By Asmahanim Amir
Pix Ikhwan Hashim

BANGI, 2 June, 2015 – Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International Affairs), Prof Dato’ Ir Dr Riza Atiq Abdullah OK Rahmat suggested that all students and staff of The National University of Malaysia (UKM) use bicycles on campus to help reduce Global Warming.

Prof Dr Riza Atiq said the widespread use of motor vehicles will lead to spiralling levels of carbon dioxide and temperature rise which can change the weather.

“I’m a transport engineer. So if 24,000 students and 2,000 lecturers of UKM use motorcycles or cars, I estimated at least 5 tons of carbon dioxide are produced in one day.

“And that’s only warming up the engine before the vehicle moves that will lead to a warming climate. Even now we’re feeling the heat. This is one reason why our weather is getting warmer,” he said when speaking at UKM Mountain Bike Challenge 2 & Fun Ride 2015 programme here on May 31st.

He said besides help to reduce global warming, cycling also can also improve your health.

“So I want to suggest that UKM form A Cycling Club so that more staff and students use bicycles on campus,” he explained.

The UKM Mountain Bike Challenge 2 & Fun Ride 2015 programme organised by the Faculty of Education brought together more than 250 entries including from the local community.

This programme is mandatory for students of the faculty to complete their course of study.

There were six contested categories; Men’s Open at 34 kilometres (km), Women’s  Open (22km), Men’s Junior (28km), Veteran Juniors (22km), Senior Veterans (16 km) and Fun Ride (15km).

The champion of the Men’s Open category, Zaenal Fanani, 29, from Surabaya, Indonesia, said he took part for fun.

“I found out about this competition through a friend who lives here and came here on Thursday (May 28) with two other friends just to participate. This is my favourite event and I often join him in Indonesia.

“I hope I can get another opportunity to come to Malaysia and join another cycling event,” Zaenal said.

He took home RM500 cash, a medal and a certificate.