KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 4 — A community awareness program focusing on the safe use of household chemicals was successfully held today at Foyer A, Kolej Kediaman Siswa Jaya (KSJ), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Kuala Lumpur bringing together residents of Perumahan Awam (PA) Desa Rejang for an interactive and educational session.
The half-day event was officiated by Assoc Prof Dr. Sharum Shahrum Shah Abdullah and jointly organized by P10X Academy, Malaysia–Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), PA Desa Rejang Residents’ Association represented by Rousnah Hamid and with commitment of Student Representative Committee (JKM) of KSJ and volunteers. The initiative aimed to raise awareness on chemical safety at home, highlighting proper storage, handling, and disposal practices to reduce risks and promote environmental sustainability. Throughout the program, participants engaged in interactive talks and live demonstrations on identifying hazardous labels, administering first aid for chemical exposure, and adopting eco-friendly cleaning alternatives. The hands-on approach helped residents apply safety knowledge in practical, everyday situations.
The program also supports several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being through the promotion of safer household environments, SDG 4: Quality Education by providing community-based learning, and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production through proper chemical handling and disposal practices. In addition, the collaborative nature of the initiative reflects SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, showcasing strong cooperation between academic institutions, community leaders, and local volunteers.
Functioning as both an educational and empowerment platform, the initiative equips residents with essential knowledge on the hazards of common household chemicals, methods to prevent accidental exposure, and environmentally responsible disposal techniques. By strengthening awareness on these critical topics, the program not only enhances community safety but also fosters sustainable habits that contribute to a healthier living environment. This collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment of UTM, MJIIT, and local partners to building resilient, informed, and environmentally conscious communities.
Program Head Ts. Dr. Zatil Izzah Ahmad Tarmizi emphasized the importance of community education in preventing household accidents and fostering a culture of safety.
“We want to empower our community members with the knowledge and confidence to handle household chemicals responsibly,” said Dr Izzah “Even small changes in how we use and store these products can make a big difference in protecting our families and the environment.”
The event concluded with a Q&A session and the distribution of educational materials. Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and encouraged more community programs focusing on safety and sustainable living. This collaborative effort between academia, government agencies, and local communities underscores a shared commitment to public safety and environmental responsibility.
