On 7 September 2024 organized by the Social Security Management Center of Excellence (SOSCoE), Business Management Study Center (SBM) together with the student's Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management Minor in Social Security Management (BHRM Minor SSM) at Pantai Cunang, Morib, Selangor. Organized to foster environmental stewardship, the program united stakeholders in a shared commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of Pantai Cunang while fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual learning.

The Cunang Beach Green Sustainability Program was organized with three primary objectives:

1. Fostering Collaboration: To cultivate the spirit of cooperation among Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) students, SOCSO staff, and the Orang Asli community, working together to maintain the cleanliness and vibrancy of Pantai Cunang.
2. Environmental Education: To enhance knowledge and understanding of the importance of preserving the environment and keeping it clean.
3. Promoting Green Practices: To encourage effective and environmentally friendly activities that support sustainable green practices for future generations.

The program brought together an impressive array of participants, including members of the Orang Asli community of Pantai Cunang, Morib, students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management Minor in Social Security Management (BHRM Minor SSM) program, the Jungle School Gombak community, 30 Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) students based in Selangor, and members of SOCSO.

A Day of Meaningful Activities

The program was filled with engaging and impactful activities aimed at fostering environmental awareness and building a sense of community. Key activities included:

• Mangrove Tree Planting: Participants planted mangrove trees to help protect the coastline, reduce soil erosion, and support local biodiversity.
• Beach Cleaning: Volunteers collaborated to remove litter and debris from the shoreline, ensuring the beach remained clean and inviting for both the local community and wildlife.
• Children’s Coloring Competition: To instill a love for the environment at a young age, a coloring competition was organized for children, centered around environmental themes.

Beyond the environmental activities, the program also emphasized cultural exchange and learning. Participants had the opportunity to interact with the Orang Asli community of Tanjung Sepat, engaging in activities such as:

• Learning Traditional Handicrafts: Participants learned to weave handicrafts and crochet, guided by skilled artisans from the Mah Meri Tribe.
• Orang Asli Language Workshop: The Orang Asli community shared their language with participants, offering a glimpse into their unique heritage.
• Cultural Performances: The highlight of the day was a mesmerizing cultural performance by the Orang Asli community, showcasing their rich traditions and vibrant culture.

Distinguished Guests and Partners

The program’s success was made possible through the collaboration of various organizations and agencies. The event was officiated by Mr. John Riba Marin, Deputy Chief Executive (Operations) of SOCSO, and graced by the presence of Prof. Associate Dr. Shuhymee bin Ahmad, representing the Social Security Management Center of Excellence (SOSCoE).

Other notable attendees included representatives from:

• The Prevention, Medical, and Rehabilitation Division of SOCSO,
• The Welfare and Sports Association of SOCSO (KESPO),
• The Jungle School Gombak,
• The Kuala Langat Municipal Council (MPKL),
• The Orang Asli Development Department (JAKOA),
• The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), and
• Tok Batin, the leader of the Orang Asli Village in Tanjung Sepat.

This strong representation from various organizations highlighted the program’s collaborative nature and its commitment to fostering partnerships for the greater good.

Bringing Communities Together

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Cunang Beach Green Sustainability Program was the way it brought together people from different backgrounds and walks of life. The program fostered a sense of unity among UUM students, SOCSO members, and the Orang Asli community, all working towards a common goal of environmental preservation.

The interaction with the Orang Asli community was particularly impactful. Participants were able to gain a deeper appreciation for the Orang Asli way of life, learning about their traditions, skills, and perspectives on living in harmony with nature. This cultural exchange not only enriched the participants’ understanding but also strengthened the bond between the urban and indigenous communities.

Promoting Environmental Stewardship

At its core, the Cunang Beach Green Sustainability Program was a call to action for environmental stewardship. By engaging participants in hands-on activities like mangrove planting and beach cleaning, the program demonstrated the importance of taking tangible steps to protect the environment.

Participants left the program with a greater understanding of how their actions, no matter how small, can contribute to the larger goal of green sustainability. The program also emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to preserve the environment, encouraging participants to adopt environmentally friendly practices in their daily lives.

Testimonials and Reflections

Participants and organizers alike expressed their enthusiasm for the program and its outcomes. A UUM student remarked, “It was such a meaningful experience to work alongside the Orang Asli community and learn from their knowledge of the environment. It has inspired me to take more proactive steps to protect our planet.”

A representative from SOCSO shared, “This program is a great example of how collaboration can lead to impactful initiatives. It’s not just about cleaning the beach or planting trees; it’s about fostering a mindset of sustainability and responsibility.”

The Orang Asli community also expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to share their culture and contribute to the program. One community member stated, “We are happy to welcome everyone to Pantai Cunang and share our traditions. It is important to us that we work together to preserve our home for future generations.”

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

The Cunang Beach Green Sustainability Program concluded with a renewed commitment to environmental conservation and community building. The program served as a reminder that preserving the planet is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all segments of society.

By fostering collaboration, promoting cultural exchange, and encouraging environmentally friendly practices, the program achieved its objectives and left a lasting impact on all who participated. It also set a strong example for similar initiatives in the future, highlighting the power of teamwork and shared purpose in driving positive change.

Conclusion

The Cunang Beach Green Sustainability Program was more than just an event—it was a movement to inspire and empower individuals to take responsibility for the environment. Through its activities and collaborations, the program succeeded in cultivating a spirit of cooperation, enhancing environmental awareness, and promoting sustainable practices.

As the sun set over Pantai Cunang on 9 September 2024, it marked not just the end of the program, but the beginning of a collective journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. With programs like these, the vision of preserving Malaysia’s natural beauty for generations to come is not just a dream, but an achievable reality.