Written by Dr Nur Auni Ugong
The spirit of civic engagement and volunteerism was brought to life on 11 May 2025, as the Social Work Association of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (SWAS UNIMAS) successfully organised the Program Komuniti Siswa Madani: “Satu Hati, Satu Tindakan” at Kampung Asajaya Laut, Sarawak. Held in conjunction with the Festival of Social Sciences and Humanities (FOSSH) 2025, the programme aimed to translate academic values into practical community service, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to society while deepening their understanding of social responsibility.
A total of 88 students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) participated in the programme, under the guidance of Dr Nur Auni binti Ugong, Deputy Dean of Student and Alumni Affairs, and Dr. Athirah binti Azhar, Deputy Dean of Undergraduate Studies. The outreach effort focused on volunteerism, health education, cultural appreciation, and collaborative problem-solving between students and the residents of Kampung Asajaya Laut. Among the key objectives were to instil the values of volunteerism and professional social work ethics, enhance public awareness on hygiene and wellness, strengthen university-community bonds, equip students with practical project management skills, and promote cultural heritage awareness. These efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), positioning the programme as both locally grounded and globally relevant.
The programme received strong support and warm reception from the villagers, who appreciated the students’ efforts and collaborative spirit. Through this initiative, students were not only able to apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts but also gained a deeper understanding of community dynamics and socio-cultural diversity. In conclusion, Satu Hati, Satu Tindakan stands as a testament to UNIMAS’s commitment to nurturing future-ready, socially conscious graduates who are prepared to contribute actively to national development and community empowerment. This initiative encapsulates the vision of UNIMAS Lestari—a university that bridges knowledge and service to shape a better, inclusive future for all.
FSSH – A partner for social change