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Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through its Faculty of Science, continues to champion sustainability and environmental stewardship via the flagship project \u201cE-Waste: Knowledge-Transfer via AI, Design Thinking Process, and Project-Based Learning.\u201d<\/strong> Led by Dr. Siti Salwa Alias<\/strong> from the Department of Physics, this transformative initiative has successfully combined elements of technology, creativity, and education to address the growing challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) in Malaysia.<\/p>\n Running from 1 May 2024 to 31 October 2025<\/strong>, and funded under the UNESCO Malaysia GSS Grant 2025<\/strong> and KTP@Faculty Grant<\/strong> with a total allocation of RM5,000<\/strong>, the project focuses on cultivating e-waste literacy and encouraging innovation among school students and facilitators. The approach integrates artificial intelligence (AI), design thinking, and project-based learning through a specially developed Interactive Module on E-Waste: Small Devices, Big Impact<\/strong>. This module is aimed at introducing the importance of proper e-waste disposal while stimulating new ideas on how discarded electronics can be reused and innovated into educational tools or creative art pieces.<\/p>\n The program began with engagement sessions involving students from SMK Bandar Baru Uda, SMK Tasek Utara 2, SMK Tasek Utara, SMK Dato Abdul Rahman Yassin<\/strong>, and Sekolah Menengah Teknik Johor Bahru<\/strong>. These students participated in workshops and competitions under the theme \u201cE-Waste: Small Devices, Big Impact,\u201d resulting in the publication of copyrighted educational modules and a book titled Odysi Malar Hijau<\/em>, which has been submitted to the Centre for Corporate and Industrial Networking (CCIN). The initiative was recognized with a 4-Star rating<\/strong>, affirming its quality and effectiveness.<\/p>\n Beyond awareness, the project also empowered educators and facilitators to confidently deliver the module in classroom settings, thereby expanding its reach and sustainability. Participants were not only educated on types of e-waste and recycling methods but were also inspired to create new products such as sculptures and simple electronic circuits from discarded materials. This not only reinforced the idea of a circular economy but also instilled innovation and environmental responsibility among the younger generation.<\/p>\n One of the project\u2019s unique strengths lies in its knowledge-transfer model. In 2025, participants from the previous cohort (2024) took on the role of mentors, transferring their acquired knowledge to a new group of students. This second wave of engagement is ongoing under the new title \u201cE-Waste Revolve 2025\u201d<\/strong>, with its final competition scheduled for 26 and 27 July 2025<\/strong>. The continuity and student-led mentoring model reflect the project\u2019s success in embedding sustainable practices into youth development.<\/p>\n The project has also expanded its impact beyond national borders through collaboration with Universitas PGRI Yogyakarta (UPY), Indonesia<\/strong>. A localized version of the program was implemented in Yogyakarta and received a 3-Star recognition<\/strong>, showcasing the scalability and adaptability of UTM\u2019s approach to different educational and community contexts.<\/p>\n Industry and community partnerships played a key role in the success of the initiative. Companies such as ERTH (Blue Bee Technologies Sdn. Bhd.)<\/strong> and Chumbaka Sdn. Bhd.<\/strong> contributed by offering practical insights and resources, while schools and academic institutions supported knowledge-sharing and module implementation.<\/p>\n From a broader perspective, the project addresses several national and global issues. E-waste remains a significant environmental threat, with improper disposal contributing to pollution and resource loss. Through this initiative, UTM is tackling this challenge at its root by educating the public\u2014starting with students\u2014on how to manage e-waste properly and creatively. The outcomes of the project\u2014measured through publication, innovation outputs, and student empowerment\u2014demonstrate real and replicable impact aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)<\/strong> and SDG 13 (Climate Action)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Dr. Siti Salwa noted that the initiative is more than an academic exercise\u2014it is a movement that combines science, creativity, and civic responsibility. \u201cWe are not just recycling devices. We are shaping a generation that sees value in waste and is empowered to take action,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n