6.5 – Water in the community

6.5.1 – Water management educational opportunities

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) actively provides educational opportunities for local communities to learn about good water management practices through various outreach programs, workshops, and collaborative initiatives. By engaging with community members, UKM promotes awareness of sustainable water usage, conservation techniques, and pollution prevention strategies, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their water resources. This commitment not only enhances community knowledge but also fosters a culture of environmental responsibility, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in the surrounding areas.

Summary of the education for local communities to learn about good water management.

No	Educational Programs
1	FREE: MOOC UKM (Massive Open Online Courses)
2	FREE: Citra Course at UKM : LMCP1522 (Water Module )
3	FREE: Membrane Workshop 2024: Synthesis, Fabrication, And Applications In Water And Wastewater Treatment
4	FREE: Water Scientist Program (Mystia): Clean Water, Healthy Generation
5	FREE: Water Seminar: Integrated Water Research Synergy Consortium (IWaReS)
6	PAID: Denai Sungai Langat Run 2024 (Langat River Trail Run 2024)

Detail of the program can be found below:

1. Free Programs: MOOC UKM (Massive Open Online Courses)

UKM offers a range of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) designed to enhance access to education and promote lifelong learning. These online courses cover diverse topics, including environmental science, water management, sustainability, and various other academic disciplines. By utilizing modern technology, UKM MOOC provides flexible learning opportunities for students, professionals, and the general public, enabling them to engage with course materials at their own pace. The MOOC at UKM fosters a deep understanding of the intricate relationships between humans, rivers, and water resources. They emphasize the critical importance of water for human survival, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Courses explore contemporary water-related challenges, such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, encouraging participants to consider their roles in addressing these issues.

i. Activities

The courses typically start with an introductory journey into the water cycle and the significance of water in everyday life. Participants engage in interactive group discussions and presentations that delve into watershed management, highlighting the interconnectedness of water systems. Additionally, hands-on field activities enable learners to assess river water quality through bioindicators and chemical kits, providing practical experience in monitoring environmental health.

ii. Learning Outcomes

By the end of the MOOCs, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of water, rivers, and watershed concepts. They will recognize the vital role of integrated water management in addressing pressing water issues and promoting sustainable practices. The courses aim to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to water conservation efforts and effective watershed management, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within communities.

UKM MOOC initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to enhancing educational accessibility and addressing global challenges related to water resources. By empowering individuals with knowledge and skills, UKM fosters a generation of environmentally conscious leaders capable of driving positive change in water management and conservation efforts.

iii. Environmental Science Course

The MOOC courses are open to all students and staff at UKM. The courses offered are organized by the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) at UKM. The Environmental Science Course at MOOC UKM offers a comprehensive exploration of environmental issues and sustainable practices. The course is designed to provide participants with an understanding of the intricate relationship between humans and the environment, focusing on critical topics such as biodiversity, ecosystem services, climate change, pollution, and resource management. 

The key features of the environmental science course:

1. Introduction to Environmental Science: Participants will learn about the fundamental principles of environmental science, including the water cycle, ecosystems, and the impact of human activities on the environment.
2. Current Environmental Issues: The course addresses pressing global environmental challenges, such as climate change, deforestation, pollution, and their socio-economic implications.
3. Interactive Learning: The course includes interactive components such as group discussions, case studies, and practical assessments. Participants engage in activities like river water quality assessments using bioindicators and chemical kits.
4. Integrated Water Management: Emphasis is placed on the importance of integrated water management strategies for sustainable development, focusing on watershed management and pollution prevention.
5. Learning Outcomes: By the end of the course, participants will gain a solid understanding of environmental concepts, the significance of sustainable practices, and the skills necessary to address environmental challenges in their communities.

Overall, the Environmental Science course aims to empower participants with the knowledge and tools to promote environmental stewardship and contribute to sustainable development efforts. The Environmental Science course on MOOC UKM provides educational opportunities on water management to the public through various means, including interactive online modules, practical assignments, and case studies that focus on sustainable practices. Participants engage in discussions about current water issues, learn about integrated water management strategies, and explore the importance of water conservation. The course encourages active participation and aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to address water management challenges effectively.

2. Free Programs: Citra Course at UKM : LMCP1522 (Water Module)

Water is the essence of life, intricately woven into the fabric of human existence and the natural environment. Rivers, as dynamic ecosystems, play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, providing essential resources for drinking, irrigation, and sanitation, and shaping the landscapes we inhabit. The relationship between humans and rivers is multifaceted, encompassing cultural, economic, and ecological dimensions. Historically, rivers have served as lifelines for civilizations, facilitating trade, agriculture, and transportation. However, as urbanization and industrialization have intensified, this relationship has faced unprecedented challenges, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Understanding this complex interplay is vital for fostering sustainable water management practices and ensuring the health of both human communities and aquatic ecosystems.

i. Activities

Participants will embark on an introductory journey that explores the fundamental concepts of water and the water cycle. This segment emphasizes the significance of water in human life and highlights current issues such as water scarcity, contamination, and mismanagement. The program will include interactive group discussions focused on watershed management, where participants will analyze the challenges and strategies associated with maintaining healthy river systems. Additionally, hands-on field activities will enable participants to assess river water quality using bioindicators and chemical kits. These activities will provide practical insights into the methodologies used in water quality monitoring and the factors affecting aquatic ecosystems.

ii. Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the concepts of water, rivers, and watersheds. They will appreciate the critical importance of water in sustaining life and the interconnectedness of human activities and aquatic health. Participants will also learn about the principles of integrated water management, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to address the vast array of water-related issues. This knowledge will empower them to advocate for sustainable practices and contribute to the protection of vital water resources within their communities.

3. Free Programs: Membrane Workshop 2024: Synthesis, Fabrication, And Applications In Water And Wastewater Treatment

The “Membrane Workshop 2024: Synthesis, Fabrication, and Applications in Water and Wastewater Treatment,” organized by the Centre for Sustainable Process Technology (CESPRO), was held from 5th to 6th March 2024 as a global-level initiative, bringing together university researchers and industry professionals in a collaborative effort to advance membrane technologies for sustainable water solutions. The workshop was in cooperation with University and industrial organization FGV Holdings Berhad and Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS). The workshop aims to provide participants with fundamental knowledge on membrane synthesis and fabrication and expose participants to the potential applications of membrane technology in water and wastewater treatment. This workshop covers the fundamental theories and principles of membrane technology, membrane applications, and practices related to fouling and scaling in membrane systems. The potential applications of membrane technology across various industries—including environmental applications (groundwater, surface water, and wastewater), desalination, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology sectors, as well as non-water applications, the food industry, and metal and acid recovery-will be discussed in detail.

Source: www.facebook.com/share/p/15QqgsFrzD

4. Free Programs: Water Scientist Program (Mystia): Clean Water, Healthy Generation

The Water Scientist Program (MySTIA): Clean Water, Healthy Generation program is a community service initiative program held on 24 September 2024 as a as a national -level initiative that organized by the Research Centre for Sustainable Process Technology (CESPRO), in collaboration with the Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, UKM and community of Sekolah Kebangsaan Desa Putra. The program aims  to share knowledge and expertise on the importance of river conservation and water treatment, particularly with school students. The program also provides a platform for students to enhance their awareness of the significance of river and water conservation. The implementation of such programs helps unite and expand ideas on the importance of rivers, fostering a lasting sense of responsibility and care for their preservation. Besides, to enhance students’ interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through water treatment technology.

Source: www.facebook.com/share/p/17WqxQe5TV

5. Free Programs: Water Seminar: Integrated Water Research Synergy Consortium (IWaReS)

Water Seminar: The Integrated Water Research Synergy Consortium (IWaReS), a Research Excellence Consortium on water awarded by the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE), is led byInstitute for Environment and Development (LESTARI) UKM, with Water Research Unit (WRU) USM and Marine Research Station (MARES) UiTM Perlis Branch as satellite members. Committed to advancing SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation, IWaReS successfully organised a Seminar on Water from 28 June to 1 July 2024, in collaboration with the Malaysian Water Partnership (MyWP). The seminar featured distinguished experts discussing key topics, such as Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM), Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), Integrated Flood Management (IFM) and water-related disasters. The event was attended by stakeholders from PETRA, LUAS, JPS Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah, SPAN and FLAG, and concluded with a roundtable discussion on future water governance strategies.

Source: www.ukm.my/lestari/news/seminar-air-iwares

6. Paid Event : Denai Sungai Langat Run 2024 (Langat River Trail Run 2024)

The Denai Sungai Langat Run 2024 is a community-based running event organised by UKM Sports Centre collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education & Environmental NGOs (Friends Of Rivers Malaysia) on 7 October 2024 aimed at raising awareness about river conservation and environmental sustainability. As part of UKM’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water & Sanitation, this initiative highlights the importance of water resource protection, pollution control, and ecosystem preservation. The Larian Denai Sungai Langat 2024 included various activities designed to promote environmental responsibility while encouraging fitness and community involvement:

• Running Event (15 km & 5 km categories) – Participants ran along a designated eco-friendly route showcasing the beauty and significance of Sungai Langat’s ecosystem.
• Educational Booths on River Conservation – Stations were set up to provide information on water sustainability, waste management, and biodiversity conservation.
• Talks by Environmental Experts & Policymakers – Discussions on river pollution control, climate action, and policy advocacy.
• River Cleanup & Recycling Initiative – Encouraged participants to collect plastic waste and non-biodegradable materials along the running path.reness and commitment towards preserving Sungai Langat, a vital water source for the region.

Source: www.facebook.com/share/p/1WVggnaeLf