News By Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz

Photos By Amierul Husniey Che Abd Rahman

Recognising the increasing erosion of coastal and river areas on Langkawi Island, the Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC) has collaborated with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) to organise a program to plant mangrove trees along the riverbanks in Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. The aim is to reduce river erosion caused by waves and high tides, thereby minimizing floods and the risk of riverbank collapse.

The arrival of 40 UUM delegates, consisting of CIAC staff and inbound semester A231 international students (first semester, 2023/2024 session), full-time international students, representatives from the UUM Global Buddies Club, representatives from the UUM International Student Society (ISS) and visiting staff from West University of Timișoara, Romania, was greeted by Madam Norasilah Amir, Assistant Administrative Officer, Geopark and Sustainability Section, Tourism Division, LADA and her team. "LADA is pleased to assist CIAC in co-organising this University Social Responsibility (USR) program through this collaboration."

Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark is one of the 177 Geoparks in 46 countries. "Langkawi Island obtained the UNESCO Global Geopark status since 2007, and at that time, it was the first in Southeast Asia to receive such recognition," said Ms. Zafinas Azahani Moktar, Executive Assistant (Geopark), Geopark and Sustainability Section, Tourism Division, LADA. She provided a briefing on Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark and the efforts made by LADA to preserve its sustainability.

LADA generously sponsored 40 mangrove trees to be planted along the riverbanks of Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark. The UUM delegation also received exposure to the techniques of propagating mangrove seedlings. The visiting staffs, Ms. Cojan Margareta-Luisa and Ms. Popescu Ionela-Claudia from West University of Timișoara, Romania, were excited to have the first-hand experience of planting mangrove trees. "This is a unique and first-time experience for us. This joint-effort with UUM can help to preserve the mangrove swamp ecosystem here," they expressed.

Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Norliza Katuk, who led the UUM delegation, expressed gratitude for the sponsorship of mangrove trees and lunch provided by LADA. She also informed LADA that the USR program received support and a moral boost from the Malaysian Association of Risk and Insurance Management (MARIM). As a token of appreciation to LADA and MARIM, UUM placed labels with the UUM, LADA, and MARIM logos on each planted mangrove tree.

Such programs are among the community service initiatives conducted by CIAC in every semester with mobility and international students. The main objective is to provide exposure to local culture and unique experiences, allowing students to bring valuable insights back to their home universities. Engaging in such activities also provides students with new knowledge about the importance of preserving existing natural treasures, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the earth and the environment.