Pusat IDEA, together with the Research Clusters and the University Research Group (KPU) My-Psikososial Sejahtera, conducted a Courtesy Visit of Friends of Lenggong @ UKM to Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and Member of Parliament for Lenggong, on 19 November 2025 in Putrajaya.
The visit aimed to facilitate the exchange of views, ideas, and constructive discussions to strengthen strategic collaboration between the university, key stakeholders, and the local community. Particular emphasis was placed on initiatives related to research development, socio-economic empowerment, and the implementation of high-impact programmes supporting the sustainable development agenda of the Lenggong Geopark, Perak.
During the meeting, comprehensive discussions were held on a range of strategic matters, including proposals for the organisation of Friends of Lenggong @ UKM workshops with relevant stakeholders, potential funding opportunities to support development initiatives in Lenggong, and collaborative prospects through the Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP) under the Malaysia Research University Network (MRUN). The discussions also addressed planning and development potential for Lenggong Geopark, with particular focus on strengthening GeoCommunity Development initiatives as a driver of community well-being and local capacity building.
The session further highlighted the importance of conducting Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in Lenggong as a platform to capture grassroots perspectives, alongside the expansion of Geoeducation and Geoacademia initiatives aimed at enhancing education, research, and academic engagement related to geopark development. These initiatives were viewed as integral to fostering stronger synergies between academia, government, and the community.
Overall, the courtesy visit served as a meaningful platform to reinforce strategic relationships and explore structured collaboration between Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and local leadership. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this engagement will translate into the implementation of impactful initiatives that contribute to the sustainable development of Lenggong and the long-term well-being of its community.