.

“For those opting to bring back food to their desasiswa or home, they are encouraged to bring their own food containers to fill in the food prepared.

“This is also part of the Green Ramadan campaign that the Pusat Islam is introducing for the first time this year to encourage the practice of reducing waste and using resources responsibly,” he further explained.  

In terms of funding to run this programme, Zayd said it was made possible through the generous contributions from the public, USM staff and students.

"For staff, they can have their salary deducted every month under the salary deduction system, of which the staff can choose the amount to donate.

"We also receive funds from the public, local residents and the students themselves.

“Every year, the collection is very encouraging and this further strengthens the spirit of our team to continue preparing iftar meals at the Al Malik Khalid Mosque," he added.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Shahnizam Ab Rahim 

Kosmo | 8 April 2024 | Negara | ms 24&25

USM PULAU PINANG, 28 Mac 2024 – Demi menyokong penuh amalan kelestarian dalam mencapai Matlamat Pembangunan Mampan (SDG), Pusat Islam Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) telah mengambil inisiatif untuk melancarkan Kempen Ramadan Hijau bersempena dengan bulan Ramadan pada tahun ini.

Kempen ini dianjurkan untuk mendorong warga USM dan masyarakat mengurangkan pembaziran dengan menggunakan semula barangan dan mengitar semula barangan yang boleh digunakan seperti bekas makanan dan beg kitar semula.

Menurut Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Induk Ramadan peringkat USM, merangkap Timbalan Pengarah Pusat Islam USM, Ustaz Zayd Zhari, inisiatif ini adalah untuk menjaga alam sekitar dengan menerapkan konsep 3R iaitu 'Reduce, Reuse and Recycle'.

“Setiap tahun sepanjang bulan Ramadan, Pusat Islam USM menyediakan juadah berbuka puasa kepada kira-kira 3,000 orang setiap hari, yang mana mereka diberi pilihan untuk berbuka puasa di masjid (tempat yang disediakan) atau membawa pulang juadah yang disediakan dengan membawa bekas makanan sendiri.

“Sebagai sebuah universiti yang mementingkan amalan kelestarian, kempen ini dilaksanakan sesuai dengan menggalakkan sifar plastik, iaitu dengan mengurangkan penggunaan produk plastik sekali guna dan menggantikan alternatif yang lebih mesra alam, iaitu dengan membawa bekas makanan sendiri. Pengagihan bubur lambuk juga tidak lagi disediakan dalam plastik.

“Selain itu, kempen ini juga berinisiatif untuk memupuk amalan penggunaan beg kitar semula yang disediakan di Pusat Islam USM, untuk membawa barangan keperluan, mengurangkan penggunaan beg plastik sekali guna, dan memberikan kesedaran kepada masyarakat tentang pentingnya pemuliharaan alam sekitar,” kata Zayd.

Tambah Zayd, kempen ini baru dilaksanakan pada Ramadan tahun ini dan berharap agar kempen seperti ini dapat diteruskan lagi pada Ramadan yang akan datang.

“Idea kempen ini terbit daripada kempen Pejabat Hijau oleh Kampus Sejahtera, yang kemudiannya diolah dalam bentuk program oleh Jawatankuasa Aktiviti Ramadan USM, yang mana kempen Ramadan Hijau ini akan berlangsung sepanjang bulan Ramadan dengan melibatkan pengurusan sumber lain,” ujarnya.

Bagi mereka yang tidak membawa bekas makanan sendiri, Pusat Islam USM menjual bekas makanan yang berharga RM2 setiap unit dan setiap pembelian akan dimasukkan ke akaun Tabung Ramadan yang disediakan oleh Pusat Islam USM.

Teks: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi

USM PENANG, 6 June 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Student Representative Council (MPP) recently joined forces with Food Bank Mutiara and the USM School of Communication (SOC) to bring aid to students in need at USM SOC through the 'Communication Foodbank' initiative

The initiative was organised and led by USM MPP representative, Daneswaran A/L Muneswaran Thiagu with the aim to provide essential food and personal care items to Communication students who are in need, particularly those in the B40 category.

A total of 100 packs of frozen food and 50 goodie bags containing items such as toothpaste, shampoo, toothbrushes, and soaps were distributed to students at the C10 Building, on 6 June 2024.

Daneswaran said that the gesture was met with gratitude and appreciation by the students for the support extended, reflecting the positive impact of the 'Communication Foodbank' initiative on their lives.

“The initiative demonstrated the power of compassion and generosity in fostering a caring community,” he said.

Special thanks to the USM SOC Dean, Associate Professor Dr. Bahiyah Omar, Penang State Government and Food Bank Mutiara for their support throughout the initiative.

This collaborative effort highlights the importance of unity and compassion in supporting those who are in need of assistance.

Text: Thiviyaatharishienee A/P Kaliappan/ Photo: Siti Mashitah Kamarulzaman, Rhema Seng, Wong Suet Ying (School of Communication USM)

USM PENANG, 16 February 2025 – During the yearly Thaipusam celebration, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Thaneer Panthal (refreshment stall) usually stands out as one of the more prominent Thaneer Panthals along Jalan Waterfall, Penang.

This year’s Thaipusam, celebrated on 11 February 2025, was no different.

In fact, this year’s celebration was even grander as it marked the 50th anniversary of USM’s Thaneer Panthal, a beloved community initiative that has been serving thousands of Thaipusam devotees since it was set up in 1975.

USM Thaipusam Community Service Secretariat Chairman, Associate Professor Dr. Yuvaraj Ganesan, said that in honour of this significant milestone, the USM Thaipusam Thaneer Panthal continued its tradition of providing free vegetarian meals to 3,000 devotees and more than 20,000 cold drinks on 10 and 11 February 2025.

“The event also highlighted USM’s sustainability initiatives, including the continued use of stainless-steel plates and cups, reinforcing the Go Green efforts that USM has championed since 2005,” he said.  

According to Yuvaraj, this year’s event, marking half a century of service, continued to reflect the university’s commitment to unity, inclusivity, and sustainability through meaningful volunteer work, which has become a cherished tradition not only within the university but also throughout the wider community.

“For five decades, the USM Thaipusam Thaneer Panthal has been a platform for academic staff, administrators, local and international students, alumni, and former staff to engage in community service, strengthening bonds between different ethnicities and faiths,” he added.

“We also featured a mother-friendly corner, offering private and comfortable facilities for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

“Furthermore, community-centric awareness talks on various topics, including tertiary education, cybersecurity, health, and religious matters, were held every two hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days by experts from the university and several invited speakers,” he said further.

The Advisor of USM Thaipusam Community Service Secretariat, Dr. Subramaniam Govindan, said, “Since its establishment, the USM Thaipusam Thaneer Panthal has relied on contributions from USM staff, students, alumni, former staff, and well-wishers, along with annual support from the USM administration.”

He added, “Over the years, the initiative has evolved from serving iced cordial drinks to providing full vegetarian meals, with the university’s financial support, logistics, and resources ensuring its continued success.”

“On behalf of the Secretariat, I wish to thank the past and current Vice-Chancellors and top management of the university who have played a key role in endorsing and sustaining this long-standing tradition,” said Subramaniam.

“The whole Secretariat is very thankful that for this year’s Thaipusam, USM’s Thaneer Panthal was honoured with an appreciation award by the Clean Thaipusam Organisation (NGO) for our initiatives of going green and sustainability-led panthal,” he said beaming with pride of the achievement.

Additionally, international students from Japan, China, and other countries participated in the event, gaining experience of the culture.

The presence of dignitaries, including the Chief Minister (CM) YAB Chow Kon Yeow; Minister of Human Resources, YB Steven Sim Chee Keong; and other YBs, as well as the USM representative, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Izzuddin Syakir Ishak, who is the Director of the Community Network from the USM BJIM office, further underscored the significance of the event, highlighting the impact of USM’s service to the community.

USM is proud of this continued volunteerism and strengthened efforts to promote a more inclusive, harmonious, and sustainable society.

Known for its festive atmosphere, the Thaipusam celebration in Penang features over 100 Thaneer Panthal stalls along Jalan Kebun Bunga, extending to the Sri Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple.

These stalls are decorated with vibrant decorations and distribute free vegetarian food and drinks to devotees and visitors.

Source & Photos: Press Release from USM Thaipusam Community Service Secretariat/Text: Tan Ewe Hoe