INTI International College Subang’s Center for American Education (CAE) partnered with Majlis Perbandaran Selayang (MPS) and the Global Environment Center (GEC) to launch a significant initiative along the riverbanks on 9 September.
Tied with World Rivers Day, this initiative aimed to establish a sustainable community farm for nourishment and relaxation, fostering community ties and championing river health through attentive stewardship.
Addressing the growing impact of climate change, CAE student Edison Liew Teck Sern revealed his reasons for joining, saying, “My main motivation and inspiration came from seeing our country struggle with the worsening effects of climate change.”
He continued, “I felt dismayed upon seeing the riverbank littered with all sorts of trash, from fishing nets and shattered glass to even underwear.”
Understanding the broader implications of the project, Edison noted, “This project gives the community a foundation for sustainable farming and a dependable food supply while also aiding in better air quality. I dream of seeing this region preserved in its best condition.”
Edison also pointed out the prevalent gap in environmental education. He staunchly believes sustainable living can be universally adopted with proper knowledge and leadership.
Laavanya A/P Subramaniam, another CAE student, shared her motivations. She said, “I joined this event to help build a better environment for everyone and the ecosystems they rely on.”
Tackling removing trash lodged in rocks, Laavanya saw the value in gifting the community with a peaceful garden, understanding that such a place could foster relaxation and improve mental health for its members.
Tan Yee Yan, also from CAE, voiced her hope for a healthier environment. She remarked, “I hope our joint actions will result in better air and water quality, increased biodiversity, enhanced scenic beauty, and overall promote a sense of well-being in the community.”
Uma Muthusamy, a senior CAE lecturer, took pride in providing real-world experiences for her students. She expressed, “The most fulfilling part of this project, both for me and the community, was the joy of enhancing the environment.”
She continued, “The community farm can positively impact the region in several ways. For one, it will upgrade the environment, turning idle land into a fruitful space. Furthermore, it can act as a guardian for the environment, with locals serving as the ‘eyes and ears’ for the adjacent river, ensuring its safety and well-being.”
In honour of the students’ commitment, MPS and GEC presented certificates of appreciation. Their united effort garnered praise, highlighting the power of collaborations between educational entities, local bodies, and environmental organisations in advancing sustainability. This project globally emphasises our shared potential to nurture a cleaner, more vibrant environment for everyone.
Students and lecturers from INTI International College Subang’s Center for American Education working hard to clean up the community farm.
CAE students diligently cleaning up the river area.
A herb plot was prepared to facilitate future planting.
Student beaming after a successful cleanup despite the scorching weather.