2.3 – Student hunger

2.3.2 – Students hunger interventions

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is deeply committed to addressing food insecurity and ensuring that no student on campus goes hungry. In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger, UKM has implemented a series of comprehensive interventions aimed at alleviating hunger and ensuring access to nutritious food for everyone within the university community. These initiatives leverage both traditional approaches and innovative solutions to create a supportive and inclusive environment where food security is prioritized.

FOOD BANKS 

UKM supplies food to all its citizens in the form of food banks located in most of its faculties and departments, such as Faculty of Social Sciences (FSSK), Hospital Canselor Tuanku Mukhriz (HCTM), the Faculty of Islamic Studies (FPI), and the Faculty of Science & Technology (FST). 

Gerobok Rezeki

One of the food banks known as Gerobok Rezeki, is a cornerstone of UKM’s efforts to support students facing food insecurity. This initiative involves strategically placing shelves stocked with essential food items in prominent locations across the campus. The FoodBank primarily offers canned goods, noodles, rice, dairy products and hygiene items, all of which are critical in meeting the basic needs of the university community. 

The FoodBank shelves have been thoughtfully positioned in multiple high-traffic areas on campus, including Bangunan Pusanika, the University’s Mosque and various faculty buildings such as UKM KL Campus. This strategic placement ensures that the food items are easily accessible to those who need them, promoting a culture of inclusivity and support. The visibility of these food banks also helps reduce the stigma associated with food insecurity, encouraging more individuals to seek the assistance they need. This program has directly eased the university’s burden in maintaining the welfare of students, especially regarding food supply and has realized the need for adequate nutrition among students as well as supporting the aspirations of sustainable development goals for national institutions.

Weekly Food Sponsorship by MAIWP  

A significant contribution to UKM’s hunger intervention initiatives comes from the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (MAIWP). MAIWP has been instrumental in sponsoring food packs for students, particularly targeting Muslim students in the Faculty of Health Sciences (FSK). Every Thursday, the council provides 150 nutritious food packs, ensuring that a substantial number of students receive regular meals.

This initiative is not only a critical support mechanism for students facing food insecurity but also a demonstration of strong community involvement in addressing hunger. By receiving these weekly food packs, students are able to focus more on their academic pursuits without the distraction and stress of worrying about their next meal. The programme exemplifies a successful collaboration between UKM and external organizations in supporting student well-being and academic success.

Rahmah Student Menu

The Menu Siswa Rahmah, introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education in 2023, aims to reduce living costs for students, particularly those from the B40 group. In line with this initiative, UKM has implemented the menu at an affordable price of RM3.50, offering nutritious and quality meals. This initiative significantly impacts students by helping them save money, allowing them to allocate more funds for other essential daily needs. It fosters financial relief while maintaining a focus on students’ well-being.

Food Voucher Distribution  

One of the pivotal interventions at UKM is the distribution of food vouchers or known as Dompet Siswa , which play a significant role in supporting both students in meeting their dietary needs. These vouchers, redeemable at various campus cafeterias, convenience stores and participating contributors, provide a practical and immediate solution for those facing food insecurity.

UKM’s dedication to eliminating hunger on campus is evident through its comprehensive hunger intervention strategies. By implementing food voucher programmes and fostering partnerships with external contributors like MAIWP, UKM ensures that both students have continuous access to food, regardless of their financial situation. These interventions not only address immediate hunger but also contribute to a healthier, more inclusive, and supportive campus environment. As UKM continues to prioritize food security, it reaffirms its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, ensuring that all members of its community can thrive academically and personally without the burden of hunger.