Curtin Malaysia drives environmental awareness with Microplastic Awareness Programme

Miri, Sarawak – 20 November 2024 – A pioneering microplastic awareness programme, spearheaded by Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia), recently captivated students, teachers, and parents at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kuala Baram. The initiative, part of Curtin Malaysia’s Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP), aims to shed light on the alarming presence of microplastics in commercial fish and their potential impact on public health.

The programme, led by environmental scientist and Associate Professor of Civil and Construction Engineering Tony Hadibarata, is an extension of Curtin Malaysia’s research project titled ‘Monitoring the Occurrence of Microplastic Contamination in Commercial Fish and Its Public Health Knowledge and Perception’. With a dynamic team of lecturers, postgraduate students, and school staff, the initiative has taken an engaging and educational approach to addressing a pressing environmental issue.

Key members of the project team include Dr. Muhammad Noor Hazwan Jusoh, Dr. Paran Gani, postgraduate student volunteers Audrey Primus, Aina Maisarah Mohammad Mahathir, and Upeksha Gayangani Jayasekara Polwaththe Gedara.

During the programme, the school students enthusiastically participated in hands-on activities such as identifying microplastics in sand samples, interactive quizzes, and eye-opening presentations on how microplastics infiltrate marine ecosystems and the food chain. The sessions were designed to not only inform but also inspire action.

“Microplastics are a hidden danger threatening our health and ecosystems. Educating the younger generation is critical to combating this crisis,” said Dr. Hadibarata. “The enthusiasm shown by the students has been incredible. It is a hopeful sign that they are ready to become champions for the environment.”

SK Kuala Baram’s headmistress, Nancy Anak Opi, lauded the programme’s impact, stating, “This has been an enlightening experience for our students and staff. The hands-on approach made the learning process both enjoyable and impactful, and we are delighted to see students developing a genuine interest in environmental protection.”

The programme succeeded in sparking behavioural change among participants, who pledged to reduce plastic use, embrace recycling, and champion sustainable practices. Post-event surveys revealed a significant increase in environmental awareness and a commitment to reducing plastic pollution, particularly among the students.

Representatives from the Miri District Education Office praised the initiative’s innovative approach and expressed hopes for its expansion to other schools in the region, particularly those in remote areas.

The success of this programme underscores Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to translating cutting-edge research into community impact. It also highlights the invaluable contributions of postgraduate volunteers, who played pivotal roles in facilitating the programme.

This initiative is a significant step toward raising awareness about microplastic pollution in Miri and beyond. By equipping the younger generation with knowledge and fostering sustainable habits, Curtin Malaysia continues to lead the charge in environmental stewardship.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Prof. Hazwan delivering an engaging lecture on microplastics and their dangers to human health and the environment

Students participating in hands-on microplastic identification activities using sand samples