16.2 – University Governance Measures

16.2.2 – Students’ Union

The Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Students’ Union as known as Kesatuan Mahasiswa UKM (KMUKM) is a student-led body that represents the collective voice of students at UKM. This independent students’ union advocates for students’ rights, welfare, and interests, engaging with university administration on issues affecting the student community. It also plays a vital role in promoting student activism, organising events, and fostering leadership, ensuring that students are empowered and actively involved in decision-making processes that impact their academic and social environment at UKM. The union fosters a sense of community and responsibility among students, encouraging them to be actively involved in university life and governance.

In 2023, KMUKM’s leadership line led by Badrul Alif Naqiuddin Badrulzaman as President, was given the mandate after winning the Campus Election held in the same year.

Source : https://www.ukm.my/beritaukm/barisan-kesatuan-mahasiswa-sesi-2022-2023-terima-watikah/

Governance Input

KMUKM plays a vital role in providing governance input to UKM, ensuring that student voices are represented in the university’s decision-making processes. In order to realise this, KMUKM has student representatives on key university committees and governing bodies, including the Senate. Through these platforms, KMUKM provides input on policies affecting student life, academic programs, student welfare, and campus services. This representation ensures that students’ perspectives are directly considered in the university’s decision-making processes. 

For example, in 2023, KMUKM brought forth a proposal and recommendations from the UKM Catholic Student Representatives regarding religious holiday leave to the university administration. One of the key proposals was the exemption from lectures on December 26, 2023, the day after Christmas, to accommodate Catholic students. This proposal, which was elevated to the highest university level, was successfully approved, allowing Catholic students the opportunity to fully celebrate their religious festivities.

Source : https://www.facebook.com/share/p/eapwdyKL7HqVyrhY/ 

This successful initiative highlights KMUKM’s crucial role in providing governance input that reflects the diverse needs of the student body. By advocating for religious inclusivity and ensuring that the voices of all students are heard, KMUKM directly contributes to shaping a more inclusive and understanding academic environment at UKM. This also underscores the importance of student representation in university governance, demonstrating how advocacy and engagement can lead to impactful institutional change.

Support for Students

KMUKM provides crucial financial support for students by sponsoring funds for student-organised events. This financial assistance allows students to host activities, workshops, and programs that enhance their university experience. By helping students organise these events, KMUKM fosters a sense of community, encourages leadership, and supports the development of essential skills outside the classroom. This financial backing ensures that students can pursue initiatives that align with their interests and academic goals, contributing to a more dynamic and engaging campus environment.

In 2023, KMUKM provided financial assistance of RM1800 (USD 410.93) to the MyAgrosis Club to support the Urban Agrotech Entrepreneur Project at the Botanical Garden site. Among the crops cultivated were rock melons using hydroponic methods, eggplants through fertigation, and oyster mushrooms. This project required substantial funding to be realised. With this financial support, the project’s development was able to proceed smoothly.

Social Activities

KMUKM is also actively involved in organising and supporting a wide range of social activities that contribute to student engagement and community building at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). These activities are designed to foster a sense of belonging, promote cultural diversity, and enhance student life beyond academics.

2023 51st UKM Convocation Carnival

KMUKM is also actively involved in organising and supporting a wide range of social activities that contribute to student engagement and community building at UKM. One of the standout events was the 51st UKM Convocation Carnival, held from 24th to 30th November, 2023. Led by KMUKM, also known as the Convocation Secretariat, the carnival attracted an extraordinary turnout of approximately 10,000 attendees, including students, alumni, UKM staff, and the local community. A variety of activities enlivened the entire duration of the carnival, including the vibrant Neon Run Night, engaging TikTok competitions, cultural performances, and spiritual programs such as Malam Rindu Ya Rasulullah and Daie Siswa. Each event brought unique energy and depth, offering something for everyone while celebrating both creativity and cultural heritage. 

This Convocation Carnival served as a key initiative under the Student Empowerment Agenda, granting students full autonomy to manage and execute the event. Beyond honing entrepreneurial potential among students, this program is also part of UKM’s broader revenue generation and strategic agenda, requiring an integrated approach with contributions from all stakeholders. Furthermore, the carnival empowers students to innovate and create business opportunities, equipping them to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

Source : https://www.ukm.my/beritaukm/karnival-konvokesyen-ukm-raih-sambutan-luar-biasa/

The Inter-Faculty Sports (SAF) 2023

The Inter-Faculty Sports (SAF) 2023, organised by KMUKM from June 24 to July 6, 2023, is a prime example of the union’s commitment not only to physical wellness but also to fostering social connections within the university. In addition to offering competitive sports like football, volleyball, badminton, frisbee, dodgeball, tug of war, netball, basketball, athletics, chess, and e-sports like Mobile Legends, the event acted as a social platform where students from various faculties could engage, network, and build friendships.

SAF reflects KMUKM’s broader dedication to organising social activities that strengthen bonds within the UKM community. By blending physical activity with social interaction, SAF promoted a healthy, active lifestyle while encouraging teamwork, collaboration, and unity. Through such events, KMUKM supports a socially cohesive environment where students can find common ground, enjoy shared experiences, and foster a stronger, more connected university community.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/p/Sukan-Antara-Fakulti-Ukm-100093064827396/