LANGKAWI, 2 February 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) via the School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP) under the Building Engineering Technology Programme (BEsT) recently joined forces with Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) to conduct an impactful initiative, the University Social Responsibilities (USR).

The primary objective of this programme is to cultivate ethical principles and a profound sense of responsibility among students. The initiative aims to nurture a commitment to love, safeguard, and preserve the cleanliness and beauty of the natural environment that surrounds them.

The flagship activity within this programme was the Idaman Geosite Clean Up (IGSC), a concerted effort to cleanse the Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark area.

A total of 46 students from the 3rd and 4th year batches actively participated, guided by the HBP lecturer who is also the programme chairman, Dr. Ariza Sharikin Abu Bakar.

Present and enriched at the programme was the USM HBP Dean, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Rodzi Ismail.

According to Ariza Sharikin, this experiential learning initiative transcends the traditional campus setting, providing students with a transformative educational experience. By fostering physical and mental resilience and reinforcing core values, the programme contributes significantly to the holistic development of individual students.

“IGSC serves as a testament to the university's commitment to experiential learning and community engagement. Beyond enriching the students' lives, it leaves a lasting impact on the community,” she said.

She also added by saying that the programme strategically focuses on developing crucial skills such as teamwork and leadership, ensuring that students are well-equipped for their future professional endeavours.

USM extends its gratitude to the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) for their invaluable collaboration in this initiative.

The university eagerly anticipates the prospect of implementing more such programmes in the future, fostering intergenerational cooperation and making enduring contributions to society.

Text and Photo: Hoh Kai Xin & Dr. Ariza Sharikin Abu Bakar (HBP USM)/Editing: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi & Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin