As environmental concerns continue to grow globally, fostering sustainability awareness among young minds has never been more crucial. Eco-Guide, a collaborative project between students of Kolej Kediaman Tun Syed Zahiruddin (KK9), Universiti Malaya, and international students, serves as a platform to instill ecological responsibility while strengthening intercultural bonds. Held at Rimba Ilmu, Universiti Malaya, on 6 February 2025, the program welcomed 22 international students and two coordinators from China, alongside 10 Eco-Guide secretariat members who acted as tour guides.
“This program is more than just a nature walk—it is a journey towards fostering environmental consciousness while strengthening friendships across borders,” said Sarah Aqilah binti Mohd Azlan, the Director of Eco-Guide. “Seeing the event run smoothly and successfully was incredibly fulfilling, and I hope the next edition will be just as impactful, if not better.”
A Training of Trainers (TOT) session was conducted on 24 January 2025, ahead of the main event, to ensure the committee members were well-equipped with the necessary knowledge. Led by Miss Iliyana, a research officer at Rimba Ilmu, the session introduced participants to the rich biodiversity of Rimba Ilmu, covering its diverse plant and animal life. This preparation allowed the Eco-Guide secretariats to confidently lead the international students through an immersive and educational experience.
According to Muhd Nabil bin Uruddin, the program’s Vice Director and a third-year engineering student, the experience was both insightful and inspiring. “It was a privilege to be part of this initiative. The interaction between students from different backgrounds, coupled with hands-on learning, made this project even more meaningful. I am eager to continue working on similar programs in the future.”
Throughout the day, participants engaged in both theoretical and practical research, allowing them to understand biodiversity, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices in an interactive manner. By exploring Rimba Ilmu’s ecosystems, students were able to witness firsthand the importance of preserving natural habitats and learned about the delicate balance between human activities and environmental sustainability.
One of the most notable impacts of Eco-Guide was the way it enhanced participants’ environmental awareness. By delving into biological and environmental science concepts, students developed critical and analytical thinking skills, fostering a deeper sense of responsibility toward nature. Additionally, the program provided a unique opportunity for committee members to strengthen their use of a second language, improving communication skills essential for both academic and professional interactions.
“Eco-Guide is not just about learning scientific concepts; it is about making them come alive,” noted Sarah Aqilah. “By blending education with hands-on experiences, participants gain valuable insights that extend beyond the classroom.”
Beyond theoretical knowledge, the program also introduced practical training using specialized scientific equipment at Universiti Malaya. This hands-on exposure allowed participants to familiarize themselves with research techniques, problem-solving strategies, and safety protocols—all essential skills for future scientific endeavors.
As Eco-Guide concludes its first successful run, the program sets a promising precedent for future sustainability initiatives at Universiti Malaya. With growing interest and enthusiasm, the organizing team remains hopeful that this project will continue to evolve, inspiring more students to become environmental stewards and global citizens. The journey toward sustainability and intercultural exchange has only just begun, and the next chapter of Eco-Guide is already on the horizon.
For further details about the program, please contact Sarah Aqilah binti Mohd Azlan, Program Director of Eco-Guide at aqilahazlan1809@gmail.com
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