USM PENANG, 20 June 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through Bike Commute USM (BCUSM) initiative, proudly welcomed Professor Leszek Sibilski, an internationally renowned advocate for sustainable development and the visionary behind World Bicycle Day, for a series of transformative, SDG-driven engagements across campus and Penang Island.

A development sociologist originally from Poland and now based in the United States, Sibilski has spent decades championing social inclusion and sustainable living.

He has collaborated closely and currently serves as an advisor to global institutions such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and major international sports organisations.

His advocacy has particularly focused on empowering marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities.

Notably, he is also a former member of the Polish National Olympic Cycling Team.

In 2018, Sibilski led a global movement that culminated in the United Nations General Assembly officially declaring 3 June as World Bicycle Day, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the power of cycling as a tool for global change.

His efforts align closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

At the School of Social Sciences, Sibilski delivered a compelling public lecture titled “The Vision of World Bicycle Day: Pedaling Towards a More Inclusive and Equitable Society.”

In his talk, he traced the origins of World Bicycle Day and its deeper message, that meaningful transformation requires not only visionary ideas but also long-term commitment, community engagement, and cross-sectoral partnerships.

“Active mobility is about movement, health, freedom, and positive impact both social and environmental,” he said, elaborating on his preference for the term over ‘sustainable mobility.’

For him, cycling goes far beyond being a mere alternative mode of transport or sport, it also represents a holistic lifestyle that fosters personal well-being, environmental stewardship, and inclusive cities.

Sibilski’s visit also featured a campus cycling tour, during which he praised USM’s green landscape, describing it as a “living botanical garden.”

The experience reflected how thoughtful campus planning can support healthier and more sustainable commuting options.

Beyond the university grounds, he joined BCUSM in conducting an interactive outreach programme titled “Bicycles & the Planet” at SJKC Union in Georgetown.

Tailored for children aged 7 to 12, the session introduced young minds to the environmental benefits of cycling from reducing emissions to building healthier habits while nurturing their role as future stewards of the planet.

The culmination of his Penang visit took place on 20 June 2025, with a 12-kilometre community ride from the GSD Bicycle Park to GAMA.

The event, officiated by the Mayor of Penang, brought together USM students and staff, as well as the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) staff.

It was a powerful showcase of local leadership’s commitment to active mobility, climate-friendly urban development, and public participation.

Advisor to BCUSM, Dr. Nadhrah Kadir remarked: “Prof. Sibilski’s visit has left an indelible impact on our campus and the wider community. His message reminds us that promoting cycling is not just about infrastructure, it’s also about cultivating values of inclusivity, resilience, and environmental responsibility.

“This aligns perfectly with USM’s sustainability goals, the Malaysia MADANI framework, and our shared commitment to the UN Agenda 2030,” she said.

Through this memorable engagement, USM reaffirmed its role as a living lab for sustainable practices, where global visionaries and local changemakers come together to pedal towards a better future for all.

Text & Photos: Bike Commute USM