The Student Association of the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (PM FSKPM) at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) conducted the Community Outreach PM FSKPM @ Kampung Gedong, Simujan. Community outreach programs play a crucial role in fostering university-community relationships, providing students with practical experiences, and contributing to societal development. These initiatives enable students to apply academic knowledge in real-world contexts while building social responsibility and collaboration skills.
A total of 30 students from PM FSKPM, accompanied by Mr. Mohd Hafizan, the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and Alumni, participated in the program. Upon arrival at Masjid Al-Kawthar Gedong, students engaged with the residents and explored the Gedong Waterfront, facilitating cultural exchange and strengthening community bonds. They were introduced to several small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and visited key village facilities, enhancing their understanding of local economic activities and rural development challenges. A gotong-royong activity further reinforced teamwork and social responsibility, as students collaborated in six groups to complete maintenance tasks.
A briefing and Q&A session, led by Tuan Haji Julkepli, Chairman of Masjid Al-Kawthar Gedong, and the Imam Besar, provided insights into community expectations and aspirations. Mr. Mohd Hafizan shared the faculty’s niche areas, expertise, and past outreach programs while proposing Service Learning Malaysia-University for Society (SULAM) initiatives to promote sustained engagement. To symbolize the collaboration, a tree-planting ceremony was held, reinforcing environmental awareness and long-term partnership.
Following the session, students joined the community for tea, Friday prayers, and lunch, deepening their cultural appreciation and fostering meaningful interactions.
The program continued with a visit to the Seri Gedong Songket House, providing insight into traditional textile craftsmanship. Under the guidance of Mrs. Ramsukmawati Ramlee, the manager of the establishment, students were introduced to the intricate process of songket weaving and learned about the eight meticulous steps involved in its production. The students also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, enhancing their appreciation for this traditional craft. Mrs. Ramsukmawati emphasized that the production of a single songket piece could take up to three months to complete, underscoring the dedication and artistry of the craftsmen involved.
The program facilitated experiential learning, community engagement, and cultural exchange, strengthening participants’ awareness of rural life, economic sustainability, and heritage preservation. Future collaboration with the Kampung Gedong community is expected to enhance these learning opportunities and create a lasting social impact.
Contributed by Abeni Louisa Chew, Haziq Khan Ibrahim/PM FSKPM