The second series of the MHB River Rehabilitation Programme, a Training of Trainers (ToT) initiative, was successfully conducted on 23 November 2024. This impactful program, led by Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Fadhil bin Md Din, took place at the Surau Flat MMHE & Koperasi MMHE in Pasir Gudang, Johor Bahru.

The programme aimed to equip the local community of Flat MMHE with essential knowledge and skills to actively participate in river conservation efforts. It featured modules developed and delivered by experts from the Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, UTM.

Key Highlights of the Programme

  1. Macrocomposite Module
    Led by Prof. Zaharah Ibrahim, the session focused on introducing macrocomposites for sustainable environmental practices. Her team included PM Dr. Shafinaz Shahir and Dr. Siti Halimah Hasmoni, who engaged participants in hands-on activities to create innovative solutions for environmental challenges.

  2. Microalgae Diversity as Bioindicators of Water Quality Module
    Dr. Mohd Farizal bin Ahmad Kamaroddin, together with Muhammad Nazafee bin Abu (Assistant Science Officer) and a team of PhD students, introduced the community to the potential of microalgae as bioindicators. The module emphasized practical approaches to monitoring water quality using biological methods.

Community Engagement and Impact

The interactive sessions empowered participants with practical knowledge, fostering a sense of ownership over the rehabilitation of their local river. This initiative is a testament to the collaborative effort between academia, industry, and the community to address environmental challenges.

The MHB River Rehabilitation Programme continues to set an example of impactful community-based conservation efforts, aligning with sustainable development goals and fostering environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.