Cultivating Sustainability: EcoKizuna

The Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability through impactful student-centered initiatives. One of the highlights is the iSULAM EcoKizuna program, a collaboration with Tohoku University and Sendai Daiichi High School in Japan, together with Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (SMKSSAAS). The program was led by Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Noor Fitrah Abu Bakar, Ir. Ts. Dr. Rafeqah Raslan, and Ts. Dr. Asdarina Yahya, who guided students in merging engineering knowledge with community engagement to address real-world environmental challenges.

The program centered on fostering awareness of waste management and sustainability, encouraging students to turn waste materials into useful items through upcycling. Chemical engineering students acted as facilitators in guiding high school participants through hands-on activities such as transforming discarded mineral water bottles into pencil holders and repurposing old t-shirts into tote bags. These creative exercises not only highlighted practical applications of chemical engineering principles but also instilled a deeper appreciation for resource efficiency and environmental conservation.

Beyond the technical aspects, iSULAM EcoKizuna emphasized the importance of leadership, communication, and ethics in engineering practice. Students were encouraged to apply problem-solving and critical thinking while working in teams, in line with the course outcomes of Leadership and Professional Ethics for Engineers. This integration of technical knowledge with soft skills development prepared participants to manage real-world dilemmas, navigate conflicts, and communicate effectively in diverse group settings.

The impact of the program was felt across multiple levels. For the community, it raised awareness on sustainable living and the potential of upcycling in everyday practices. For the students, both local and international, it enhanced intercultural understanding, teamwork, and a sense of social responsibility. Institutionally, the initiative strengthened UiTM’s reputation in sustainability and internationalization by showcasing collaborative educational practices that unite local and international partners under shared goals.Through such initiatives, the Faculty of Chemical Engineering reaffirms its role in nurturing globally minded engineers who embody both professional excellence and environmental stewardship.