KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian universities are stepping up to assist communities affected by recent floods, utilizing their expertise to act as catalysts in post-disaster recovery. This initiative, highlighted by Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Ts Dr Zaliman Sauli, underscores the evolving role of universities in society.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the recent floods that hit several states have caused significant damage to infrastructure and disrupted countless lives. As the water levels recede, the true impact is becoming apparent, with homes, schools, mosques, kindergartens, and personal belongings severely affected. In this challenging time, Malaysian universities are emerging as beacons of hope, leveraging their resources and knowledge to aid in recovery efforts.
Prof Zaliman emphasized that higher education institutions are transcending their traditional roles as mere educational entities. They are increasingly assuming social responsibilities that directly benefit communities. UniMAP, in particular, has demonstrated a strong commitment to assisting flood-affected areas, with academic staff and researchers from various disciplines actively participating in relief efforts.
The university’s initiative, part of its “UniMAP for Society” vision, focuses on bridging the gap between academic knowledge and community needs. The assistance provided by UniMAP includes technical help in electrical, electronic, mechanical, and civil engineering fields, such as repairing damaged electronics, rewiring homes, and fixing furniture.
Prof Zaliman also mentioned that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for all sectors to support communities impacted by natural disasters. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of cooperation among the government, institutions, and the public for a successful recovery process. This sentiment was echoed by the Higher Education Minister, who stressed that universities should act as agents of social change, offering quality education and contributing to community development.
A notable example of this commitment is the collaboration between UniMAP and Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). The two institutions have joined forces in post-flood relief efforts in Kedah, focusing on repairing public facilities in Jitra. Such collaborations not only expedite recovery but also showcase the impact of unified efforts by educational institutions.
Prof Zaliman further explained that these partnerships exemplify how the combined expertise and resources of various institutions can address problems more effectively and comprehensively. The involvement of academic staff, researchers, and students also enriches their practical experience.
Through initiatives like these, universities are redefining their relationship with communities by sharing knowledge, technology, and human resources. This proves that universities are not solely places of learning but also institutions that recognize and act upon local needs.
He concluded that the efforts by these universities illustrate the potential of higher education institutions to drive change and tackle significant challenges such as natural disasters.