News By Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz
Photos By Amierul Husniey Che Abd Rahman
The Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC), UUM organised a beach-cleaning activity at Chenang Beach, Langkawi Island, with a strength of 40 participants, including staff of CIAC, inbound semester A231 international mobility 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 the West University of Timișoara, Romania.
Administrative Officer of CIAC, Mr. Mohd Azri Abdul Aziz, explained that beach-cleaning activities not only contribute to saving the environment but also promote physical well-being. For instance, lifting and collecting waste in the area involves constant body movement, making it a physical activity with numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. "I hope the sense of responsibility towards the environment can be instilled in every UUM student as an effort to promote environmental sustainability and personal health," he stated.
The international students expressed joy in contributing to the preservation of Chenang Beach. "Efforts like this can maintain the beauty of Chenang Beach as it is one of the main attractions for tourists from both local and international areas in Langkawi Island. Such activities also clear my mind and provide tranquillity, especially as the final exam season is approaching," remarked Sadio Abdiwali Mohamed, a Finance and Islamic Banking with Honours undergraduate student from Somalia.
The success of this beach-cleaning activity is expected to set an example for other student communities to actively participate in conservation and environmental protection efforts. The involvement of international students not only strengthens their connection with the local community but also creates a positive impact on maintaining the cleanliness of the beach, a valuable asset for Langkawi Island.
UUM management consistently supports community programs aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), aiming to educate the current generation on the importance of preserving and restoring the cleanliness of beaches and the environment. This program is hoped to become an annual tradition, involving many international students and the local community in the future.