Empowering change through Community Clean-Up and Terrarium Workshop for Seniors

Students from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), in collaboration with the Soroptimist Club of Shah Alam, engaged in a significant World Environment Day initiative at Bukit Gasing, focusing on environmental conservation and community involvement, on 15th June 2024.

This initiative, a key component of Sustainability Future Fusion (SFF) continuous efforts to champion sustainability and foster community engagement, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13), seamlessly blending environmental activism with community service to create a profoundly impactful experience for all.

Community Clean-Up Drive

The day commenced with APU students embarking on a community clean-up drive at Bukit Gasing, where they diligently collected recyclables.

This hands-on activity not only contributed to the environmental cleanup but also provided a valuable, practical lesson on the significance of recycling and effective waste management.

Motivated by a collective dedication to safeguarding the planet and advancing sustainable practices, the students successfully gathered an impressive 21.6 kg of recyclable materials, underscoring their commitment to environmental stewardship.

Terrarium Workshop for Seniors

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Following the clean-up, the focus shifted to engaging the residents of a local old folks’ home, where students conducted a terrarium workshop using the collected recyclables.

This activity not only promoted sustainability but also provided an interactive platform for students and the elderly residents to connect and share valuable skills.

Additionally, the initiative encompassed teaching the elderly residents on how to plant vegetables and herbs, thereby empowering them to grow their own fresh produce for daily consumption while also providing the opportunity to generate extra income through the sale of any surplus.

By fostering creativity and enhancing self-sufficiency, the workshop contributed to both sustainable living and the economic well-being of the elderly residents.

Student Perspectives

Sahrish Riaz Tariq, a Foundation student, felt a deep sense of satisfaction from contributing positively to the planet, and found the afternoon spent with the elderly residents to be deeply heartwarming, making the overall experience truly meaningful.

Gan Yew Joe, a Foundation student, remarked that the event was an eye-opening experience, emphasising how the combined efforts of the clean-up activity and interacting with the elderly residents fostered a stronger sense of community and reinforced the importance of environmental sustainability.

Sai Pha Sin, a Foundation student, highlighted that the event served as a profound reminder of how each individual’s actions, no matter how small, can significantly contribute to fostering a more compassionate and interconnected community.

Building on Success for a Sustainable Future

Ms Cynthia Mala Paul Dorairaj (Lecturer and Advisor of SFF, School of Business at APU) reflected on the World Environment Day initiative as a powerful example of collaborative effort in advancing sustainability and community well-being.

“The enthusiastic participation of APU students highlighted their commitment to making a significant impact, with APU not only setting a high standard for environmental and social responsibility but also fostering a broader commitment to these crucial values.

“As APU and SFF chart their path forward, the insights and experiences gained from this event will underpin future efforts, further solidifying APU’s dedication to nurturing a sustainable and inclusive society,” she said.