ISKANDAR PUTERI, Dec 14—The Knowledge Transfer Program (KTP) on Potential Plant Species and Their Role in Environmental Balance, also known as the “Biodiversity in the City for Community Sustainability” program, is organized by SSCY 2733 Genetics students and led by Dr. Azman Abd Samad and Dr. Raihana Ridzuan from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). This initiative is conducted in collaboration with Sunway City Iskandar Puteri and is supported by the Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP).
The program aims to provide comprehensive benefits to the community by enhancing knowledge about ornamental plant cultivation, environmental sustainability, and the significance of taxonomy in science. Ornamental plants not only filter the air and improve air quality, but they also promote healthy outdoor activities, reduce mental stress, and enhance physical and emotional well-being. This aligns with the goal of fostering a healthier and more prosperous community.
Through photosynthesis, ornamental plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen, thereby helping to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. This program’s activities aim to raise community awareness about the initiative’s dual purpose: to promote environmental beauty while positively impacting climate change and ensuring climate stability for future generations.
By engaging in taxonomy activities and raising awareness about the importance of ornamental plants, this program contributes to efforts to protect, conserve, and restore terrestrial ecosystems. It enhances public knowledge about the preservation of biodiversity and helps reduce the threat of species extinction, particularly in urban areas.
Associate Professor Dr. Shafinaz Shahir, Dean of the Faculty of Science, officiated the program alongside YM Ungku Ahmad Ungku Mohd Zakaria, Director of the MBIP Community Development Department; Khairul Anwar Mohd Fuze, Senior Project Manager representing Sunway City Iskandar Puteri; and Anselm Then Wei Xian, Director of KTP on Potential Plant Species and Their Role in Environmental Balance.
The event also featured knowledge-sharing sessions led by Dr. Farah Alia Nordin and Dr. Dahlia Shahbuddin, lecturers from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), who presented topics related to ornamental plants and their potential.
The program attracted nearly 170 participants, including undergraduate students from UTM’s Bachelor of Science in Biology program, students from Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Taman Mutiara Rini, and residents of Rumah Anak Yatim Shafar. Through these service-learning experiences, students not only gain academic knowledge but also undergo personal development.
Engaging with the community and addressing issues related to plants and ecosystems helps students develop a deeper understanding of social and environmental challenges. This real-world experience fosters a sense of responsibility and raises awareness of plants’ broader impact on society, including their roles in environmental conservation, health, and biodiversity.
Participating in hands-on projects allows students to gain practical knowledge of how taxonomy is applied in the study of biodiversity and ecosystem management. This experience enhances their scientific skills and broadens their understanding, making them better equipped to apply theoretical concepts in real-life situations. It also reinforces the critical role of taxonomy in species identification, understanding ecological roles, and contributing to biological conservation efforts.
The community also benefits from experts’ knowledge about biodiversity, taxonomy, and ornamental plants, which fosters greater awareness and understanding of these subjects. This initiative is carried out through close collaboration between government bodies, private entities, and the local community, aligned with the implementation of Local Agenda 21 led by UTM. Through this program, awareness of the role of ornamental plants in health and well-being is expected to increase. It is hoped that this effort will inspire awareness and collective action toward long-term environmental sustainability.
Prepared by: Anselm T.