JOHOR BAHRU, June 24 – The Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has successfully organized Biodiversity Day 2026, creating a dynamic platform to raise awareness about biodiversity conservation, environmental well-being, and practical biosciences applications. Coordinated by the Student Development Committee of the Department of Biosciences in close partnership with the Symbiosis student association, this experiential learning initiative drew active participation from students, staff, and the wider university community.

The celebration officially commenced on 23 June 2026 with an inspiring digital milestone through the Alumni Sharing Webinar, titled Acting Locally, Impacting Globally: A Journey of Innovation and Sustainability. Moderated by Dr. Mohd Aizuddin Mohd Lazaldin, the webinar featured prominent biosciences alumnus Wan Addean Luqman Mohd Suhaimi, who engaged with over 60 participants by reflecting on his professional milestones, industry challenges, and career paths in research and green technology.

The absolute highlight of this session was the raw, authentic mentorship he provided; instead of just sharing textbook success, Wan Addean captivated the audience by breaking down his own professional trials. He shared a powerful slide on “3 Failures, 3 Lessons” that covered everything from managing a team to building infrastructure in agricultural projects. This honest breakdown gave students an invaluable reality check on industrial problem solving, inspiring them to see how local, small-scale actions can ultimately mature into highly sustainable, income-generating community initiatives.

The program reached its physical peak on 24 June 2026 at the Foyer T02 of the Department of Biosciences, which transformed into a bustling hub of scientific and creative exhibitions.

Student exhibitors under the mentorship of dedicated lecturers such as Dr. Mira Panadi, Dr. Mohd Farizal Ahmad Kamaroddin, and Dr. Huszalina Hussin. The booths showcased groundbreaking projects exploring practical green solutions, including the use of microalgae, custom fertilizers, and processing pineapple leaves into sustainable animal feed.

Creativity took a colorful turn with the Stone Artisan Competition. The best part of this activity was watching the incredible transformation of ordinary, raw stones into vibrant, glossy works of art, proving that science and artistic expression go hand in hand.

Participants from both the staff and student categories sat side by side, armed with paintbrushes to breathe life into their stone canvases with intricate illustrations of pandas, lush trees, and panoramic scenery.

Simultaneously, visual storytelling took center stage through the Biodiversity Photo Competition, anchored by the compelling theme Acting Locally for Global Impact. The absolute highlight of this photography contest was how it challenged the campus community to completely re-examine their daily surroundings.

Armed with digital cameras and smartphones, participants captured stunning, high-contrast original snapshots of fauna, flora, and landscapes. Through its vivid snapshots of local wildlife and plant life, the exhibition beautifully reflected the Jane Goodall quote featured on its poster, reminding every viewer that even a single day leaves an impact on the world around us.

The memorable day concluded with a high-energy closing and prize-giving ceremony officiated by the Head of the Department of Biosciences, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Alina Wagiran. Beyond a celebration of nature, the entire event stood as a massive victory for student development, as the student task force expertly orchestrated every detail of multimedia, protocol, and logistics, walking away with sharp, industry-ready soft skills in leadership and team collaboration.

Report prepared by the Student Development Committee of the Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, UTM.

Prepared by Dr. Mohd Aizuddin Mohd Lazaldin and Dr. Farah Hanis Juhari