Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), through its Nurturing Nature and Arts Heritage Project, strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability through a collaborative initiative with Akitree Design Sdn. Bhd. and the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia (ILAM) Sarawak Chapter on 6 May 2026.
As part of the initiative, seven native Sterculia parviflora trees, locally known as Kelumpang Burung, were contributed and planted within the UNIMAS campus to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable landscape development.
Project leader Dr Hajah Wan Sofiah Haji Meor Osman described the initiative as an important platform for fostering collaboration between academia and industry in advancing sustainable landscape practices and environmental responsibility.
LAr. Mr James Sim Kwang Seng, Founder and Managing Director of Akitree Design Sdn. Bhd. and Chairman of ILAM Sarawak Chapter, highlighted the programme as a meaningful effort to strengthen environmental awareness and ecological conservation. He emphasised the importance of using native tree species to create resilient ecosystems and promote long-term sustainability within campus landscapes.
The programme was officiated by Ts. Mr Humphrey Rayang Ak Nelson Janang, Director of the Development Office, UNIMAS, together with Mr Ngerantar Anak Undi, Deputy Director of the Development Office, UNIMAS, marking strong institutional support for sustainability-driven campus development.
In addition to the tree-planting activity, representatives from Akitree Design Sdn. Bhd. shared technical guidance with participating students on proper tree-planting techniques and the importance of long-term landscape stewardship. The session provided students with practical exposure to sustainable environmental practices and reinforced the value of community and industry engagement in conservation efforts.
Also present were Associate Professor Dr Siti Akmar Khadijah Ab Rahim, Ts. Dr Shamsiah Saili, Dr Siti Zaleha Raduan, Mr Rosdi Japar, and landscape facilitators. Several students from the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and Human Development (FCSHD) enrolled in PPD1041 Soft Skills and Basic Volunteerism and the Mentor-Mentee Programme also participated in the initiative.
The collaboration reflects UNIMAS’s continued commitment to sustainability, environmental education, and strategic industry partnerships in creating a greener and more environmentally conscious campus community.
Contributed by Dr Hajah Wan Sofiah Haji Meor Osman