SDG 13 – CLIMATE ACTION

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

SDG 13 Indicator

13.2.1 13.3.1 13.3.2 13.3.3 13.3.4 13.3.5

13.3 – Environmental Education Measures

13.3.1 – Local Education Programmes on Climate Change

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is dedicated to empowering local communities through climate-focused education programs that foster environmental awareness and action. By integrating hands-on initiatives like carbon footprint tracking in schools, sustainable gardening, and recycling workshops, UKM is cultivating a generation of environmentally conscious leaders committed to addressing climate challenges. These programs not only educate but inspire lasting change, reinforcing UKM role as a catalyst for sustainable transformation within local communities. UKM recognizes the pivotal role of education in combating climate change. By integrating environmental education into academic programs and campus initiatives, UKM actively contributes to climate awareness, risk mitigation, adaptation, and sustainable development. Our commitment to 100% implementation of SDG 13 ensures that students, staff, and the community are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address the pressing challenges of climate change.

  1.  Local Education Programs on Climate

UKM offers a range of master’s programs directly focused on climate change, environmental management, and sustainable practices. These programs reflect our commitment to training the next generation of climate leaders.

  1. Undergraduate Climate Related Courses:  

At the undergraduate level, UKM offers an extensive range of courses across various faculties that address climate change, environmental management, sustainable urban planning, renewable energy, and risk mitigation. These courses provide students with the foundational knowledge needed to engage in climate action efforts both academically and professionally.

  • Faculty of Science and Technology (FST):  
    Courses such as Environmental Pollution, Solar Energy Technology, Conservation Biology, and Energy Resources and the Environment contribute directly to understanding climate challenges. 
    Source: https://www.ukm.my/prasiswazahfst/bukupanduanprasiswazah/
  • Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment (FKAB): 
    Climate related courses such as Solid Waste Management, Sustainable Urban Planning, Renewable Energy and Energy Management, and Environmental Science equip students with technical knowledge for implementing sustainable infrastructure and engineering solutions.
    Source: https://www.ukm.my/jurutera/ms/bukupanduanprasiswazah2023/
  1. Environmental Education Measures

Under SDG 13, UKM has established a comprehensive framework for climate education, engaging students and the wider community through both formal academic programs and outreach campaigns. These efforts are designed to provide insights into climate risks, impacts, and early warning systems, as well as promote strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and impact reduction.

 Local Education Programs on Climate:

  • Jejak Karbon OneDay Program (8 July 2023)  

The Environmental Management Center (EMC), part of the Institute of Climate Change (IPI), organized the “Program Jejak Karbon” at Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi Gombak. This program raised climate awareness among students by focusing on carbon footprint reduction. UKM students played key roles as facilitators, guiding participants through activities aimed at reinforcing the importance of minimizing environmental impact. The program’s impact was evaluated based on student feedback and presentations, contributing to ongoing climate education efforts.

(Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 14 Page 4)

Jejak Karbon OneDay Program
  • IPI Seminar Series 1/2023: “Bukan Sekadar Data Cuaca” (10 February 2023)  

Following a visit to METMalaysia in January, the Environmental Management Center (EMC) hosted a virtual forum titled “Forum Bukan Sekadar Data Cuaca” via Webex on February 10, 2023. This forum aimed to educate participants on the availability and functional applications of METMalaysia’s climate and weather data, emphasizing its relevance in areas such as insurance, criminal investigations, and aviation. Moderated by Dr. Ooi Chel Gee from UKM, with panelists Encik Ambun Dindang and Dr. Ahmad Fairudz Jamaluddin from METMalaysia, the session attracted nearly 400 participants from government, private sectors, and community groups. This initiative reflects EMC’s commitment to integrating climate data into local educational programs, broadening the understanding of its practical impacts across various fields. 

(Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 13  Page 5).

IPI Seminar Series 1/2023: “Bukan Sekadar Data Cuaca”
  • Webinar Climate Leaders: Leading the Action Against Climate Change Series 2 – “University’s Role In The Climate Change Battle: Leadership From ASEAN Universities” (20 March 2023). 

As part of UKM ongoing leadership in climate education, the Webinar Climate Leaders: Leading the Action Against Climate Change brought together ASEAN universities to discuss their roles in addressing climate change. Moderated by Associate Prof. Dr. Sharina Abdul Halim from UKM, the event featured panelists from the University of the Philippines, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Mahidol University, and the Institute for Development Studies in Sabah. Over 400 participants from universities, private companies, and the broader community engaged in this dialogue, emphasizing the importance of collaborative leadership in tackling climate issues. 

(Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 13  Page 7).

Webinar Climate Leaders: Leading the Action Against Climate Change Series 2 – “University’s Role In The Climate Change Battle: Leadership From ASEAN Universities”
  • IPI Seminar Series 3/2023: “The Role of Remote Sensing in Monitoring Floods and Natural Disasters” (11 April 2023)

This seminar, organized by IPI and chaired by Assoc. Prof. Ts. Gs. Sr. Dr. Khairul Nizam Abdul Maulud, highlighted the role of remote sensing in monitoring natural disasters like floods. A total of 112 participants from across Malaysia took part in the event. Dr. Muhammed Kamal Azidy Musa from the Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA) discussed advancements in satellite technology and their applications for environmental management. The seminar provided valuable insights into how geoinformatics and remote sensing are pivotal for real time disaster response and climate adaptation.

(Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 13  Page 8).

IPI Seminar Series 3/2023: “The Role of Remote Sensing in Monitoring Floods and Natural Disasters”
  • Scientific Seminar: Air Quality Forecasting “Using Machine Learning Methods to Forecast Air Quality: A Case Study in Macao” (1 November 2023)  

This seminar, presented by Prof. Thomas Lei from the University of Saint Joseph in Macao, explored the use of machine learning methods to predict air quality. The case study from Macao offered UKM students and researchers practical insights into how data driven technologies can be applied to monitor air quality and predict future pollution levels, enhancing early warning systems for public health and environmental management 

(Source: https://www.facebook.com/story.php/?story_fbid=825157462951078&id=100063704942043&paipv=0&eav=AfYOce0HkNPVMjmbR5sbLFoPxksfSVQfUXt3sF3X8mOrSDSgZmOYspOPzIneuaJIBc&_rdr).

Scientific Seminar: Air Quality Forecasting “Using Machine Learning Methods to Forecast Air Quality: A Case Study in Macao
  • The Community Environment and Climate Change Program (KAPI) Series 1/2023 (25 June 2023)  

The Environmental Management Center (EMC), in collaboration with UKM-YSD, JMB Seri Tanjung, and ESSA, organized the “The Community Environment and Climate Change Program (KAPI) Siri 1/2023” at Apartment Seri Tanjung, Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor. This initiative aimed to raise recycling awareness within the local community by encouraging residents to bring recyclable materials, which were then purchased by Trash4Cash, resulting in a collection of 944 kg of items, including paper, boxes, bicycles, and even washing machines. Feedback from participants highlighted newfound awareness about recyclable items, demonstrating the program’s impact in broadening community understanding of sustainable practices.

(Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 13  Page 17).

The Community Environment and Climate Change Program (KAPI) Series 1/2023
  • Carbon Footprint Calculator Program (10 January 2023)  

This program, organized by the Institute of Climate Change at UKM, provided participants with the tools and knowledge to calculate their carbon footprints. Held at DECTAR UKM, the program emphasized the importance of individual contributions to reducing carbon emissions. Participants learned how to measure their daily activities’ environmental impact, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role in combating climate change. This initiative is part of UKM’s broader effort to create an informed and environmentally responsible community.

Carbon Footprint Calculator Program
  • Carbon Footprint Program (8 July 2023 & 14 November 2023)  

The Institut Alam Sekitar dan Pembangunan (LESTARI) at UKM launched the “Program Jejak Karbon di Sekolah” to raise awareness about greenhouse gas emissions and promote environmental literacy among students. Led by Gs. Dr. Aida Soraya Shamsuddin and a team of researchers, the program began with activities at Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi Gombak (INTEGOM) on July 8, engaging 50 students and five teachers in projects like creating hanging gardens and recycling used cooking oil. It continued at Sekolah Menengah Agama Persekutuan Kajang (SMAP Kajang) on July 22, involving 40 students and seven teachers in activities such as hanging gardens, fertigation, and hydroponics, with support from UKM eco-volunteers. Progress is monitored biweekly, and students will present their results at UKM’s Akademia Siber Teknopolis on November 14. (Source: https://www.ukm.my/seadpri/?p=1714 ).

Carbon Footprint Program
  • Tree Planting Program for Sekatarakyat’s 50th Golden Jubilee (18 November 2023)  

   To celebrate Sekatarakyat’s 50th anniversary, UKM Institute of Climate Change (IPI) organized a tree planting event at Taman Botani Bangi, UKM. The event featured handson tree planting activities and educated participants on the importance of tree planting for environmental conservation. By bringing together members of Sekatarakyat, UKM, and the local community, the program fostered partnerships and a sense of shared responsibility for environmental stewardship. The initiative effectively highlighted the role of tree planting in climate action and conservation.

(Source: https://suaramerdeka.com.my/sekatarakyat-anjur-program-penanaman-pokok-sempena-sambutan-jubli-emas/ ).

Tree Planting Program for Sekatarakyat’s 50th Golden Jubilee
  • Climate Action Festival (10 January 2023)  

Hosted by the UKMYSD Chair of Sustainability and the Institute of Climate Change, the Climate Action Festival at DECTAR UKM combined educational talks, exhibitions, and interactive workshops on sustainability and climate change. The festival also featured the launch of the MyIKLIM database, a key resource for climate data in Malaysia. Participants engaged in activities such as recycling initiatives and sustainability themed workshops, making the festival both informative and enjoyable. The event attracted a diverse audience, successfully promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness of climate action within the community.

Climate Action Festival

Source: Institute of Climate Change Bulletin Volume 13 

Source: https://www.ukm.my/kelestarian/data/sdg13/VOL-142023-Bulletin-IPI.pdf