By: Betrice Britney Dee Anak Derick, Michelle Meni Anak Merikan &Dr Vimala Govindaraju
Final-year Strategic Communication students from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) have boldly championed sustainability through a series of impactful initiatives. From dynamic plogging events and engaging roadshows to a creative exhibition, these initiatives underscored the importance of environmental responsibility and promoted the 5R principles: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle.
One highlight was a plogging event led by project assistant leader Leong Yuen Teng. The day kicked off with a high-energy Zumba session that set the perfect tone, blending physical fitness with environmental activism. Participants, equipped with gloves and trash bags, jogged through the scenic campus, collecting everything from plastic bottles to even an unexpected vehicle license plate—an eclectic mix that reinforced the need for improved waste management.
“Plogging is an excellent way to merge exercise with environmental responsibility,” Leong commented, while participant Nur Aisya Suria described the experience as both fun and impactful in raising awareness about sustainability. Despite challenges such as scorching weather and heavily littered areas, the students’ teamwork and determination shone through.
The sustainability drive continued with the Planet Plus 5R Roadshow, which attracted 133 participants. This interactive event featured engaging activities like quizzes and video screenings designed to inspire sustainable living practices. With a limited budget and tight deadlines, a dedicated team of 11 students successfully crafted an informative yet entertaining experience.
“Despite the challenges, we pulled together and executed everything as planned, emphasizing the value of teamwork and adaptability.”
Nur Sufikah binti Abdul Razak, Event Leader
Attendee Mohammad Iskandar Bin Munir appreciated the hands-on activities that deepened his understanding of applying the 5R principles in daily life.
Further amplifying their commitment, the students organized an exhibition titled EarthSOS: Our Planet, Our Future. Hosted in the lobby of the Faculty of Education, Language, and Communication, the exhibition creatively showcased how waste materials could be transformed into functional items. Led by Nur Alifah Zulaikha, the exhibition featured five interactive booths—including information, DIY, recycling, games, and photo stations. Despite budget constraints, the team ingeniously repurposed materials to deliver a compelling experience.
“Although challenging, our hard work is clearly visible today.”
Pavitraa a/p Sundaram, Strategic Communication undergraduate
The exhibition attracted 232 visitors, including students from Sekolah Kebangsaan Batang Igan, with committee member Jacky Chai Zhen Wui expressing pride in inspiring visitors to embrace greener practices.
The EarthSOS: Our Planet, Our Future campaign reached a thrilling climax at the closing ceremony held at SK Rakyat Jalan Haji Bolhassan in Kuching. Officiated by Dr. Dilah bin Tuah, Dean of FELC, and Senior Administration Assistant Encik Mohamad Hashim Bin Dona, the event celebrated the campaign’s success in promoting sustainability among young minds. Attended by Primary 5 students, the ceremony featured a recap of the campaign’s achievements, an inspiring speech by Dr. Mohd Farid bin Atan from the UNIMAS Sustainability Centre, and interactive games and quizzes reinforcing the 5R principles.
Creative activities such as a DIY banner-making session and a repurposing workshop using egg cartons to craft mini recycling bins engaged students in hands-on learning.
“My favourite part was having the UNIMAS students visit and teach us about the 5R concept.”
Muhammad Adly, Primary 5 student, SK Rakyat
Meanwhile, his schoolmate Dayang Alisha Sofia enjoyed the collaborative and fun nature of the activities. Emcee Jasnita highlighted how the interactive sessions ignited curiosity and enthusiasm, creating an impactful learning environment despite minor technical hiccups.
This campaign not only celebrated sustainability successes but also fostered a strong sense of community among students, teachers, and parents. It served as a powerful reminder that when small actions are combined with teamwork and determination, meaningful change is within reach.