QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026
Social Impact Health and WellbeingIndicator
HW2 – Provision of healthy and affordable food choices for all on campus
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is committed to promoting healthy and affordable food choices for all students, staff, and visitors on campus. Ensuring access to nutritious meals at reasonable prices is essential for maintaining overall well-being, enhancing academic performance, and supporting an active lifestyle.
UKM’s food outlets offer a variety of balanced meals, including fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. In addition, efforts are made to keep prices student-friendly without compromising food quality. By fostering a culture of healthy eating and affordability, UKM aims to create a supportive and sustainable food environment for the entire university community.
Table HW2.1: Summary of the healthy and affordable food choices at UKM
| No | Healthy and affordable food choices |
|---|---|
| 1 | Affordable Food Choices At UKM Cafeterias |
| 2 | Affordable Food Choices At Dataran Makan@Fssk |
| 3 | Affordable food choices at PUSANIKA UKM |
| 4 | High Quality & Hygienic Canteen |
| 5 | Sustainable Garden@UKM a) The Botanical Garden of UKM b) UKM-YSD Sustainable Garden c) Taman Ilmu@Chancellery d) Urban Farming by MyAgrosis Club |
| 6 | Food Assistance Program for Students a) Menu Siswa Rahmah b) Foodbank KASISWA c) KPZ Prihatin Program: Strengthening Student Welfare d) 300 Food Packs to UKM Students e) Zero Hunger Initiative: FEP Food Bank Hotline Box f) 600 Retort Food Packs to KASISWA g) Gerobok Rezeki KBH h) Bantuan Sara Hidup Siswa- HEP UKM i) Healthy Food Sale: The Right Diet for You |
UKM has taken important steps to ensure a broad availability of food options on campus, catering to diverse dietary preferences and nutritional needs. By establishing cafeterias that serve a range of choices, including vegetarian and other health-focused meals, the university demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of its community. These cafeterias offer a variety of meals that are both enjoyable and nutritionally balanced, making nutritious food readily accessible for all students. Detail of the healthy and affordable food choices at UKM is shown below:
1. Affordable Food Choices At UKM Cafeterias
All cafeterias across UKM campuses offer a wide variety of food options at affordable prices, ensuring that students and staff have access to diverse and budget-friendly meals. The selection includes local Malaysian cuisine, international dishes, vegetarian options, and halal-certified meals, catering to different dietary preferences and needs.
2. Affordable Food Choices At Dataran Makan@FSSK
Dataran Makan @ FSSK, located at Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), is a popular dining area among students and staff, offering a variety of affordable and delicious food options. The food court provides an array of choices that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a convenient spot for budget-friendly meals on campus.
One of the main attractions of Dataran Makan @ FSSK is its affordable prices, making it an ideal choice for students looking for budget-friendly meals. The diverse menu includes local and international cuisines, such as Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western dishes, ensuring there is something for everyone. Additionally, vegetarian and halal options are available, making the food court inclusive for all dietary needs. Its strategic location within FSSK allows students and staff to enjoy their meals conveniently without having to travel far.The food stalls offer a variety of popular dishes, including Nasi Campur (Mixed Rice), where diners can select from multiple side dishes, Mee Goreng & Laksa, Western-style meals such as chicken chop and pasta, and lighter options like Roti Bakar & Sandwiches. To complement the meals, refreshing drinks and desserts like fresh juices, bubble tea, and local kuih are also available.
3. Affordable food choices at PUSANIKA UKM
PUSANIKA UKM is dedicated to providing healthy and affordable food choices for students and staff, ensuring access to nutritious meals that support overall well-being and academic performance. With a wide selection of balanced and wholesome food options, PUSANIKA aims to promote healthier eating habits while maintaining budget-friendly prices. PUSANIKA helps create a sustainable and student-friendly dining experience on campus.
PUSANIKA UKM serves as a one-stop center offering a variety of food options, convenience stores, and essential services, including Sen Teppanyaki Restaurant, eMart Convenience Store, Malay Restaurant Coffee, and ATMs, providing convenience and accessibility for students and staff on campus. With a focus on quality, variety, and accessibility, PUSANIKA UKM continues to be a key hub for healthy, affordable, and convenient food options, supporting the daily needs of the university community.
4. High Quality & Hygienic Canteen
UKM is committed to providing a clean, safe, and comfortable dining environment for students, staff, and visitors. With a strong emphasis on food safety, quality assurance, and customer satisfaction, the canteen ensures that all meals are prepared following strict hygiene standards and nutritional guidelines. The University Health Centre through the Public Health Unit (link) is responsible for the safety and quality of food in the university. All food is prepared using fresh ingredients while adhering to hygiene regulations to prevent contamination and ensure food safety. Additionally, well-trained staff follow strict sanitation protocols, including receiving mandatory food handler injections.
Besides, all cafeterias in UKM must undergo Food Premise Inspection and quality control. The inspection is carried out at all food premises including canteens and cafes at student residences to ensure that all food establishments within Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) comply with strict hygiene, safety, and cleanliness standards. This inspection is conducted regularly to assess food handling practices, kitchen sanitation, waste management, and overall compliance with health regulations. All the food premises are graded and given compliance scores. Food premises found to not comply with the safety and hygiene regulations are closed down.
Objectives of the Inspection:
- Ensure Food Safety – Prevent food contamination and maintain high hygiene standards.
- Assess Cleanliness & Sanitation – Evaluate the cleanliness of food preparation areas, storage facilities, and dining spaces.
- Monitor Staff Hygiene– Ensure that food handlers adhere to personal hygiene practices, including food handler certification and health screenings.
- Compliance with Regulations– Enforce adherence to local food safety laws and university policies.
- Annual grading of campus food outlet
By conducting these inspections, UKM aims to create a safe and hygienic dining environment, ensuring that students, staff, and visitors have access to quality food services within the campus.
Link: LAPORAN PEMERIKSAAN KAFETERIA UKM 2024.xlsx
Link: BORANG KEBERSIHAN PREMIS MAKANAN (GUIDELINES ON CANTEEN INSPECTION).pdf
a) Briefing on Hygiene Inspection for UKM Student Accommodation Management & Officers
This briefing was organized by the University Health Centre for the management and officers of student college accommodation on July 24, 2024. The briefing included a site visit to a college food premise. It is hoped that the officers and management of student accommodation may assist in the surveillance of food preparation at cafeterias on campus, ensuring that all processes adhere to standards and regulations.
b) Briefing on Food Safety & Hygiene for UKM Cafeteria
The Public Health Unit of PKU UKM organized a briefing session on November 12, 2024, at the PKU Meeting Room. This session was conducted for cafeteria operators from Kolej Ibrahim Yaakub, Kolej Burhanuddin Helmi, and Kolej Ungku Omar. Also in attendance were the administrative staff of the respective colleges.
The briefing aimed to provide guidance to cafeteria owners on safety, cleanliness, and hygiene management procedures to ensure food quality is consistently maintained and to prevent food-related illnesses. PKU also distributed two posters to cafeteria owners to be displayed as a shared reference. The next session will be conducted for cafeteria owners from the other colleges.
5. Sustainable Garden@UKM
Sustainable Garden @ UKM is an initiative by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to promote sustainable agriculture, environmental awareness, and community engagement through eco-friendly gardening practices. The program focuses on organic farming, composting, biodiversity conservation, and resource-efficient food production, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). One key aspect of this initiative is its accessibility because the product is distributed free of charge to all UKM citizens, especially students and staff.
Detail of the sustainable garden available at UKM is shown below:
a) The Botanical Garden of UKM
The Botanical Garden of UKM focuses on sustainable food production by growing a variety of local fruits and vegetables, such as corn, dragon fruit, pineapple, pak choy, and more. These crops are cultivated using sustainable agricultural practices that aim to minimize environmental impact, such as reducing chemical inputs, conserving water, and enhancing soil health.
One key aspect of this initiative is its accessibility because the product is distributed free of charge to all UKM citizens, especially students. This not only provides nutritious food to the community but also promotes the importance of sustainable living. By demonstrating how food can be grown locally and sustainably, UKM Botanical Garden serves as a living example of responsible agriculture and food systems, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals: Zero Hunger.
b) UKM-YSD Sustainable Garden
UKM-YSD Sustainable Garden was established to strengthen sustainability efforts on campus. The garden features a diverse array of crops and vegetables such as choy sum, mustard green and ladyfinger, supplying the community with healthy, nutritious food. This garden utilizes the concept of urban farming and implementing sustainability elements such as the use of compost soil and organic fertilizers, without the use of pesticides in the plant growth process. This garden, located at Ungku Omar Residential College and Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, functions as a collaborative space where students can work together to achieve sustainability goals in UKM.
By distributing this produce free of charge, the garden eases the financial burden on students while promoting healthy eating habits. Through hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, students gain valuable skills and knowledge that can shape their future food choices and professional pursuits, making them advocates for sustainability in their communities and beyond.
c) Taman Ilmu@Chancellery
Similar to the UKM-YSD Sustainable Garden, Taman Ilmu@Chancellery, located within UKM’s Chancellery Building, serves as a vibrant hub of sustainability, cultivating a variety of vegetables such as water cabbage, curry tree, and Brazilian spinach. This garden provides UKM citizens with easy access to fresh, organic produce, fostering healthier eating habits among students by offering nutrient-dense, pesticide-free food directly from the garden. By fostering healthier eating habits, it significantly enhances the well-being of students, contributing to a more vibrant, health-conscious campus community while promoting sustainability and self-reliance in food resources.
d) Urban Farming by MyAgrosis Club
MyAgrosis Club has spearheaded an innovative urban agriculture (agro-tech) project at Plot A, UKM Botanical Garden, aligning with the SDG 2 agenda. They are cultivating three crops: eggplants using advanced fertigation techniques, melons through sustainable hydroponics, and oyster mushrooms. This initiative not only strengthens food sustainability on campus but also supports students in need by distributing the fresh, nutritious produce entirely free of charge. Through this project, the club is driving a meaningful impact, promoting self-sufficiency and fostering a stronger, more resilient campus community.
6) Food Assistance Program for Students
Food assistance programs play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of students, particularly those facing financial challenges. At Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), various initiatives have been implemented to provide essential food support to students in need. These efforts, often carried out in collaboration with corporate partners, student organizations, and the university administration, aim to ease the burden on students and promote a supportive campus environment.
By offering ready-to-eat meals, groceries, and other food resources, UKM’s food assistance programs help students focus on their academic and personal development without worrying about food insecurity. These initiatives also reflect the university’s commitment to student welfare and its dedication to fostering a caring and inclusive community.
Detail of the food assistance available at UKM is shown below:
a) Menu Siswa Rahmah
In response to the rising cost of living and the growing financial challenges faced by students, the Ministry of Higher Education in Malaysia has introduced the Menu Siswa Rahmah which is fully supported by the UKM. This program offers affordable and nutritious meals at just RM3.50 for the lunch menu which is white rice, chicken or fish dishes, vegetables and gravy or soup, while dinner is fried rice and fried egg. The beverage is also included.
The menu can be enjoyed by all UKM students at all cafeterias in Bangi campus. Previously spending at least RM50 per week on food, students anticipate significant cost savings with the Menu Siswa Rahmah. Estimates suggest a potential halving of monthly food expenses, allowing student stores to direct those funds towards academic materials or other necessities.
The program’s success extends beyond affordability. UKM students also praise the menu’s emphasis on providing high-quality and nutritious meals, ensuring they can maintain a balanced diet while enjoying significant cost savings.
According to Malaysia’s Department of Statistics, lunch prices in Bangi, Ulu Langat differ from the Menu Siswa Rahmah with similar lunch items offered at UKM, even though they’re in the same district. The table below shows the price differences between the similar lunch items in UKM Bangi and Ulu Langat.
Table HW2.2: This average market price of the lunch items in Ulu Langat was released on 21 Feb 2025 by the Department of Statistics, Ministry of Economy. (https://open.dosm.gov.my/dashboard/consumer-prices).
| Lunch items | Prices of lunch items (RM) | |
| UKM | Ulu Langat district | |
| Plate of white rice, chicken and vegetable | 3.50 | 9.25 |
| Drink | 1.70 | |
| Total | 3.50 | 10.95 |
| Differences | UKM lunch items in Menu Siswa Rahmah is RM7.45 cheaper than the average lunch price in the Ulu Langat district | |
This initiative is available in all food outlets in all UKM campuses, ensuring that all students, regardless of their location,can benefit from affordable and nutritious food choices.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of students but also fosters a supportive and inclusive campus environment where everyone can focus on their education without the worry of financial strain from food costs. UKM will continue to work towards enhancing food security on campus, ensuring that all students can access nutritious meals that support their health and academic success.
b) Foodbank KASISWA
Foodbank KASISWA UKM is a food assistance program aimed at helping underprivileged students at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). This initiative ensures that students facing financial difficulties have access to essential food supplies, reducing their burden and supporting their well-being throughout their studies.
The program is part of the national Food Bank Malaysia initiative, often organized in collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, and corporate partners. It provides non-perishable food items, daily essentials, and other necessities to eligible students, ensuring that no one has to go hungry while pursuing their education.
c) KPZ Prihatin Program: Strengthening Student Welfare
The KPZ Prihatin Program is an initiative aimed at supporting and enhancing the welfare of students, particularly those in need. One of its key components is the Prihatin Meal Voucher Project, which provides special assistance to asnaf students or the needy that staying in KPZ.
Through this program, eligible students receive two types of meal vouchers: Free Meal Vouchers and 50% Discount Vouchers. The distribution of these vouchers takes place weekly, with the full cooperation and support of café operators at KPZ. This project reflects the commitment of KPZ management and UKM in ensuring that no student is left behind or marginalized, especially when it comes to fulfilling their basic needs.
d) 300 Food Packs to UKM Students
The Student Affairs Department of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HEP-UKM), in collaboration with Pertubuhan KASISWA, successfully distributed 300 Ready-To-Eat food packs and beverages to UKM students. This initiative was part of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program in partnership with UKM7-Eleven Malaysia.
The event was held on March 27 at Level 6 of the Pusanika Building, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan. The primary objective of this program was to provide essential food assistance to students, particularly those in need, during this significant period of fasting and reflection. By offering nutritious and convenient meals, the initiative aimed to ease the burden on students who may face financial constraints or time limitations in preparing meals.
The collaboration with 7-Eleven Malaysia highlights the company’s commitment to social welfare, especially in supporting students’ well-being. This effort not only strengthens the bond between the university and corporate partners but also fosters a culture of generosity and care within the student community.
The distribution event saw the active participation of university representatives, student volunteers, and members of Pertubuhan KASISWA, ensuring a smooth and organized process. The initiative was well-received by the students, who expressed gratitude for the support provided during Ramadan. This program reflects UKM’s dedication to student welfare and its continuous efforts to enhance the campus experience through meaningful collaborations and social responsibility programs.
e) Zero Hunger Initiative: FEP Food Bank Hotline Box
The Zero Hunger Initiative: FEP Food Bank Hotline Box is a student-led program designed to address food insecurity among students of the Faculty of Economics and Management (FEP) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). Organized by the UKM FEP Student Union (KMUKM FEP) in collaboration with the FEP Student Association (PMFEP) and the UKM Kasiswa Association, this initiative reflects a collective effort to support students in need by providing them with essential food supplies and daily necessities.
The goal of this initiative is to ensure that no student goes hungry due to financial constraints or unforeseen circumstances. By offering free access to food and basic necessities, the program aims to ease the burden on students, allowing them to focus on their studies without worrying about food insecurity. The initiative also fosters a spirit of solidarity, encouraging a culture of giving and community support within the faculty. By addressing basic needs through initiatives like this, UKM reaffirms its commitment to student welfare, creating an environment where students can thrive academically and personally without the added stress of food insecurity.
f) 600 Retort Food Packs to KASISWA
23 August 2024, the Kasih Mahasiswa UKM Association (KASISWA) received a generous contribution of 600 retort food packs from the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) at the Hulu Langat District Social Welfare Office, Selangor. This initiative reflects a continuous effort to support students facing financial hardships and food insecurity, particularly those struggling to afford daily meals.
The donation was made as part of JKM’s commitment to social welfare and was strategically allocated to students in need at UKM. With the rising cost of living and the financial challenges faced by students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, this contribution plays a vital role in ensuring that they have access to nutritious and ready-to-eat meals.By distributing these food packs, KASISWA continues its mission of supporting UKM students through various welfare programs. The association has been actively involved in numerous student aid initiatives, ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial difficulties. This food assistance effort aligns with KASISWA’s broader objectives of fostering a caring, supportive, and inclusive university environment.
g) Gerobok Rezeki KBH
Gerobok Rezeki KBH is an initiative introduced by the Student Executive Council of KBH to support students in need. This program is carried out periodically with the aim of providing assistance in the form of food, beverages, and daily necessities to underprivileged students. Through this initiative, the Student Executive Council of KBH strives to ensure student welfare while fostering a culture of mutual support within the college community.
The program provides assistance in the form of food, beverages, and daily necessities to underprivileged students. Items available in the Gerobok Rezeki KBH include:
- Non-perishable food such as rice, instant noodles, canned goods, and biscuits.
- Beverages like bottled water, milk, and packaged drinks.
- Essential daily items including toiletries, sanitary products, and basic hygiene supplies.
The initiative operates on a periodic basis, where supplies are replenished regularly by the Student Executive Council of KBH with contributions from students, staff, and external sponsors. Students in need can access these resources without stigma, ensuring that they can focus on their education without the stress of financial hardship.
h) Bantuan Sara Hidup Siswa- HEP UKM
Student Affairs UKM (HEP-UKM) has launched several food assistance initiatives to help ease the student burden among students. To ensure that students have consistent access to nutritious meals, UKM has established a food incentive program Bantuan Sara Hidup Siswa or known as Dompet Siswa UKM previously. Under this program, up to 1,000 students receive a maximum RM600 per semester, distributed through a specially designed mobile app, UKM Siswa. This app allows students to purchase food at designated campus cafeterias. This innovative approach not only guarantees daily access to food but also gives students the flexibility to choose their meals.
The Bantuan Sara Hidup Siswa program at UKM has successfully addressed food insecurity among students by providing financial assistance and ensuring access to nutritious meals. This initiative has not only improved students’ well-being and academic performance but also fostered a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
i) Healthy Food Sale: The Right Diet for You
9 Desember 2024, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), through the Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness (H-CARE), Faculty of Health Sciences, has launched the “Right Diet for You” program to empower women entrepreneurs in the healthy food industry. This initiative aims to support and guide women in developing their businesses while promoting healthier eating habits within the community.
The program was designed to benefit 35 female participants from the Klang Valley, including home-based entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, small business owners operating food-related enterprises and aspiring entrepreneurs interested in entering the healthy food market. Recognizing the increasing demand for nutritious food options, the program seeks to bridge the gap between business skills and nutritional knowledge, helping women create sustainable and successful ventures in the industry.
