USM PENANG, 15 May 2023 – The unpredictable hot weather currently enveloping parts of Malaysia lately has caused worry among many. More so with reported cases of death of individuals caused by heat stroke after being exposed to daily high temperatures.

The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Crisis Management Centre (PPBNC) is aware of the threat that such hot conditions may pose to the campus community and has taken the initiative of preparing ‘water stations’ for all to rehydrate.

PPBNC administrative officer, Tuan Mohd Salman Tuan Mohd Jaffar said that the initiative was started recently after considering the needs of the campus community, especially students who ply the walkways to get to various locations around the campus.

Commenting further on the amenity, Salman said that water dispensers are placed next to the walkways, for those who would be walking to and fro from their hostels to the lecture halls and other facilities.

“The ‘water station’ is prepared at no charge, and for those who did not bring their own drinking utensil, there will be cups on site that they could use.

“Initially, we thought of focusing only on students. However, as we looked at other aspects, we realised that the USM staff would find the amenity useful as well,” he added.

A number of locations have been identified for the ‘water station’ to be placed and utilised.

Salman hoped that many, especially USM community members, would support the initiative so that more ‘water stations’ could be placed around the campus to benefit all.

He further said, the initiative of providing the ‘water stations’ shows that the university is mindful of the needs and wellbeing of the campus community, especially the students as they move around in the surrounding high temperatures, which at times can be quite unbearable.

“I also hope that the idea of placing the ‘water stations’ can also be practised by other universities to care for the needs and wellbeing of those on campus. Even though it may seem to be a ‘low-level effort’, but to the students, the impact can be quite significant,” said Salman.

Translation: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Montage photo: PPBNC USM