6.3 – Water usage and care

6.3.2 – Preventing Water System Pollution

Processes to prevent polluted water entering the water system, including pollution caused by accidents and incidents at the university. At Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the prevention of water system pollution is a top priority, reflecting our commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. The university employs a comprehensive approach that includes regular monitoring and assessment of water quality, advanced wastewater treatment systems and sustainable stormwater management practices. Through educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns, we engage our community in understanding the importance of water conservation and pollution prevention. Our policies emphasize responsible waste management and collaboration with local authorities to protect our precious water resources. By implementing green infrastructure and promoting sustainable landscaping practices, UKM strives to minimize the impact of campus activities on the surrounding ecosystem. Together, we are dedicated to ensuring that our campus remains a safe and healthy environment, safeguarding water quality for future generations.

UKM is committed to ensuring effective water pollution control on campus through a comprehensive set of policies and regular monitoring programs. These initiatives align with both national regulations and UKM internal sustainability goals, ensuring that water quality on campus is consistently maintained at high standards. The Infrastructure Development Department (JPP) at UKM is responsible for ensuring that all water management activities on campus align with these regulations, supporting a clean and safe campus environment.

Summary of the Implementation to Prevent Water System Pollution in Campus

No	Implementation to Prevent Water System Pollution in Campus
1	Environmental Quality Act 1974 – Act 127
2	Water Analysis and Research Center (ALIR) UKM
3	Key Water Control Equipment and Practices
4	Water analysis by the Department of Infrastructure UKM
5	Sewage Treatment Plant

1. Environmental Quality Act 1974 – Act 127

UKM fully adheres to Malaysia’s Environmental Quality Act 1974 – Act 127 to prevent water pollution on campus, in line with standards set by the Department of Environment https://www.env.go.jp/en/recycle/asian_net/Country_Information/Law_N_Regulation/Malaysia/Malaysia_mal13278.pdf. The university actively complies with key sections of this act, including:

I. Section 25: Restrictions on pollution of inland waters

UKM actively controls water pollution in compliance with Section 25 of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127) by implementing stringent measures that prevent unauthorized discharges into inland waters. The university ensures that any wastewater discharge occurs under proper licenses issued by the Department of Environment (DOE), with advanced treatment systems such as oxidation ponds and aeration tanks in place to meet regulatory standards. UKM prevents waste from entering water bodies by utilizing physical barriers, proper waste storage and regular monitoring of effluent quality, including temperature regulation to maintain prescribed limits. Regular audits, public education campaigns and staff training on environmental laws further enhance compliance, while established emergency response protocols ensure swift action in case of pollution incidents. Through these comprehensive strategies, UKM demonstrates its commitment to protecting water quality and promoting environmental sustainability within the campus community.

II. Section 27: Prohibition of discharge of oil into Malaysian waters

UKM prohibits any discharge or spillage of oil or oil mixtures into Malaysian waters unless authorized by a license from the DOE. This includes conducting thorough assessments and obtaining necessary permits before any oil-related activities that may involve potential discharges. The university maintains stringent monitoring protocols to ensure that no oil pollutants enter water bodies on campus, employing spill containment measures and response plans to address any accidental spills immediately. Regular inspections and audits are conducted to assess compliance with regulatory requirements and to ensure that all facilities that handle oil are equipped with appropriate safeguards, such as secondary containment systems and spill response kits. Additionally, UKM promotes awareness and training among staff and students regarding the importance of preventing oil pollution and the legal implications of non-compliance with Section 27. Through these proactive strategies, UKM demonstrates its commitment to protecting water quality and preventing oil pollution in accordance with environmental regulations.

III. Section 29: Prohibition of discharge of wastes into Malaysian waters

UKM strictly prohibits any discharge of waste into Malaysian waters unless authorized by a license issued by the DOE, aligning with subsection (1) of Section 29. This includes all forms of waste, such as liquid effluents from industrial and laboratory processes. The university employs advanced wastewater treatment systems to treat all sewage and industrial waste to meet the acceptable conditions specified in Section 21 before any discharge. Regular monitoring and sampling of wastewater are conducted to ensure compliance with regulatory limits, and the results are documented and reported to relevant authorities. UKM also emphasizes training and awareness programs for staff and students about the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and the potential consequences of non-compliance, including fines and imprisonment as outlined in subsection (2). Furthermore, UKM is proactive in engaging with local environmental authorities and stakeholders to ensure that any materials or equipment used on campus comply with safety and environmental standards. By promoting best practices in waste management and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, UKM demonstrates its commitment to protecting water quality and preventing pollution in accordance with Section 29 of the Act.

In addition to the UKM Bangi Campus Physical Development Master Plan 2007-2020, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has published the Sustainability Strategic Plan 2030 (Figure 4.5.1), which is built on five sustainability pillars: Governance and Management, Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, Sustainable Campus, and University Community Well-being. Under the Sustainable Campus pillar, UKM focuses on optimizing water usage and reducing pollution rates by implementing regular monitoring and quality control measures for the campus water supply system. This pillar also emphasizes the development of policies on responsible water usage and conservation (Figure 4.5.2), further reinforcing UKM’s commitment to sustainable water management and pollution prevention.

2. Water Analysis and Research Center (ALIR) UKM

The Water Analysis and Research Center (ALIR) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) provides high-quality water analysis services to support water research, particularly for UKM’s environmental monitoring and public health initiatives. ALIR specializes in water quality assessment and analysis, guided by the MS ISO 17025:2017 Accreditation Certificate , which it has held since 2015. This certification underscores ALIR’s commitment to reliable and efficient water research.

ALIR is organized into three core divisions: Training, Research, and Laboratory Testing , each staffed by experts in water chemistry, environmental health, and water treatment. ALIR is dedicated to comprehensive water quality analysis across the university, including the critical monitoring of Alur Ilmu. As UKM’s central hub for water quality assessment, ALIR ensures that water resources meet high standards, supporting UKM’s commitment to environmental health and sustainability. Through its state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, ALIR analyzes a comprehensive list of water quality parameters , supporting UKM’s dedication to sustainable water resource management and pollution control.

UKM water quality research and analysis emphasizes solutions to safeguard and improve water resources across UKM and Malaysia, recognizing the crucial role of clean water in public health, environmental sustainability and economic growth. One key focus is Alur Ilmu, also known as The Heart of UKM—a large stormwater channel that functions as a holding basin for water before it enters the Langat River. Alur Ilmu serves as an important buffer, allowing for the detection and management of contaminants before they impact the Langat River ecosystem.

3. Key Water Control Equipment and Practices

Polypropylene Dilution Recovery Traps (PDRT): Installed beneath each laboratory sink, these traps neutralize acids through dilution, enhancing lab safety and reducing environmental risk.

Grease Traps in Cafeterias: To prevent contamination, grease traps are installed in all UKM cafeterias. These traps separate fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from wastewater, ensuring only clean water flows out while capturing solid waste.

Sewage Treatment Plants (STP): UKM operates a robust centralized wastewater treatment system with 27 STP stations across campus, each using advanced mechanical systems like the Extended Aeration System, Imhoff Tank Pump System, and Hybrid Septic Tank System. Effluent is tested every six months to meet Malaysian Local Authority standards for safe release, ensuring all treated water complies with acceptable conditions for sewage discharge (Standards A and B). Figure 4.5.8 illustrates the distribution of STPs across UKM Bangi.

Alur Ilmu: Known as The Heart of UKM, this large stormwater channel acts as a buffer, collecting and treating stormwater before it flows into the Langat River. Studies on Alur Ilmu focus on water quality indices, stormwater management, sediment control and pollutant concentrations, underscoring UKM’s commitment to the channel’s maintenance and its role in campus sustainability.

Table : List of water pollution control in UKM Bangi

4. Water analysis by the Department of Infrastructure UKM

Water analysis in UKM Bangi is handled by the Department of Infrastructure, UKM to ensure the water quality and status is on a good track and to avoid any water pollution caused from the campus operation . Water Analysis at UKM Bangi shown in Figure below.

Based on the Water Quality Analysis Report, the effluent sample from the Faculty of Engineering UKM effluent meets all DOE Standard B requirements. pH (5.8) falls within the permissible range (5.5–9.0), while COD, BOD, suspended solids, ammoniacal nitrogen, nitrate, and oil & grease are significantly lower than the regulatory limits. This indicates that the effluent is safe for discharge into the environment and does not pose any immediate risk of pollution. Continuous monitoring is recommended to maintain compliance and to ensure long-term environmental safety.

Table : Summary of the test results that effluent is considered safe for discharge into the environment

Parameter	Result	DOE Standard B Limit*	Remarks
pH	5.8 @ 31.6°C	5.5 – 9.0	Within limit
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)	7.0 mg/L	≤ 100 mg/L	Safe
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD₅ @ 20°C)	2.2 mg/L	≤ 50 mg/L	Safe
Suspended Solids (SS)	ND < 1.0 mg/L	≤ 100 mg/L	Very safe
Ammoniacal Nitrogen (as N)	2.94 mg/L	≤ 5 mg/L	Safe
Nitrate (as N)	0.23 mg/L	≤ 10 mg/L (drinking water reference)	Very safe
Oil & Grease	ND < 0.2 mg/L	≤ 10 mg/L	Very safe

5. Sewage Treatment Plant

At UKM Bangi, sewage treatment is essential for water pollution control, effectively managing wastewater before it is safely released into the environment. By implementing proper treatment processes, UKM protects water quality, public health and local ecosystems. The campus operates 27 sewage treatment plants (STPs), each designed to treat wastewater to meet environmental standards before discharge into natural water bodies. Figure 4.5.8 provides a map of these STP locations, covering all catchment areas within UKM Bangi to ensure comprehensive water quality management.

Table 3.5.2 : List of sewerage treatment at UKM Bangi

No	LOCATION	Type	Capacity (PE)	Intake Area
1	UKM Main Sewage Pond	Oxidation Ponds	12,000 PE	ChancelleryTun Seri Lanang LibraryPUSANIKADectar Institute of Malay World and Civilisation (ATMA)University Health Centre, Centre For Graduate Studies (PPS)Graduate School of Business (GSB)TNB Engineering Corporation SDN BHD (TNEC)Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI)Squash UKMCenter for Research and Instrumentation Management (CRIM)Puri PujanggaBangunan WawasanFaculty of Science and Technology (FST)Faculty of Economics and Management (FEP)Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities (FSSK)Health CenterMosque UKMKolej Rahim Kajai (KRK)Kolej Dato’ Onn (KDO)Kolej Tun Hussein Onn (KTHO)Kolej Aminuddin Baki (KAB)Kolej Ibrahim Yaakub (KIY)Kolej Burhanuddin Helmi (KBH)Kolej Ibu Zain (KIZ)
2	Bukit Puteri Housing	Oxidation Ponds	500 PE	Quarters UKM, UKM Central Store, Women’s Block at KKM UKM,  UKM’s Vehicle Unit
3	Center For Research in Language and Linguistics (PKBL)	IMHOFF TANK	500 PE	PKBL, Dewan Tun Abdullah Mohd Salleh (DTAMS), Canteen DTAMS, Store DTAMS,
4	Faculty of Education (FPEND)	IMHOFF TANK	500 PE	Faculty of Education (FPEND)
5	Faculty of Education(FPEND-BLOCK J)	SEPTIC TANK	150 PE	Faculty of Education(FPEND-BLOCK J)
6	PRASARANA UKM	IMHOFF TANK	50 PE	PRASARANA UKM
7	PALAPES (Old Building)	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	PALAPES (Old Building)
8	PALAPES ( Mess 1 Building)	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	Mess Building
9	PALAPES (Lapang Sasar)	SEPTIC TANK	10 PE	Lapang Sasar
10	Malaysian Institute of Environment (EiMAS)	EXTENDED AERATION	150 PE	Malaysian Institute of Environment (EiMAS)
11	PERMATApintar Gifted Center  (Phase 1)	EXTENDED AERATIONSEPTIC TANK + AERATOR SYSTEM (ACTUAL)	150 PE	PERMATApintar Gifted Center  (Phase 1)
12	Fuel Cell Institute (SELFUEL) – ECO WISMA	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	SELFUEL – ECO WISMA
13	SELFUEL 1	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	SELFUEL
14	SELFUEL 2	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	SELFUEL
15	WORKSHOP / LaboratoryFaculty of Engineering and Built Environment(FKAB) (UNIT 3)	SEPTIC TANK	30 PE	School of Liberal Studies (CITRA UKM)
16	‘Kompleks Rumah Tumbuhan UKM’	SEPTIC TANK	50 PE	‘Kompleks Rumah Tumbuhan UKM’
17	Rumah Kayu	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	Rumah Kayu
18	District Cooling System (DCS) Lingkungan 2	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	District Cooling System (DCS) Lingkungan 2
19	Earth Observation Centre (EOC), Institute of Climate Change	SEPTIC TANK	20 PE	Earth Observation Centre (EOC), Institute of Climate Change
20	School of Liberal Studies (CITRA UKM)	SEPTIC TANK	50 PE	School of Liberal Studies (CITRA UKM)
21	UKM’s Tunas Kindergarten	SEPTIC TANK	30 PE	UKM’s Tunas Kindergarten
22	UKM Sports Center (University Stadium)	SEPTIC TANK	30 PE	UKM Stadium
23	UKM Sports Center (Oval Cricket)	SEPTIC TANK	30 PE	Cricket Ground
24	UKM Sports Center  (PAVILION) / Arena Azman Hashim	IMHOFF TANK	30 PE	Pavillion / Arena Azman Hashim
25	UKM Sports Center  (dressing room)	SEPTIC TANK	10 PE	Dressing Room
26	UKM Sports Center (Rugby Field Toilet)	SEPTIC TANK	10 PE	UKM Sports Center (Rugby Field Toilet) / Cricket Ground
27	Security Division UKM	SEPTIC TANK	10 PE	Security Division UKM

UKM demonstrates a strong commitment to water sustainability and pollution prevention through comprehensive management systems, strict adherence to the Environmental Quality Act 1974, and proactive environmental monitoring. Supported by the Water Analysis and Research Center (ALIR) and the Infrastructure Development Department (JPP), UKM ensures all water discharged meets national standards, maintaining compliance with MS ISO 17025:2017. With 27 sewage treatment plants, stormwater control at Alur Ilmu and grease and dilution traps across campus, UKM effectively safeguards water quality and reduces contamination risks. Continuous analysis, audits and awareness programs further strengthen pollution control efforts. These integrated initiatives highlight UKM’s leadership in sustainable water governance, protecting ecosystems, promoting public health and advancing SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through responsible campus operations and innovation in water management.