What began as a humble effort to reduce food waste has grown into a heartwarming weekly tradition, thanks to the dedication and compassion of the UNIMAS Medical Society (UNIMED). Through its Welfare Bureau, UNIMED has been actively carrying out a #ZeroFoodWastage bread distribution campaign since its launch on 11 April 2025, in collaboration with AEON Mall Kuching Central and Kechara Soup Kitchen.
Every Friday night, a team of UNIMED student volunteers collects unsold bread and pastries from AEON Mall. These baked goods, still fresh and wholesome, are then repackaged into small care bundles at the UNIMED Room under strict hygiene practices. Volunteers ensure that all items are checked for quality, while adhering to food safety protocols including proper hand washing, wearing gloves, and sanitisation.
The initiative took off with a major distribution on 11 June 2025, when 25 kilograms of bread and pastries were collected and repacked into approximately 200 packages. These were distributed to fellow students residing at Rafflesia College, Cempaka College, and later Kasturi College, offering not just nourishment but also a gesture of solidarity and care within the campus community.
A recent distribution saw 11 kilograms of rescued baked goods turned into 54 thoughtfully packed bundles, again benefiting students across multiple residential colleges. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “We really look forward to Fridays now—not just for the free bread, but because it makes us feel cared for. It’s something warm to start the weekend with,” shared a student from Kolej Kasturi.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Welfare Bureau of UNIMED and guided by Dr. Siti Zaleha binti Raduan, the Facilitator of the Welfare Bureau of UNIMED and a representative from the Kechara Soup Kitchen, is a shining example of student-led action with real-world impact. It aligns meaningfully with the UNSDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, while also promoting Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production.
“What began as a food recovery project has grown into a weekly act of kindness that feeds both body and soul,” said one UNIMED committee member. The success of this programme is a testament to the initiative, teamwork, and empathy of the UNIMED student body. As the campaign continues to grow, so too does its impact, nurturing not just stomachs, but a culture of compassion, sustainability, and social responsibility at UNIMAS.
Prepared by:
Kristy May Kennedy, Secretariat of the UNIMAS Medical Society (UNIMED) Welfare Bureau, Session 2024/2025, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak.