SOCA Students take the Lead: Flash Mob and Campaigns ignite Environmental Awareness at IIUM

By, Nur Atiqah Shamsudin

Gombak, 9 December 2024: On Tuesday, 5 November 2024, the vibrant and passionate students of the course, SOCA 4340: Environment and Society, offered by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology took to the Human Sciences building to spark a much-needed conversation about environmental protection. Their enthusiasm was contagious as they moved from Human Sciences Square to Humman Sciences Café and Human Sciences Dry Area, spreading awareness about crucial environmental issues. The students were divided into four dedicated groups, each focusing on a specific topic:

Turtle Protection: This group shed light on the plight of sea turtles, whose populations are dwindling due to habitat loss, pollution, and human activities. They emphasized the importance of clean beaches, responsible tourism, and sustainable fishing practices to protect these magnificent creatures

Dugong Protection: The gentle giants of the sea, dugongs, were the focus of this group’s efforts. They highlighted the threats posed by marine pollution, habitat degradation, and boat strikes, urging people to reduce plastic consumption, support marine conservation efforts, and be mindful of their actions in marine environments.

3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle): This group emphasized the power of simple actions in combating waste and pollution. They encouraged students to reduce their consumption, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle materials responsibly. They also promoted the importance of composting and waste reduction strategies.

Hornbill Protection: The iconic hornbills of Malaysia were the focus of this group’s campaign. They highlighted the threats faced by these magnificent birds, including habitat loss, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade. They encouraged people to support conservation efforts, report illegal wildlife activities, and plant native trees to provide habitat for hornbills.

Lecturer’s Vision

Dr. Nor Azlin binti Tajuddin, the lecturer of the course shared her inspiration for organizing this impactful campaign:
“The reason I chose these topics is to show how interconnected we are with the environment. Each of these issues reflects a larger story about how our actions, whether small or significant, affect the delicate balance of ecosystems. It’s crucial for students to understand that they have the power to make a difference, and this campaign is a way to encourage them to act with responsibility and purpose.”

Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

The Environment and Society course’s awareness campaign was more than just an event; it was a testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship. By engaging with the university community, they aimed to inspire action and foster a sense of responsibility toward the planet.

Dr. Nor Azlin’s thoughtful approach, combined with the students’ passion, underscored the importance of raising awareness about environmental issues, promoting sustainable practices, and advocating the protection of Malaysia’s rich natural heritage. Their efforts were a call to action, reminding everyone that preserving the environment is not just a choice but a shared responsibility.***

Credit: Illya Nabilah (SOCASA’s media representative)