A knowledge transfer program (KTP) through community service learning to recycle use cooking oil into soap was conducted by a group of researchers from the Faculty of Applied Science, UiTM Shah Alam. Led by PM Dr Zainiharyati Mohd Zain, the Salam Komuniti Lestari Program under the financial support from Selangor State Government, Malaysia was held on the 21st of August 2022, at Dewan MBSA Seri Pagi, Kampung Paya Jaras, Seksyen U19, Shah Alam. The event was officiated by YBrs. Pn. Mariam Binti Abdul Rashid, Board member of MBSA Zone 23 and Prof. Dr. Mohamad Hariri Bin Hj. Abdullah, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Industry, Community and Alumni Network) UiTM. Also, present Prof. Dr. Hjh. Farida Zuraina Binti Mohd Yusof, Dean of the Faculty of UiTM Applied Sciences, Member of the Board and Director of the MBSA Department.
The aim of this project is to provide soap making knowledge and awareness via a close engagement between academics, governmental agencies, and community on the process of recycling used cooking oil into soap. In addition, a greener approach was implemented in a more simple and cheaper way.
This community initiative raises awareness, exposure, and training for 30 participants in the Shah Alam City Council’s authority to recycle used cooking oil into soap manufacture at their homes or businesses. Cooking oils are commonly used more than once in frying process. Consumption of wasted cooking oil more than twice as a source of fried food has cancerous effects on human health owing to alterations in the oil’s molecular structure generated by high temperatures during the frying process. Furthermore, improper disposal of used cooking oils can also lead to environmental pollutions.
The soap making optimisation process was brought from the lab to community using cleaner and simpler recycling procedure, adapted to the community’s knowledge and at-home facilities. The soap production quality was enhanced by utilising a different formulation, considering several factors including the moisture content, fragrance, pH value, and physical properties. This project is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 (Quality Education) and 12 (responsible Consumption and Production). The community service has raised awareness about the need of recycling leftover cooking oil and has the potential to create money by creating soap, which would help the local economy in Selangor state.