Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka UTMKL - Yan Kedah: A Sustainable Journey for the SDGs. Cycling distance of 444 km and average speed 23.9 km/h. | Shamsul Sarip (PhD, P. Eng MIEM, Assoc. Professor)

The launch of cycling at UTMKL on 6 Sept 2023

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) event took place on September 6, 2023, in UTMKL Malaysia, commemorating the country’s Independence Day and promoting the importance of sustainability through cycling. Organized by UTMCS, the event aimed to raise awareness about the SDGs while encouraging active and eco-friendly modes of transportation. This report provides an overview of the event, its objectives, key activities, and the impact it had on the community.

In a resounding celebration of Malaysia’s Independence Day and a strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a group of passionate cyclists embarked on an extraordinary journey from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Kuala Lumpur to the beautiful state of Kedah. This Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka aimed to not only commemorate the nation’s historical moment but also underscore the importance of sustainable transportation and environmentally conscious living.

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka for SDGs event was designed to align with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, and peace and justice. The event sought to promote these goals by engaging the local community in a cycling event that encouraged environmental awareness, physical fitness, and a sense of community.

Taking a picture in front of the Homestay in Tanbun Ipoh Perak

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka led by Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ts. Dr. Abd Latif bin Saleh organized by the UTM Campus Sustainability (UTMCS) Office and the support of all UTM staff. A total of six riders from UTM JB and seven riders from UTMKL. Supporting staff consists of marshals using three cars and two marshals on motorcycles.

Objectives

Raise awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Promote the use of bicycles as an eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.
Foster a sense of community and unity among participants.

Participants, including staff of all ages, led by the UTMKL Pro Vice-Chancellor, gathered at Menara Razak and embarked on a cycling of Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka through the city and then through several states such as the Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Perak, Penang and Kedah. Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka showcased diverse bicycle types, including road bicycles, mountain bikes, touring bikes and even fat bikes.

Experts in sustainability, climate change, and community development gave talks and panel discussions. These sessions highlighted the importance of collective action in achieving the SDGs and sustainable living.

Event emphasized eco-friendly practices by promoting the use of reusable water bottles and reducing single-use plastics. Waste collection points were strategically placed throughout the event area.

Local NGOs, Mr Firdaus and community groups actively participated in the event, showcasing their initiatives related to sustainability and community development.

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka for SDGs event had several positive impacts:

The event successfully raised awareness about the SDGs and how individuals can contribute to achieving them.
Over 23 participants, including riders, marshals, and seniors, joined Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka, promoting an active lifestyle.
Promoting cycling as a mode of transportation helped reduce carbon emissions and promoted a cleaner environment.
The event fostered a sense of community and unity among participants and local organizations.
Information booths and sustainability talks provided valuable insights into sustainable living and the SDGs.
Collaborations with local businesses and sponsors can provide financial support. These sponsors may benefit from increased brand visibility and aligning with sustainability initiatives.

The Sustainable Development Goals

Co-sponsor as in the poster

The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. They encompass a wide range of objectives, including no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, clean water and sanitation, climate action, and more. These goals serve as a global framework for addressing pressing challenges and achieving a better, more sustainable future.

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka achieved several Sustainable Development Goals simultaneously and achieving multiple goals.

Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being
Cycling promotes physical fitness and well-being among participants, while spreading awareness about healthcare challenges in less fortunate regions.

Goal 4: Quality Education
Educational pit stops and interactions with communities fostered a culture of learning and understanding, aligning with the goal of quality education.

Goal 13: Climate Action
By choosing cycling over carbon-intensive modes of transportation, participants actively contributed to reducing their carbon footprint.

Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The expedition showcased the power of partnerships between academia, civil society, and local communities in advancing the SDGs.

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka from UTMKL to Yan Kedah exemplifies the spirit of unity, sustainability, and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals. It underscores how grassroots efforts and individual actions can make a profound impact on our journey towards a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future. As Malaysia celebrates its independence, initiatives like these remind us that we are equally responsible for the independence and well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants.

The Petronas petrol pump also sponsors mineral water while resting in Tapah Perak

Kembara Kayuhan Merdeka for SDGs event in Kuala Lumpur to Yan Kedah Malaysia, was a successful initiative that effectively promoted the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. By combining the joy of cycling with education and community engagement, the event demonstrated how local communities can contribute to global sustainability efforts.

This event serves as an example of how grassroots initiatives can play a pivotal role in advancing the SDGs and fostering a sustainable future for all. The organizers and participants alike have contributed to a more environmentally conscious and socially connected community. The event’s success should inspire similar initiatives worldwide, encouraging collective action toward achieving the SDGs.