INTI International College Subang’s Centre for University of Hertfordshire Programmes (CUHP) and School of Hospitality (SOHOS) joined hands with the Department of Forestry Peninsular Malaysia (JPSM), Selangor State Forestry Department (JPNS), and Selangor Agricultural Development Corporation (PKPS) to launch a sustainable action program. This initiative, themed “INTI: From Seed to Sustainability”, centred on a tree-planting effort that supports Malaysia’s Greening Campaign to plant 100 million trees by 2025.
As part of this nationwide mission to restore natural habitats and improve air quality, INTI’s initiative is critical in supporting climate action and promoting local biodiversity. In his opening remarks, Eric Lee, Academic Dean at INTI International College Subang, emphasised the importance of student and staff engagement in sustainability efforts as part of INTI’s commitment to becoming a sustainable institution. “Involving our students and staff in this activity fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment. It also enhances community well-being,” he remarked.
Eric Lee, Academic Dean at INTI International College Subang, receives a token of appreciation from the Department of Forestry Peninsular Malaysia (JPSM) in recognition of INTI’s commitment to sustainability.
The event began with a hands-on demonstration led by Raja Muhammad Faiz Raja B. Azaid, Senior Assistant Manager of Selangor Fruit Valley. He guided participants through effective planting techniques and highlighted essential steps, such as preparing the planting hole, amending soil, and managing water for healthy tree growth.
Raja Muhammad Faiz Raja B. Azaid, Senior Assistant Manager of Selangor Fruit Valley, shares essential tree planting techniques with participants to ensure a successful start to the initiative.
International student Umi Basyirah Hj Moslimi from Brunei shared her thoughts on the event: “This event has shown me how we can all play a part in making a difference, regardless of where we come from. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a cause that resonates across borders.” Another student, Chan Ken Jin, echoed her sentiments, saying, “Planting these trees and learning about their impact on our environment gave me a new perspective on the importance of sustainability.”
The participants also had the chance to tour Selangor Fruit Valley, where they explored local ecological practices and sustainable farming techniques. This tour offered a unique learning experience about the diversity of fruit trees and the role of sustainable farming. Chairperson Cetha Nair noted, “This initiative is not just about planting trees; it inspires a deeper understanding of the critical role trees and forests play in preserving our ecosystem.”
Notable representatives from government bodies attended the event, including Mohd Ismail Abdul Aziz, Operations Manager of the Security Sector at PKPS; Nurul Hidayah Hadzuha, Assistant Director (Forest Conservation) at JPSM; and Veronica Justin, District Forest Officer of Hulu Selangor at JPNS. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit of the initiative and added a sense of appreciation and welcome for the students.
Through this tree-planting initiative, INTI International College Subang is making sustainability a hands-on experience for everyone involved. By encouraging students and staff to roll up their sleeves and connect with nature, INTI is helping create lasting habits that go beyond the classroom. This is just one of many steps INTI is excited to take in building a more sustainable future, where each action adds to meaningful change, no matter how small.