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The Community Service for Planetary Health course is not just about theory—it is about real-world application. Designed as a ‘learn by doing’ initiative, this course provides students with the opportunity to actively contribute to the betterment of the Desa Mentari community.

Nine student groups from the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) each took on a different community-based project. Their efforts led to meaningful improvements across various aspects of community life, fostering teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

In an effort to rejuvenate the local sports facilities, two groups took on the task of revamping the sepak takraw court. They repainted the faded court lines, making the playing area more visible and inviting. Not stopping there, they installed a new futsal net and tidied the surroundings, transforming the space into a vibrant hub where community members could gather and engage in physical activities.

Meanwhile, another group focused on improving safety and accessibility by installing a solar lighting system and applying glow-in-the-dark tape on staircases. As the students carefully cleaned the stairs before applying the luminous markings, they took pride in knowing that their work would enhance visibility at night—and even during the day, given the limited natural daylight—thereby reducing the risk of accidents. Their efforts ensured that residents could navigate their way safely in low-light conditions, a small yet significant improvement to daily life.

Another group aimed to inspire the younger generation through a DIY Projectiles STEM workshop. They patiently guided children through hands-on activities, demonstrating scientific principles in a fun and interactive way. Despite language barriers, they found creative methods to explain complex concepts, leaving the children both educated and excited about the world of engineering. Seeing their young audience light up with curiosity and joy was an incredibly rewarding experience.

For one group, the challenge lay in tackling rusty handrails spanning six floors in Block 5. Armed with paintbrushes and determination, they learned the intricacies of mixing and applying paint while working together to restore the corroded metal. It was a painstaking process, but with each stroke of paint, they watched the transformation unfold before their eyes. The residents also appreciated their efforts, as the newly painted handrails not only looked better but also provided a safer grip.

Environmental consciousness was at the heart of another team’s project, as they introduced a DIY Natural Cleaning Spray to the community. Using eco-friendly ingredients, they produced and distributed 80 bottles of homemade cleaning solution. Engaging directly with around 40 community members, they shared insights into the benefits of chemical-free cleaning while demonstrating how easily it could be incorporated into daily routines.

Education and awareness were also key components of the students’ initiatives. One group organised a waste recycling talk aimed at children, where they encountered unexpected enthusiasm. Despite the challenge of managing an energetic crowd, they successfully conveyed the importance of recycling and sustainable waste management. The children’s excitement proved that early exposure to such topics could spark lifelong habits of environmental responsibility.

Focusing on digital safety, another group addressed the issue of cyberbullying awareness. Through a talk and a stage play, they captured the attention of both children and adults, highlighting the dangers of online harassment and the steps to prevent it. Engaging in this initiative was a new experience for many students, but they quickly adapted, using storytelling as a powerful tool to communicate their message.

The impact extended further when creativity took centre stage in a canvas painting session. Beyond the strokes of paint and bursts of colour, the activity served as a unique way to discuss social issues, encouraging children to express their thoughts and emotions in an open and engaging manner. Witnessing their artistic expressions unfold was a reminder of how creativity can serve as a powerful medium for education and awareness.

Each of these projects was more than just an academic requirement—it was a transformative experience for both the students and the community. As they worked hand in hand with Desa Mentari residents, they gained invaluable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and the impact of small yet meaningful changes.

Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Hoo Choon Lih (Steven)
School of Engineering and Technology
Email: @email