14.5 – Maintaining a Local Ecosystem

14.5.4 – Collaboration for Shared Aquatic Ecosystems

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) exemplifies its commitment to sustainable aquatic stewardship through impactful collaborations, uniting key stakeholders in initiatives that protect shared aquatic ecosystems and support SDG 14: Life Below Water. Events such as Hari Denai Alam Program and Larian Denai Sungai Langat 2023 Program bring together government bodies, NGOs, and local communities in efforts to preserve vital waterways like the Langat and Klang rivers. These initiatives incorporate tree planting, river cleaning, educational trips, and community-driven conservation activities, fostering awareness, and inspiring collective responsibility for aquatic health. By championing these partnerships, UKM not only advances local conservation goals but also cultivates a generation of advocates dedicated to the resilience and preservation of Malaysia’s aquatic ecosystems.

1. Hari Denai Alam Program

The Hari Denai Alam Program event, officiated by the Malaysian Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), is a collaborative initiative that supports SDG 14: Life Below Water by focusing on the conservation and sustainable use of the Langat River and its aquatic ecosystems. Organised by the Institute of Climate Change (IPI) at UKM, the event involved tree planting and river cleaning activities aimed at promoting the health and biodiversity of the Langat River. This initiative brought together key partners, including Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad (ANGKASA), Friends of Rivers Malaysia (FORM), the UKM-YSD Chair for Sustainability, and Koperasi UNIKEB Berhad, highlighting a strong network of stakeholders committed to protecting shared aquatic resources. By fostering community involvement and sustainable practices, this collaboration exemplifies UKM’s dedication to aquatic ecosystem stewardship, aligning with national environmental goals and the global targets of SDG 14.

2. River Educational Trip to Sungai Klang 

The River Educational Trip to Sungai Klang, is a collaborative initiative by UKM Environmental Management Centre (EMC), part of the Institute of Climate Change (IPI), in partnership with Selangor Maritime Gateway, is an immersive program aimed at enhancing awareness of river ecosystem preservation in support of SDG 14: Life Below Water. This interactive experience allows participants to learn about the biodiversity, pollution challenges, and restoration efforts of Sungai Klang, fostering a deeper appreciation for sustainable water resource management. By involving participants in hands-on activities and showcasing initiatives to rehabilitate the river, the program emphasises environmental stewardship and the importance of collective action in protecting aquatic ecosystems. This collaboration not only strengthens UKM commitment to sustainable practices but also inspires a generation of advocates for aquatic conservation.

3. Larian Denai Sungai Langat 2023 Program

On 23 September 2023, the Larian Denai Sungai Langat 2023 Program was officiated by Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainabilitu (NRES), Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii, at Dataran Panggung Seni. Organised by UKM in collaboration with Friends of the River Malaysia (FoRM), this event commemorated World Rivers Day and aligned with SDG 14: Life Below Water by emphasising river conservation. A total of 574 participants from diverse backgrounds joined the 5km and 15km run, which aimed to raise awareness about river protection and the shared responsibility of safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. Through waste collection activities along Sungai Langat, the event encouraged active participation in environmental stewardship and highlighted the importance of collective action in preserving rivers for future generations.