Empowering Communities : FBE and Kampung Sungai Putin Unite in SULAM Initiatives

Written by : Hazriffudin bin Ayup

Edited by : Dayang Afiqah Abang Mohamad Shibli

On 22^nd – 23^rd June 2024, second-year students from the Quantity Surveying and Architecture programmes conducted a two-day, one-night Service Learning Malaysia – University for Society (SULAM) project in Kampung Sungai Putin, Sadong Jaya, Samarahan. Organized by the Faculty of Built Environment, this project marked the fifth collaboration with Kampung Sungai Putin. The initiative was led by the SULAM Programme Chairman, Tuan Haji Yusof, in partnership with the Village Liaison Head, Encik Rahim, and was supported by lecturers from the Faculty of Built Environment, including Dr. Shazwan Mohamed Shaari, Dr. Mohd Afzan Mohamed, Puan Joy Natalie Cotter and Encik Mohd Zariq Feeqri Jasni.

Kampung Sungai Putin is a close-knit community of around 500 residents, living in approximately 60 houses. The villagers are known for their warmth and unity, welcoming UNIMAS students from diverse backgrounds with open arms. This spirit of togetherness is reflected in the village’s ongoing collaboration with external partners, particularly UNIMAS. The objectives of this year’s SULAM project are to further strengthen the relationship between the two parties, enhance village infrastructure by adding new solar lamps and maintaining existing ones and to establish a monument symbolizing the enduring partnership between UNIMAS, especially the Faculty of Built Environment and the residents of Sungai Putin through the “Kampung Keluarga Angkat UNIMAS” monument.

On the first day, the students departed from UNIMAS by bus, arriving at Kampung Sungai Putin after a 50-minute journey. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by the villagers with breakfast before being introduced to their foster families. Once settled, the students began the solar lamp activities, installing four lamps, two new installations and two maintenance tasks on existing but damaged lamps. These solar lamps are vital for providing light during power outages, ensuring the safety of pedestrian pathways and symbolizing the village’s progress. The successful completion of the project by evening was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the students and villagers, who worked together enthusiastically and without regard to gender, with everyone taking responsibility for the tasks at hand.

The interaction between the villagers and students from the Faculty of Built Environment extended well beyond the daytime activities. In the evening, Quantity Surveying and Architecture students joined the villagers for social activities that helped foster stronger bonds. These activities began with a ‘getting-to-know-you’ session, where everyone shared insights into their lives, allowing for a deeper understanding of one another. Non-Malay students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the Malay way of life, enriching their cultural understanding and promoting harmony. The evening was filled with joy and laughter as everyone sang songs and participated in the popular Sarawakian dance, poco-poco, set to the tune of “Bekikis Bulu Betis.” This cultural exchange not only deepened the connection between the students and villagers but also strengthened the camaraderie among students from different programmes, making the night an unforgettable experience for all.

The construction of the official village monument, inscribed with “Selamat Datang ke Kampung Sungai Putin, Kampung Keluarga Angkat UNIMAS,” holds great significance as it symbolizes the formal relationship between UNIMAS and Kampung Sungai Putin. With more than five foster family programs organized by UNIMAS in the village, this monument provides a physical and enduring record of the strong bond between the local residents and the university. Although heavy rain interrupted the painting process on the first day, the students successfully completed the monument on the second day, just in time for the SULAM 2024 project closing ceremony. This monument stands as a lasting testament to the meaningful connection forged between the students and staff of UNIMAS and the community of Kampung Sungai Putin.

As the closing ceremony approached, two second-year Quantity Surveying students from the Faculty of Built Environment, Hazriffuddin Bin Ayup and Vyner Charles, volunteered to host the event. The ceremony was attended by the Village Head, En Hassan Bin Alon, SULAM Chairman Tuan Haji Yusof, Village Liaison Head Encik Rahim, and lecturers from the faculty. By taking on the role of event hosts, the students had the opportunity to enhance their public speaking skills, extending their learning beyond the academic curriculum. The ceremony featured the official unveiling of the monument, a powerful symbol of the strong and enduring relationship between UNIMAS and Kampung Sungai Putin.

The project concludes as a successful initiative that fosters relationships between higher education institutions and external communities, promoting mutual growth and understanding. The collaboration with Kampung Sungai Putin aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in community building and sustainable infrastructure development. Such programmes are vital for nurturing connections between students and the local community, offering benefits to both and contributing to the overall development of the community.