HULU LANGAT, June 28 – Kampung Orang Asli (KOA) Kuala Pangsun in Hulu Langat, Selangor, came alive with excitement and learning as a multidisciplinary outreach program, Program Peningkatan STEM, TVET, Kesihatan, dan Sosio-ekonomi Masyarakat Orang Asli, took place. The program, spearheaded by Dr. Nurul Zainab Along and supported by Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) through the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), brought together academic experts, university undergraduate students, and indigenous communities in a shared mission to foster knowledge transfer and sustainable development.
Under the banner of STEM untuk Masa Depan: Eksplorasi Ilmu Bersama Komuniti Orang Asli 2025, led by Dr. Nabilah Zaini, the sub-program focused on equipping the Orang Asli youth with practical Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic (STEM)-based knowledge and awareness of environmental and health issues. This initiative was made possible with funding from UTM’s Centre for Community and Industry Network (CCIN) via the Knowledge Transfer Programme – Research & Innovation Grant (KTP-RIG). It was further strengthened by collaborative support from Wanita PERKIM Cawangan Kuala Lumpur Utara (WPCKLU), Jabatan Kemajuan Orang Asli (JAKOA), TMK Industries, and SHE Empire Sdn. Bhd.
One of the key highlights was a water quality awareness activity led by Dr. Liew Wai Loan from MJIIT, who guided a team of five undergraduate students from the Bachelor of Chemical Process Engineering with Honours (SMJCH) program. Their session focused on imparting knowledge regarding fundamental water quality parameters – pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. Through engaging demonstrations and hands-on experience, the Orang Asli youths were taught how these indicators reflect river health, the consequences of elevated concentrations, and how daily activities, including littering and waste disposal, can degrade water resources. A total of 15 school-aged Orang Asli youths participated in river water sampling and testing activities using simplified, publicly accessible methods. The students enthusiastically engaged with the tools, guided closely by the MJIIT team, in what proved to be a highly participatory and educational experience. This immersive method not only enhanced scientific literacy among the youths but also reinforced their connection to their natural environment.
Such community-based engagement initiatives serve as crucial platforms for environmental education and capacity building, aligning strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This program supported SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation). By integrating science, environmental stewardship, and cultural sensitivity, the program demonstrated the potential of knowledge transfer to promote sustainable development within indigenous communities.
Through such collaborations, UTM and its partners exemplify the importance of academic outreach in fostering a more informed, resilient, and empowered society – starting with the next generation of community leaders.