14.3 – Supporting Aquatic Ecosystems Through Education

14.3.1 – Conservation and Sustainable Utilisation of the Oceans (Events)

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) plays a leading role in advancing the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems through impactful educational and scientific events. In alignment with SDG 14: Life Below Water, these initiatives aim to enhance understanding, collaboration and action toward the responsible management of the oceans, seas, rivers, lakes and wetlands. Through international, national, and institutional platforms, UKM fosters research-driven dialogue and community engagement that address pressing environmental issues, from polar sustainability to freshwater ecosystem management and coastal protection. Key events such as the 10th Malaysian International Seminar on Antarctica (MISA10), the National Seminar on Sustainable Management of Lakes and Wetlands, and the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem exemplify UKM’s holistic approach to promoting marine conservation, sustainable resource utilization and the protection of vulnerable aquatic habitats.

UKM Conservation and Sustainable Utilisation of the Oceans Programs

No	UKM Conservation and Sustainable Utilisation of the Oceans Programs
1	10th Malaysian International Seminar on Antarctica (MISA10)
2	National Seminar on Sustainable Management of Lakes and Wetlands
3	International Day For Conservation of The Mangrove Ecosystem: Mangrove Guardian of Our Coasts

1. 10th Malaysian International Seminar on Antarctica (MISA10)

The 10th Malaysian International Seminar on Antarctica (MISA10) with the theme ‘Polar Research for Sustainability & Planetary Health’ is jointly organised by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), YPASM, NARC and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). The Malaysian International Seminar on Antarctica (MISA) takes place every two years. This year, MISA10 was held from 14th to 16th May 2024 in the multi-ethnic town of Bangi, Malaysia. As an esteemed platform for polar researchers, enthusiasts, and experts, MISA10 aims to foster knowledge exchange and promote collaboration within the sphere of polar research for the greater good of our planet.

Three workshops will be held in conjunction with MISA10 to explore deeper into various facets of polar research. Workshop 1 will focus on the practical aspects of polar research and its implications for achieving sustainability goals and planetary health. Workshop 2 will centre on the microbial communities that inhabit polar regions. Workshop 3 will look deeper into the interconnection between polar and tropic regions.

Source: https://youtu.be/E2e792mkkjQ

2. National Seminar on Sustainable Management of Lakes and Wetlands

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) actively supports national initiatives that promote the conservation and sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, reflecting its strong alignment with SDG 14: Life Below Water. Through the participation of the Tasik Chini Research Centre (PPTC) in the National Seminar on Sustainable Management of Lakes and Wetlands held in conjunction with World Wetlands Day at Dewan Seri Melati, Putrajaya Corporation Complex from 7–9 February, UKM demonstrated its commitment to advancing research-based conservation. The seminar highlighted crucial themes such as ecosystem services of aquatic environments, sustainable development, eco-tourism, and green area preservation. Representing UKM, Pn. Nur Amelia presented a paper titled “A Case Study of Edu-Ecotourism at the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Site of Tasik Chini by UKM (2019–2022)”, contributing valuable insights on integrating education, conservation, and community engagement. With 24 papers presented and a Scientific Exploration of Putrajaya Wetlands concluding the event, UKM’s active involvement underscores its role in fostering sustainable utilization and conservation of lakes, rivers, and wetlands at both national and international levels.

Source: www.ukm.my/pptc/ 

3. International Day For Conservation of The Mangrove Ecosystem: Mangrove Guardian of Our Coasts

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) continues to play a leading role in advancing marine and coastal ecosystem conservation, reflecting its deep commitment to SDG 14: Life Below Water. On 26 July 2024, Dr. Ahmad Aldrie Amir, Associate Professor at the Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI-UKM) and Coordinator of the Malaysian Mangrove Research Alliance and Network (MyMangrove), participated in a webinar held in conjunction with the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem titled “Mangrove: Guardian of Our Coasts.” Through this engagement, UKM contributed to promoting awareness of the critical role of mangroves in protecting coastlines, supporting biodiversity, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. This initiative demonstrates UKM’s strong institutional support for events that enhance understanding and encourage sustainable utilisation of ocean and marine resources, while fostering collaborative efforts in environmental stewardship and coastal resilience at both national and international levels.

Source: www.youtube.com/ 

4. Free: Denai Sungai Langat 2024 Run

UKM is involved in community outreach related to freshwater ecosystems awareness through the Denai Sungai Langat 2024. Run program organized by Friends of River Malaysia on 21 September 2024. The event gathered 1,600 participants and aimed to raise public awareness about the importance of river conservation, emphasizing efforts to protect the Sungai Langat trail from pollution caused by illegal livestock farming and unauthorized factory construction.

Source: www.facebook.com/UKMOfficial/

Through these collaborative and knowledge-driven initiatives, UKM continues to strengthen its leadership in marine and freshwater conservation at both national and international levels. By uniting scientists, policymakers and communities, the university fosters a shared understanding of the urgent need for sustainable ecosystem management. Each event from the polar research discussions at MISA10 to the advocacy for wetland and mangrove preservation, reflects UKM’s dedication to science-based solutions, environmental education, and cross-sectoral collaboration. These efforts not only advance Malaysia’s environmental resilience but also support the goals of the UKM Sustainability Strategic Plan 2030, reinforcing the university’s contribution to global sustainability through the protection and sustainable utilization of aquatic ecosystems for future generations.