By Shahabuddin Amerudin
Linggi, Negeri Sembilan, June 3, 2023 – In a remarkable collaboration, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and the Kg. Sg. Timun community, have once again united to conduct a highly successful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. Led by Dr. Shahabuddin Amerudin from the Geoinformation Programme in the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying, this initiative aimed to preserve the natural beauty of the mangrove forest ecosystem. The programme showcased the exceptional capabilities of the Mangrove Forest Tree Identification and Geotagging mobile app, with the website https://www.kstutm.com serving as a central hub for accessing information and utilising the online database and web mapping application developed under the Knowledge Transfer Program – Research Innovation Grant (KTP-RIG) from CCIN UTM.
This year, the CSR programme welcomed 33 dedicated third-year Bachelor of Science in Geoinformatics students as its main participants. Building upon the valuable experience gained from the previous year’s programme, which involved 21 active student contributors, these passionate individuals were enrolled in the SBEG3583 GIS Software System course. Leveraging their knowledge and skills, they enthusiastically embraced the use of the mobile app as a powerful tool for collecting and storing essential data. It is noteworthy that the system was also employed during the Lestari Alam Sungai Timun programme on November 2, 2021, joined by government departments in the Rembau District and coordinated by the Rembau District Office.
Under the guidance of Prof. Ir. Dr. Mohd Fadhil Md Din from Campus Sustainability UTM, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zulhilmi Ismail from the Center for River and Coastal Engineering UTM, and with the support of enthusiastic volunteers from the ARC Club UTM, the participants embarked on an extraordinary journey. The programme involved geotagging 126 trees, including the successful planting of over 40 mangrove tree seeds. Additionally, existing mangrove trees in the vicinity of Kg. Sg. Timun were meticulously geotagged, contributing to a comprehensive database for monitoring and conservation efforts.
One of the programme’s highlights was a captivating excursion along Sg. Rembau, where participants had the privilege of witnessing the enchanting spectacle of fireflies illuminating the night sky. These mesmerising creatures predominantly inhabited the majestic Berembang trees, which were also geotagged as part of this remarkable endeavour. The experience left an indelible mark on the participants, fostering a deeper appreciation for the magnificence and significance of the natural world.
The students involved in this programme have gained immeasurable experience and skills. They have developed practical expertise in mangrove tree planting, geotagging, tree data collection, and online database management, which will serve them well in their future careers. Moreover, they have learned to appreciate the delicate balance of our natural environment and the challenges it faces. By proposing innovative solutions and overcoming obstacles, they have demonstrated their ability to contribute to real-world environmental issues.
Collaboration between academia, local communities, and technology has the power to create lasting positive change. The Mangrove Forest Tree Identification and Geotagging mobile app, together with the online database and web mapping application, have proven to be invaluable tools in the conservation and monitoring of mangrove forests. By leveraging these innovative solutions, we have not only raised awareness about the importance of mangrove ecosystems but also empowered the local community to actively participate in their preservation.
For those fortunate enough to have witnessed the mesmerising display of fireflies along Sg. Rembau, the experience was nothing short of magical. The sight of these tiny bioluminescent creatures dancing among the Berembang trees is a testament to the wonders of nature. We invite others to venture forth and experience this awe-inspiring spectacle first-hand, as it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
Suggestion for Citation: Amerudin, S. (2023). UTM and Kg. Sg. Timun Empower Mangrove Conservation through an Innovative CSR Programme. [Online] Available at: https://people.utm.my/shahabuddin/?p=6427 (Accessed: 6 June 2023).