Smart Flood: Empowering Communities through Advanced Flood Management Technologies

Kampung Padang Jawa, Shah Alam, was severely affected by the big flood in December 2021, causing more than 30 families to move to temporary shelters. Padang Jawa’s location on the banks of the Klang River is among the causal factors.

To address the problem, the College of Computing, Informatics, and Mathematics (KPPIM), UiTM Shah Alam, organised the Smart Flood programme under the Service Learning Malaysia–University for Society (SULAM) initiative on 16th December 2023. The programme used an intelligent technology approach and information system to efficiently manage and overcome the flood problem using sensors, data analysis, and ICT infrastructure to monitor weather conditions, water flow, rivers, and environmental conditions at risk of flooding. A total of 140 students from the Bachelor of Information Systems (Hons) Intelligent Systems Engineering and the Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Multimedia Computing were guided to implement aneffective flood management strategy. This included the installation of Flood Detectorson the banks of the Klang River with features such as the Geographic Information System (GIS), Communication and Emergency Alternative Routes, and mobile applications to report conditions of flood, receive warnings, and access important information. A relief log was also available to display data on relief aids being donated and stored.

The initiative sought to empower and serve the community through volunteer activitieswhile contributing to student academic and professional development and supportingthe aspirations of SDG 13 (Climate Action).

https://news.uitm.edu.my/uitm-merevolusikan-pengurusan-banjir-di-kampung-padang-jawa-dengan-teknologi-pintar/

Hydrological Assessment and Mitigation Strategies for the Batang Saribas Basin

UiTM researchers embarked on a project that evaluates flood extent in the Batang Saribas basin and proposes effective flood mitigation strategies. The study conducted a comprehensive hydrological assessment and hydraulic modelling of the river basin, which covers approximately 2200 square kilometres in Sarawak, Malaysia. There search will generate detailed flood maps to better understand flood patterns and impacts and propose structural and non-structural measures for flood mitigation. These measures will address issues such as frequent river overflow, inundation of villages during high tide and storm events, rapid village development, and environmental challenges like soil erosion and poor drainage. The project, aiming atimproving flood management and enhancing resilience to climate-induced flooding,aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13, which centres on taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Understanding Decomposition and Ecosystem Dynamics in Antarctica: Impact of Penguin Carcasses on Soil Chemistry and Climate Resilience

A research project led by UiTM researchers investigated the Necrobiome community structure and soil chemistry profiles associated with penguin carcasses and its correlation with bone density under Antarctica climate. The study sought to understand how penguin carcasses decompose in the harsh Antarctic environment and its effects on soil chemistry and bone density. The research shed light on howclimate extremes can impact decomposition processes by analysing the necrobiome (the community of microorganisms involved in decomposition) and soil chemistry profiles. This has significant implications for carbon cycling and ecosystem health inpolar regions, which are increasingly affected by climate change. The findings will contribute to a better understanding of how climate variations influence decomposition and nutrient cycling, informing climate models and strategies for climate action. This research aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) by enhancing knowledge of climate impacts and supporting efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change in vulnerable ecosystems.

UiTM’s Development of a Compact Mission Controller for Cloud-Seeding Rockets

The project “Development of Proof of Concept Compact Mission Controller (Phase I) for Cloud Seeding Rocket” focused on creating an advanced, compact mission controller for cloud seeding rockets. This project aimed to develop a prototype that can precisely manage cloud seeding operations to enhance precipitation and address water scarcity. Phase I of the project involved building and testing this proof-of-concept controller to demonstrate its effectiveness and functionality. By improving the efficiency of cloud seeding technology, the project supports climate adaptation strategies, particularly in areas experiencing extreme weather conditions and water shortages. The research aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) as it aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change by potentially increasing rainfall and improving water management practices. The innovation contributes to sustainable climate solutions and showcases UiTM’s commitment to advancing environmental resilience through technological development.

Rural Empowerment and Community Help (REaCH) initiatives at Kg Pulau Manis, Serada, Kuala Terengganu

On 10th June 2023, the Rural Empowerment and Community Help (REaCH) carnival washeld at the Tok Pulau Manis Gallery, Kampung Pulau Manis, Serada, Kuala Terengganu. The Director of Yayasan TM and the Dean of ICAN from the College of Engineering UiTMShah Alam, presided over the carnival’s opening ceremony. Over 600 participants from Kampung Pulau Manis and nearby areas participated in the carnival, which featured events such as the opening of recycling and community gardens, plogging races, and speeches themed around “Love the Earth,” as well as a “Waste to Art” exhibition which highlighted the importance of recycling and reducing waste. To sum up, all activities within the REaCH initiative were designed with the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in mind, with a strong focus on climate action, promoting biodiversity protection, sustainable resource management, climate change mitigation, and environmental stewardship, all of which are critical to achieving SDG 13.

https://news.uitm.edu.my/rural-empowerment-community-carnival-rural-empowerment -and-community-help-reach-initiatives-at-kg-pulau-manis-serada-kuala-terengganu/

Malaysian Launch of the 2023 Lancet Countdown Report on Health and Climate Change

The Malaysian launch of the 2023 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change report was co-organised by UiTM Selangor Branch, Al-Sultan Abdullah Hospital UiTM, the Institute of Leadership and Development (ILD) UiTM, the Faculty of Medicine UiTM, the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA), and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT). The event was attended by over 500 participants and aimed to raise awareness and drive action towards climate change mitigation and adaptation, which aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13. The programme involved highlevel collaboration and organisation across institutions and government bodies, focusingon launching a vital health and climate change report, which fits well within the governance and operational framework. The report presented several key findings: health hazards and their exposures and impacts; adaptation, planning, and resilience for health; mitigation actions and health co-benefits; economics and finance; and public and political engagement in health and climate change.

https://news.uitm.edu.my/the-malaysia-launch-of-the-2023-report-of-lancet-countdown-on-health-and-climate-change/

UiTM’s ZAWAF Initiative: Strengthening Climate Resilience through Flood Relief Efforts

The ZAWAF UiTM Banjir Aid Distribution highlights the university’s proactive approach to flood emergencies, reflecting its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 (Climate Action). During the recent severe flooding, ZAWAF (Zakat, Sedekah, and Wakaf) at UiTM Shah Alam spear headed a comprehensive aid distribution initiative to support affected communities. The report details the provision of essential supplies such as food, clothing, and medical aid, addressing urgent needs and mitigating the immediate impact of the floods. This initiative was executed incollaboration with local authorities and community organisations to maximise effectiveness and reach. UiTM’s active engagement in disaster relief efforts affirms its commitment to strengthening climate resilience and preparedness. Additionally, it underscores the university’s role in advancing SDG 13 by enhancing community support and contributing to broader climate action and emergency response efforts.