Eco-Mubarak: Celebrating Diversity and Sustainability

This year two significant events, Earth Day and Hari Raya Aidilfitri presented a unique opportunity for the Sunway College Johor Bahru Campus community to get together in a show of unity and appreciation for our planet and each other. This double celebration coined Eco-Mubarak, embodied the values of environmental conservation and inclusivity, a first of its kind to be held on campus.

Held at the campus Courtyard, Eco-Mubarak saw students led by their general studies (MPU) lecturers working with Student Services and the Community Outreach Club in a massive collaboration to demonstrate our commitment towards sustainability while embracing cultural diversity.

The event featured a range of engaging activities designed to highlight our dedication towards sustainable practices and to promote the Malay traditions associated with the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Notable activities included the E-Waste Collection Drive, the Upcycling Project for used clothes, plastic bag trade-in, ketupat weaving, traditional games and an Earth Day Quiz.

"Our used clothing collection station which operated from 2 May to 8 May 2023 for the Upcycling Project, received remarkable response. The college community donated a total of seven large bags of clothes, which were transformed into unique items during the event, showcasing an excellent way to reduce waste through sustainable practices," explained Ms Geeta Ann, MPU Coordinator and organising chair.

To highlight the issue of plastic pollution, students were encouraged to trade in plastic bags and be rewarded with eco-friendly surprise gifts. Students could exchange five plastic bags for a reusable bag and for ten plastic bags, they were rewarded with an eco-cutlery set. This initiative not only enabled the responsible collection and management of single-use plastic bags but also promoted the use of friendlier, sustainable alternatives.

Meanwhile, the Earth Day Quiz tested participants' level of environmental awareness. The questions probed participants to reflect on their general knowledge of important environmental issues and personal sustainability practices which hopefully opened their eyes to how much more each of us could contribute towards environmental responsibility.

The Malay traditions and culture booths offered students the chance to learn Ketupat weaving as well as enjoy traditional games such as 'Congkak' and 'Capteh' each presenting its own challenge, yet well enjoyed by all who participated in the spirit of friendly competition and good fun. Of course, no celebration would be complete without food, and the food stalls at Eco-Mubarak offered everyone their fix of some all-time local favourites including nasi lemak, keropok and Malay kuih.

Eco-Mubarak fostered a sense of unity and shared responsibility towards the environment, while encouraging inclusivity within our campus community.