Universiti Malaya (UM) has pioneered the Universiti Malaya Soil Doctor Programme (UMSDP), becoming the first university in Malaysia to adopt the global Soil Doctors Programme introduced by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture Malaysia under the national mySOILDOCTOR initiative, the programme expands sustainable soil management education to youth. The Initiative is led by Associate Professor Dr. Rosazlin Abdullah from the Faculty of Science and Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture, Universiti Malaya.
UMSDP equips students with practical knowledge on soil health through hands-on training and the use of Educational Soil Kits adapted from FAO modules. Adopting a "student-to-student" approach, trained participants act as Soil Doctors, sharing knowledge within thier peer networks and communities. The initiatives highlights the critical role of soil in food security and climate change adaptation.
The programme was also features at the World Soil Day celebration in Klang, where its educational tools were showcased to the public. UMSDP reflects UM's commitment to advancing sustainable soil management, fostering youth engagement, and strengthening national efforts toward food security and environmental.
CEBAR, Universiti Malaya, conducted a STEM outreach programme titled “The Dichotomy of Alien Species: Beauty and Ugliness” at Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Baru Selayang (2), led by Dr Lau Su Ee. The activity engaged approximately 350 primary school students through an interactive science fair designed to enhance understanding of alien and invasive species in Malaysia.
Through a combination of multimedia introduction and hands-on learning stations, students explored key scientific concepts including species identification, basic genetics, and ecosystem balance. Activities such as microscopic observation of specimens, DNA matching exercises, and guided discussions enabled students to better appreciate the impacts of invasive species on biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
The programme also received support from representatives of the Malaysian Society of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and EDSTEM, further strengthening its outreach impact. Overall, the initiative successfully fostered scientific curiosity and raised awareness on the importance of protecting ecosystem health among young learners.
Last Update: 03/04/2026